Firm Profile > Uría Menéndez > Madrid, Spain
Uría Menéndez Offices
PRÍNCIPE DE VERGARA 187
PLAZA RODRÍGUEZ URÍA
28002 MADRID
Spain
Uría Menéndez > The Legal 500 Rankings
Banking and finance Tier 1
Advising borrowers and lenders, Uría Menéndez’s experience covers the spectrum of banking and finance matters, from corporate lending, project finance and acquisition finance, to restructuring and financial regulatory issues. Practice head Ángel Pérez López focuses on corporate, acquisition and project finance. He can call on the expertise of Sebastián Sáenz de Santa María, who is known for banking, project finance, acquisition finance and restructuring, and Carlos de Cárdenas Smith, who leads the firm’s corporate and commercial practice and specialises in banking, finance, M&A and restructuring work. Also notable in the team are counsel Isabel Aguilar, who has expertise in payment industry regulation, and counsel Carolina Albuerne, who is active in the fields of banking regulation and securities law.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Uria shows strong knowledge in financial services, works as a team, and is very pleasant to deal with’
‘Uria Menendez has wide experience in banking advisory and has been involved in the main banking operations’
‘Given their capabilities and background, the whole team provide a unique advisory in this practice’
‘Carolina Albuerne is one of the best lawyers of the team. She is very talented, client oriented and her technical skills are probably her main strength. Carolina anticipates the problems and seeks creative solutions’
Key clients
Banco Santander
BBVA
ENCE Energía y Celulosa
LAR España Real Estate Socimi
Kutxabank
Banco Sabadell
CaixaBank
Metrovacesa Suelo y Promoción
Abanca Corporación Bancaria
Bankia
BlackRock
Asociación Española de Banca
Government of the Principality of Andorra
Unicaja Banco
Andorran Banking Association
Morgan Stanley group
Capital markets: Debt Tier 1
Uría Menéndez is experienced in the issuance of debt securities, including issuances of state-of-the-art hybrid securities by financial institutions, as well as issuances in the context of acquisition finance. The firm provides a debt capital markets practice with expertise in the spectrum of products, notably equity-linked bonds, structured and project bonds, and regulatory capital instruments. Rafael Sebastián leads the practice and specialises in capital markets, M&A and corporate restructuring. His team includes Javier Redonet, who is known for company, finance and securities law, and counsel Carolina Albuerne, who focuses on company, securities and banking law.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Banco Santander
Telefónica
Iberdrola
Almirall
Ence Energía y Celulosa
Indra Sistemas
NH Hotel Group
Citigroup Global Markets
Credit Suisse
Duro Felguera
Renta Corporación
Capital markets: Equity Tier 1
The ‘exceptional’ Uría Menéndez provides ‘knowledgeable and helpful’ advice on the spectrum of equity capital markets transactions, notably IPOs, follow-on offerings, rights issues, equity-linked instruments and public M&A. The multi-jurisdictional expertise of the firm enables the practice to act for issuers and underwriters in outbound and inbound matters. Luis de Carlos Bertrán advises on corporate governance, M&A, banking and corporate law matters. He co-leads the practice with Javier Redonet, who specialises in company, finance and securities law. Notable in their team is Gabriel Núñez, whose experience covers public offerings and IPOs, takeovers and project finance deals. The department is advising NH Hotel Group on the mandatory tender offer by Minor International Group for 100% of the company’s shares.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Uria are the most qualified lawyers regarding listed companies in Spain’
‘They have strong knowledge and know the Spanish regulator very well, having fluent communication with them’
‘This law firm is exceptional at rendering services to their clients and providing legal advice in due time and from a practical point of view’
Key clients
NH Hotel Group, S.A.
AmRest Holdings SE
Testa Residencial, SOCIMI, S.A.
Papeles y Cartones de Europa, S.A. (Europac)
Cellnex Telecom, S.A.
Providence Equity Partners
Distribuidora Internacional de Alimentación, S.A. (DIA)
KKR
Distribuidora Internacional de Alimentación, S.A. (DIA)
Abertis Infraestructuras, S.A.
Promotora de Informaciones, S.A.
Berkeley Energía Limited
Investindustrial Advisors, S.L.
Duro Felguera, S.A.
Árima Real Estate SOCIMI, S.A.
Laboratorios Farmacéuticos Rovi, S.A.
Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Known for providing ‘a top-quality product and service’, Uría Menéndez has expertise in complex and cross-border transactions, notably in Portugal and the Latam region. The practice offers ‘unique, well-rounded solutions’ and is co-led by Manuel Echenique, who specialises in domestic and international M&A, private equity and general corporate law, and Francisco San Miguel, who is experienced in domestic and international private equity and banking M&A. Their prolific team includes Juan Francisco Falcón, who covers a range of corporate law and financing work, with particular emphasis on M&A, private equity, structured finance and securitisations; Juan Miguel Goenechea Domínguez, who focuses on public and private transactions, in Spain and internationally; Salvador Sánchez Terán, who advises on corporate transactions involving credit entities and on the development of new financial instruments; and Tomás Acosta who acts in debt restructuring and multi-jurisdictional structured finance deals, as well as equity and debt issuances.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Committed beyond their job, they treat the transaction as theirs’
‘They are proactive and one step ahead of the needs of the client’
‘Jaime Pereda is able to explain things calmly to the client and his performance is key in the negotiations. He is a practical lawyer with expertise in his field’
‘Leonor de Osma is devoted to every transaction and she treats them as hers. Her active and positive attitude combined with her commitment to her work its vital.’
