Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. > Mexico City, Mexico > Firm Profile
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. Offices
Av. Pedregal 24, 10th floor
Molino del Rey
11040, Mexico City
Mexico
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. > The Legal 500 Rankings
Mexico > Banking and finance Tier 1
To speak of Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. is also to speak of proven strength and expertise in the banking and finance area, so it is not surprising that the practice led by experienced partners Jean Paul Farah and Pablo Perezalonso advises an impressive client roster, comprised mainly of financial institutions acting as lenders, and constitutes one of the core areas of the multidisciplinary firm. ‘Experience, practicality, client service, and partner involvement’ are the norm for a group that stands out for its finesse handling a variety of financing transactions, including secured and unsecured credit facilities. Other key members of the Mexico City team include renowned market figure Luis Nicolau and Gabriel Del Valle (both (banking, finance, capital markts and restructuring); and Gabriel Robles, who focuses on financing with a specialisation in capital markets. Key associate support comes from senior Daniela Solis, who is well-versed in project finance, having represented both developers and lenders in transactions that include toll roads, gas pipeline projects, solar and wind farms, and cogeneration and other power projects. However, longstanding partner Carlos Obregon left the firm in August 2022 after more than 25 years at the firm, as did younger partner José Berrueta, the preceding month.Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘RM specialises in banking & finance, the firm’s most important practice. This differentiates them significantly from other firms that have it as a secondary area.’
‘Experience, practicality, client service, and partner involvement. Jean Paul Farah, Luis Nicolau, Pablo Perezalonso.’
Key clients
BBVA Bancomer
Scotiabank Inverlat
Banorte
Banca Afirme
Citibanamex
Walton Street Capital México
KSMV Capital (Luuna)
BNP Paribas
Banco Nacional de México
Banco Sabadell
HSBC México
Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior
Bancolombia
Banco G&T Continental
Banco General Multibank
Banco Santander México
Citigroup Global Markets
BNP Paribas
Intesa San Paolo
Credit Suisse (Cayman Islands branch)
Glas USA
Deutsche Bank (London branch)
Mizuho Bank
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.
Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank
Work highlights
- Advised BBVA on Grupo Bimbo’s $1,750m revolving loan.
- Advised América Movil on its $1,500m revolving credit facility.
- Advised Coppel regarding a MX$40m syndicated loan.
Mexico > Capital markets Tier 1
Applauded for always being ‘up to date and ahead of the changes’, Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. fields an ‘interdisciplinary team with extensive knowledge of the capital market sector in Mexico‘. The practice is co-led by seasoned practitioner Luis Nicolau, who ‘stands out for his specialisation’ in debt and equity securities mandates; and Gabriel del Valle Mendiola, who represents issuers, international and local broker-dealers, and investment banks in private and public offerings of debt and equity securities by Mexican issuers in the international markets. The group, which includes other key contacts such as Gabriel Robles, is also known for its domestic securities practice, which covers equity, debt and structured securities offerings, including asset-backed securities, CKDs, CERPIs, FIBRAs-E, real estate FIBRAs and bank capitalisation notes, while also boasting expertise on the establishment and operation of investment funds, as well as in the registration of non-Mexican issuers in the Mexican market. Former partner Carlos Obregón Rojo left the firm in August 2022.
Practice head(s):
Luis Nicolau Gutiérrez; Gabriel del Valle Mendiola
Testimonials
‘This firm is always up to date and ahead of the changes.’
‘Luis Nicolau stands out for his specialisation in the matter.’
‘Interdisciplinary team with extensive knowledge of the capital market sector in Mexico: regulation and market practices, mainly.’
‘Excellent relationship with the client. They are always available for any questions or comments. The team of Gabriel del Valle and Gabriel Robles is the one with the best knowledge of capital market.’
Key clients
Banorte
EMX Capital
Morgan Stanley
Credit Agricole Securities (USA)
Deutsche Bank Securities
Itau BBA USA Securities
Citigroup Global Markets
Goldman Sachs
Vector Casa de Bolsa
BBVA Casa de Bolsa
Banco Santander México
JP Morgan Securties
Mexico Infrastructure Partners (EXI)
BNP Paribas
Merrill Lynch International
Natixis Securities Americas
JP Morgan Casa de Bolsa
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company
Banco Centroamericano de Integración Económica
BofA Securities
HSBC Securities (USA)
Fonadin
Orbia Advance Corporation
Corporación Inmobiliaria Vesta
Credit Suisse Securities (USA)
Barclays Capital
MUFG Securities
Grupo Cementos Chihuhua
Work highlights
- Represented BNP Paribas, Merrill Lynch International and Natixis Securities Americas, in connection with the offering by the United Mexican States of €1,250m of its 2.250% senior notes (due 2036).
