Firms To Watch: Labour and employment

Baquero & Asociados S.A's labour and employment team is scaling up and welcomed the arrival of five new associates in 2021; the three-partner team is particularly strong on pension matters, with Melba Elvira Guzmán recognised for her track record in pensions work in the educational sector.

Labour and employment in Colombia

Alvarez, Lievano, Laserna S.A.S

Employment boutique Alvarez, Lievano, Laserna S.A.Soperates at a higher level than other firms’, according to satisfied clients. The firm’s dedicated offering combines with its deep bench to ensure that it covers the waterfront on labour and employment law, with strong skill sets in labour consulting, collective bargaining, restructuring, immigration and contentious matters. The sizeable group is co-led by seasoned expert Carlos Alvarez Pereira alongside Claudia Liévano, Felipe Alvarez Echeverry and Maria Lucia Laserna Angarita. Key associates María Fernanda Echeverry and Andrea Ortega provide capable support.

Practice head(s):

Carlos Alvarez Pereira; Claudia Liévano; Felipe Alvarez Echeverry; Maria Lucia Laserna Angarita

Testimonials

‘Alvarez, Lievano, Laserna has several strengths, among which are the depth and practicality of its advice, since its recommendations are valid (in line with current jurisprudence and legislation), with a strategic business alignment.’

‘It is an interdisciplinary team. Each lawyer attends according to their specialty and they complement each other very well. During the pandemic, the firm made many digital developments to ensure that we could connect virtually. It is constantly innovating.’

‘Lawyers are always responsive and attention is immediate. They always explain the risks and the benefits, and they make a very complete analysis of each situation.’

‘The ‘plus’ that the firm brings is its extensive knowledge of the aeronautical sector. Carlos Alvarez Pereira has been working with airlines, including ours, for many years. His knowledge greatly contributes to the company’s strategy in labour processes.’

‘Felipe Alvarez Echeverry is a comprehensive, profound and practical lawyer in his advice. The agility that he demonstrates in his proposals and his ability to holistically connect with the demands of the business make him a first-line legal consultant.’

‘There are many aspects to highlight, the main thing is the support and collaboration during collective negotiations with unions and the collective agreement. The team’s relationship with our internal staff is optimal, without inconveniences with billing, technology and others. Operates at a higher level than other firms.’

‘They are all professionals with experience and highly developed skills, related to the operation of companies. When giving any advice, lawyers demonstrate extensive knowledge of the company and its processes. Their recommendations are very structured, supported by the history and data they know about the company.’

‘I highlight Claudia Liévano, with whom we have the greatest contact and who is also part of the collective bargaining tables. We also highlight Felipe Alvarez Echeverry, Olga Lucía Salazar, and Maria Lucia Laserna Angarita, who also stand out for their great professionalism, criteria, and support in labour legal advice.’

Key clients

Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Bogotá – ETB

Banco de las Microfinanzas – Bancamia

Bavaria

SierraCol Energy

Bimbo De Colombia

Interconexión Eléctrica / Intercolombia / XM

Frontera Energy

Droguerías y Farmacias Cruz Verde

Avianca

Tampa Cargo

Frescongelados Panettiere

Work highlights

  • Represented Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Bogotá – ETB in two collective bargaining processes, with Sintratelefonos (the majority union) and ATELCA (the technicians’ union).
  • Acted for Banco de las Microfinanzas Bancamia in the collective bargaining process between the bank and the industry unions ACEB and ASEFINCO, which bring together the largest number of unionised workers in the bank.
  • Advised Bavaria on day-to-day labour and employment matters, including dispute resolution.

Baker McKenzie S.A.S.

Baker McKenzie S.A.S. houses a thriving labour and employment practice, which stands out for its ‘technical excellence, strategic consulting and litigation skills‘. The group acts for an impressive roster of multinational corporations and is distinguished by its ability to routinely team up with colleagues in Asia, North American, Europe and Latin America to advise on cross-border matters. Tatiana Garcés and Evelyn Romero co-head the group — they both advise on a comprehensive range of contentious and non-contentious human resources matters. At associate level, Maria Cecilia Reyes and Daniela Liévano provide specialist sector support. Additionally, associates Natalia Suarez, Alexandra Silveira and Gerardo Paredes are highlighted for their ability to ‘go above and beyond‘.

Practice head(s):

Tatiana Garcés Carvajal; Evelyn Romero Ávila

Testimonials

‘The team is very professional and response times are very good. The levels of analysis, the understanding of the client’s needs and the recommendations of strategies are very good. Communication with the client and reports on the status of the matters entrusted are also highlighted.’

‘We value the team for its technical excellence, strategic consulting and litigation skills.’

‘Lawyers know the business and support clients in all their needs in labour and union issues.’

‘Tatiana Garcés Carvajal is an excellent professional, she always gives us clear answers on time. Within her team, Alexandra Silveira stands out for her knowledge of immigration matters. We can always count on them.’

‘Among the great qualities of this team are its lawyers’ specialist knowledge, the proximity of its partners with the client and the much cheaper rates than other firms in the same category.’

‘The solutions proposed by the firm’s lawyers are the ones that best suit both us as clients and the workers of our company— without wanting to transgress the rights of any of the parties. Natalia Suarez is an outstanding associate.’

‘The responsiveness and immediate attentiveness of the B&M Team is paramount to our success in executing our mission on the global arena while fully complying with complex local labour laws. Without teaming with B&M, the risk of treading these waters would be astronomical.’

‘Evelyn Romero Ávila, Alexandra Silveira, Gerardo Paredes and Natalia Suarez always go above and beyond, and make the extra effort to meet us virtually, even in off hours, or by driving to wherever we need them to support our team. They are punctual, dependable, and extremely professional in all they do.’

Key clients

Vanti

National Oilwell Varco de Colombia

Embajada del Reino de los Países Bajos

Johnson Controls Colombia

Envases Puros International

Industrias Vanyplas

Clarios Andina

Mercado Libre

Univision

Netflix

Rackspace

Sumitomo

NCR

Fortinet

Icumed

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Work highlights

  • Advised a multinational pharmaceutical company in a project that had two phases: the transition of employees during a joint venture, completing the entire process of unifying the compensation structure of two different companies; and the assignment of employees’ employment agreements.
  • Successfully represented SAP Colombia – despite substantial case law challenging our position – in a judicial process whereby the plaintiff claimed the termination of his employment agreement was invalid, as he had a mental illness when he executed the mutual consent termination and settlement agreements.
  • Advised a US-headquartered multinational financial services company on the closure of its representative office at the outset of the pandemic, involving a co-ordinated and planned mass termination of the employment agreements of all local employees.

Godoy Córdoba member of Littler Global

As a boutique that is ‘dedicated solely and exclusively to advising its clients on labour and social security matters‘, Godoy Córdoba member of Littler Global stands out for the sheer size and scale of its specialist offering. The firm’s partnerships with global employment giant Littler and international immigration firm Fragomen would be significant assets alone, but its national capability is equally formidable and it counts eight partners and 74 other lawyers as part of its practice. Founding partner Carlos Hernán Godoy is widely regarded as reference in the market, while Francisco Buriticá is also a high-profile figure. Other senior names include Ana Cristina Medina, who specialises in representing international clients; Gustavo Gnecco, who is a former Assistant Judge of the Labour Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice; ‘outstanding partnerAndrés Fernando DaCosta; and the ‘very objective and clear’ Santiago MartínezFederico Bernal and Ricardo Alonso are also recommended partners, while Diego Chaparro (‘simply always there‘) is a talented associate.

Practice head(s):

Carlos Hernán Godoyo; Ana Cristina Medina; Francisco Buriticá; Gustavo Gnecco; Andrés Fernando DaCosta; Santiago Martínez; Federico Bernal; Ricardo Alonso

Testimonials

‘Definitively, Godoy Cordoba’s differential is the closeness with the client. It goes beyond a legal relationship; it understands the need to provide not only technical support, but also to resolve concerns and provide the necessary advice so that the company fully complies.’

‘The response times are very good and lawyers always come up with explanations for the rationale of the recommendation or conclusion — that is, it teaches the client along the way. A member of Godoy Córdoba is a member of our company.’

‘Santiago Martínez analyses each case in depth, always remains calm, clarifies doubts, is very objective and clear in his advice. We are a team. Associate Diego Chaparro is simply ALWAYS there. Available, friendly, recursive, supporting us on our way. Having open and constant communication with Diego makes our day to day more bearable.’

