Mr Gabriel González-Ruiz > Icaza, González-Ruiz & Alemán > Panama, Panama > Lawyer Profile

Project finance is the calling card of the banking and finance practice at Icaza, González-Ruiz & Alemán, which advises an array of domestic and international banks, public bodies and construction companies on high-profile developments. The team has been consistently active in advising on the financing of transport infrastructure projects, including port facilities and road networks, and has also assisted with recent healthcare and utilities projects. Gabriel González-Ruiz, who draws on four decades’ experience of advising international financial institutions and consortia on project financings; Luis Chalhoub, who wins praise for his ‘exceptional’ service; and Michelle O de de la Guardia oversee the practice. Alfredo Fonseca is also a key name for financings in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

Highlighted for its ‘in-depth knowledge of commercial matters’ and ‘practical and effective advice’, Icaza, González-Ruiz & Alemán advises predominantly multinational clients on the full range of corporate matters, from M&A (including cross-border transactions) to joint ventures, the incorporation of special purpose vehicles, commercial contracts and regulatory issues. Practice head Alexis Herrera Jr has ‘extensive experience’ advising on M&A, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors, and acting for multinationals in Panama’s free trade zones. Other prominent members of the team are Luis Chalhoub, who has expertise in M&A, consumer protection and competition matters, Gabriel González-Ruiz and Álvaro Alemán. At associate level, Adolfo González-Ruiz and Ana Silvia Velásquez (who joined from Alemán, Cordero, Galindo & Lee in September 2023) are among the names to note. The firm also has a robust commitment to providing pro bono services through its foundation, Fundación IGRA.