‘Carlos Paredes has deep knowledge of the sector and an up-to-date, practical approach to any legal situation’
Key clients
Banco Santander
BBVA
CaixaBank
KKR
Investindustrial
Iberdrola
Repsol
Lone Star
Brookfield
Coca-Cola European Partners
Dispute resolution Tier 1
Uría Menéndez is known for its expertise in civil and commercial proceedings, international and domestic arbitration, administrative law, constitutional law and criminal law. The firm is increasingly active in the Latin American market and brings broad sector expertise to its disputes practice, including corporate law, financial transactions, infrastructure projects, IT and commercial contracts. Jesús Remón Peñalver leads the team and is experienced in a range of judicial and arbitration proceedings. Also notable are Álvaro López de Argumedo, who specialises in civil litigation and international arbitration; Alex Ferreres Comellas, who focuses on contractual liability and torts; and international arbitration expert Miguel Virgós. The department is representing Banco Santander in a damages claim brought against it by former shareholders of Abengoa.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The skills and strategic vision of the litigation team are exceptional’
‘Uria’s deep knowledge of subjects and capacity to set up different strategies makes the difference’
‘José Miguel Fatás and Julio Iglesias have great knowledge of legal background and technical skills, combined with strategic vision, involvement in the transaction and availability’
Key clients
Telefónica
Bankia
BBVA
Abanca
The BP Group
Banco Sabadell
Banco Santander
Repsol
Iberdrola
DAF
Riu Hotels, S.A.
Duro Felguera
Adidas España, S.A.U.
Barceló Corporación
Unicaja Banco, S.A.
Día
Employment Tier 1
Uría Menéndez's employment practice provides national coverage, with offices in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao and Valencia. The team focuses on high-level matters such as collective dismissals and collective bargaining procedures, and complex mass litigation. Mario Barros, who is noted for his 'resilience, empathy, work capacity and assertiveness', advises on employment contracts, remuneration systems and the employment aspects of M&A and corporate restructurings, while 'impeccable' associate Álvaro Navarro has experience in a range of matters, including redundancy procedures, employment disputes and immigration issues. Ignacio García Perrote left the firm.Testimonials
‘The firm stand out in relation to their competitors regarding availability, result orientation, and search for practical solutions to complex problems.’
Key clients
AccorInvest
Agrupación de fabricantes de cementode España (Oficemen)
Asociación Nacional de Empresas Estibadoras y Consignatarias de Buques (ANESCO)
Asociación Nacional de Fabricantes de Automóviles y Caminiones (ANFAC)
Applus
Atento
A.T. Kearney
Ávoris Travel (Barceló)
Banco Santander
Bankia
Beam Suntory Spain
Bureau Veritas Group
Canal de Isabel II
Coca-Cola Iberian Partners
Dassault Systems
Ence Energía y Celulosa SA
Everis Aeroespacial
General Dynamics
Hugo Boss
Inditex
International Olympic Committee
Japan Airlines Co, Ltd.
Mars Multisales Spain
Moody’s Investors Service
Organización Interprofesional de Carne de Pollo (Propollo)
Port Aventura
Procter & Gamble España, S.A.
Radici Plastics Ibérica S.L.
Saint-Gobain Group
Travelclick Europe, S.L.
Value Retail
Volvo Group
Wallapop, S.L.
Wanner Technical Insulation
Westcon Group
Wizink Bank
Environment Tier 1
Offering ‘strategic thinking and responsiveness to client needs’, Uría Menéndez handles transactional, regulatory and litigation matters relating to carbon trading, environmental liability, soil pollution, and waste and water management. The practice acts for clients in the energy, construction, utilities and mining sectors. Soil pollution, water and environmental liability experts Carlos de Miguel Perales and Juan Antonio Loste Madoz head the team. Noemí Blázquez, who has experience in planning law and advises on the management of hazardous substances, is noted for her ‘strategic understanding of the client’s long-term objectives’. Jesús Sedano, who has extensive experience in public procurement and contentious administrative matters, and IPPC expert Jaime Calvo Retuerto are also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Renault
Ferrovial
Puy du Fou
Ercros
Tersa
Compañía Española de Laminación
Unión Químico Farmacéutica (Uquifa)
EU and competition Tier 1
Uría Menéndez's team stands out for its 'excellence, professionalism, intelligence and accessibility'. The firm covers the spectrum of EU law and competition matters, from merger control and cartel investigations to abuse of dominant position and state aid. The practice also has experience in the damages field, drawing on the firm’s litigation expertise. Jaime Folguera is active in proceedings before the European Commission and the Spanish Competition Authority, as well as before the EU and Spanish courts. He co-leads the team with the ‘committed, reliable and trustworthy’ Antonio Guerra, who has 'deep knowledge of antitrust law, processes and business’ and ‘extraordinarily good communication skills'. Also notable are Patricia Vidal, who focuses on cartel cases before the Spanish and EU authorities, and senior associate Tomás Arranz, whose expertise includes real estate, construction, insurance, banking and retail distribution.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘They always do their best to understand the business not only from a legal point of view but also from an economic point of view’
‘They are very professional and with an expert legal and business view of each matter’
‘Uria makes the difference in all its services’
‘Antonio Guerra knows the business and he is very focused on giving the most adequate solutions in every case. He is very practical, understands the client’s business and commercial needs, and gives the most appropriate legal advice on each occasion’
‘Deep knowledge of the law, understanding of the business and markets they are working for, and communication skills’
‘Great integration within the internal teams working together’
‘Extraordinary commitment to our company and teams, sharing our goals’
‘Reliable and predictable’
‘Uria anticipates problems and difficulties and therefore solutions’
‘Cristina Areces and Tomas Arranz are hard workers and really committed to the client and their goals’
‘Alfonso Gutierrez is one of the three best competition lawyers in Spain. He is always goal oriented and has a deep knowledge of the pharma sector’
‘High degree of responsiveness from all team members and high level of technical competence’
‘Their ability to understand the business and their pragmatic approach to issues is extraordinary’
‘Jaime Folguera has an ability to identify issues and get a thorough and integrated view of the path forward, setting the right balance for business and compliance issues’
‘Tomas Arranz has a quick grasp of the situation and has an open-minded approach to look for solutions. He shows a great knowledge of the EU competition legal environment’
Key clients
Banco Santander
Energizer
DAF
Siemens
Telefónica
Philip Morris
Telepizza
UPS
Toyota
Nissan
Industry focus: Food Tier 1
Uría Menéndez’s food and beverage practice group includes partners with corporate, IP, competition, litigation, criminal and regulatory experience. The team focuses on transactional work in the sector, including debt restructurings and M&A. Headed by joint venture, mergers and spin-offs expert Elena Úbeda, who frequently advises French and Belgian clients, the team also includes competition litigation and EU law specialist Patricia Vidal. Recent highlights include advising on the strategic deal and master franchise global alliance between Telepizza Group and Pizza Hut International.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
AmRest Holding
Telepizza Group, S.A.