‘Excellent work group made up of professionals who carry out their activities with knowledge and kindness.’

‘It is a firm that is dedicated solely and exclusively to advising its clients on labour and social security matters, which is why it is unique. The attention is personalised and direct with the partners. The firm has the appropriate technological mechanisms to address concerns in a timely and effective manner, adapting to the demands arising from the pandemic.’

‘The ‘plus’ that makes the firm’s lawyers stand out is that their legal recommendations are precise. Andrés DaCosta is an outstanding partner.’

‘Precise concepts, very reliable, rigorous in the analysis, diverse scenarios, lawyers are generous with their availability and provide consultations in a personalised way.’

‘What makes it unique is the closeness with the client. Lawyers impress with their commitment, making us feel like a priority, and are dedicated to achieve results in the shortest time possible and earn success for the organisation. In addition, the group of lawyers that attend us have unparalleled human and ethical qualities (Francisco Buriticá and associate Laura Buriticá).’

Key clients

Carbones Del Cerrejon

Gobierno Nacional – Ministerio De Educación

Sociedad Portuaria Impala Terminals Barrancabermeja

Comercial Nutresa

Sociedad Portuaria Terminal De Contenedores De Buenaventura (TC Buen)

Vidrio Andino (Saint Gobain)

Rappi

Gecolsa

Sociedad Minera De Santander (Mubadala Investment Company)

Banco Davivienda

Sociedad Administradora De Fondos De Pensiones y Cesantias Porvenir

Unidad Administrativa Especial De Rehabilitacion y Mantenimiento Vial

Sophos Solutions

DHL Global Forwarding Zona Franca

H&M Hennes & Mauritz Colombia

Aerovias del Continente Americano Avianca

Work highlights

  • Advised Carbones del Cerrejon on one of the longest strikes in the history of Colombia — more than 10,000 direct and indirect jobs were affected during the strike.
  • Advised Rappi on the design of the labour model for new corporate entity, Holding Rappipay (a partnership between Rappi and Davivienda), and also advised on the movement of workers from Rappi to Holding Rappipay.
  • Represented DHL Global Forwarding Zona Franca at the bargaining table, which culminated in the signing of a collective labour agreement applicable only to workers with the company in Cartagena.

Lopez & Asociados Abogados

Among the best in the country for labour and employment law‘, Lopez & Asociados Abogados finds favour with sources for its ‘very large team of lawyers specialised in both individual and collective employment law‘. The effective boutique shines in all key pillars of the sphere, with strong offerings in labour advisory, planning and judicial matters. Among the names to note, managing partner Juan Pablo López leads the labour planning area; Angélica María Carrión spearheads the labour counselling group; Alejandro Castellanos steers the litigation and judicial representation practice; and Rocío Lagos leads the labour relations unit. The group also draws on Ana María Rubiano, who specialises in labour law consultancy, as well as experienced associates Maria Teresa Gonzalez (litigation and judicial representation co-ordinator),  Camilo Fonseca (team leader for guardianship actions) and Manuel Germán Torres (labour relations).

Practice head(s):

Juan Pablo López; Angélica María Carrión; Alejandro Castellanos; Rocío Lagos; Ana María Rubiano

Testimonials

‘The team of lawyers at López & Asociados is very professional and collaborative with the client, being among the best in the country for labour and employment law. It acts as our in-house lawyers, which has been very useful for the company.’

‘The team is comprised of committed professionals.’

‘It has an extensive, very large team of lawyers specialised in both individual and collective employment law. Each lawyer is focused on certain areas, which makes it a comprehensive practice. Its knowledge is impressive, especially when combined with its experience in various economic industries and sectors.’

‘I work with the entire firm, from its partners Juan Pablo López and Alejandro Castellanos, to the lawyers who manage my account, Ana María Rubiano, associate Mónica Sierra and Rocío Lagos. For me there is no better labour firm in the country; it has no competition or comparison for its human quality, availability, experience and knowledge.’

‘Top labour and employment law advisers in a difficult jurisdiction. We are very glad to have found the team, as many firms in Colombia do not serve global clients well.’

‘Alejandro Castellanos is very responsive and combines the legal recommendations with practical risk assessment — the same applies to Angélica María Carrión.’

Key clients

Porvenir (Grupo Aval)

Claro (America Movil)

Colombia Telecomunicaciones (Telefonica)

General Motors Colmotores

Colfondos (Grupo Habitat)

Refinería de Cartagena – Reficar (Ecopetrol)

Itau Corpbanca Colombia

Gran Colombia Gold Segovia (sucursal Colombia)

Seguros Generales Sura

Cotecmar

Holcrest

CI Prodeco

Sai

Brigard Urrutia

Brigard Urrutia‘s department is divided into two distinct standalone offerings, with the labour and employment team and the immigration group routinely working hand-in-hand to provide comprehensive coverage of human resources law. The strength of the firm’s combined capability is evidenced by its status as the sole Colombian member of the Ius Laboris network. Catalina Santos spearheads the department and is equipped to advise on the full range of consultancy, collective bargaining, transactional support and contentious matters. At associate level, José Alejandro Sierra (who focuses on litigation and pensions), and Camilo Mutis (who specialises in contentious work) are the key names.

Practice head(s):

Catalina Santos

Testimonials

‘Brigard Urrutia’s labour lawyers know our company’s labour history (collective agreements, people with reinforced stability, etc.) inside-out and they know our internal human resources policies very well. But, additionally, it knows our projects and business plan — the firm understands that this provides an added value.’

‘We value the firm’s knowledge of our company. Catalina Santos is the lawyer who knows us best in this practice.’

Key clients

Apple

Cisco

ExxonMobil

Mattel

3M

The Walt Disney Company

Intel Corporation

US Embassy

UK Embassy

Austin Engineering

Work highlights

  • Retained by ExxonMobil Corporation to provide legal counsel and assistance with the administration of pension liability matters.
  • Represented Austin Ingenieros Colombia in over 30 employment litigations, which were mainly initiated by former Austin employees requesting the declaration that two extra legal benefits – transportation and meal allowance – have salary nature.
  • Advised H&M on the opening of new stores in Colombia during the third wave of the pandemic, including advising on the implementation of all biosecurity protocols and measures in each city, the registration of employees, and compliance with health and safety regulations.

Chapman Wilches

The former Chapman & Asociados, which reincorporated as Chapman Wilches in September 2022, nevertheless ‘stands out from competitors by providing practical solutions'. From its five platforms across the country (which includes Bucaramanga through its association with Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas), the labour and employment group advises on the full scope of collective and individual work relationships, additionally providing complementary expertise in social security and immigration matters. The department is led jointly by collective labour specialist Charles Chapman and Mirna Wilches, who handles a range of individual and collective matters; together they ‘generate confidence in their concepts and recommendations‘. On the contentious front, labour litigation specialist Heimy Blanco and associate Leda Mejía Martínez are highlighted together for their ability to ‘attend and adjust to the position of the client’s company‘.

Practice head(s):

Charles Chapman; Mirna Wilches

Testimonials

A team with solid knowledge offering alternative solutions to the different situations presented at the labour level, ensuring that decisions we make as a company have flexibility after evaluating possible risks. Charles Chapman and Mirna Wilches, and their team, generate confidence in their concepts and recommendations.’

‘Associate Leda Mejía Martínez and Heimy Blanco attend and adjust to the position of the client’s company; they do not impose solutions but rather adapt to the requirements or needs within the legal and jurisprudential framework. Before proposing advice, they always talk with us to take into account our considerations.’

‘All lawyers maintain the same executive and friendly relationship with customers. The good culture of management and strong customer service levels are noted.’

‘I highlight Chapman & Asociados’ work team, with its great strengths and knowledge that contribute to the decisions that we must make as managers and companies. I prefer them to other firms because they always go further; they don’t just give legal advice, they understand the business and support the implementation of the proposed strategies.’

‘The team stands out from competitors by providing practical solutions. Mirna Wilches is exceptional; very successful in her recommendations, with an ability to propose strategic solutions that combine legal strategy with business vision.’

‘Heimy Blanco, and her litigation team, have supported us on labour processes with constant and diligent communication.’

