ECIJA > Madrid, Spain > Firm Profile

ECIJA
CALLE SERRANO 69
28006 MADRID
Spain

Spain > Data privacy and data protection Tier 1

What really sets it apart is its innovative approach‘, say clients of ECIJA , where the privacy and data protection group is part of a market-leading TMT practice. Managing partner Alejandro Touriño is a standout practitioner in matters of IP and new technologies, while up-and-coming partners Jesús Yáñez, Daniel López – who has ‘great knowledge of the subject‘ – and Teresa Pereyra are highly experienced in compliance matters and are key advisers on regulatory developments. Barcelona-based Vanesa Alarcón regularly advises domestic and international clients on data protection and privacy, IT services and e-commerce matters.

Testimonials

‘The service provided by ECIJA in terms of protection makes it different, due to the knowledge brought to the market, interrelation with other practice areas and their applicable regulations, along with the evolution of the model and the application of new technologies. Strong response times and availability, both at the partner and assigned team level.’

‘I would highlight the team’s great knowledge of the subject and other applicable regulations, an aspect that is relevant taking into account the activity carried out by us, the adaptation of new technologies, artificial intelligence models and the evolution of the sector itself. Work is completed with practical knowledge, tailored to our needs, both at the national, European and international level. Knowledge, closeness and availability, ability to adapt to needs, times and risks, together with the proactive approach to compliance. Without a doubt, a safe proposition.’

‘What really sets ECIJA apart is its innovative approach. In a constantly evolving legal world, ECIJA not only keeps up with changes, but is also at the forefront of finding creative solutions for their clients. Their innovative mindset is reflected in the way they approach cases and their willingness to explore new legal strategies to achieve exceptional results. Despite its success and growth, ECIJA maintains personalised attention to its clients. In my experience, I always felt like a priority, with a legal team that communicated proactively and kept me constantly informed. ECIJA is an exceptionally talented and highly innovative team that exceeds all expectations.’

‘The culture, the talent of each person on the team, and the communication is what I value most. From partners to junior associates, each attorney demonstrates deep knowledge in their field of expertise, has an enviable dedication to keeping up with the latest legal trends, and their ability to apply that knowledge to complex cases is truly impressive.’

‘I highlight two strong points. Firstly, the level of specialisation of its work team, which allows us to address complex issues from a not only technical but organisational/functional point of view, and secondly, the level of attention,  flexibility and client service.’

‘The work team that collaborates with us has a very high level of knowledge that allows us not only to delve deeper into each of the areas, but also to apply a transversal criterion to the responses, considering the technological and innovative component, as well as other closely related disciplines. Without a doubt, it is of high added value to have specialists who take into account a comprehensive vision of the case.’

‘Regarding the quality of the work results, all responses incorporate a contextual interpretation based on solid arguments and, when required, provide additional relevant documents or information that is very useful for its application in practice. The contribution of technical criteria adapted to the specific case is of clear added value, which provides a very useful and didactic practical vision in the implementation with other areas or departments.’

‘They insist on looking for alternatives and foundations to defend the interests of my company and at the same time they are practical and straightforward when it comes to assessing the possibilities of success or failure of a certain legal strategy, based on the particularities of the case and their experience.’

Key clients

Google

World Bank

McDonald’s

Yamaha

La Liga

Bank Of Spain

ACB (National Basketball League)

Inditex (Zara, Pull & Bear, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Etc.)

C&A

Momenta Europe Gmbh

Zur Rose

Santander Bank

Ing Bank

LG

Aena Airport Network

Aquila Capital

Publicis Groupe

Iberia Airlines

Vueling Airlines

Latam Airlines

Barcelona Football Club

Iese

Bupa Group (Sanitas)

Mercadona

Axa

H&M

NH Hotels

Melia Hotels

Bnp Paribas

Orange

Mahou

EDP

Dorna Sports (Moto Gp)

Decathlon

Hotelbeds

Uber

Makro

Philip Morris

Hearst Magazines

La Prairie

Vodafone

Prisa

Entradas.Com

Dentsu

Omnicom

Havas Media

Bankinter

BMW

Mercedes

Cinesa

Acciona

Transunion

Goiko Grill

Diageo

Work highlights

  • Advised Inditex on IT and data privacy matters and provided strategic guidance on the impact of new tools and campaigns across Inditex’s brands.
  • Providing ongoing advice to McDonald’s on data privacy and protection matters.
  • Advised Making Science and Google on data monetisation and cookie use while ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.

Spain > Industry focus: TMT Tier 1

Turned to by an impressive roster of market-leading clients, the TMT practice at ECIJA is ‘a benchmark in the sector when it comes to providing quality legal advice‘. It provides an equally impressive range of services, from regulatory advice, to corporate transactions and litigation. Founder Hugo Ecija is the main point of contact in the team, supported by Alejandro Touriño – whose work encompasses IT, IP, innovation and entrepreneurship law – and IP specialist Cristina Villasante, who also handles technology contracting, digital services and IT. Other key names include Juan Salmerón, who is ‘always focused on the needs of his clients‘.