- Represented HSBC Bank, JP Morgan Securities and Merrill Lynch International in FEMSA’s €1,200m notes offering.
- Represented EMX Capital, in connection with an innovative transaction in the private equity secondary market under the scheme known as general partner (GP)-led secondary fund restructuring.
Mexico > Corporate and M&A Tier 1
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. impresses with the ‘breadth and depth of the partners’ experience’, their level of ‘attention to detail’ and ability to tend to a variety of clients regarding a wide range of matters, particularly related to the real estate, infrastructure and financial areas. Following the August-2022 departure of former practice co-head Carlos Obregón Rojo, the department is led by acclaimed capital markets powerhouse, Luis Nicolau, who also brings particular fintech expertise to the practice. The bench has great solidity and also includes key practitioner Jean Paul Farah; along with up-and-coming younger partners Eduardo Triulzi; Gabriel Robles, who always ‘ensures speed and diligence in the M&A process’; and Héctor Cárdenas Ortega (M&A and real estate), who was raised to the partnership in January 2022. Senior figure Rodrigo Conesa Labastida moved to an of counsel position at the firm the same month. At associate level, senior Eric Silberstein and transactional adviser Lucía Ibañez Tirado are the names to note at associate level. Among recent work highlights, the group represented Grupo Copri and its shareholders, on the sale of 100% of the company’s shares to Macquarie. Since publication, Silberstein has been raised to the partnership – effective as of October 2022.Practice head(s):
Luis Nicolau
Testimonials
‘What makes Ritch Mueller and Nicolau SC unique is the breadth and depth of the partners’ experience and how they pass on that know-how to junior lawyers.’
‘Compared to other firms, Ritch has better talent at the senior and middle levels and the involvement of these partners in the day-to-day work with their clients.’
‘They stand out for the involvement of senior partners and their attention to detail. Luis Nicolau and Gabriel Robles are exceptional and the combination of the two ensures speed and diligence in the M&A process.’
Key clients
Kala Capital
EMX Capital
Discovery Americas
Grupo Copri
Martin Marietta Materials
Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets
Mexico Infrastructure Partners (EXI)
Fibra EXI
Familia Córdova Corcre
Aceros Corsa
Canadian National
Assa Abloy
Tresalia Capital
SixSigma Networks México (KIO)
Acon Investments
ABB Asea Brown Boveri
Grupo Mexicano de Desarrollo
Cacao Paycard
Winston & Strawn
Dechert
Work highlights
- Advised EMX Capital on a general partner (GP)-led secondary fund restructuring.
- Advised Mexico Infrastructure Partners (EXI) on the acquisition of five highways from ICA through several of its CKD and CERPI funds and subsequent sale by such funds to Fibra EXI.
- Advised on the sale of Tresalia Capital and SixSigma Networks México (KIO) of 100% of its shares to I Square Capital.