‘The team is very committed, up-to-date and always keeps legislation at the forefront of advice to resolve different dynamic labour issues.’

‘Lawyers are excellent professionals, and even better human beings — extraordinary.’

Key clients

Eternit Colombiana

Industrias Puro Pollo

Stracon

Universidad del Atlántico

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan

Bancamia

Apex

AFD

Seguros Bolívar

Epsa

Alquería

CI Interamerican Conminas

Work highlights

  • Represented Ternium Colombia in obtaining authorisation from the Ministry of Labour to terminate an employee’s contract.
  • Advised Coomeva Servicios Administrativos on the termination of most of its employees (including a group of workers with special health conditions) as a consequence of its liquidation.
  • Represented Carbones de La Jagua in litigation concerning an additional special payment connected to production volumes.

Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría

Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría‘s labour practice is ‘characterised by its lawyers’ professionalism and practicality’, according to sources. The team is further distinguished by its strong roster of multinational corporate clients, which it routinely advises on consultancy matters and litigation, particularly in relation to social security, employee terminations, immigration, regulatory issues and union-related work. Labour, employment and social security specialist Carolina Porras spearheads ‘the best prepared‘ team in the market, with support from associate Mariana Torres.

Practice head(s):

Carolina Porras

Testimonials

‘An excellent team, which is characterised by its lawyers’ professionalism and practicality.’

‘We recommend the practice for its quality and knowledge.’

‘The team led by Carolina Porras is by far the best prepared on labour law issues in Colombia. It has proven experience and knowledge of the different topics, including the design of labour litigation strategy.’

‘Carolina Porras and, in general, her team of lawyers are diligent, accurate in their analysis of the issues consulted and, particularly, very quick to respond. The experience and knowledge of the downstream industry and corporate issues makes them stand out in Colombia.’

‘A trained team, which is very well oriented towards corporate labour advice.’

‘Up-to-date knowledge concerning applicability of the most recent decisions of the Superior Courts (Labour Chamber and the Supreme Court of Justice). Periodic communications via email of the legal provisions issued in labour matters.’

Key clients

Mondelez Colombia

CI Colombian Natural Resources

Nokia Solutions and Networks Colombia

BRC Ratings – S&P Global

Abbott Laboratories de Colombia

Abbvie

Te Connectivity Colombia

Bid Invest

Coliseo Live

Mineros Aluvial

Abbvie

Command Alkon Colombia

Repsol Oil and Gas Colombia

Alexion Pharma Colombia

Naviera Central

Center for International Private Enterprise

Work highlights

  • Advised a bank on the modification and elimination of a housing allowance union benefit, agreed before a corporate transaction took place.
  • Advised Alpha Holding on the termination of labour agreements following the bankruptcy of the client’s controlling corporation in the US.
  • Represented Nokia Solutions and Networks Colombia in several labour proceedings filed by former managerial employees who claimed their reinstatement.

Posse Herrera Ruiz

In April 2022, Posse Herrera Ruiz hired senior specialist Vicente Umaña into the labour and employment practice from Holland & Knight; he now leads the department following the concurrent exit of former group head Carolina Camacho Solana. The practice advises on a broad spectrum of related matters, with notable experience in transactional support work, collective bargaining, compliance issues, labour disputes and immigration. At associate level, key names include Natalia Villamil (who has an emphasis on contentious matters), and Andrés Paz.

Practice head(s):

Vicente Umaña

Key clients

Ascensores Schindler

Reckitt Beckinser

Placacentro Masisa

Amex

Cencosud

Yara

Seguros Bolivar

Syngenta

Amazon

Michael Page

Work highlights

  • Advised Evertec on the retirement process of the General Manager over a negotiation period of approximately nine months, and on structuring a consulting contract for the hiring of the former employee as a consultant.
  • Advised Baseball Club Seattle (owners of the Seattle Mariners Major League Baseball franchise), on successfully negotiating an out-of-court termination of claims filed by a former contractor.
  • Advised TCS Solution Center (Colombia branch) on day-to-day labour and employment matters in Colombia, including training on several different levels of labour matters and crafting regional labour policies.

Escandón Abogados

With strong activity in the agriculture and natural resources sectors, Escandón Abogados impresses with its ability to provide labour and employment advice that takes into account ‘the relevant aspects of the client’s business, structure and operational needs‘. The team is further distinguished by its strong reputation for collective bargaining. Senior names include Alberto Escandón, who is recommended for collective labour matters; María Claudia Escandón, who spearheads the litigation side of the practice; Juan Fernando Escandón, who handles consultancy work; and María Jimena Escandón, who leads the due diligence area.

Practice head(s):

Alberto Escandon

Testimonials

Escandón Abogados, particularly Juan Fernando Escandón, provides an excellent quality service. The team resolves queries and issues the correct advice in a timely manner, taking into account the relevant aspects of the client’s business, structure and operational needs, and the economic and social reality.’

We recommend lawyers for their closeness to the client, their friendliness and their willingness to listen and attend to the different concerns and problems that arise in the day-to-day business.

Key clients

Drummond

Manuelita

Tecnoquímicas

Manufacturas Eliot

Organización Roa Flor Huila

Santa Anita Nápoles

Siamsa

Transportadora de Gas Internacional

Beiersdorf

Sociedad de Agricultores de Colombia (SAC)

Aceites Manuelita

Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina

GHL

Work highlights

  • Advised Compass Group on collective bargaining matters and on the negotiation of a new collective agreement.
  • Acted for the Colombian Society of Agriculture in the analysis of the proposal presented to the national government for the formalisation of workers in the agricultural sector.
  • Advised Palmar de Altamira on the negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement.

Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas

Among Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas’ key attributes, sources highlight its ‘agile and timely responses‘ and its ‘diligent and highly trained professionals‘. Based in Bucaramanga, the firm’s alliance with multi-office boutique Chapman Wilches provides the firm with a broad national footprint with which to accompany its comprehensive service offering, including consultancy, collective bargaining, litigation, recruitment and occupational health and safety matters. Eduardo Pilonieta Pinilla (‘a specialist in labour issues‘) and Patricia Álvarez Ribero (‘characterised by her ability to work‘) are the key contacts in a team that also includes fellow department heads Jorge Enrique Murcia CubidesElvira Vera Sánchez and Diana Sepúlveda Reyes — as well as ‘excellent lawyerDiana Carolina Ortiz Vargas.

Practice head(s):

Eduardo Pilonieta Pinilla; Patricia Álvarez Ribero; Charles Chapman; Mirna Wilches; Jorge Enrique Murcia Cubides; Elvira Vera Sánchez; Diana Sepúlveda Reyes

Testimonials

‘Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas has been our law firm for a long time. The team works hand-in-hand with us on labour and employment law matters and litigation. We work with different law firms, which gives us the capability to compare the firm; we highlight PAAL’s performance because it is not limited to legal advice, but also analyses the industry aspects.’

‘Pilonieta Alvarez is a firm whose quality of service, honesty, efficiency in business attention and results makes it stand out in this practice. In-house lawyers should know that one of its main strengths is teamwork, which, through the sum of its knowledge, allows it to offer a service of the highest quality with excellent results.’

‘Eduardo Pilonieta is characterised by his persistence. He is a specialist in labour issues with more than 45 years of experience. Patricia Álvarez Ribero is characterised by her ability to work and her vision for the prosecution of legal defences. Diana Carolina Ortiz Vargas is characterised by her professionalism and the effort she dedicates to each of the procedures she handles.’

‘It is a committed team, attentive to technological innovations that make processes timely and up-to-date.’

‘We value the firm’s agile and timely responses. Lawyers are diligent and highly trained professionals. We highlight Eduardo Pilonieta for his effective advice.’

‘It has a senior team of expert lawyers, as well as a large team of young lawyers. We are assigned specific lawyers for each case, and yet, the people with the greatest responsibility are always in the know. They have an excellent response speed to all our concerns, simple, complex, etc.’

‘Its team of human talent is top quality; lawyers’ way of responding, their attitude and their punctuality make working with them beneficial for our company. They give us advice on all legal and juridical aspects, especially in the area of personnel management.’

‘Diana Carolina Ortiz Vargas is an excellent lawyer. She always studies the grounds of the lawsuit, and communicates her opinion about the risk litigation strategy.’