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Their practical and technical knowledge beyond the purely legal part is undoubtedly an added value and differential element.’

‘On many occasions we consult them on very new and complex topics but they always understand our needs and give us very practical and very business-oriented answers. They meet deadlines even if they are very strict and always adjust to their client’s needs. The partners are very accessible, even the managing partner. This is not always the case in large firms. When a new topic comes up, we have no doubt that we must go to Écija because they are surely already working on/investigating it internally.’

‘Alejandro Touriño stands out for his knowledge of the technological world that so affects the digital transformation of financial entities.’

‘Alejandro Touriño gets involved when necessary and knows how to manage work within his team, selecting the most specialised professionals for each type of negotiation. Full availability and closeness in treatment.’

‘Écija’s technology, media and telecoms team is a benchmark in the sector when it comes to providing quality legal advice to companies in this industry. The team stands out for its diversity and for the high degree of knowledge of each of its members of the industries in which they work. Without a doubt, its professionals provide great added value to companies like us by providing knowledge of the market and the audiovisual business. I would highlight the good atmosphere that emerges from the team, their high availability for any query or meeting, and the professionalism of all of them.’

‘The Écija team stands out for its excellent response capacity. They are tremendous professionals and in the projects we have collaborated on they have more than met expectations. Compared to other firms in the same sector, I would highlight their speed in responding to queries and requested deliverables. Likewise, I consider that in the quality/price ratio Ecija is a reference partner for internal legal advisers, since they know the possibilities of each client and know how to adapt and adjust the fees without giving up the excellent quality that the firm offers.’

‘It is worth highlighting its partner Helena Suarez, an expert in the sector who has offered a plus to the firm since her incorporation due to her excellent knowledge of the industry and all the players involved in it. Likewise, partner Juan Salmerón stands out as a lawyer specialised in this sector, knowledgeable about all the legislative developments in the industry and always focused on the needs of his clients.’

Key clients

Amazon

Meta

Spotify

Inditex

Google

Mango

Shein

Rakuten TV

Fox

Sony

Porsche

Ikea

Socios.com & FC Barcelona

Telefónica

Schweppes

Melia Hotels

NH Hotels

Coca Cola

Mercedes Benz

BNP Paribas

Volkswagen

Daddy Yankee

Santander Bank

LVHM

Hearst Magazines

Omnicom

Dentsu

Havas Media

Mediaset

Agencia EFE

NBC Universal

Mediawan

DAZN

Iberdrola

Madcool festival

Starlite festival

Bowfinger International Pictures

Pop 87 Films

Fubo TV

Roblox

Prosegur

International Sports Broadcasting

Ferrovial

LG

Orange

Decathlon

Red Eléctrica

Havaianas

Desigual

ACB (National basketball league)

Uber

Globo

Mahou

Openbank

Iberia

Spain > Intellectual property: Copyright Tier 1

ECIJA‘s sizeable IP practice, which works as part of a large international network and has recently formed an alliance with technology and life sciences firm Taylor Wessing LLP, is ‘fully available and very proactive‘. The firm is best known for its work in TV and film rights, though it has a stellar client roster that spans fashion, retail, music, telecoms and many other sectors. Managing partner Alejandro Touriño is the principal practitioner for copyright matters, though founding partner and chairman Hugo Écija is an expert in media and new technologies, and Elena Ordúñez is a key adviser on IP issues arising from audiovisual projects. Entertainment law partner Helena Suárez, digital transformation specialist Cristina Villasante, and senior associate Carlos Rivadulla also play pivotal roles in the practice. Sandra Garcia, who joined from Auren in October 2022, brings skills in copyright and patent litigation.

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The main difference is the confidence and professionalism they demonstrate every day. They are very close people who empathize and explain themselves perfectly.’

‘What makes this practice unique is the professional and personal treatment.’

‘Their personal and professional treatment set the firm apart. The team is always ready, reachable, and has good manners. Helena Suárez is recommended.’

‘They are very close and decisive and always answer quickly. What differentiates them from other firms is that they explain the most complex terms of law in a simple way that we can all understand.’

‘They have a great team, fully available and very proactive. Knowledge of the sector and practical advice focused on the client’s needs are key.’

‘Ecija has great knowledge of the audiovisual and technological sector. Helena Suárez and Alejandro Touriño stand out, great professionals with an always practical approach.’

‘In the field of IP and copyright, Écija has always been a leading and pioneering firm within Spain. Its knowledge and leadership in TMT matters is closely associated with the field of copyright since its professionals are highly trained in this industry. Their constant participation in forums, articles, newsletters and postgraduate training at the country’s main universities stands out. Ecija is a firm that is committed to training not only its professionals, but also its clients, making us participants in these sessions on IP and copyright.’

‘Elena Ordúñez’s work team is an exemplary team; they complement each other perfectly and always have a quick and effective response to all the problems we raise.’