Mexico > Real estate Tier 1
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. real estate practice is well versed across a broad range of matters including private and public real estate fund formation, and representing real estate investment trusts in their equity and debt investments in the Mexico, as well as in the various tax and regulatory issues that arise in connection with such operations. The practice group, which demonstrates a ‘thorough orientation towards the transaction’s successful conclusion‘, also has considerable projects experience, be it in relation to industrial parks, hotel and tourism developments, industrial and/or residential complexes or shopping malls, among other project segments. Following former practice head Rodrigo Conesa‘s move to an of counsel position (he remains active but now operates from Miami), the practice is co-led by Javier Domínguez Torrado, who advises real estate investment funds and other investors with respect to their investments and developments in Mexico – including property acquisitions, disposals, financings, and the development and management of assets; and Jean Paul Farah Chajín, who specialises in infrastructure project and real estate finance (both bank and capital markets), and M&A. Completing the senior team, Ricardo Calderón, in turn, advises on real estate as part of a broader practice taking in banking and finance, M&A and compliance. Elected to the partnership in January 2022, Héctor Cárdenas Ortega (M&A, real estate and capital markets), and Santiago Carrillo Cattori (financings, acquisitions and developments across real estate asset classes – particularly industrial and hotel assets), bring new capacity to the evolving team; while at associate level, Alfonso Alberto Vargas and Gabriel Torres both handle finance, M&A and real estate matters. Since publication, Torres has been raised to the partnership - effective as of October 2022.Practice head(s):
Javier Dominguez Torrado; Jean Paul Farah Chajín
Testimonials
‘I’d highlight the partners intensive participation and the thorough orientation towards the transaction’s successful conclusion; Javier Dominguez, Santiago Carrillo andEmilio Lie.‘
Key clients
Citibanamex
Walton Street Capital México
Prologis (FIBRA Prologis)
Artha Capital
PGIM Real Estate Fideicomiso PRUMEX Industrial IV
Grupo Financiero Banorte
Citibanamex
Banco Sabadell
Scotiabank Inverlat
Thor Urbana
Related
Work highlights
- Advised on Thor Urbana’s credit agreement with BBVA for the financing of the construction of The Landmark residential centre in Tijuana.
- Advised on Prologis’ acquisition of an industrial real estate property (of approximately 1,222,295 sq.metres) located in Apodaca, Nuevo León, from a group of private individuals, for the construction of an industrial real estate development.
- Advised on Walton’s acquisition of a portfolio of seven industrial buildings located in Apodaca, Nuevo León.
Mexico > Energy and natural resources Tier 2
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. fields a 21 strong team experienced in energy and natural resources, advising local and international investors, lenders, developers and contractors on financing and the implementation of energy and infrastructure projects. 2021 saw the team particularly active on hydrocarbons project finance, M&As, compliance, regulatory and contentious matters. The practice is co-led by Federico Santacruz González who represents sponsors, lenders, off-takers, funds and investors on all aspects of projects mandates; and Jorge Oria y Anaya who has experience in acquisition, finance and arbitration in relation to energy and infrastructure projects. Oscar A Lopez Velarde, who advises on financing structures for real estate, oil and gas, power and infrastructure projects, is also integral to a practice that can also call on the expertise of partners Gabriel del Valle Mendiola (banking and finance, capital markets, energy and infrastructure); Octavio Olivo Villa (banking and finance, competition, M&A; projects, energy and infrastructure); and Asaf Jimenez Adorno (banking and finance, M&A; projects, energy and infrastructure). Key associate Marco Portillo is primarily focused on energy transactions across both the oil-and-gas and power industries.Practice head(s):
Federico Santacruz González; Jorge Oria y Anaya
Key clients
Repsol Downstream México
Novum México Trading
Glencore Energy México
Grupo Pochteca
Asfaltos Mesoamericanos
Ainda, Energía & Infraestructura
Valero Marketing and Supply de México
Shell Trading Mexico
Diavaz Gas
Corporación G500
Gasoducto de Morelos
Comsustenta
Work highlights
- Advised companies in the energy sector -such as Novum México Trading, Glencore Energy, Grupo Pochteca and Repsol- on the legal procedures to obtain hydrocarbon and oil product importation permits before the Ministry of Energy, in compliance with the current regulations necessary to obtain a favourable decision.
- Advised MPC Energy Solutions Latin America Holdings on the acquisition of the 13.6MWLos Santos Solar I project owned by Buenavista Renewables.
- Advised leading industry companies on compliance with the newly enforced volumetric control regulations, which have had an important impact within the industry, as the applicable rules are complex.
Mexico > Environment Tier 2
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C., is a ‘firm with exceptional performance in environmental matters’ and that has broad experience in project finance, administrative filings, sociocultural impact assessment, wastes, national waters, environmental zoning and urban development and climate change, along with water, soil and air pollution, and the management of filings to obtain project-related authorisations, permits, and registrations. The practice is also highly regarded for its expertise in social impact assessments, handling and management of negotiations with indigenous peoples and communities so as to obtain the social license required for the approval of projects, and the development of shared benefits mechanisms. Led by partner Hector A. Garza Cervera, who advises local and foreign companies on environmental and social obligations, the design and implementation of ESG programs, and regulatory and governmental affairs; clients consider him ‘one of the lawyers in human rights and indigenous issues with the greatest knowledge and in-depth understanding throughout the country.’ Garza is supported by associates Estuardo Anaya and Christian Rosales who have over 15 and 10 years’ experience advising on (non-contentious) transactional environmental matters, and governmental affairs, climate change and ESG related issues, respectively. Since publication, both Garza and Rosales have left the firm (in December 2022 and January 2023, respectively); the firm has subsequently hired experienced partner Brenda Rogel from Hogan Lovells.Practice head(s):
Brenda Rogel
Testimonials
‘Ritch has been a firm with exceptional performance in environmental matters. The challenges we have faced have been with Federal authorities and in all cases they have turned out very well, respecting the law and ensuring that it is respected.’