Key clients

Distribuidora Rayco

Mercantil Express

Asfaltart

Chp Materiales para Construcción

Creaciones Mayatex

Diseño, Ingenieria y Postensado

Drogueria Colombia

Fundación Ver Sin Fronteras

Grupo Esferas

Gustavo Rueda Villabona

Metrogas de Colombia

Metalmecanica Torfres

Notaria Primera De San Gil – Santander

Panificadora Tres Coronas

Procesadora de Aceite Ororojo

Quimiproyectos

Serpetcol

Vernier

Acueducto Metropolitano de Bucaramanga

Compañía de Almacenamiento y Logística

Gomosec

Compañia Pesquera del Mar

Sinco

Corporacion Parque Nacional del Chicamocha

Clinica Chicamocha

Clinica San Luis

Atento Teleservicios España (sucursal Colombia)

Grupo Vanti

Eco Oro Minerals (sucursal Colombia)

Industrias Lavco

Pretecor

Agroingenium

Ceresagro

Banco de Bogota

Universidad de Santander (UDES)

Gases del Oriente

Avicola el Madroño

AME Asistencia Médica

Fundación Cardiovascular de Colombia

Baguer

Grupo Empresarial Camacho

Telares Medellin Hogar

Acebedo Silva

Caja Santandereana de Compensación Familiar

Work highlights

  • Assisted CHP Materiales para Construcción with labour and employment audits to detect potential errors to prevent lawsuits and administrative sanctions.

Quintero y Quintero Asesores

A comprehensive team providing optimal advice on labour law and social security‘,  Quintero y Quintero Asesores attracts strong reviews from sources for its responsiveness, market knowledge and case management. Considered by some as ‘one of the first two firms in terms of collective bargaining‘, the group also handles compliance matters, immigration law and litigation. Collective bargaining specialist Ivan Quintero provides ‘fundamental and forceful support‘, while fellow co-partner Saida Quintero demonstrates ‘extraordinary ability to understand and analyse situations‘. Other key contacts include litigation head Alejandro Arias, collective bargaining-focused Álvaro Martínez and director of the collective labour department Dina López. Associates Alejandra Soler and Jaime Solano are also noted.

Practice head(s):

Saida Quintero; Ivan Quintero; Alejandro Arias; Felipe Quintero; Jaime Solano; Alejandra Soler; Jorge Perez Casallas; Alvaro Martinez; Sebastian Navas Arias; Karen Mejia Miranda; Dina Lopez

Testimonials

‘Quintero & Quintero is, in my experience, the best source of legal expertise and support in the country. Its work is characterised by personal dedication on the part of the partner and associates who work with us. Lawyers are always available and provide accurate and well-analysed counsel. They become part of our team.’

‘A comprehensive team providing optimal advice on labour law and social security. It stands out for its organisation and immediate attention to clients, who place maximum trust in its professionals. It is one of the first two firms in terms of collective bargaining. Its honesty, knowledge and ability to find solutions, are its outstanding strengths.’

‘Lawyers’ concepts are clear and precise, with all the required technical foundation, and they always offer the required details. I highlight the work of Alejandra Soler, she has accompanied us in different processes and her support has been essential for my management.’

‘It has implemented a very innovative process for query allocation and billing, aided by state-of-the-art technological applications. This favours productivity and directly benefits the firm’s clients. It is a very united, robust interdisciplinary team, in which great teamwork and great leadership are evident.’

‘Saida Quintero is an experienced and brilliant lawyer. She has a prodigious memory and truly studies and gets to know every aspect of her clients’ labour situation. She always makes herself available and has an extraordinary ability to understand and analyse situations quickly and dispassionately.’

‘Iván Quintero: Although it was only one day that we had direct contact with him, he also gave us fundamental and forceful support. Very respectful and decisive in his interventions.’

‘Dina Lopez: Her experience and knowledge were shared with great dedication and generosity to the work team and have been very valuable for the entire process.’

‘Jaime Solano, the associate who works on our account has made himself a true ally of my in-house legal team. All requests for legal concepts, clarity, and advice are answered quickly and thoroughly — he understands my organisation and its needs and issues thoroughly.’

Key clients

Pepsico Alimentos Colombia

Centelsa

FONECA – Fiduprevisora

Quala

Tucker Energy

Promigas

Ingenio Carmelita

Gerfor

Nexans

Acesco Colombia

Tetra Pak

Yanbal International

Accor Group

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented Alimentos Polar Colombia and Pricol Alimentos in labour claims stemming from the termination of contracts upon the liquidation of Pricol Alimentos.
  • Advised Transoccidente on defending a claim connected to the death of a worker in a work accident.
  • Represented Tucker Energy on collective bargaining matters, including strategy design and planning.

Scola Abogados

Scola Abogados houses a broad labour, social security and immigration practice, which advises an impressive mix of domestic and multinational companies on the full range of individual and collective labour law matters. As a relatively young firm — founded in 2013 — it continues to grow, evidenced by the addition of 40 new clients over the past year. Impressive up-and-coming partner Diego Felipe Valdivieso advises on an array of transactional support, collective bargaining and compliance matters, while Nicolás Rico Álvarez is responsible for team management and Pablo Hernández Hussein heads the litigation department. All three partners co-lead the group together with labour law and social security specialist, Joaquín Rico Lara.

Practice head(s):

Diego Felipe Valdivieso; Nicolás Rico Álvarez; Pablo Hernández Hussein; Joaquín Rico Lara

Key clients

The Clorox Company

Bühler Group

Mallplaza

Vigía Group & Bergé Group

Ministerio de Vivienda, Ciudad y Territorio

Lineas Aéreas Suramericanas

Applus Norcontrol Colombia

NH Hotel Group

Heel Colombia

Constructora Bolivar

Grupo Gloria Colombia

Grupo Bimbo

Transmilenio

Merck

Grupo Mapfre Seguros

Frontera Energy Colombia

Grupo Sanfer

Adecco

Allianz Seguros

Work highlights

  • Represented NH Hotel Group on dismissal processes and the merging of 14 different companies, as a response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Advised Transmilenio on a collective bargaining agreement between the company and its union against the backdrop of a critical public order situation in the city.
  • Led the collective bargaining process for Grupo Bimbo with its employees on a national scale.

CMS Rodríguez-Azuero

Among CMS Rodríguez-Azuero‘s key attributes, sources highlight the labour and employment team’s willingness ‘to take positions and provide guidance without hesitation‘. The group’s ‘significant growth in recent years‘ also finds favour and it now covers a comprehensive scope of human resources matters, with particular expertise in social security and pensions. Practice head Adriana Escobar advises on an array of labour, social security and immigration law issues. Key support is provided by associate director Juan Carlos González, who is well versed in contentious and non-contentious work; senior associate Sandra Mora, who has an ‘extremely commercial focus‘; and associate Mariana Garcés.

Practice head(s):

Adriana Escobar

Testimonials

‘CMS has had significant growth in recent years, without losing the ability to engage with the needs of the client, or to provide close and detailed attention to each query or requirement. Lawyers response times are extraordinary and they are willing to get involved in detail to offer solutions tailored to clients.’

‘As a novelty, CMS has proposed as an added value the training of internal teams in aspects that they have proactively identified in order to mitigate risks, which is an action that I have not found in the market with other firms and that demonstrates an excellent engagement with the client.’

‘The lawyers in the labour area of CMS stand out for their excellent knowledge of legal issues, for the practicality in the solutions granted, for their response times and for their ability to take positions and provide guidance without hesitation.’

‘A team committed to the needs of its clients; there is always warm, simple language, knowledge and mastery of legal issues. Unlike other legal teams, this one goes beyond the needs of the client. The legal team can use a language not only for lawyers but for anyone, so everything is very understandable.’

‘Adriana Escobar and associate Mariana Garcés anticipate possible contingencies and propose strategies and documents in order to avoid the materialisation of risks.’

‘Without a doubt, the knowledge and professionalism with which lawyers address the requirements is exceptional, as well as the way in which they have understood our company. A special mention to associate director Juan Carlos González, who was the leader in a complex specific situation which he was able to resolve efficiently.’

‘I was really happy with the support received from associate Sandra Mora. The most unique aspect from my perspective was her extremely commercial focus and ability to easily translate law into business. She was extremely responsive and I appreciated the friendly atmosphere she created, even when discussing complicated issues.’