Key clients

Amazon

Spotify

Yamaha Music

Telefónica

Prosegur

C&A

Publicis

Acerinox

Nintendo

La Liga

AUCHAN

Mango

Técnicas Reunidas

Acciona

Shein

Vodafone

McDonalds

SGAE General Society of Authors and Editors

ACB (Basketball national league)

NH

Meliá

H&M

Schweppes

LaLiga

Orange

Entradas.com

Omnicom

Dentsu

Facebook

ING

Desigual

Sky TV

LVMH

Rakuten TV

Inditex

Sacyr

LG Electronics

Mercedes Benz

Havas Media

Santander Bank

Huawei

Auchan

Work highlights

  • Advised Mango on pre-litigation negotiations related to the issuing of NFTs in connection with copyrightable protected famous paintings.
  • Advised Sony Music Entertainment on the creation of an animated series featuring footballer Leo Messi, handling all legal aspects, from structuring the project to copyright matter.
  • Advised the production of House of Dragon during the shooting in Spain.

Spain > Environment Tier 2

A go-to choice for regional governments, national public and private entities, and foreign multinationals, the team ofhighly-skilled professionals’ at ECIJA is often engaged in mandates concerning waste management, ecological transition and the circular economy. The group possesses strong credentials in both contentious and non-contentious environmental matters, including compliance and legislative issues. Víctor Moralo is highly experienced in collaborating with stakeholders with regard to project development and bro-bono work, whilst Juan Carlos Cardoso is known by real estate developers and financial institutions for his expertise in urban planning and litigation.

Practice head(s):

Víctor Moralo; Juan Carlos Cardoso

Testimonials

‘A professional firm with great knowledge of environmental issues and that collaborates with civil society on various issues (waste, climate change, etc.).’

‘Strong knowledge of and involvement in environmental and circular economy issues – Víctor Moralo is recommended.’

‘The ability to analyse urban/legal risks, the creation of viable scenarios, the fluidity and speed in searching for solutions always under the principle of legal certainty are the points that I would highlight.’

‘Víctor Moralo, Juan Carlos Cardoso and David Sánchez Lanuza – each and every one of them stands out for their professionalism and knowledge.’

‘Very strong and diverse team, with different competencies and skills. ’

‘Highly skilled professionals. Work delivered in a timely fashion.’

‘Víctor Moralo is an excellent environmental lawyer, always aware of legal and jurisprudential developments.’

Key clients

Atletico de Madrid Football Club

H&M

Farfecht

Inditex

Shein

GreenPeace

LG Electronics

Brambles Group (CHEP)

Metro Group (MAKRO)

SCHWEPPES

Tomra

Regional Government of the Balearic Islands

Regional Government of Valencia

Basque Government

Plataforma ILP Mar Menor

Melia Hotels

Fundació Prevenció Residus i Consum Responsable (REZERO)

Madrid Town Council

SAREB Bank

PARCESA

Friends of Earth NGO

INTERNACO

Work highlights

  • Acted for Greenpeace and other ecological groups in Spain in the class action brought before the European Commission, alleging Spain’s failure to comply with waste recycling targets.
  • Advises Meliá Hotels Internacional on urban planning issues and investments in sustainable and integrated tourism.
  • Advised Fundació Prevenció Residus i Consum Responsable (REZERO) on the drafting and processing the law on the prevention and management of waste and efficient use of resources of Catalonia.

Spain > Dispute resolution Tier 3

With an expanding international network, ECIJA leverages the bench strength of offices in 18 countries, providing multidisciplinary advice in the retail, media, banking, telecoms, sports, construction, and tourism sectors, among others. The team assists clients with claims arising from product liability, professional negligence, employment, IP, restructuring, and commercial disputes. As part of its international growth strategy, the firm has recently formed an alliance with Taylor Wessing, bolstering its capabilities to advise on cross-border disputes. Key lawyers include: Librado Loriente, a go-to adviser for civil, commercial, and insolvency disputes; Javier Lopez, who ‘is very smart and knows perfectly how to approach a dispute to get the most out of it’; and Pablo Jiménez De Parga, who has particular knowledge of corporate governance issues.

Other key lawyers:

Librado Loriente; Pablo Jiménez de Parga; Javier López; José María Abella

Testimonials

‘ECIJA lawyers demonstrate great involvement in each of the judicial procedures, having great knowledge of the sports sector, and in particular football. José María Abella is a lawyer with extensive experience, tremendously thorough in the study and defence of each procedure, having as a great virtue the trust he generates in the client and his technical knowledge.’

‘Ecija lawyers are excellent in litigation. They have extensive experience in processing contentious-administrative claims. They always provide practical advice to avoid litigation and are excellent at achieving good results.’

‘I work mainly with Javier López, whom I consider an excellent lawyer; he is very smart and knows perfectly how to approach a dispute to get the most out of it. I would highlight his experience and knowledge of the functioning of the courts as his outstanding aspects. ’

‘The Ecija team has great capabilities, technically they are very good but they also work on matters with a motivation that is difficult to find today; they put themselves in your shoes and go beyond what is expected. ’

‘The support provided by the team led by Javier López gives us the confidence to reach a satisfactory solution for each specific issue.’

‘In my modest opinion it is the personal involvement of the team in Zaragoza, the availability, taking the client’s dispute as their own, suffering the consequences with them… they provide security and trust.’