‘They know very well the entire area of Cofepris, the regulatory laws and how to achieve win-win agreements with the federal authority.’
‘Ritch Mueller has supported us, through Héctor Garza, in all legal matters related to indigenous consultation issues, and we are currently carrying out with them the first Human Rights Impact Assessment for Mining. Héctor has proven to be a dynamic and sophisticated lawyer, with extensive knowledge of the subject, and extensive experience. Héctor is today one of the trusted lawyers of the Canadian Corporation, always available, and with a diplomatic and professional attitude.’
‘In the last decade, as a company we have gone through several important moments where we have required specialized legal help. And it wasn’t until we met Ritch Mueller, (through Héctor Garza), that we felt comfortable with his expertise. We believe that Héctor is one of the lawyers in Human Rights and Indigenous Issues with the greatest knowledge and in-depth understanding throughout the country. Héctor is a knowledgeable lawyer, but with a community vision, who seeks and recognizes the common good and the benefit of the communities where we operate. It makes human sense, as does the latest knowledge on different topics.’
Key clients
Walton Street Capital
Banco Santander
Sempra
Zihuatanejo Newco
Zuma Energía – State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC)
Equinix
Ministry of the Environment of the Dominican Republic
Thor Urbana Capital
MPC Energy Solutions NV
Dual Co.
GTM Chemicals
Absormex
Invenergy
AES
Work highlights
- Advised Ministry of the Environment of the Dominican Republic in drafting and socialization of the Regulation of Law No. 225-50, General of Comprehensive Management and Co-processing of Solid Wastes
- Advised Banco Santander in environmental and permitting matters for the expansion and construction of a roadway on the Circuito Interior Mexiquense.
- Advised Zuma Energía in social impact, regulatory, and environmental matters for the expansion of a renewable power plant located in the state of Zacatecas.
Mexico > Projects and infrastructure Tier 2
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. houses a powerful, 22-strong projects practice which represents clients on all aspects of the development, financing and acquisition of infrastructure projects and associated dispute resolution. With more than 40 years' experience managing project development between them, seasoned experts Federico Santacruz González and Jorge Oria Anaya, co-head the department, which is a regular advisor to a mix of lender, project sponsor and fund/investor clients, and boasts some particularly excellent capabilities in hydrocarbons and power-related projects. Completing the senior trio of partners, Gabriel Del Valle focuses on cross-border financial transactions - particularly project finance, structured finance and capital markets. The practice also houses a pair of younger partners: Asaf Jimenez Adorno, who specialises in the electricity sector, M&A and finance; and Alejandra Echeverría González, a banking and finance practitioner primarily focuses on the financing and acquisition of energy and infrastructure projects. Key associate support is provided by senior Marco Portillo, who has strong knowledge of the energy and hydrocarbons industries, and also handles ESG and compliance, anti-corruption and investigations.Practice head(s):
Federico Santacruz González; Jorge Oria y Anaya
Key clients
Banco Santander
Banco Inbursa
Banco Sabadell
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Group
Mexico Infrastructure Partners (EXI) / Fibra EXI
Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets México
Work highlights
- Advised Banco Santander and Banco Inbursa’s $115m mezzanine financing to Organización de Proyectos de Infraestructura
- Advised Mexico Infrastructure Partners (EXI) on the structuring of a new Fibra-E named Fibra EXI; and subsequently Fibra EXI on the issuance of $1bn CBFEs, placed on the Mexican Stock Exchange through an initial public offer and distribution to investors of EXI Funds.
