Sanjur & Asociados

For three decades, Sanjur & Asociados has helped clients navigate every point where their business meets the Panamanian State, whether in contracting, regulation or litigation. Founded in January 1997, the firm celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2027 as one of the country’s most established practices in administrative law and public procurement.

That reputation rests on a distinction few firms can claim: members of the firm took part in drafting Law 22 of 2006, the statute that governs public procurement in Panama, and its subsequent amendments. Clients gain counsel that understands not only what the rules say, but why they were written and how they work in practice.

Building on that foundation, the firm has expanded its offering with a corporate and transactional team with deep experience in M&A, financings and wealth planning, alongside an established employment practice. Clients work directly with senior lawyers who know their business, respond quickly and give clear, commercially minded advice. The firm sees itself as a long-term strategic partner, working with clients at every stage of their projects in Panama.

Main areas of practice

Administrative law and public procurement: the firm advises bidders, contractors, concessionaires and investors across the full life cycle of government contracting. This covers tender strategy and bid preparation, award challenges and claims before the procurement authorities, and contract performance, amendments and termination. It also covers contentious-administrative proceedings before the Supreme Court.

Corporate and M&A: the team handles complex corporate transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, due diligence, joint ventures and corporate restructurings. It also provides ongoing corporate and regulatory advice to local and multinational companies operating in Panama.

Banking and finance: the firm advises borrowers, lenders and sponsors on corporate and structured financings, including security packages and transaction documentation.

Wealth planning: the firm designs asset protection and succession structures for families and entrepreneurs, including private interest foundations, trusts and holding vehicles.

Employment: the firm advises on every stage of the employment relationship, from hiring and compliance through restructurings, terminations and labour disputes. It also covers social security and cross-border remuneration matters.