‘We work with ECIJA in various matters since they offer the advantage of being experts in law and technology. We especially value advice prior to the start of conflicts, to avoid them or to be prepared to face them.’

‘Our trusted ECIJA lawyer is Javier López. It gives us peace of mind to know that we can go to him when a problem arises and that he will guide us on how we should act. In particular, we like the strategic approach with which conflicts are faced, which often turns problems into opportunities.’

Key clients

H&M

ING Bank

Orange

LG Electronics

Ferrovial

Indra

Starlite International Festival

Mediapro

Repsol

AENA

Atlético de Madrid Football Club

Partido Aragonés

Santander Bank

Helidosa Aviation Group

Hawkers

M&C Saachi Group

Atresmedia

Sky TV

INDUSTRIAS LÁCTEAS DE GRANADA

LACTALIS GROUP

Kualian’s investors

EOS-X SPACESHIP

Avatel Telecom

Colt Technology

Zur Rose

Avanza

Totem (Orange)

Prosegur

Phoenix Entertainment

Tecnalis Solutions Providers

Bowfinger

Hiscox

Accor Hotels

Work highlights

  • Defended H&M in a lawsuit filed by a swimwear designer, claiming infringement of her design.
  • Defended Repsol in legal proceedings at the Audiencia Nacional.
  • Represents ACCOR in a dispute with BARCELONA PROJECT’S over the termination of a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) after the latter filed for bankruptcy.

Spain > Employment Tier 3

ECIJA‘s ‘integrated and collaborative team’ offers clients, particularly those within the technology, media, financial services, healthcare, aviation spaces, assistance with a wide range of labour matters. The team is home to Fernando Vizcaíno, an industry veteran and expert in judicial proceedings, Raúl Rojas, who provides comprehensive day-to-day employment advice and assistance in litigation to clients, and Carlos Martínez Cebrián.

Testimonials

‘We loved the ECIJA team. It was super proactive in all instances.’

‘We work with Raúl Rojas: I can highlight his deep knowledge of the work model that we are projecting and his productivity in providing solutions to the challenges that arise.’

‘The team places itself in the client’s shoes and looks for practical solutions with a business vision that help find the most appropriate solution. Very integrated and collaborative team.’

‘The team stands out for its experience, technique, flexibility, speed of response and reliability of their actions.’

‘ECIJA’s team works at levels of maximum excellence in personal treatment, attending to all consultations in a timely manner and with quality.’

‘Great professionals who are well recognised among their peers.’

Key clients

Mediaset (Telecinco)

Dentsu

Bolt

Wolters Kluwer

IKEA

Santander

Melia Hotel Group

PUY DU FOU

Ryan Air

Pizza Hut

ING BANK

Telepizza

Spanish Associated Production Companies Of Television

Atlético De Madrid Football Club

Go Fit

Cope

Efe Agency

Aecine (Spanish Film Industry)

Canal De Isabel Ii

Atresmedia

Makro

Mad Bridge

Alcaliber

Avoris Group

Kapsch Group

Work highlights

  • Advises Atresmedia on dismissals, equality, modification of working conditions, labour inspections, collective bargaining agreements, and lawsuits.
  • Advised Puy Du Fou on the negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement with major Spanish unions (CCOO and UGT).
  • Advised and represented Workforce and Crewlink, two agencies supplying cabin staff to RYANAIR, in collective proceedings involving the employment status of the workers and the relationship between the agencies and RYANAIR.

Spain > White-collar crime Tier 3

‘Characterised by excellence’, the white-collar crime team at ‘multidisciplinary’ firm ECIJA is well positioned to advise on internal investigations, dispute resolution, regulatory compliance and anticorruption policies. White-collar and corporate crime specialist Pablo Jiménez De Parga also provides assistance to clients with corporate governance issues. José María Abella is a key force in the dispute resolution scene, regularly advising on cases involving fraud and corruption, while Noelia Álvarez is often involved in fraud investigations, compliance and regulatory enforcement.

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘A team characterised by excellence.’

‘César Zárate Gómez is a great professional. Thanks to his knowledge and experience, we know that we are always in the best hands.’

‘ECIJA’s strengths lie in the quality of its work, its treatment of the client, along with the trust it instils in just a phone call.’

‘Up-to-date on crimes developed in the technological field.’

‘The attention of the Ecija team has been exceptional. They demonstrate deep knowledge of the field and make the client feel like they are in the best hands.’

‘ECIJA is a multidisciplinary firm that is a leader in the use of technology in all areas of practice, in addition to being very decisive and professional.’

‘It is a firm that combines several work areas, which allows you to have a 360 view of matters.’