Investindustrial Advisors, S.A.
Burger King Spain
Miura Fund III, F.C.R.
Newrest Group Holding and Ojaco S.à.r.l (Luxembourg)
Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences Tier 1
The team at Uría Menéndez handles both transactional and regulatory matters in the healthcare and life sciences sectors, and has particular expertise in compliance issues, such as internal investigations and setting up structures and policies. Members of the team are regularly seconded to clients in the sector. Teresa Paz-Ares, whose practice focuses on commercial and M&A law, heads the team. Also notable is José Massaguer, who specialises in intellectual property and innovation in healthcare. Recent highlight matters include advising on the potential implementation of a free price policy for pharmaceutical products in Spain, as opposed to the current government-fixed prices.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Farmaindustria
GSK
Novartis
Janssen-Cilag
Sanofi Aventis
Johnson & Johnson
Procter & Gamble
Roche
Bayer
Gilead
Lilly
Nordic Pharma
Essity
Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare, S.A.
Industry focus: Manufacturing Tier 1
Uría Menéndez’s manufacturing practice group is made up of partners with corporate, intellectual property, competition, litigation, environmental, criminal and regulatory expertise. EU and competition expert Patricia Vidal, intellectual property specialist José Massaguer, and Teresa Paz-Ares, who focuses on M&A and corporate governance, co-lead the team. Recent highlights include advising Grupo Ferroatlántica, which produces ferroalloys, silicon and hydroelectric power, on its sale to a vehicle controlled by TPG Sixth Street Partners.
Practice head(s):
Industry focus: Retail Tier 1
The retail team at Uría Menéndez includes partners from the firm’s corporate, intellectual property, competition, litigation and regulatory groups. The practice is led by EU law and competition specialist Patricia Vidal; Ramiro Rivera, who is head of the firm’s securitisation working group; and Borja Sainz de Aja, who focuses on intellectual property and unfair competition. Rivera recently advised Distribuidora Internacional de Alimentación on a proposed €600m share capital increase. Other highlights include representing Philip Morris Spain before the CNMC, the Spanish competition regulator.
Practice head(s):
Industry focus: TMT Tier 1
Uría Menéndez advises clients in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and fintech. In addition to assisting with e-commerce matters, the practice provides transactional and M&A-related advice to clients in the media and telecoms sectors. Other key areas of work include issues related to disruptive technology and advice on investigations and litigation. Pablo González-Espejo, who focuses on commercial law and regularly acts for Latin American clients, heads the team. Intellectual property and unfair competition specialist Borja Sainz de Aja is also recommended and advises clients in the electronics, microelectronics and software sectors. E-commerce and data protection specialist Leticia López-Lapuente, who leads the firm's e-commerce and data protection groups, was recently promoted to partner.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Microsoft
Prisa
Unidad Editorial
Telefónica
Banco Santander
BBVA
Ferroglobe
Cogent
Repsol
Bankinter
Morgan Stanley
Sprint
Slaughter and May
Covington & Burling
Bristows
Prensa Ibérica
Experian
Insurance Tier 1
Specialising in cross-border transactions, Uría Menéndez is known for bancassurance work and insurance M&A. As well as providing litigation expertise, the firm has notable experience in value-in-force monetisation transactions and the restructuring of insurance businesses in the banking industry. The ‘very smart’ Guillermo San Pedro leads the practice and focuses on advising on transactions in the insurance market and regulatory matters. He can call on the expertise of senior associate Jaime del Fraile, who advises on M&A and corporate matters in the insurance area. Alejandro Linares left to join Sunco Capital in 2019.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Knowledge, experience, customer focused and available’
‘Guillermo San Pedro is an experienced lawyer and very good at negotiating’
‘Solid knowledge of the subject and the sector, with a practical business approach’
‘Deep mastery of the subject and extensive experience that allows us to better focus on the issues’
‘Deep knowledge of the sector and of the applicable regulation, together with a high level of expertise in corporate operations’
‘It stands out above other offices’
‘The team delivered and is customer-oriented’
‘They have good sectoral knowledge, not only of theoretical matters but also of the practical day-to-day issues, which facilitates negotiations in corporate operations’
‘Guillermo San Pedro and Jaime Del Fraile are recommended’
Key clients
Banco Santander
Santander Seguros
Liberty Mutual Group
VidaCaixa S.A.U. de Seguros y Reaseguros
AIG
Mutua Madrileña
AXA
Generali
Munich RE
W.R. Berkley
Zurich Group
EICG
Santa Lucía
Bankia, S.A.
Ibercaja Banco
ABANCA
ABANCA VIDA
Athora
RCI Insurance
Fortegra Europe
BanSabadell Vida
Helvetia
Intellectual property: Copyright Tier 1
Uría Menéndez provides both contentious and non-contentious advice on copyright matters, including in relation to licensing and business transactions. Practice head Agustín González is an expert in art law. Also noted is competition specialist Montiano Monteaguo.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘They have a business-oriented approach and quickly understand the needs of the client.’