‘The team that they have arranged for advice on pension issues is excellent. It is incredible because this area has synergies with different areas of law (labour, labour procedure, actuarial, constitutional actions, etc). Lawyers are very diligent, they are very aware of all the procedures, they respond very quickly, and their advice is very complete.’

Key clients

Sanofi Aventis

Equion-Energia

Weatherford Colombia

Productos Alimenticios el Recreo

Elanco Animal Health

Fiduciaria Davivienda

Sociedad Portuaria Puerto Bahía

Ladrillera Santafé

Khiron Lifescience

Agencia GIZ

Prodigious (Publicis Groupe)

Caracolitos

Multinsa

Sika

Estahl Ingeniería

Darven

Airbus Colombia

Work highlights

  • Advised Prodigious, part of French multinational Publicis Groupe, on labour and employment matters, including human resources management, benefits policies, immigration, occupational health and safety, and numerous other day-to-day issues.
  • Advised Weatherford Colombia on a range of employee and social security matters, including assisting in reducing its liabilities in connection with the lack of records relating to the salaries and hours of work of some of the company’s former employees.
  • Represented Fiduciaria Davivienda on the fulfilment of judgements handed down by the Colombian Supreme Court of Justice, via the implementation of settlement agreements relating to payments of pensions to various former employees.

Cortés, Romero & Asociados Ltda

Cortés, Romero & Asociados Ltda impresses sources with its ‘efforts to exceed expectations'. The boutique firm has experience in a broad range of contentious and non-contentious labour and employment matters, with a strong recent showing in collective bargaining agreements for clients such as Universidad América, Hoteles Cosmos and FiberGlass. José Luís Cortés focuses his practice on public entities and litigation; Catalina Romero specialises in disciplinary measures, personnel management and due diligence; while María Victoria Romero  has an emphasis on providing alternatives to conflict resolution — together they co-head the practice.

Practice head(s):

Catalina Romero; José Luis Cortés; María Victoria Romero

Testimonials

We recommend the firm for its expertise and its efforts to exceed expectations in the objectives proposed in the processes in which they represent us. Demonstrates organic knowledge of our company aligned with the relevance of each recommendation.

We have particularly appreciated the firm’s continuous support during this period of issuance of local and national regulations in the framework of the health emergency due to the global Covid-19 pandemic; through videoconferences with their participation and/or support from experts.’

Provides an interdisciplinary review of each recommendation. It also maintains relationships with the best lawyers in each relevant expertise, which allows it to recommend colleagues from other branches with high reliability.’

The direct attention from leaders and partners of the firm gives me confidence in the advice and support provided. In other firms, queries are resolved by junior lawyers, which do not achieve the required depth of response.

I appreciate the speed in the attention of the consultations, since I require promptness.’

Key clients

Agencia de Aduanas BMA

Cameleco

Asociación de Padres del Colegio Leonardo Davinci (ASODAVINCI)

Caja de compensación familiar (COMFANORTE)

Seguros Del Estado

Herrera Laboralistas

Quintero & Quintero Asesores

Confehogar

Publimpresos

Bemel

Everis De Colombia

Hotel Cosmos

Energia Integral Andina

Universidad de América

Hoteles OXXO

Hospimedics

Acciones y Valores

Seguridad Platimun

Concesion Runt

Interactivo Contact Center

Hoteles Four Seassons

Primetime Media

Modinco

Work highlights

  • Represented Universidad América in its collective bargaining process and in the signing of the collective bargaining agreement.
  • Advised Hoteles Cosmos on its collective bargaining process and on the signing of the collective bargaining agreement.
  • Represented FiberGlass in the bargaining process of fiberglass’ unionised workers

Cuberos Cortés Gutiérrez Abogados

Cuberos Cortés Gutiérrez Abogados moves up two tiers for 2023, due to its strong showings in complex and strategic labour and employment work. A particularly prominent player in collective bargaining matters, the group handled significant negotiations in the flower, retail and energy sectors over the past year. Other key areas of experience include transactional support issues, compensation and employee benefits, regulatory compliance and litigation. The two-partner team benefits from the senior expertise of Camilo Cuervo Díaz, who is recommended for his extensive experience as a consultant, negotiator and litigator, and Diego Mauricio Acevedo Gamez, who was elevated to the partnership in July 2021 and focuses on individual and collective labour law and social security law.

Practice head(s):

Camilo Cuervo Díaz; Diego Mauricio Acevedo Gamez

Key clients

Motta Internacional

Alsea

Grupo Semana

Biomax Biocombustibles

Gestiones y Representaciones Chia

iShop Colombia

Mercaderia (Justo y Bueno)

Sanautos

Carbomax de Colombia

Serdale / Tarkus Pharma Lab

Calmm

Smarthop Colombia

Helicentro

Guicaramo

Termotasajero

Easyfly

Masivo Capital

Work highlights

  • Advised In Bond Gema on the negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement between it and its non-unionised workers.
  • Represented Mountain Roses in collective bargaining agreements executed between it and the ONOF Union and also between it and its non-unionised workers.
  • Advised Pardo Carrizosa Navas on a collective agreement with non-unionised employees and also on a collective agreement with the SINTRAINAGRO Union.

Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas

The labour and employment practice at Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas assists domestic and multinational clients with a wide range of advisory, transactional support and contentious matters. The team frequently works alongside other departments in the full-service firm to provide holistic advice on strategic matters, but it is also a popular choice to advise on standalone, day-to-day issues. Lorena Arámbula steers the group and also maintains an active commercial and corporate practice. Associate Laura Mateus provides focused support on labour, social security and immigration matters, including litigation.

Practice head(s):

Lorena Arámbula

Garrigues

Garrigues climbs a tier on the back of its May 2022 hire of sector specialist Carolina Camacho Solana, formerly head of the labour team at Posse Herrera Ruiz. The arrival of Camacho is expected to further augment a growing practice, which is seeing strong activity in cross-border, transactional support and healthcare-related work. Former senior associate Carlos Arturo Silva Burbano left in August 2021 to become Assistant Magistrate at the Supreme Court of Justice.

Practice head(s):

Carolina Camacho Solana

Key clients

TCS Solution Center Sucursal Colombia

Asurion Colombia

Lucta Grancolombiana

Syngenta

Knight Pharmaceuticals

Wellbore Integrity Solutions Colombia

Ilunion Lavandería de Colombia

SAR Energy

Canalife

Chemdrill

GMS Management Solutions Colombia

Secab

Universitas XXI

BME

COMSA

Andean Tower Partners

Rosen

Coorserpark

Work highlights

  • Advising Lucta Grancolombiana on the day-to-day management of labour relations with its workers.
  • Advising Wellbore Integrity Solutions, on a Court of Arbitration part of a complex collective-bargaining process with the Unión Sindical Obrera.
  • Advising Syngenta on a complex collective-bargaining process with company union, SINTRASYNGE.

Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA)

Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA)‘s labour and employment team stands out for its ‘high knowledge of labour legislation and its practical application‘. It is also distinguished by its strength in transactional support work, such as its recent advice to KKR on due diligence matters connected to its joint venture with Colombia Telecomunicaciones. Director Mauricio Montealegre heads the practice and has a strong record in non-contentious issues, including labour due diligence, voluntary retirement plans, compensation schemes and audits. Associate Maria Angelica Pulido provides support on labour, social security and immigration law.

Practice head(s):

Mauricio Montealegre

Testimonials

‘The team provides a comprehensive and personalised service.’

‘GPA’s team, particularly Mauricio Montealegre, provides a lot of security in the advice it gives us. It has a practical vision of labour law — very adjusted to the current labour reality — which allows us to navigate the uncertainty that exists in this area. The quality is exceptional.’

‘The team has a high knowledge of labour legislation and its practical application. Its knowledge translates seamlessly into hiring realities for digital native companies with specific needs related to their industry.’

‘The team leader, Mauricio Montealegre, has exceptional knowledge and constant availability to solve the issues that arise.’

‘A strong group in handling the cases that we present, and it aligns its resolution with the company’s culture. The team has extensive knowledge of labour and immigration law issues, which allows us to resolve cases and queries in a complete and appropriate manner. It is an inclusive and diverse team, mostly made up of women.’

‘The consultants maintain good relationships with the client: respectful and assertive. The availability of the lawyers is an added value, as it facilitates communication with the people on the team.’

‘We highlight the management of Maria Angelica Pulido, her professionalism and the quality of her work.’