Key clients

Repsol

JMAC Corporation (Aristrain Case)

Makro

COFELY SPAIN – PÚNICA Case (ENGIE)

Indra BPO

PROSEGUR

Sky Deutschland

Indra

Top 30 (ABEO GROUP)

Alcaliver

Manuel Chaves González

Pantano Case

Kuailian

Avatel Telecom

Alicia Velarde Valiente & Mercedes Gracia Díez

Javier Briones

Work highlights

  • Represented INDRA BPO SERVICIOS, a subsidiary of Indra, in a case involving misappropriation and fraudulent practices.
  • Represented REPSOL in the Villarejo case, which resulted in the company’s complete exoneration from criminal responsibility.
  • Represented MAKRO in an internal investigation uncovering misappropriation and documentary falsification by multiple employees.

Spain > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 5

Spanish and international clients, including venture capital and private equity investors, routinely turn to ECIJA for legal support in M&A, joint ventures and corporate reorganisations. Best known ‘for its strong reputation among its stable of tech clients‘, the firm, which maintains a strategic alliance with Taylor Wessing LLP, is also trusted by clients from the media, energy and financial services industries. A key contact for listed companies, credit institutios and state-owned entities, Alberto Alonso Ureba handles a combination of M&A, corporate governance and contractual issues. Emilio Prieto concentrates on M&A and PE transactions.

Other key lawyers:

Alberto Alonso Ureba; Emilio Prieto; Borja Diaz-Guerra

Testimonials

‘Attention, availability, and constant search for solutions. Alberto Alonso Ureba is recommended.’

‘It is a team with a lot of experience. There are several partners with many years of practice. They anticipate problems. They are didactic, and practical, with enormous knowledge of this branch of law. Always available.’

‘Alberto Alonso Ureba’s deep knowledge of legal matters translates into security for the clients. He conveys a lot of confidence to the client and in all the matters we have worked on.’

‘The firm in general has established itself as a leading boutique firm in the Spanish market, known for its strong reputation among its stable of tech clients in particular. We specifically worked with the corporate/M&A team under the expert guidance of Borja Díaz-Guerra. Borja leads a team of high-quality performing lawyers with excellent responsiveness and a willingness to go the extra mile.’

‘Borja Díaz-Guerra is our key contact and, in my view, despite his relatively young age, is a stand-out partner not only in the firm but the wider market. Borja is not only a brilliant and technically gifted lawyer, but he is reasoned and commercial, and has a pragmatic and solution-focused approach that we highly appreciate from a client perspective. Uniquely, Borja is also qualified as a Solicitor of England & Wales which is notable when, on occasion, we have tasked him with assisting on multi-jurisdictional and complex corporate transactions.’

‘Very fast and hands-on team with a calm and pragmatic approach that makes you feel like you’re in a very safe pair of hands. ’

Key clients

Jenoptik AG

Mahou San Miguel

Bolt

Caledonia Investments

Telefónica

Real Zaragoza

KGAL ESPF 5 Holding S.A. R.L.

SpeedInvest VC

Legends Hospitality

Kapch TafficCom AG

MEDIASET

DIAGEO

CHILIZ AND SOCIOS.COM

Einzelnet Group

Mobbeel

Statio BD

Shandong Rainbow Agrosciences, Co, LTD

LETS DEEL

AE Industrial Partners, LP

Spain > EU and competition Tier 5

Lauded for its ‘strong experience’ and ‘very practical approach to competition matters’, ECIJA is a popular choice for advice on cartel investigations, abuse of dominance cases, merger control proceedings and antitrust issues in the TMT sector. Backed by a ‘deep knowledge of the sector’, Patricia Liñan expertly handles damage claims and assists clients with the implementation of competition law compliance programmes.

Other key lawyers:

Patricia Liñan; Jaime Torres; Begoña Albeniz

Testimonials

‘Extremely fast and efficient responses.’

‘Patricia Liñan has deep knowledge of the sector, and her responses are extremely fast and efficient.’

‘Personalised attention, extensive expertise, high degree of precision, immediate attention, their delivery.’

‘They are unique in terms of expertise and client service.’

‘A team with strong experience and a very practical approach to competition matters. It is not always easy to find firms that look for alternatives and try to see the matter from the client’s perspective, proposing solutions and explaining the difficulties in this area in a very simple and practical way.’

‘Its practical and close approach to the client set it apart. They make a difficult area like this seem simple.’

Key clients

Lactalis

Nokia

Rakuten

LG

Bolt

Privalia (Vente-privée)

Spanish bank consortium

Nutreco

EURO 6000

Astara Group

Wemass

Spanish Association of Independent Film Distributors

Rabobank

Enso Energy

Work highlights

  • Representing Nokia in its appeal against the Spanish Competition Authority’s (CNMC) decision to impose fines on the client and other companies in the railway communication sector.
  • Assisting Privalia – Vente Privée in complying with the new Vertical Block Exemption Regulation (VBER) and aligning with the European Consumer Directives.
  • Representing Lactalis in its appeal against a 2019 Decision by the Spanish Competition Authority (CNMC).

Spain > Banking and finance Tier 7

With a strong presence in the TMT space and deep knowledge of financial transactions, ECIJA is particularly well placed to assist domestic and international banks in fintech matters, including the implementation of digital projects. Fintech and payment services players also retain the team in regulatory issues concerning the launch of new products and their expansion into the Iberian and Latin American markets. Alonso Hurtado brings together experience in TMT matters and regulatory compliance in the financial sector. Cristina Villasante ‘is the reference person for fintech matters‘.