Intellectual property: patents Tier 1
Uría Menéndez provides advice on licensing, regulatory matters and the IP aspects of business transactions, and also handles patent litigation. The ‘fast-acting and proactive’ team represents clients in the chemical, pharmaceutical, biotech, cosmetics and consumer goods sectors. Unfair competition expert José Massaguer heads the practice. Ingrid Pi i Amorós has extensive litigation experience in the life sciences area, and Montiano Monteagudo advises on contract law and competition.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Telefónica, S.A
Gilead Sciences, Inc
Roche Diagnostics, S.L.
Nador Cott Protection
Intellectual property: Trade marks Tier 1
The trade mark practice at Uría Menéndez advises clients in the food and beverages, pharmaceutical and automotive sectors. José Massaguer heads the team, which also handles litigation, licensing and the IP aspects of transactional work. Montiano Monteagudo is also recommended, and ‘one of a kind’ counsel Nuria Porxas is noted for her ‘excellent technical skills’.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘A team of excellent professionals’
‘Works quickly and efficiently’
Key clients
Acciona
Champagne Louis Roederer
Wallapop
Procter & Gamble
Private equity Tier 1
Uría Menéndez has experience advising on formation and fundraising, as well as equity investments and debt financing. Known for public and private M&A, the firm provides expertise in distressed M&A, debt-for-equity transactions, turnarounds and restructurings, with particular strength in advising the private equity industry on Latam transactions. Francisco San Miguel focuses on domestic and international private equity and banking M&A. He co-leads the practice with Manuel Echenique Sanjurjo, who specialises in M&A, private equity and general corporate law. Also notable are Latam expert Juan Miguel Goenechea Domínguez, who acts in cross-border public and private transactions, and Christian Hoedl, whose forte is M&A and private equity matters.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Full-service practice, very experienced in addressing issues for international investors’
‘Proactive in structuring transactions and adapting to the requirements of the particular investment’
‘Diego Amero is very knowledgeable about our business requirements in Spain and provides clear communication to the different teams involved in our transactions’
Key clients
Advent International Corporation
KKR
Bridgepoint Capital
Lone Star
PAI Partners
Torreal
Eurazeo
Oakley
Investindustrial
Brookfield Global Renewable Energy Advisor Limited
Projects and energy Tier 1
The ‘honest and professional’ Uría Menéndez is experienced in advising on project finance transactions, wind projects, solar photovoltaic plants and energy infrastructure. The firm specialises in M&A, finance and regulatory matters in the energy industry. Ángel Pérez López focuses on corporate matters, acquisitions and project finance. He co-leads the practice with Juan Ignacio González Ruiz, who has expertise in banking, energy law and project finance, and maritime and transport specialist Carlos López-Quiroga. Also notable in the team is corporate and commercial expert Carlos de Cárdenas Smith. María José Descalzo left the firm.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Very deep and up-to-date knowledge of regulations and the business’
‘Very strong in arbitrations’
‘Very adaptative to our needs and great flexibility’
‘Quick, reliable answers’
‘Anticipate potential problems’
‘Very honest and professional’
Key clients
Ence Energía y Celulosa, S.A.
Plenium Partners, S.L.
Cale Street Partners LLP
Banco Santander, S.A.
Mercurio Solar Tinajeros, S.L.
LAR España Real Estate Socimi, S.A.
Natixis
CaixaBank, S.A.
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A.
Banco de Sabadell, S.A.
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) – and Allianz Capital Partners GmbH – Germany
ContourGlobal
BP
Brookfield Global Renewable Energy Advisor Limited
Repsol, S.A.
Helia Renovables FCR (Plenium Partners)
Public law Tier 1
The ‘magnificent professionals’ at Uría Menéndez cover a range of public law issues, including finance, energy and infrastructure, transportation, telecoms, water and health, with particular expertise in the mining sector. The ‘professional and available’ firm also combines strong regulatory and litigation practices, with notable experience in public procurement and contracting. ‘Fantastic litigator’ Mariano Magide leads the practice and is known for his ‘understanding of Spanish and European law as well as industry and the market knowledge’. Notable in his team are José Miguel Fatás, who advises on all aspects of administrative law, especially in the pharma and financial sectors, and Jesús Remón, who focuses on national and international arbitration and litigation.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Excellent is the description for the Uria public law department: excellent knowledge, excellent availability, excellent work, excellent communication skills with public administration, excellent in the litigation procedures they handle’
‘They have a very practical point of view and knowledge of the activity of the company, so their advice is not just accurate but also based on the company’s needs’
‘They are much better in advice on public law than other legal firms in Spain’
‘Absolutely recommended. No doubt’
‘Despite being a senior partner and professor at the university, Mariano Magide is always available and provides advice on any issue’
‘Mariano Magide maintains strong relationships with public administrations. He is always focused on the best option for the company, which is much appreciated’
‘Mariano Magide is the top mining expert in Spain’
‘Barbara Fernandez Cobo is a hard worker who always keeps the client informed and is available for any question any time, giving different options and solutions. It is a pleasure to work with such an effective lawyer’
‘Great team and absolutely to be recommended’
‘It is a pleasure to work with the team at Uria because they work efficiently, and give exceptional and high-quality advice’
‘Pedro Ravina is an excellent lawyer, always available and very good at looking for legal solutions. He is empathic and honest’
Key clients
Movistar
Vodafone
Banco Santander
Bankia
BBVA
Unicaja
Quirón Salud (Fresenius Group)
Berkeley Minera
Grupo Mexico
Unbail-Rodamco
Grupo Agbar-Suez Environnement
Caixabank
Cintra (Ferrovial Group)
Ferrovial Servicios (Ferrovial Group)
AENA
Farmaindustria
Pfizer
Real estate and construction Tier 1
The ‘clear-headed, methodical, quick-thinking and solution-driven' Uría Menéndez is regarded as ‘one of the best corporate real estate teams in the legal market, because of its wide knowledge of the law and the commercial aspects of transactions'. The firm specialises in large portfolio transactions, M&A, and advising foreign funds and investors. Fernando Azofra Vegas advises domestic and foreign companies on real estate and banking matters, asset finance and M&A transactions with an underlying real estate component. He co-leads the practice with ‘best in the market’ Diego Armero Montes, who has particular experience in corporate and commercial law. Also notable are asset finance specialist Javier Ruiz-Cámara and Rafael Jiménez, who moved back to Madrid in 2019 from the firm’s office in Santiago de Chile.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘They are able to find the precise solution needed on a case-by-case basis’