Mexico > Tax Tier 2
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C.'s tax practice, which is praised for being able to understand complex transactions from a business perspective and provide valuable insights to uniquely structure operations’, is jointly led by a trio of ‘outstanding partners’: Oscar Lopez Velarde, whose expertise encompasses a variety of contentious proceedings; Santiago Llano, who is experienced in tax consulting and transfer pricing; and Juan José Paullada, who was promoted in January 2022 and is a key figure in the firm's tax controversy and litigation practice. The department's sector expertise includes energy, real estate, financial services, and manufacturing. Housing both lawyers and accountants -who earn plaudits for their ‘exceptional insight and creativity’- the practice includes other practitioners of note, namely senior associate Eduardo García, who has a special focus on M&A projects, restructuring, debt and equity instrument placements, and fund structuring.Practice head(s):
Oscar Lopez Velarde; Santiago Llano; Juan José Paullada
Testimonials
‘Definitely, the high involvement and specialization of the partners and the team in general make the difference, as well as their specialization in the industry and knowledge of the business of each client.’
‘The preparation and professionalism of its collaborators as well as the sense of urgency that they maintain in all projects. Outstanding partners and collaborators: Oscar López Velarde, Juan José Paullada, and Eric Palacios Hurtado.’
‘They stay up-to-date on energy industry issues. They provide valuable ideas for business strategy.’
‘Constant monitoring, involvement with the client. Appropriate experience to support the business. Availability for crisis care.’
‘Since its founding, the Ritch Mueller tax team has been able to understand complex transactions from a business perspective and provide valuable insights to uniquely structure operations. Their holistic vision makes them unique in the market, giving them a unique competitive advantage.’
‘Oscar López Velarde, Santiago Llano and Juan Jose Paullada are the kind of partners who are always available for their clients and who really get involved in all matters. They are professionals with exceptional insight and creativity not normally seen in law firms.’
Key clients
EMX Capital
Grupo Mexicano de Desarrollo
Morgan Stanley
Thor Urbana
Mexico Infrastructure Partners (EXI)
Grupo Cementos de Chihuahua
Work highlights
- Represented EMX Capital in its successful (GP)-led secondary fund restructuring, best known as a “rollover transaction” – the first of its kind in Mexico and among the first in Latin America.
- Represented GDM in the successful sale of Autopistas de Guerrero, owner of the Acapulco highway concessionaire, to Orion IEP.
- Represented Morgan Stanley, BBVA Securities, BofA Securities and HSBC Securities (USA), in connection with a $325m offering of senior notes (due 2026) by Grupo Axo.
Mexico > Bankruptcy and restructuring Tier 3
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C.'s practice has longstanding and proven experience in major corporate restructurings, having been a constant presence in some of the larges national and cross-border restructurings and insolvencies that have arisen in Mexico. The group of ‘experts in the field’ is co-led by Jean Paul Farah and Pablo Perezalonso – both of whom bring with them their standout expertise in corporate and finance matters – and was reinforced with the promotion of Adriana Padilla, who is experienced in financial restructurings and insolvency proceedings, having advised both bankrupt companies and creditors, and has also acted as counsel to the receiver. Padilla's name is also gaining currency in the arbitration arena. Well known among financial clients, the team also has experience of the aviation, mining, housing and real estate development, industrial production, and comsat and telecoms sectors.Practice head(s):
Jean Paul Farah; Pablo Perezalonso
Testimonials
‘The team is available to answer questions from in-house attorneys, they are accessible and knowledgeable about the matter. The practice´s positive attitude with people is noteworthy, the billing process is fast and the cost benefit is good. They are good collaborators and experts in the field.’
‘Pablo Perezalonso and Adriana Padilla Rivas are experts in the field. They transmit their knowledge clearly, they adapt to the client’s times and their attitude is proactive, taking care of legal certainty.’
Key clients
Grupo Posadas
Work highlights
- Main advisor in Mexico regarding both the chapter 11 process and the restructuring of Grupo Posadas’ debt.
Mexico > Competition and antitrust Tier 3
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C.‘s competition practice houses a group of ‘excellent professionals’ who are recommended by clients for being ‘very close to the COFECE’, which makes matters ‘proceed in a timely manner and in accordance with the requirements of the authority’. The group benefits from a strong track record undertaking antitrust audits and antitrust investigations, as well as a mix of merger-clearance work and administrative cases before COFECE. Octavio Olivo Villa heads the practice and actively participates in merger clearances before the COFECE concerning mergers, acquisitions and joint-venture transactions; he has been involved in cases related to the food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, real estate, and retail sectors. On the investigations side, the practice has a focus on oil and gas and renewable energies. Key support comes from senior counsel James Ritch, who is particularly well-versed in merger control. However, the team endured the departures of senior associates José Miguel Ortiz Otero, who moved to Sánchez Devanny in June 2021; and Marta Loubet, who joined White & Case S.C. in March 2022. Since research concluded, Loubet has subsequently rejoined the firm - effective as of November 2022.Practice head(s):
Octavio Olivo Villa; James Ritch
Testimonials
‘Excellent professionals, very close to the COFECE, which makes the procedures proceed in a timely manner and in accordance with the requirements of the authority.’