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The procedural team is exceptional. They are always willing to delve into the substance of the matter and treat each case uniquely, avoiding standardised solutions.’

‘They analyse the characteristics of each client very well to find the best way to defend their interests based on this knowledge. They are always available at any time and their response times are very short, which gives clients a lot of peace of mind.’

‘The firm has a very strong department in fintech. Cristina Villasante particularly stands out.’

‘Cristina Villasante is the reference person for fintech matters.’

Key clients

World Bank

Santander Bank

American Express

ING Bank

Bnext

Bank of Portugal

Bank of Spain

Bankinter Consumer Finance

SAP Concur

RCI Bank

VWFS Volkswagen Financial Services

BBVA

Santander Consumer Finance

Wizink Bank

Euro 6000 (E6K)

Pichincha Bank

Triodos Bank

Caixabank

Paymatico

BFF Bank

PagoNxt

Directa24

Iberaval

Kineox

Monese

EPI (European Payments Initiative)

Zotapay

Commerzbank

PSA Finance

European Central Bank

European Bank Authority

Bankinter Bank

SAREB

Evo Bank

Allfunds Bank

Mercury TFS

STRATIO

BESTINVER (ACCIONA)

UNNAX

COLLECTAR

Work highlights

  • Advising Santander Tecnología y Operaciones, S.L., the IT branch of the bank, on the development, negotiation, and implementation of the One Europe project.
  • Advised football club ATLETICO DE MADRID on a sponsorship agreement involving the launch of NFT projects with ATM memorabilia.
  • Advising the Bank of Spain on the development of a project for the regularisation of its identification and electronic signature systems.

Colombia > TMT

ECIJA Colombia’s group ‘proposes innovative solutions’, according to sources. With solid offerings in media and entertainment, telecoms, and internet and e-commerce (including fintech), the team is arguably best known for its relationships with film and television production companies, including CMO Producciones, MediaPro and Dynamo Producciones. Regulatory specialist Pablo Márquez is noted for his broad practice, which spans competition, telecoms regulation and internet governance; he co-heads the team alongside IP and audio-vision partner Patricia Renjifo. The group also draws on litigator Julio Castañeda  and senior associate Paula Gutiérrez de Piñeres.

Practice head(s):

Pablo Márquez; Patricia Renjifo

Testimonials

We recommend the firm for its willingness and timely responses to the requirements made by our company.

The team is comprised of experts in technology regulatory advice, particularly on issues such as 5G and advisory cases to deal with consumer and competition-related matters.

The Ecija team is always available for our requirements, has extensive experience in the issues, prepares meetings rigorously and in advance, and very importantly, proposes innovative solutions in procedures and in obtaining information.

Pablo Márquez has extensive experience, and combines it in the best way with his analytical skills, so that he makes it easy to see the complex in his recommendations. Julio Castañeda masters the procedures and his knowledge saves the clients’ time.

Key clients

Mercado Libre

Airbnb

Samsung Electronics Colombia

Tiktok

Infinito Studios

Dynamo Producciones

Miracol Media

CMO Producciones

Mediapro-Televideo

Rhayuela

Work highlights

  • Advising Mercado Libre on e-commerce regulation, consumer law and privacy law, among other issues.
  • Advising Airbnb on regulatory matters and on the impact of such regulation (and other public policies in the TMT area), on its business model in Colombia.
  • Advising Dynamo Producciones on all contractual matters, including on the production of Brotherhood, produced by Dynamo Producciones and Mandarin for Amazon Prime Video.

ECIJA is one of the best multidisciplinary and independent firms in the Spanish market, as well as the firm of choice for TMT, IP and data protection. ECIJA has 35 offices in 17 countries and the largest presence of an Ibero-American firm in Latin America.

Department Name Email Telephone
Business restructuring and bankruptcy proceedings Gabriel Nadal
Commercial agreements Juan Salmerón
Commercial agreements Elena Annez de Taboada
Corporate/M&A Hugo Écija
Corporate/M&A Emilio Prieto
Corporate/M&A Gabriel Nadal
Intellectual property and copyright Hugo Écija
Intellectual property and copyright Juan Salmerón
Intellectual property and copyright Alejandro Touriño
IT, telecoms, data protection and outsourcing Cristina Villasante
Media, IP Helena Suárez
IT, telecoms, data protection and outsourcing Alonso Hurtado
IT, telecoms, data protection and outsourcing Xavier Muñoz
Labour and employment Raúl Rojas
Labour and employment Alfonso Autuori
Litigation and arbitration Javier López
Litigation and arbitration Maite Mascaró
Media and entertainment Hugo Écija
Media and entertainment Juan Salmerón
Public policy and regulatory Xavier Muñoz
Private equity and venture capital Emilio Prieto
Private equity and venture capital Ricardo Oliveras
Real estate and planning Gabriel Nadal
Real estate and planning Maite Mascaró
Sport Hugo Écija
Sport Ricardo Oliveras
Number of lawyers : 1000
Spanish
Catalan
Euskera
English
French
German
Italian
Other offices : Madrid
Other offices : Barcelona
Other offices : Valencia
Other offices : Zaragoza
Other offices : Islas Canarias
Other offices : Lisbon/ Porto/ Braga
Other offices : Santiago de Chile
Other offices : Tegucigalpa / San Pedro Sula
Other offices : San Jose/ Guanacaste
Other offices : Managua
Other offices : Guatemala
Other offices : San Salvador
Other offices : Panama
Other offices : Rio de Janeiro/ São Paulo/ Brasilia/ Belo Horizonte
Other offices : Bogotá
Other offices : Mexico
Other offices : Buenos Aires
Other offices : Quito /Guayaquil