‘They are able to see the big picture and be focused on the final objective of the transaction without disregarding the nuances and details’
‘Javier Ruiz-Camara knows the industry and he knows us as a client. He is also key in negotiations with counterparties’
‘They are very professional and their knowledge of the matters is deep and wide. They have never let me down’
‘This law firm is quite close to the best. I appreciate their attention to detail and their consistent efficiency in dealing with the task in hand’
‘The involvement of the Uría team in transactions is absolute. They advise in a global way and take clear leadership of the operations. They are well above the rest of the offices’
‘They are extremely professional but at the same time they understand your needs and concerns and are able to give you confidence in their work’
‘They have provided unimpaired advice irrespective of the size of the deal and always added an incredible knowledge of the market and of all legal aspects’
‘Their negotiation skills and abilities to find the right way to make the transactions viable are outstanding’
‘The quality of the advice is exceptional. In addition, they are extremely practical and able to propose smart solutions to complex situations’
‘Their knowledge of the law and the general overview of all matters makes them unique’
Key clients
Lone Star
Goldman Sachs
TIA Henderson
Metrovacesa
Investindustrial
Banco Santander
Testa Residencial
BBVA
Sonae Sierra
Banco de Sabadell
Hispania SOCIMI
Iberdrola Inmobiliaria
Neinor Homes Socimi
Foncière des Régions
IBA Capital Partners
Europa Capital
Meridia Capital
Merced Capital
Merlin Properties SOCIMI
Restructuring and insolvency Tier 1
Uría Menéndez has experience in the full range of restructuring and insolvency matters, including group restructuring, debt refinancing, direct lending and related litigation. The firm advises creditors and borrowers and is active in the Spanish financial market, as well as in cross-border issues. Ángel Pérez López leads the practice and focuses on corporate, acquisition and project finance. Notable in his team are Carlos de Cárdenas Smith, who is known for his expertise in banking, finance, M&A and restructuring, and counsel Javier Rubio Sanz, who advises domestic and foreign companies on insolvency proceedings, representing debtors and creditors.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘It is a very savvy and experienced team that covers all the potential aspects of a transaction, ranging from small but important court procedures to European competition issues, all of them guided by a single team working to deliver an all-round service for whatever the client demands’
‘Angel Perez has an impressive track record of success and sound knowledge that makes him the best adviser you can have. Besides law, his negotiation skills and steady but firm character always allows him to maximise output and protect the client against potential future responsibilities’
‘Technical expertise, extensive practical experience, creative problem solving, ability to analyse and solve issues and advocate for the client’
‘Javier Rubio has technical expertise and is able to understand and explain clearly complex issues and solutions’
‘Alberto Nunez Lagos is simply the best. An extremely creative thinker and problem solver based on technical expertise’
Key clients
Banco Santander, S.A.
BBVA
Banco Sabadell
Caixabank
Goldman Sachs International
Isolux
Ibercajal
Abanca
HIG
Tax Tier 1
Uría Menéndez has a formidable reputation for high-quality, high-value tax work, leading on major transactions in a number of sectors. The team, headed by Rafael García Llaneza, distinguishes itself in the areas of M&A, joint ventures and private equity tax practice. David López Pombo and Víctor Viana are both recognised as 'experts in the financial sector', especially regarding business combinations and foreign investments; in a recent highlight, they assisted US-based Lone Star Funds with the tax aspects of a €3bn investment agreement with Bankia over its real estate assets. Guillermo Canalejo is also noted.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘What makes the UM team unique is its personal touch. As a customer you have the feeling of being the only one in the office, since both the treatment and the services are customised to the maximum. We also observe a very high level of empathy and an eagerness to solve problems, providing peace of mind in the legal matters we need solved in order to develop our business. The partner that represents these values to the maximum is Victor Viana.‘
‘Excellent technical ability, very practical, decisive and effective.‘
‘Both Víctor Viana and David López are excellent from a technical point of view, and experts in the financial sector.‘
‘Guillermo Canalejo is excellent. His technical skills are ten out of ten. He is a trustworthy, dedicated and competent adviser. The meetings are small and effective. I could not be happier with the service I receive.‘
Key clients
Telefónica
Alcoa
Arconic
Santander
Associació de Bancs Andorrans
Lone Star
Acciona
UBS
UCI
Neinor Holdings
Klepierre (France)
CCR
Inmobiliaria Osuna
Blackstone
Xtra Telecom
Sabadell
Goldman Sachs
White-collar crime Tier 1
Specialising in multi-jurisdictional cases, Uría Menéndez has a depth of expertise, covering corporate criminal liability, bribery and internal investigations. The firm also handles the prosecution of employees from the company side, as well as providing particular experience in tax fraud matters, including defending individuals and corporates in accounting fraud cases. The team is co-led by emeritus partner Carlos Bueren, who is known for representing clients in fraud, forgery, concealment of assets, tax fraud and misappropriation matters; criminal law specialist Óscar Morales; Ismael Clemente, who focuses on white-collar cases; and Jaime Alonso, who is active in the corporate criminal defence sector. Also notable is principal associate Alberto Gómez Fraga, who is an expert in financial criminal law.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Uria Menedez is the best Spanish law firm in every jurisdiction and subject, providing clients with the best legal advice and support’
‘They have great professional experience, amazing legal knowledge, know-how and analytical skills, with perfect written and oral communication skills’
‘Lawyers with extensive experience, very qualified and competitive’
‘Great legal knowledge, critical thinking, discipline and organisation, communication skills, technical competency, work ethic, determination and persistence’
‘Standout partners are Jaime Alonso Gallo and Ismael Clemente’
‘Academic excellence combined with a practical approach’
‘Jaime Alonso is the best criminal lawyer in Spain by far. He is capable of managing complex matters in Spain as well as international investigations and litigation in Europe and the Americas’