‘Responsiveness.’
Work highlights
- Represented EMX Capital in connection with a transaction in the private equity secondary market under the scheme known as general partner (GP)-led secondary fund restructuring.
- Represented Macquarie in the pre-merger notice to COFECE of the acquisition by Orión and Fibra E of 100% of the shares representing the capital stock of Decarred.
- Represented Grupo Mexicano de Desarrollo in the pre-merger notice to COFECE concerning Orión’s acquisition of toll-road concessionaire Autopistas de Guerrero.
Mexico > Dispute resolution: arbitration Tier 4
Rated ‘extraordinary’ by clients for its ‘great knowledge, professionalism and way of transmitting the arguments verbally and in writing’, Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C.'s arbitration practice is especially experienced in disputes related to the energy and infrastructure sectors, seamlessly blending with the firm’s other practice areas to strengthen its arbitration offering. Key contacts include Jorge Oria y Anaya, who has over 20 years’ experience in energy, infrastructure and power transactions, and focuses on arbitrations linked to those areas; and the ‘smart and hardworking’ Adriana Padilla, who was promoted to the partnership in January 2022 and has subsequently been appointed head of the arbitration and mediation practice. With approaching 15 years' experience, Padilla also brings expertise regarding other fields -notably M&A, infrastructure, energy, ports, construction, retail and corporate- to the group; she is also well-versed in restructurings and insolvency.
Practice head(s):
Adriana Padilla
Testimonials
‘What makes the practice of the firm unique is the inclusion of technological tools in the process and, without a doubt, the great customer service. It compares favorably and even above other firms.’
‘The great knowledge, professionalism and way of transmitting the arguments verbally and in writing, is something extraordinary.’
‘Adriana Padilla is smart and hardworking.’
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. > Firm Profile
Ritch Mueller is a top tier multidisciplinary transactional firm committed to offering high value-added legal advice to national and international clients with respect to their operations in Mexico.
Since 1975, our firm has been actively involved in shaping how Mexican law is practiced within each of our main practice areas, including M&A, corporate finance (including capital markets and banking), financial regulation, real estate and energy and infrastructure. Our tax, environmental, social, corporate and regulatory practice groups complement our traditional practice areas while at the same time tending to our clients’ ongoing needs.
Our firm has played a significant role in the structuring, development and financing of private businesses and public sector projects in Mexico. Our work encompasses transactions within a broad array of sectors of the Mexican economy, including the financial, industrial, infrastructure, energy, retail and services sectors.
Our firm has a staff of more than 100 professionals deployed amongst our different practice areas. We seek to add value to our clients by means of an efficient and in-depth service combined with high levels of expertise and experience. We are Mexican law and tax trained professionals and most of our partners and senior associates have graduate degrees from the most reputable universities in the United States and Europe, as well as work experience in prestigious international firms.
Areas of practice
Arbitration and dispute resolution: The firm has developed a solid reputation in the field of institutional and ad-hoc mediation and arbitration. It has extensive experience in disputes related to infrastructure and energy project finance, as well as in other sectors such as real estate, financial, commercial, M&A, retail and corporate matters. Its lawyers are active members of the most prestigious national and international institutions and associations related to arbitration.
Aviation: The firm has significant experience and proven expertise in all aspects of aviation law. It represents clients in the development of Mexican airport infrastructure and in the pursuit of corporate strategies in this sector delivering advice for the financing of aircraft objects and space assets. It represents airport developers and operators, aircraft and helicopter manufacturers, engine companies, airlines, satellite launch companies and satellite operators, as well as aircraft lessors, export credit agencies and financial institutions. The firm has also represented clients in virtually all restructuring, insolvency and default situations involving Mexican airlines.