CLIENT: Xavier Mas, Head of Legal & Compliance
COMPANY/FIRM: Media Markt
TESTIMONIAL: ECIJA offers us a comprehensive service, with very short response times but at the same time with an unbeatable technical level. The advice is exceptionally accurate, practical and proactive.


CLIENT: Virginia Cardenal Antón, Head of Management and Risks
COMPANY/FIRM: British Telecom
TESTIMONIAL: After so long, we continue trusting ECIJA as our legal partner because of its high dose of proactivity, knowledge of its clients’ sector, and its undoubted talent.


CLIENT: Manuel Urbano, CFO
COMPANY/FIRM: FremantleMedia
TESTIMONIAL: ECIJA’s team always proves to have a wide knowledge of the peculiarities of the media sector, giving high quality coverage to our legal needs in various areas of our business


CLIENT: Antonio García, General Counsel
COMPANY/FIRM: Orange
TESTIMONIAL: At ECIJA customer orientation prevails, understanding what you need, anticipating your needs and giving quick, effective and business-focused advice.


Chairman: Hugo Écija
Vice President: Pablo Jiménez de Parga
Managing Partner: Alejandro Touriño
Number of partners: 140 Number of lawyers: 700
Languages: English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin
Firm Overview: ECIJA is one of the best multidisciplinary and independent firms in the Spanish market and also the firm of choice for TMT, IP and data protection. ECIJA has 27 offices in 16 countries (Spain, Portugal and LATAM) and the largest presence in Latin America.

Main Areas of Practice:

IT, Telecoms, Data Protection & Outsourcing:
22 partners; 120 fee earners based in Spain, Portugal and Latin America. TMT IT is a main area of focus for ECIJA. Its client´s portfolio includes large media corporations, software developers, advertising groups, electronics, telecommunication operators, financial institutions and energy companies.

  • Advice to Santander Bank to implement a legal design project in regard to the master agreement with technological providers.
  • Support to Mercadona in the implementation of a facial recognition technology system in all the company´s premises.
  • Advice to McDonalds in compliance of privacy and data protection obligations in Spain.

Key Clients: Mercedes, LVMH Group, Microsoft, Inditex, Michelin, Telefónica, Santander, LG Electronics, Bank of Spain, Dentsu.
Contacts: Alejandro Touriño, Hugo Écija
Emails: atourino@ecija.com, hugo@ecija.com

Intellectual Property & Copyrights:
16 partners; 90 fee earners based in Spain, Portugal and Latin America. ECIJA has the largest, most skilled and diversified (it combines informatic engineers) team in IP in the Span- ish market.

  • Advice to Rakuten TV on all IP licensing matters, including acquisition of third-party rights and the selling of own generated content.
  • Negotiation on behalf of Orange with the nine copyright and related rights collective management societies (CMOs) that operate in Spain.
    Key Clients: H&M, Fox, Rakuten TV, Indra, NH Hotels, Ferrovial, Vodafone, ONCE; Omnicom Media Group.
    Contacts: Alejandro Touriño, Hugo Écija
    Emails: atourino@ecija.com, hugo@ecija.com

Corporate/M&A & Private Equity:
53 partners; 70 fee earners based in Spain, Portugal and Latin America. ECIJA advices large Spain-based and international corporations, VC and private equity investors in na- tional and cross border transactions. ECIJA has wide expertise in sectors driven by innovation (such as tech- nology, clean energy, automotive, aerospace, financial services and life sciences).

  • Counsel to Jenoptik AG (Frankfurt Stock Exchange listed company) in the two first acquisitions of robotic companies in Spain.
  • Advice to Deutsche Boerse AG (Frankfurt Stock Exchange listed company) in a $15 million investment round in a fintech company.
    Key Clients: Yahoo, Pfizer, The Boeing Company, Honeywell, Melia Hotel Group, M&C Saatchi, Jenoptik AG, DHL and Deutsche Boerse AG.
    Contacts: Emilio Prieto, Gabriel Nadal
    Emails: eprieto@ecija.com, gnadal@ecijalegal.com

Dispute Resolution, Litigation & Arbitration:
39 partners; 1200 fee earners based in Spain, Portugal and Latin America. ECIJA represents major clients in relevant cases in dispute resolution in technology, media, telecoms, construction and sports industries. The firm is pioneer in the use of new technologies such as ‘ethical hacking’ aimed to determine the source of criminal acts and collect digital evidence valid in Court proceedings.