Key clients

Chemonics International

Lulo Bank

IGT Foreign Holdings Corporation

Fox Telecolombia

Didi Mobility Information Technology

Cofco International Colombia

Lexmark International Trading Corporation

Metro De Bogotá

Talasa Projectco

Siigo

Work highlights

  • Represented Chemonics in a labour claim initiated by a former employee seeking severance pay for unjust dismissal and moral damages.
  • Advised Congelados Agricolas on collective bargaining matters.
  • Advised KKR on due diligence and employment matters concerning Colombia Telecomunicaciones in relation to their establishment of a joint venture.

Guerrero & Asociados Asesores Laborales

The ‘extremely agile team' at Guerrero & Asociados Asesores Laborales scores highly with sources for its lawyers’ ‘interest in learning about the company’s business and its particular needs'. The firm’s exclusive focus on labour and social security law translates into a full-service practice that counts collective labour matters, litigation and consultancy work among its sweet spots. Managing partner Juan Manuel Guerrero ‘seeks innovative and creative solutions for day-to-day problems' and spearheads a department that also includes associate Ángela María Barreto, who specialises in consultancy matters.

Practice head(s):

Juan Manuel Guerrero

Testimonials

‘The firm’s interest in learning about the company’s business and its particular needs makes this practice unique. Its knowledge of the political and economic context, as well as the practices that other companies are implementing in the labour market, make it a great ally of our company.’

‘Juan Manuel Guerrero seeks innovative and creative solutions for day-to-day problems of the company. He is strategic and we consider him as one more member of our work team, due to the degree of rapport he brings to various projects, especially collective bargaining with the union.’

‘It is an extremely agile team, which takes into account the particularities of organisations to provide answers, especially on issues related to labour law. It looks for possibilities to make things happen, with extensive knowledge of Colombian legislation (both old and the most updated).’

‘Lawyers act as if they were part of the organisation that is requesting advice, they do not act as an outsider, or as someone who is not affected by what happens in the business. They are simple, pragmatic, agile and close to the organisation, which generates synergies to solve everything easier and faster.’

Holland & Knight

Lawyers at Holland & Knight provide ‘fast and personalised attention', according to sources. The practice has seen some major changes of late, with former department head Vicente Umaña leaving the firm in April 2022, to be replaced by new practice lead Carolina Castro, who was also promoted to senior counsel. The group also draws upon associates Jimena Nieto, who is well versed in collective bargaining, disciplinary procedures and termination plans; and Camilo García, who handles various corporate matters, with a focus on labour law.

Practice head(s):

Carolina Castro

Testimonials

‘It is a team with the common denominator of excellence.’

‘Lawyers provide fast and personalised attention.’

Key clients

Crepes & Waffles

Wizeline

Drummond

Messer Colombia

Arthur J Gallagher

Corporación Club Payandé

Lenovo

Staffing Abroad / Lending USA

Unysis

Energizer

Work highlights

  • Advising Crepes & Waffles on day-to-day labour matters, including on the structuring of human resources procedures and policies, working hours special schemes and disciplinary procedures; additional matters include successfully representing the client before the Labour Court.
  • Advising Wizeline on its initiation in Colombia from a labour perspective, and on day-to-day labour matters.
  • Representing Unisys on litigation matters before State Counsel against Unidad de Gestión Pensional y parafiscal (UGPP) for supposed breach of social security-related obligations during the years 2012 to 2020; it secured a reduction of over 80% of the recalculation and fines.

Lloreda Camacho & Co.

The labour and employment team at Lloreda Camacho & Co. strikes the right note with sources for its ‘strong level of commitment and its response capacity'. Best known for its strength in transactional support matters, including M&A, spin-offs, incorporations and liquidations, the team is also recognised for its representation of clients in the pharmaceutical, consumer and advertising sectors. The department is co-led by multidisciplinary specialist Enrique Álvarez, who also oversees the competition, data privacy and life sciences teams, together with senior associate Rafael Abuchaibe.

Practice head(s):

Enrique Álvarez; Rafael Abuchaibe

Testimonials

‘In this practice, the most important things are the people and the knowledge of the sector and the regulations that regulate our business — Lloreda Camacho has a mixture of both. In addition to being advisers, they are our allies and proactively suggest topics, even anticipating our needs.’

‘The firm’s collaboration in the last year has been fundamental; its understanding of the reality of the company and its help in adapting hybrid work to our business has been key.’

‘We recommend the team due to its strong level of commitment and its response capacity — from its speed to the analysis carried out. Rafael Abuchaibe is a super visionary and collaborative attorney.’

Key clients

Oxfam

MullenLowe Group

The Walt Disney Company

Softtek

Productos Roche

Sonovista

Underwriters Laboratories (UL)

Stratum Corporation

Stonhard – Grupo Stoncor

DeSimone

Addeco

Casio

Boehringer Ingelheim

The Coca-Cola Company

Biomarin Pharmaceutical

Stoller USA

Spirit Airlines

Work highlights

  • Advised Oxfam on the review of all labour and human resources policies to comply with Colombian labour regulations.
  • Acted for MullenLowe Group on the review of a new flexible compensation policy.
  • Advised Softtek on the review of all labour and human resources policies to comply with labour regulations, as well as on the hiring structure of its personnel.

Tannus & Asociados

Tannus & Asociados is particularly noted for its strength in immigration law and one satisfied client asserts, ‘it knows exhaustively the purposes, processes and legislation applicable to each case'. Alongside global mobility matters, the boutique firm also advises its roster of domestic and multinational clients on collective and individual labour law issues, litigation and compliance and audits. Practice head Rodrigo Tannus is held up by sources as a ‘true expert in immigration matters'.

Practice head(s):

Rodrigo Tannus

Testimonials

‘We value the firm’s excellent service. Rodrigo Tannus and his team provide labour and immigration support, including document management on apostille issues, in good time.’

‘The team’s advice and support in immigration matters is excellent. It knows exhaustively the purposes, processes and legislation applicable to each case and support us in the design of the best migration strategies for each of our foreign nationals, always guaranteeing high standards of excellence and satisfaction.’

‘We appreciate the team’s agility and celerity. Rodrigo Tannus handles time very well in urgent cases.’

‘The team has adequate knowledge of labour and immigration matters in Colombia.’

‘Rodrigo is a true expert in immigration matters. His capacity for innovation, vision and technical expertise allowed us to guarantee the migratory dynamics of our organisation even during the pandemic. I highlight his constant concern for the experience of his clients, and support that goes beyond the process and generates added value.’

Rodrigo Tannus has solid experience and knowledge in the labour and immigration field in Colombia. His treatment is friendly and very efficient.’

Key clients

Ruta N

Clínicos IPS

Cometer

Global Hydro

Cosmicgo

Disan

Compañia Colombiana de Ceramica

AGFA

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Velocity

Work highlights

  • Acted for Robert Bosch on a number of cross-border labour and immigration cases.
  • Advised Asurion on various topics from a labour, employment and immigration standpoint during the company’s incorporation.

Acevedo Abogados Consultores S.A.S.

Lawyers at Acevedo Abogados Consultores S.A.S. are ‘clear, specialised and provide very good treatment‘, say sources. The labour and employment boutique, which first opened its doors in 2020, remains very much in growth mode: senior lawyer Ricardo Acevedo Gamez joined from the Instituto de Medicina Legal in March 2021, while new associate director of litigation, Yat Sing Chia, joined from Godoy Córdoba member of Littler Global two months later. Founding partner José Darío Acevedo is the key contact; he ‘provides solutions‘. Associate Sebastián Altuzarra Rodríguez directs the consultancy practice and is also noted. Litigator Juan Fernando Rico  left in April 2021 to join an advisory and consultancy company.

Practice head(s):

José Darío Acevedo; Yat Sing Chia; Sebastián Altuzarra Rodríguez

Testimonials

This office is extraordinary; its professionals, response times and quality make it exceptional. Providing personalised attention and response times, its advice is tailored to the clients’ needs: personalised, practical and with the quality and speed required.’

The charging process is not a taximeter, on the contrary, the team provides effective work and, being comprised of specialised professionals with great knowledge, it gets to the point without charging the client for lack of knowledge and handling of the issues.

The team is always willing to respond to requests in a timely manner. Lawyers are clear, specialised and provide very good treatment. They respond in adequate time and with quality and practicality.