‘Uria Menendez shows excellence in everything they do’
‘Their legal knowledge is very deep and they provide immediate answers’
‘Unparalleled quality, excellent knowledge, immediate responses, absolute availability of the partner and the team, excellent co-ordination among team members, always aware of the state of affairs, proactive attitude’
Data privacy and data protection Tier 2
Uría Menéndez has multi-disciplinary expertise, advising on litigation and privacy work, primarily for large, multinational tech companies. Privacy, cyberlaw and fintech expert Leticia López-Lapuente leads the practice and specialises in technology and data protection matters for clients in the finance, tech and industry sectors. Her team is advising Microsoft on data protection and privacy issues in Spain.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Microsoft
Banco Santander
BBVA
Ferroglobe
Repsol
Bankinter
Morgan Stanley
Slaughter and May
Covington & Burling
Bristows
Transport: Other transport Tier 2
Uría Menéndez's practice advises on shipping, aviation, rail, urban mobility and logistics matters, and is noted for its broad client list of road carriers, airlines, freight forwarders, and energy, tech and insurance companies. The team advises on leasing contracts, aviation finance and the use of digital transport platforms and apps. Practice head Carlos López-Quiroga handles M&A transactions and litigation in the transport sector, and associate Sofía Rodríguez Torres advises transport clients on regulatory and general corporate matters.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Uría Menéndez has a team of great experience and knowledge that allows the firm to achieve the desired objectives with a high level of legal assistance. Carlos Lopez-Quiroga and his team have experience and training that allows them to develop projects with an extraordinary level of quality. Maximum availability to any need, offering optimal results for the customer.’
Key clients
Cosco Shipping Ports (Spain) Holding, Sociedad Limitada
Cruceros de Málaga, S.A.
Europac Papeles y Cartones de Europa, S.L
Creuers del Port de Barcelona S.A.
Delta Airlines
DHL
Marina Barcelona 92
The Export Import Bank of China
American Airlines
IATA
Royal Caribbean
Wizzair
DVB Bank SE
Banco Santander, S.A.
Bankia, S.A.
Banco de Sabadell, S.A.
Astilleros Canarios, S.A.
COPEMAR, S.A.
Ferrovial, S.A.
Impala Terminals Huelva, S.L.
SNFC and its Spanish subsidiary Rielsfera
Transport: Shipping Tier 2
Uría Menéndez provides advice on a variety of issues in the shipping sector, including vessel construction, financing and acquisition agreements; marine casualties, litigation and insurance; M&A involving shipping companies; and the operation of port services. Led by Carlos López-Quiroga, the team has developed a strong Scandinavian client base in the sector, in addition to acting for Spanish and Latin American clients, including port operators and terminals, shipowners, shipyards, charterers, and energy and insurance companies. Associate José Sánchez-Fayos is another key name to note. Tomás Fernández-Quirós left the firm.Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Its specificity gives greater value to the experience of the team.’
‘Technically outstanding with a great commercial vision.’
‘A very good and comprehensive view of all legal aspects of international transactions, with special expertise in several financial areas.’
‘Transparency and ability to transmit to the client all the necessary elements that will shape their decision.’
‘Experienced, always available, with a keen approach to legal issues.’
‘Carlos Lopez-Quiroga gives banking and financial legal advice with confidence.’
Key clients
Ondimar Transportes Marítimos LDA
Aegopodium AS
Knutsen Group
Nueva Pescanova, S.L.
Astilleros Canarios, S.A.
Astilleros de Santander, S.A
Marina Barcelona 92, S.A.
Muelles y Espacios Portuarios (MEPSA)
Cruceros de Málaga, S.A.
Creuers del Port de Barcelona, S.A.
Anchors Yachting Ltd
Astilleros Armón, S.A.
The International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds (IOPC Funds)
The Royal Bank of Scotland
Vostokrybprom
Ensco, Plc
Global Liman Isletmeleri, A.S.
MESSRS. Hohefels Container Schiffahrts GMBH & CO. KG
Suncor Energy, INC.
Seadrill Global Services LTD
Steamship Mutual
Copemar
Mapfre
Generalli
MTM
Armas-Trasmediterránea
CESCE
GIEK
Armas-Trasmediterránea
Cosco Shipping Ports (Spain)
Holding, Sociedad Limitada
Anesco
Latin America: International firms > Banking and finance Tier 4
Uría Menéndez has a unique Latin America platform through its association with Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría, the prominent Latin America firm based in Colombia, Chile and Peru. This is supplemented by a Brazil desk operated by the two firms and the Spanish giant's leading Cuba desk in Madrid. The firm has remained notably active in Latin America restructurings and acquisitions of non-performing loans (NPLs), with further growth in corporate finance, structured finance, and acquisition and leveraged financings. The firm advised Banco Santander and JP Morgan Chase Bank on the Spanish law aspects of a bridge loan to the concessionaire of the 4G Pasto–Rumichaca highway project in Colombia. Eduardo Rodríguez-Rovira is noted for financial restructurings and bank regulatory matters, while Ángel Pérez López is an experienced acquisition finance and project finance specialist. Both are based in Madrid.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The knowledge, quality of the work, profound understanding of the client’s requirements together with the service given by Uria’s lawyers, makes it undoubtedly the preferred partner for my company.‘
‘Their capability to cover all different angles of one single transaction, ranging from finance, labour, competition, regulatory, tax, etc, makes them outstanding.‘
‘Ángel Pérez López’s know-how, experience and attention to detail together with his devoted service and loyalty, makes him the ideal lawyer to trust when you have to deal with complex transactions.‘
Key clients
Banco Santander
Royal Bank of Canada
JP Morgan Chase
ING Bank
Rabobank
AFD
Caixa Bank
Latin America: International firms > International arbitration > International arbitration Tier 5
Uría Menéndez handles a range of commercial arbitration and investor-state disputes, with particular prominence in the construction sector. The team, recognised for its 'great professionalism and prestige', is led by Jesús Remón Peñalver and Gabriel Bottini in Madrid, along with Fernando Aguilar de Carvalho in Lisbon. Current matters range from representing Iberdrola in a $200m claim against the Republic of Guatemala concerning electricity distribution matters, to acting for the Dominican Republic in PCA investment proceedings over alleged discriminatory measures preceding an expropriation. Other areas of expertise include breaches – and the award – of public contracts, while Bottini is a seasoned and trusted arbitrator across the Latin American region. Miguel Virgós left the firm in January 2020 to focus on sitting as an independent arbitrator.