  • Representation of Orange in a large-scale volume proceeding in both civil and administrative proceedings.
  • Representation of H&M in relevant a dispute in the civil and mercantile sphere concerning one of the company’s flagships stores.
    Key Clients: Hiscox, British Telecom, Mercadona, Renault, Atletico de Madrid Club, Orange, ING Bank, EDP, Ferrovial, Starlite, Showa International
    Contacts: Pablo Jiménez de Parga, Javier López,
    Emails: pjdeparga@ecija.com, jlopez@ecija.com

Labour & Employment:
27 partners; 50 fee earners based in Spain, Portugal and Latin America. ECIJA acts in judicial processes in all matters and in collective bargaining processes and restructurings. It has a multidisciplinary division of professionals who are experts in LabourTech and Compliance.

  • Advice to Bank of Spain on the implementation of a Security Operations Center (SOC) for monitoring technological systems and employees.
  • Advice to ING Bank on use of technological means policy and digital disconnection policy.
    Key Clients: Bank of Spain, Melia Hotels, Radisson Hotels, Eolia Energy, Vivanta, Atresmedia, ING Bank, Fremantle Media, MC & Saatchi
    Contacts: Raúl Rojas, Fernando Vizcaino
    Emails: rrojas@ecija.com, fvizcaino@ecija.com

Tax:
18 partners; 30 fee earners based in Spain, Portugal, Latin and Central America. ECIJA advises on tax driven structured finance, leasing and collective investment arrangements. The area focuses on corporate and international taxation, corporate reorganizations, digital society taxation and tax procedures.

  • Advice to DHL on its indirect taxation policy.
  • Advice to Repsol Foundation in the process of investment in startups (venture philanthropy).
    Key Clients: Pilatus Aircraft Limited, Sprim Health Group; Repsol Foundation, DHL Global Forwarding
    Contact: Constantino Vidal
    Email: cvidal@ecija.com

Awards:

  • Best Digital Economy, IT, IP and Data Protec- tion Law Firm of the Spanish Market and Most Innovative Project (Expansión Awards 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019)
  • European Specialist (TMT) Law Firm and Highly Commended best Iberian Law Firm (The Lawyer 2019, 2020)
  • Ranked amongst the most innovative law firms in Europe (Financial Times 2020)

Diversity is a crucial value in ECIJA´s culture.

ECIJA is concerned about fostering diversity and granting inclusion. ECIJA’s challenge consists of officially shape its already open and flexible nature, in order to measure it and follow its application.

ECIJA has experienced how diversity and plurality enriches its daily work. This richness lies on the singularity of each lawyer. Based on that, ECIJA follows the way to adapt the Firm to each employee’s own features, providing accordingly personalized treatment (flexibility).

The keystone is structural change, allowing integration of every valid professional. We bet for a fully inclusive culture, focusing on talent, achievements and performance, putting aside subjective characteristics. For this reason, 2020 Sustainability strategy is focused on achieving real equality among ECIJA´s professionals as a first step in order to achieve real equality in our society.

ECIJA aims all the aforementioned intentions to permeate its daily working practices. In this sense, ECIJA develops a Global Diversity Program. This program consists of multiple initiatives, some of which are related to the formal functioning of the Firm (internal processes and procedures), while others are specific actions (workgroups and communication tools). Thanks to our innovative DNA, most of those initiatives are quite new and disruptive in Law Firms environment:

More Women STEM

This project aims to reveal the crucial role women play in professional environment and its leadership and guidance in future Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics careers.

It is focussed on promoting women’s role as change agent and encourages access of young women to future STEM professions. Particularly, this project provides teenage students with useful tools which will help them in their decision-making path in order to start successful professional careers.

Female students must realize their professional evolution is rooftop-less. They can reach as far as they want, and no social consensus must limit their dreams.

Conciliation and gender equality Committee

This workgroup is composed by ECIJA volunteers that, sponsored by the management team, meet periodically to discuss activities and actions which might help ECIJA walk the conciliation and equality path.

Internal communication open policy

ECIJA makes available to its professionals various internal, online and bidirectional communication channels. ECIJA’s lawyers feel free to express their points of view openly. ECIJA encourages its employees to freely share their interests and opinions via said communication channels.

There is also a specific area, named People & Culture, fully dedicated to listening and taking care of the Firm’s professionals. This specific team is led by the Chief Happiness Officer, whose main responsibility is to maintain ECIJA’s Happiness index at a top level.

Flexible schedule

In order to facilitate the inclusion of every profile, ECIJA grants 100% flexible working hours, without a specific hour of start and finish of workday. This policy enables employees to organize their work around their lives, not the other way around. As a result, almost 100% of ECIJA´s professionals have different working hours each day.

Smart Working

ECIJA also allows employees to work wherever they want, with no other requisite than covering their duties. The telework policy has no limitation in days or reasons. ECIJA relies, once more, in its professionals’ common sense. The Firm is focused on productivity and results, not in formality and rigorous working hours.