José Darío Acevedo has a constant disposition to advise and provide solutions to the different requirements that our company presents. The team instils confidence when it carries out the different consultancies, due to its quality of service and lawyers’ constant training.’

Key clients

Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Buenaventura

Grupo Mesofoods (Franquicias y Concesiones / Restcafe)

Informática & Tecnología Stefanini

Grupo Perenco (Perenco Colombia / Perenco Oil & Gas Colombia)

Tostacafé

Systemgroup

Stanton

Electrificadora de Santander

Federación Nacional de Avicultores de Colombia

Compañía de Seguros de Vida Aurora

El Viajero Hostels

Torres Cámara y Cía de Obras (sucursal Colombia)

Woden Colombia

Universidad ECCI

Fedeseguridad

Sistemas y Asesorías de Colombia

Sofka Technologies

Work highlights

  • Represented Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Buenaventura on collective bargaining processes with three unions (SNTT de Colombia, ASINTRAINPORPACIFICO and SINAPORTL).
  • Advised Stanton on a collective bargaining process with the union SINTRASTANTON.
  • Advised FedeSeguridad on the impact of legal labour reforms that affected the private security and surveillance sector in Colombia during 2021.

Cardozo Ordóñez Ltda

New entrant to the labour and employment ranking for 2023, Cardozo Ordóñez Ltda strikes the right note with its ‘capacity for commitment, attention and reaction‘. The boutique firm fields specialist offerings in labour, collective bargaining and union relations, immigration, social security and litigation, with in-house teams highlighting the group’s ability to provide ‘comprehensive advice on the subject‘. Seasoned partner Hernando Cardozo  stands out for his experience in extraordinary cassation appeals and collective bargaining matters. Other senior names include Sonia Patricia Martínez , who directs the social security practice; Javier Villalobos Galvis , who manages the labour-business division; and immigration law specialist, Catalina Cardozo Ordóñez . Senior associate Camilo Andrés Salinas  is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Hernando Cardozo; Camilo Andrés Salinas; Sonia Patricia Martínez; Catalina Cardozo Ordóñez; Javier Villalobos Galvis

Testimonials

Cardozo Ordóñez provides excellent customer service, handles work very fast and has efficient response times. It also demonstrates extensive knowledge in labour law and related issues.’

It is a solid firm that is up-to-date and sits at the forefront of new procedures, jurisprudential positions and applicable regulations.

It is a highly qualified team with an excellent service attitude that stands out against the competition. Always available to answer questions, find alternatives within the legal framework and be a strategic ally of the company in labour matters.

The firm has several lawyers specialised in different labour areas (for example electronic payroll issues, UGPP issues, litigation, etc.), which allows it to provide comprehensive advice on the subject.

In my view, the firm’s best qualities are its capacity for commitment, attention and reaction. What a client needs most is a representative who can find the best way to serve, and that they do it efficiently and quickly — this firm excels at this.’

We value lawyers for their availability, timely responses, extensive knowledge and service attitude.

Key clients

KPMG

Bomi Group

Swiss Re

Electrificadora Del Meta (EMSA)

Grupo Belcorp

Corferias

Hamburg Sud

Cengage Learning

ILANS / Khiron

Claro

Maersk

Consultoria Regulatoria

Club Campestre Guaymaral

Liga Colombiana Contra el Cáncer

Avon Colombia

Ecolab

Work highlights

  • Advised Tour Vacation Hoteles Azul on its labour and employment response to Covid-19, including suspending employee contracts.
  • Represented Comcel on legal proceedings initiated by current or former employees throughout the country.
  • Assisted Drugstore with the design and implementation of its telecommuting structure, to allow it to continue operating with all of its employees working from home.

Contexto Legal S.A.

Flexible and close to the client', Contexto Legal S.A. is valued by sources for its ‘willingness to solve everything that arises'. The labour and employment group routinely handles collective bargaining negotiations, compliance issues, immigration matters and litigation, with a focus on clients in the industrial and chemical sectors. Led jointly by Melissa Echeverri Duque and senior associate Ana María Marín Higuita, the group also leans on experienced corporate partner Guillermo Villegas Ortega, who is noted for attending to clients with ‘great diligence’.

Practice head(s):

Melissa Echeverri Duque; Ana María Marín Higuita

Testimonials

The service is timely, satisfactory and provided by highly competent professionals. Lawyers are distinguished by their empathy, ability to immediately meet our needs, excellent disposition, technical knowledge and experience.’

In these difficult times, the team’s support has been of great help. Lawyers provide timely solutions, agile communication and knowledge in all issues arising from the pandemic.’

This is a solid and robust office, but at the same time it remains flexible and close to the client. Its fees are adjusted to commercial practices and lawyers demonstrate high legal rigour.’

This is  synchronised team; if any of its professionals cannot attend to a requirement, another immediately picks it up and provides a resolution. Lawyers are very professional, attentive and 100% available. I feel very supported by the entire team in all the legal advice that we have required.’

In my human management role, I work very closely with Ana María Marín Higuita, whom I highlight for her dedication, professionalism, willingness and strong advice.’

The agility of the team and its willingness to solve everything that arises is impressive. It is the first firm with which we have connected as a company, and that we feel works at the pace of the market. With other firms we have not had received this level of responsiveness or advice.

The Contexto Legal team gets involved with the company to achieve a better understanding of internal dynamics, and therefore manages to propose effective solutions, which translate into successful results. Additionally, lawyers respond promptly, and with interest, to the needs of our company.

Guillermo Villegas Ortega has always attended to us with great diligence.’

Key clients

Moldes Medellín

HMV Ingenieros

Getcom Colombia

Autogas

Scribe Colombia

Laboratorio Medico Echavarria

El Colombiano

Choucair Testing

Motoborda

Dexco

Muma

Exela

Autoland

Mane Sucursal Colombia

CNC

Viappiani de Colombia

Calco

Visdecol

Intergastro

Silvotecnia

Grupo Argos

Talma

Trichem

Office Partners 360

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented Vehículos del Camino and Plásticos Truher in bringing a case against union USTI, in which both companies argued that USTI did not fulfil the legal standards to be considered as a union in Colombia.
  • Assisted EAFIT University with establishing an employment law programme for people interested in learning about the legal area.
  • Advised Moldes Medellín on labour and employment matters connected to the closure of local factories.

DG&A-Abogados

The team at DG&A-Abogados is commended by sources for its ‘knowledge, prompt attention and clear and precise advice'. Standing out for its close relationships with clients in the technology, security, and food and drink industries, the group is well-equipped to advise on disciplinary processes, collective bargaining matters, due diligence issues and litigation. Adriana Martínez spearheads the labour and migration law department and is also an arbitrator of the labour Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice. Associate Karin Rojas provides dedicated support.

Practice head(s):

Adriana Martínez

Testimonials

‘This practice has been very efficient and timely in meeting our requirements and queries. Additionally, its professionals denote an exceptional mastery of labour matters and its legal advice is objective and clear, showing the risks and strengths in decision-making that our entity must assume. This makes it unique.’

‘What makes the team stand out is its expert knowledge; any of its lawyers are able to attend to queries in a comprehensive manner. They are always up to date on the matters on which they advise. They care about knowing the client and their needs.’

‘It is a team of lawyers that knows the needs of its client, understands their problems and provides practical and valuable solutions.’

‘Lawyers stand out for their knowledge, prompt attention and clear and precise advice.’

Key clients

IBM Colombia

Termobarranquilla (TEBSA)

Outsourcing Servicios Informáticos

Fit for all

Banco Pichincha

Koba Colombia

Colviseg

Humboldt Institute

Schneider Electric

Indega (Industria nacional de gaseosas)

Eventos Efectivos y Producciones

Yop Colombia

American Apparel Colombia

Athletic Sport

Terumo Colombia Andina

Work highlights

  • Advising Koba Colombia, which has over 10,000 employees, on disciplinary processes at the national level.
  • Assisting IBM de Colombia with all matters subject to judicial controversy, including pensions-related cases.
  • Providing day-to-day advice to Termobarranquilla on its relationship with its employees’ union, not only regarding collective bargaining and attention to petitions, but also the management of conventional benefits.