Testimonials
‘A team of great professionalism and prestige. They are the best in Europe at this type of work.‘
‘They are 100% committed to the client and their case.‘
‘Good ability to adapt to customer needs, creativity in finding strategic solutions in defence of customer interests without losing sight of the best legal advice. Good knowledge of Latin American idiosyncrasies and how best to act in various scenarios.‘
‘A practice with great resources, both material and human, of the highest quality. Well prepared to take on any type of work. Its level of experience in similar cases makes it very suitable, especially for complex cases. Additionally, the firm has a network of collaborators worldwide that support work in this diverse geographical area.‘
‘Our case was handled by Álvaro López de Argumedo and Pablo Martínez Llorente. In particular, I would like to highlight the quality of the work carried out by Pablo, his level of knowledge of the case, his analytical capacity, work capacity, commitment and self-demand, which make him an excellent collaborator. On the other hand, the training and level of preparation of the rest of the people of Uria & Menéndez involved in the case have been exceptional.‘
Key clients
Iberdrola
Acciona Construcción
Ingeniería y Economía de Transporte
Consorcio de los Cuatro Ríos de Cuenca, Infrainter Infraestructuras Internacionales, and Euskotren Participaciones
Mota Engil
The Dominican Republic
Uría Menéndez > Firm Profile
The firm: Uría Menéndez is one of the most prestigious independent law firms in the Iberian market. Founded in the 1940s, it comprises 133 partners and over 400 associates in 14 offices in the most important financial centres in Europe, the Americas and Asia.
The firm’s international structure allows it to provide Spanish, Portuguese and EU legal advice to clients on their investments in the Iberian Peninsula and abroad.
The firm focuses on banking and capital markets, company and commercial, environment, litigation and arbitration, infrastructures, project finance, private equity, telecommunications, EU and competition, intellectual property, labour, tax, maritime, transport, logistics and real estate.
Areas of practice
Corporate and commercial: the firm covers all areas of corporate and commercial law, including M&A, commercial contracts, energy and utilities, and food and beverages.
Financial: the firm handles all matters relating to banking, corporate finance insurance, investment funds, project finance, securities and securitisation.
Restructuring and insolvency: the firm plays an active role in complex debt restructuring and refinancing transactions, advising both borrowers and lenders.
Tax: the firm offers advice on all areas of tax law, focusing on: M&A, financial products and capital markets, international tax planning, real estate, project finance, insurance and pension funds, family businesses and high-net-worth individuals and tax investigation and disputes, including criminal tax issues.
Competition and EU: the firm is experienced in all areas of competition law, ranging from preventative advice to representing and defending clients in administrative sanction proceedings, appeals and claims before Spanish, Portuguese and EU bodies.
Intellectual property: covers all aspects of industrial and intellectual property issues, trade marks, patents, copyright, data protection, pharmaceuticals, etc.
Telecommunications, media and entertainment: the firm has vast experience in dealing with e-commerce, information technology, media and entertainment, sports and leisure, telecommunications and advertising.
Litigation and arbitration: the firm covers civil and commercial proceedings, local and international arbitration, administrative and constitutional law, contentious administrative proceedings, tax and criminal law.
Real estate and urban planning: the firm provides advice on all aspects of real estate, including sale, leasing and purchase of land, project management, investment and financing, and urban planning.
Public and environmental law: advises both private clients and public sector entities in every aspect of administrative and constitutional law as well as on all types of environmental issues.
Energy: the firm provides comprehensive advice on every aspect of the energy sector, from regulatory and contractual issues to financing and acquisitions.
Employment and pensions: the firm advises on a wide range of issues including contracting, collective negotiation, corporate restructuring, litigation and pension fund management.