Banking and finance: The firm represents Mexican, international and multilateral banks, as well as other financial intermediaries in secured and unsecured, non-recourse (asset-backed), bilateral and syndicated lending transactions of different levels of complexity involving Mexican obligors or assets. Its steady presence in the market has allowed it to participate in all phases of the credit cycle, including origination in bull markets and restructuring in the context of regional or global crises. It has advised the majority of foreign financial institutions that have established subsidiaries in Mexico in their authorisation processes. The firm also advises international and domestic banks, as well as industry organisations such as ISDA and the Mexican Banking Association in their derivatives work in Mexico.
Capital markets: The firm constantly represents issuers, international and local broker dealers, investment banks in private and public offerings of debt and equity securities by Mexican issuers in the international markets. Its domestic expertise covers equity, debt and structured securities offerings, including asset-backed securities, CKDs, CERPIs, FIBRAS-E (MLPs), real estate FIBRAS (REITs) and bank capitalisation notes. It also specialises in the establishment and operation of investment funds, as well as in the registration of non-Mexican issuers in the Mexican market and has advised non-Mexican issuers in respect of the offering of non-Mexican securities in Mexico.
Compliance, anti-corruption and investigations: The firm advises Mexican and multinational clients with respect to sensitive and relevant issues, participating in the development of their compliance programs to assist in mitigating risks effectively, as well as in critical crisis response issues, including investigations and the representation of their clients before enforcement agencies and courts.
Competition and antitrust: The firm has extensive experience representing both Mexican and foreign clients in antitrust enforcement matters in Mexico, as well as handling merger notifications and antitrust proceedings of varying levels of complexity. It actively advises in the area of merger control and in cases of monopolistic practices and unlawful concentrations. The firm has extensive experience in all types of concentrations, advising both buyers, sellers and targets in a wide range of structures and transactions in all types of markets and sectors. It also specialises in conducting competition and antitrust audits and in the design and implementation of competition compliance programs.
Energy and infrastructure projects: The firm represents national and international lenders, investors, developers and contractors in connection with the financing, development and implementation of energy and infrastructure projects, including, among others, power (renewables and conventional), oil and gas (upstream, midstream and downstream), roads, water treatment, airports and ports. Its representation includes all stages of the projects, including project financing, bidding processes, project development, equity investment and divestiture, due diligence, regulatory matters, permitting, land and rights of way, offtake agreements, engineering, procurement, construction, operation, maintenance and other related agreements.
Environmental and social impact: The firm focuses on environmental, regulatory and sociocultural aspects of energy, industrial, infrastructure and real estate projects, representing national and international clients in administrative filings with federal, state, and municipal authorities, environmental impact, environmental due diligence, rule making, sociocultural impact assessment, prior consultation, wastes, national waters, emissions to the atmosphere, interpretation of environmental zoning and urban development zoning plans, federal maritime zone, climate change, management of filings to obtain authorisations, permits, and registrations for energy projects, pollution of water, soil, and air.
ESG: The firm advises national and multinational companies on how to bring effective responses to the complex and dynamic landscape of ESG standards and practices. We assist our clients in the structuring and implementation of ESG policies, due diligence, regulatory compliance-related matters, best practices for diversity and inclusion, corporate governance, human rights, climate change and culturally appropriate community impact. Furthermore, we represent our clients in the assessment and evaluation of their exposure, as well as in the reporting and transparency of their ESG goals, objectives and performance. It provides services through a multidisciplinary approach and helps clients identify and mitigate risks effectively. It also represents clients in matters of critical environmental, social and governance crisis response. The firm has relevant expertise in indigenous consultation, human rights, clean and efficient energy, decarbonization, GHG reductions, and other ESG-relevant matters.
Mergers and acquisitions: The firm advises buyers and sellers, including Mexican and international private equity funds and strategic corporate players, in mergers and acquisitions involving publicly traded and private companies in Mexico, as well as in the purchase and sale of cash-flow generating assets located in the country. The firm has structured and implemented transactions with varying degrees of complexity, including public takeover bids, corporate reorganisations and leveraged buyouts, with respect to companies engaged in a wide range of activities (financial services, insurance, telecommunications, pharmaceutical, retail, transportation and others), as well as different types of assets located throughout Mexico, such as hotels, power plants and other infrastructure assets.