DLA Piper Martinez Beltrán

DLA Piper Martinez Beltrán advises a diverse roster of domestic and multinational companies on their day-to-day labour and employment requirements, with Burger King, Stanley Black & Decker and Twilio among its representative clients. Particularly active in regulatory and compliance matters, retrenchment planning and recruitment matters, the team also handles contentious work. Practice head Diana Zuleta, who was promoted to partner in February 2022, is noted for her experience in personnel management, compensation plans, retrenchment matters and social security issues. Associate Juan Pablo Prócel provides dedicated support to the labour group.

Practice head(s):

Diana Zuleta

Key clients

Burger King

Nielsen

Twilio

ProQuest

Livanova

Infotrack

Cosmetika

Pandora

Apergy Usa Inc – sucursal Colombia (Champion X)

Uber

Axalta

Productos Naturales La Colmena

White Rabbit Group

Tecnológica Colombia

Stanley Black & Decker

FTI Consulting

Cornershop Colombia

Steward

Alkiron

Maple Respiratory

Comercial Papelera

Summit

EPAM

Work highlights

  • Advising Burger King on day-to-day labour-related matters, including strategies to manage personnel, retrenchment plans and Covid-19-related issues.
  • Providing day-to-day advice to Nielsen, including advising on the hiring of new national and foreign team members.
  • Advising Uber on its retrenchment plan in Colombia.

Muñoz Tamayo & Asociados

Muñoz Tamayo & Asociados draws on the wider firm’s growing strength in sports law to provide niche expertise in advising football clubs – including América de Cali, Azul & Blanco Millonarios FC and Club Deportivo Popular Junior FC – on labour and employment issues. Noted for its ‘extensive experience and knowledge‘, the group also acts for a significant volume of clients in the technology and consumer goods spheres. Joe Bonilla Gálvez steers the department and advises on a range of consultancy and contentious matters. Associate Alejandra Vidaurre Tugues, who sits in both the sports law and labour and employment practices, is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Joe Bonilla Gálvez

Testimonials

‘We value the team’s availability to meet requirements, knowledge and experience. Good monitoring of operational requirements and adoption of technological solutions to support the process. Effective communication channels.’

‘The MTA employment law team understands the needs of the business, seeks practical solutions and protects the interests of clients.’

‘Lawyers maintain close relationships and have strong availability. Matters are handled by a team with extensive experience and knowledge in an agile manner and with a very good level of service.’

‘We recommend lawyers for their availability, charisma and knowledge.’

‘Lawyers demonstrate warm personal skills along with extensive experience and knowledge. Joe Bonilla Gálvez and associate Alejandra Vidaurre Tugues provide a great service, which gives confidence to both the legal and human resources areas.’

Key clients

Club Deportivo Popular Junior FC

Monster Energy Colombia

Soldaduras West Arco

Aucerna (3ESI Colombia)

Avant Capital

América de Cali

VSM Latinoamérica

Pepperl+Fuchs

Southern Graphic Systems Colombia (SGSCO)

Azul & Blanco Millonarios FC

Work highlights

  • Advised Soldaduras West Arco on issues associated with the change of its headquarters, including the subsequent implications for working hours and the corresponding modifications to the company’s internal regulations.
  • Appointed by América de Cali to provide consultancy services for day-to-day labour affairs, including on the hiring and termination of employment contracts with players.
  • Assisted Monster Energy Colombia with the relocation of an employee who was not able to continue performing his duties due to a medical condition.

Parra Rodríguez Abogados

Parra Rodríguez Abogados is distinguished by its broad client base, which is mainly composed of domestic and multinational employers but also includes employees. The team specialises in consultancy work and routinely advises on labour liability assessments, due diligence, hiring and terminations and social security issues — it also has experience in labour dispute settlement and litigation. Associate director Nataly Traslaviña González leads the team and is well versed in a wide scope of consultancy and contentious matters. At senior level, the team draws on the experience of tax and transactional partner Álvaro Parra Gómez, litigation and commercial law specialist Augusto Figueroa Sierra and corporate finance and aviation law partner Bernardo Rodríguez.

Practice head(s):

Nataly Traslaviña González

Key clients

Netcracker Technology Colombia

United Airlines

BMC Software Colombia

LMCO Rotary & Mission Systems

Mónica Colombia

Semper Laser

Sudamericana Integral De Construcciones (Sudinco) Colombia

Knauf de Colombia

Fundación Abood Shaio

Corporación Instituto de Cultura Brasil Colombia (IBRACO)

Getel

Uberflug Colombia

Drillmec (sucursal Colombia)

Soilmec Colombia

Seaboard Overseas Colombia

Obera

Sercel

Work highlights

  • Advised Netcracker Technology Colombia on labour hiring and termination and workplace regulation.
  • Advised United Airlines (Colombia branch) on labour hiring and termination, workplace regulation and labour harassment matters.
  • Advised Mónica Colombia on labour hiring and termination and workplace regulation.

Correa Merino Agudelo Abogados

From its Medellín base, Correa Merino Agudelo Abogados advises local and international companies on a broad mix of labour, employment, social security and immigration law. The practice is particularly weighted towards non-contentious matters but it also handles litigation, including its recent representation of Grupo Phoenix in proceedings brought by former employees claiming the payment of different economic benefits, due to the termination of their employment contracts. Darío Ramírez, who led the Grupo Phoenix work, steers the group with support from senior associate Dayana Parra.

Practice head(s):

Darío Ramírez

Key clients

Grupo Sura

BTG Pactual

Solenis

Grupo Phoenix

Auteco Mobility

Astound Commerce

Idom

Uniban

Umbral

Centro Comercial Santafé

Materiales Emo

Aerolabor

Comfama

Gómez Piedrahíta

Constructura Ascenso

Grupalco

Celerix

La Haus

Matec logística

Work highlights

  • Advising Grupo Sura on labour and employment matters.
  • Advising BTG Pactual on all labour matters, including compensation, benefits, hiring, internal policies and personnel management generally.
  • Acting for Grupo Phoenix’s Colombian operations on all issues related to the administration of its labour relationships and union affairs.

Gamboa, García y Cardona Abogados

Gamboa, García y Cardona Abogadosgoes beyond legal advice to provide a comprehensive analysis of situations', according to sources. The labour and employment department specialises in consultancy and compliance matters but continues to focus on growing the contentious side of the practice. Founding partner Ivan Cardona Restrepo spearheads the department and is noted for his experience in strategic advice and litigation. Edna Liliana Torres, who provides ‘personalised attention', is also a key contact and advises on labour and employment, social security and immigration law.

Practice head(s):

Ivan Cardona Restrepo; Edna Liliana Torres

Testimonials

Gamboa, García & Cardona Abogados is a unique firm in labour law because it understands our needs and goes beyond legal advice to provide a comprehensive analysis of situations and a joint evaluation of possible solutions, guaranteeing regulatory compliance at the same time that it supports the business to move forward.

The labour law team is characterised as being composed of senior professionals with extensive knowledge, commitment, cordiality, deep experience and strong skills in communication, problem-solving and compliance. In short, it is very pleasant to work with each lawyer.’

It fields an excellent team of professionals who stay updated, which allows the team to provide the best advice with the latest jurisprudence. As the area of ​​practice is so specialised, we feel very satisfied with its advice and it effectively helps us with labour law issues.’

The firm’s labour team is very successful, with partner Edna Liliana Torres, directly attending to our queries; this personalised attention allows our issues to be resolved effectively and in a very short time.

Key clients

Hunter Douglas de Colombia

Longport Airport Services Colombia

Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology

Tigre Colombia

Inverlink

Spencer Stuart Andina

Armour International

Standard Chartered Bank

AGP de Colombia

Prestige Colombia

Ingenieros Consultores Civiles y Eléctricos (INGETEC)

Terranum Desarrollo

Mendebal

Freudenberg (sucursal Colombia)

Tinsa Colombia

Metrolínea

Jokr

Dynino Colombia

Anixter

Ecopharm Biosciences

Cuponatic Colombia

Work highlights

  • Advised Jokr Colombia on structuring and implementing labour-relationship models for workers who were hired to provide services in the different links of the business chain of the virtual platform.
  • Successfully advised a foreign citizen on removing restrictions imposed by the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Relations that disqualified her from presenting a new visa application for a period of six months.
  • Advised Cordis Colombia on the labour aspects of its acquisition of Cardinal Health Colombia, including advising on the transfer and assignment of the labour contracts of eight employees.