Maritime and transport: the firm provides advice on administrative and regulatory proceedings, finance and insurance to companies in the maritime and transport industries.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
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Public | Mariano Magide | ||
Arbitration and litigation | Jesús Remón | ||
Arbitration and litigation | Miguel Virgós | ||
Arbitration and Litigation | Javier García Sanz | ||
Banking and securities | Ángel Pérez López | ||
Bankruptcy | Ángel Alonso | ||
Capital Markets | Javier Redonet | ||
Commercial and corporate | Carlos de Cárdenas Smith | ||
Competition | Jaime Folguera | ||
Competition | Antonio Guerra | ||
Energy | Juan Ignacio González | ||
Environmental | Carlos de Miguel | ||
Environmental | Juan Antonio Loste | ||
Intellectual property and copyright | José Massaguer | ||
Intellectual property and copyright | Agustín González | ||
Labour | Ignacio García-Perrote | ||
Maritime, transport and logistics | Carlos López-Quiroga | ||
Mergers and acquisitions | Francisco San Miguel | ||
Mergers and acquisitions | Manuel Echenique Sanjurjo | ||
Project finance | Ángel Pérez López | ||
Real estate | Fernando Azofra Vegas | ||
Real Estate | Diego Armero | ||
Tax | Rafael García Llaneza | ||
Telecommunications | Pablo González-Espejo |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Mr Luis Acuña | View Profile | |
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Mr Jaime Alonso | View Profile | |
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Mr Angel Alonso Hernández | View Profile | |
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Mr Diego Armero | View Profile | |
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Mr Fernando Azofra | View Profile | |
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Mr Mario Barros | View Profile | |
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Mr Gabriel Bottini | View Profile | |
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Mr Fernando Calbacho Losada | View Profile | |
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Mr Guillermo Canalejo | View Profile | |
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Mr Agustín Capilla Casco | View Profile | |
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Mr Ismael Clemente | View Profile | |
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Mr Miguel Cremades | View Profile | |
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Mrs Lourdes Dávalos león | Practice areas: Corporate, M&A, Project Finance, Banking & Finance. | View Profile |
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Álvaro López De Argumedo | View Profile | |
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Carlos De Cárdenas Smith | View Profile | |
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Sebastián Sáenz De Santa María | View Profile | |
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Juan Miguel Goenechea Domínguez | View Profile | |
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Mr Manuel Echenique | View Profile | |
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Juan Francisco Falcón | View Profile | |
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José Miguel Fatás | View Profile | |
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Mrs Eva Ferrada | View Profile | |
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Mr Jaime Folguera Crespo | View Profile | |
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Mr Antonio Gómez Cid | View Profile | |
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Mr Rafael García Llaneza | View Profile | |
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Mr David García-Ochoa | View Profile | |
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Mr Manuel García-Villarrubia | View Profile | |
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Mr Javier Garcia Sanz | View Profile | |
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Mr Agustín González García | View Profile | |
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Pablo González-Espejo | View Profile | |
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Mr Antonio Guerra | View Profile | |
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Mr Alfonso Gutiérrez Hernández | View Profile | |
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Mr Stephen Hess | View Profile | |
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Mr Christian Hoedl | View Profile | |
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Mr David López | View Profile | |
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Mr Jesús López Tello | View Profile | |
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Carlos López-Quiroga | View Profile | |
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Mr Mariano Magide | View Profile | |
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Mrs Gloria Marin | View Profile | |
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José Massaguer | View Profile | |
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Mr Yásser-Harbi Mustafá | View Profile | |
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Mr Gabriel Núñez Fernández | View Profile | |
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Mr Rafael Núñez-Lagos | View Profile | |
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Mr Ángel Pérez López | View Profile | |
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Mr Ángel Pérez Pardo de Vera | View Profile | |
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Mr Carlos Paredes | View Profile | |
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Mr Cándido Paz-Ares | View Profile | |
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Mrs Teresa Paz-Ares | View Profile | |
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Mr Jaime Pereda Espeso | View Profile | |
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Juan Martín Perrotto | View Profile | |
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Mrs Ingrid Pi i Amorós | View Profile | |
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Mr Sergio Ponce | View Profile | |
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Mrs Marta Ríos | View Profile | |
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Mr Pedro Ravina | View Profile | |
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Mr Javier Redonet | View Profile | |
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Mr Jesús Remón | View Profile | |
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Mr Ramiro Rivera | View Profile | |
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Eduardo Rodríguez-Rovira | Practice areas: Restructuring, Mergers and Acquisitions, Banking and Finance. | View Profile |
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Juan Ignacio González Ruiz | View Profile | |
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Mr Javier Ruiz-Cámara | View Profile | |
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Mr Salvador Sánchez-Terán | View Profile | |
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Mr Borja Sainz de Aja | View Profile | |
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Mr Francisco San Miguel | View Profile | |
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Mr Guillermo San Pedro | View Profile | |
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Rafael Sebastián | View Profile | |
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Mr Javier Tortuero Ortiz | View Profile | |
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Mr Eduardo Trigo | View Profile | |
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Mr Manuel Vélez | View Profile | |
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Mr Alfonso Ventoso | View Profile | |
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Víctor Viana | View Profile | |
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Mrs Patricia Vidal | View Profile | |
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Miguel Virgós | Practice areas: International Arbitration. | View Profile |
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Mr Javier Yáñez | View Profile | |
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Mr Luis de Carlos Bertrán | View Profile | |
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Mr Carlos de Miguel Perales | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers worldwide : 596Languages
Chinese English French German Italian Japanese Portuguese SpanishMemberships
Lex MundiOther
Other offices : Barcelona Other offices : Bilbao Other offices : Brussels Other offices : Lisbon Other offices : London Other offices : Mexico City Other offices : New York Other offices : Porto Other offices : Valencia Other offices : Bogotá with a stake in Philippi, Prietocarrizosa, Ferrero DU & Uría. Other offices : Lima with a stake in Philippi, Prietocarrizosa, Ferrero DU & Uría. Other offices : Santiago de Chile with a stake in Philippi, Prietocarrizosa, Ferrero DU & Uría.Comparative Guides
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Spain: Force Majeure
Published: June 2020
Authors: María Encamación Pérez-Pujazón Milán Sandra González Varo
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Force Majeure laws and regulations that may occur in Spain.
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Spain: Private Equity
Published: January 2021
Authors: Juan Carlos Machuca Carlos Durán Ignacio Zapata
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Private Equity laws and regulations that may occur in Spain.
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets: Debt
- Capital markets: Equity
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Environment
- EU and competition
- Industry focus: Food
- Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences
- Industry focus: Manufacturing
- Industry focus: Retail
- Industry focus: TMT
- Insurance
- Intellectual property: Copyright
- Intellectual property: patents
- Intellectual property: Trade marks
- Private equity
- Projects and energy
- Public law
- Real estate and construction
- Restructuring and insolvency
- Tax
- White-collar crime