Real estate: The firm represents Mexican and foreign developers, lenders and private equity investors in connection with real estate projects involving all asset classes. It’s actively involved in the formation of private and public real estate funds in Mexico. It has vast experience representing real estate investment trusts in their equity and debt investments in Mexico as well as in various tax and regulatory issues that arise in connection with such investments.
Restructurings and insolvency: The firm has been a leader in major corporate restructurings, having participated in some of the largest and most complex national and cross-border restructurings and insolvencies that have arisen in Mexico. It has successfully advised in restructuring proceedings both before the Mexican courts and out-of-court corporate refinancings processes in the areas of aviation, satellite communications, real estate development, energy, construction and concession of infrastructure projects, among others.
Tax: The firm has a multidisciplinary tax practice that provides targeted advice in transactions within all other practice areas. It’s active in projects seeking tax efficient solutions within the confines of regulatory compliance and in line with recent Mexican court precedents. The firm also participates in tax diligence in the context of mergers and acquisitions, transfer pricing analysis, and the review of tax implications of financial models, as well as in audit procedures and tax litigation.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Arbitration and Mediation | Adriana Padilla Rivas | apadilla@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7080 |
Arbitration and Mediation | Jorge Oria y Anaya | joria@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7079 |
Aviation | Federico Santacruz González | fsantacruz@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7052 |
Aviation | Octavio Olivo Villa | oolivo@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7040 |
Banking and Finance | Jean Paul Farah Chajín | jpfarah@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7033 |
Banking and Finance | Pablo Perezalonso Eguía | pperezalonso@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7050 |
Banking and Finance | Gabriel Robles Beistegui | grobles@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7089 |
Capital Markets | Luis A. Nicolau | lnicolau@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7027 |
Capital Markets | Gabriel del Valle Mendiola | gdelvalle@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7097 |
Capital Markets | Gabriel Robles Beistegui | grobles@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7089 |
Compliance, Anti-Corruption and Investigations | Ricardo Calderón Mendoza | rcalderon@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7049 |
Competition and Antitrust | Octavio Olivo Villa | oolivo@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7040 |
Competition and Antitrust | James E. Ritch | jritch@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7057 |
Energy and Infrastructure Projects | Federico Santacruz González | fsantacruz@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7052 |
Energy and Infrastructure Projects | Jorge Oria y Anaya | joria@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7079 |
Energy and Infrastructure Projects | Thomas Mueller-Gastell | tmueller@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7045 |
Energy and Infrastructure Projects | Gabriel del Valle Mendiola | gdelvalle@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7097 |
Energy and Infrastructure Projects | Asaf Jiménez Adorno | ajimenez@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7081 |
Energy and Infrastructure Projects | Alejandra Echeverría González | aecheverria@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7051 |
Environmental and Social Impact | Héctor A. Garza Cervera | hgarza@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7065 |
ESG | Ricardo Calderón Mendoza | rcalderon@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7049 |
ESG | Héctor A. Garza Cervera | hgarza@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7065 |
Mergers and Acquisitions | Luis A. Nicolau | lnicolau@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7027 |
Mergers and Acquisitions | Ricardo Calderón Mendoza | rcalderon@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7049 |
Mergers and Acquisitions | Eduardo Triulzi Garciadiego | etriulzi@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7064 |
Mergers and Acquisitions | Héctor Cárdenas Ortega | hcardenas@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7067 |
Real Estate | Héctor Cárdenas Ortega | hcardenas@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7067 |
Real Estate | Javier Domínguez Torrado | jdominguez@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7039 |
Real Estate | Jean Paul Farah Chajín | jpfarah@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7033 |
Real Estate | Ricardo Calderón Mendoza | rcalderon@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7049 |
Real Estate | Santiago Carrillo Cattori | scarrillo@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7028 |
Restructurings and Insolvency | Luis A. Nicolau | lnicolau@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7027 |
Restructurings and Insolvency | Adriana Padilla Rivas | apadilla@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7080 |
Restructurings and Insolvency | Jean Paul Farah Chajín | jpfarah@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7033 |
Restructurings and Insolvency | Pablo Perezalonso Eguía | pperezalonso@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7050 |
Tax | Oscar A. López Velarde | olopezvelarde@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7030 |
Tax Litigation | Juan José Paullada Eguirao | jpaullada@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7016 |
Tax | Santiago Llano Zapatero | sllano@ritch.com.mx | +52 (55) 9178 7009 |