Firm Profile > Marval O’Farrell Mairal > Buenos Aires, Argentina
Marval O’Farrell Mairal Offices
AV LEANDRO N ALEM 882
C1001AAQ CIUDAD DE BUENOS AIRES
Argentina
Marval O’Farrell Mairal > The Legal 500 Rankings
Banking and finance Tier 1
The broad finance practice at Marval O’Farrell Mairal is commended for its ‘significant exposure to different types of transactions’ and its ability to ‘understand transactions from a commercial and legal point of view’. Well weighted between transactional and regulatory matters, the group draws on its full-service offering to advise on all stages of banking and finance mandates. A popular choice for capital markets, the firm also consistently advises on corporate lending, structured finance, project finance, banking M&A and Central Bank-related litigation. Clients include domestic and multinational financial institutions, trust companies, alternative lenders and corporates, with the firm's New York office standing as a significant asset in cross-border work. Firm chairman Santiago Carregal oversees the group and is noted for his extensive market experience. Gabriel Matarasso coordinates the department and has a strong record in debt reorganisations, among other issues. The experienced Roberto Silva Jr is highly regarded for his specialist expertise in securitisations and trusts — he is also strong in capital markets. In addition, the team benefits from the regulatory prowess of Cecilia Mairal and the transactional capability of Juan Diehl Moreno, who led on several of the firm’s headline deals over the past year. Senior associate Francisco Abeal is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘It makes a difference that partners are personally involved in all transactions, regardless of the size of the transaction.’
‘The factors that distinguish this firm are its ability to stay up-to-date on relevant topics, its professional lawyers, and the potential to work across departments to provide full advice on all of the client’s business needs.’
‘They have experience and significant exposure to different types of transactions.’
‘The team has the ability to understand transactions from a commercial and legal point of view and provides strategic analysis.’
‘The availability and speed of response sets them apart from the rest, particularly Roberto Silva Jr.’
Key clients
Credit Suisse
BNP Paribas
JPMorgan Chase Bank
Morgan Stanley
Rabobank
Goldman Sachs
Banco do Brasil
Bank of New York
HSBC
Deutsche Bank
TMF Trust
Banco de Servicios y Transacciones
ICBC Argentina
Banco Galicia
Santander Rio
Banco Supervielle
Banco Itau
Banco Comafi
Banco Industrial
BACS
Bankruptcy and restructuring Tier 1
Already a top-tier firm for restructuring, Marval O’Farrell Mairal further strengthened its practice with the absorption of contentious bankruptcy specialist Rivera & Asociados, which saw its team swell by two partners and four associates. The combined group, which is equally adept at judicial and out-of-court restructurings, routinely advises creditors, shareholders, debtors and trustees in a wide range of bankruptcy and restructuring cases, across all industry sectors. Experienced of counsel Martín Campbell possesses an impressive record in headline restructuring cases. Department head Fernando Hernández has a focus on cross-border restructurings. Julio César Rivera (h) and Gonzalo Fontana are recommended for contentious cases.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Marval’s expertise in restructurings is excellent. I would say that it is difficult to match, since Argentina as a country, and its businesses in particular, have time and again needed to negotiate their obligations.’
‘Fernando Hernández is an excellent professional.’
Key clients
Credit Suisse
TWM Capital
Capital Markets Argentina
InterContinental Hotels Group
Finning
RR Donnelly de Argentina
Credit Suisse
Kawasaki Motors Corp.
Banco de Galicia y Buenos Aires
Banco Santader Río
BBVA Argentina
Banco de la Provincia de Buenos Aires
Banco de la Nación Argentina
HSBC Bank Argentina
Novozymes BIOAG
Avions de Transport Regional
Peugeot Citröen Argentina
Competition and antitrust Tier 1
Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s first-class team stands out for the ‘speed with which it provides answers’ and for its ability to provide ‘clear and concise advice on the possible risks’. On the merger-review side, the firm’s heavyweight corporate practice translates into a steady flow of cases — the firm notably secures the highest volume of merger reviews in the market — and few high-stakes mergers are cleared in Argentina without this team’s involvement. Its close links with major global law firms mark it as a particularly strong performer in cross-border matters, including recent work for household-name multinationals such as Disney, Warner Media and Pfizer. On the investigations front, the group is routinely involved in many of the most sensitive and complex cases conducted by the Antitrust Commission. The third pillar of the practice is compliance, where the team assists with in-house compliance audits and training programmes. High-profile expert Miguel del Pino heads the department and is widely recognised as a market leader. Santiago del Rio is an impressive up-and-coming competition specialist. The team also includes the experienced Gabriela Ariel Irizar and rising star Ignacio Mora — both are associates.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The team offers comprehensive advice and is always available to resolve problems and projects.’
‘It stands out for its availability and the speed with which it provide answers, and any other type of assistance, at a moment’s notice.’
‘The team offers clear and concise advice on the possible risks.’
‘The partners are directly involved in the case. It is a very good team of lawyers with knowledge in the subject.’
Key clients
American Airlines
Chemchina
Peugeot
Monsanto
Warner Media
Nike
Volkswagen
General Motors
Microsoft Corporation
Disney
Compliance Tier 1
The sizeable team at Marval O’Farrell Mairal attracts rave reviews for its ‘talented lawyers’, ‘deep subject matter expertise’ and ‘deep knowledge of global best practices’. The broad group covers all the bases, with strong offerings in compliance, anti-corruption and investigations. The firm is a popular choice for both local and cross-border issues, with sources commending the team as ‘great at advising foreign clients doing business in Argentina’ — it also advises local companies on international compliance regulations. Department head Pedro Serrano Espelta focuses exclusively on compliance and is a ‘pioneer in his field’. Gustavo Morales Oliver, who is ‘extremely analytical and articulate’, is also fully dedicated to the area.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Leading lawyers with extensive experience in Argentina and deep knowledge of global best practices.’
‘Great at advising foreign clients doing business in Argentina.’
‘Marval has a market-leading practice with talented lawyers and deep subject matter expertise.’
‘In addition to working together on important client engagements, I’m very impressed by the firm’s annual anti-corruption forum each September. It’s a great example of prominence and market leadership.’
‘The compliance team which advises us is splendid. Their knowledge is comprehensive and their response times are ideal for a business like ours. They are far better than the teams at other firms.’
‘The advantage of the team is its thoroughness. Their documents and opinions are the most thorough and are provided the quickest.’
‘A good team with a very broad experience. Pleasant to work with.’
‘Pedro Serrano Espelta and Gustavo Morales Oliver are both truly impressive lawyers and unquestionably leaders in the marketplace. Pedro leverages deep experience to think strategically and offer constructive advice. Gustavo is extremely analytical and articulate, and I appreciate his thoughtfulness. Both are excellent lawyers and colleagues.’
‘Pedro Serrano Espelta is a pioneer in this field, particularly in M&A transactions and regulated industries. Gustavo Morales Oliver is a young and very promising partner, with flawless technical knowledge.’
‘Pedro Serrano Espelta has wide experience of corporate matters and international transactions, which is very useful in white-collar matters involving non-Argentine clients. He is probably quite rare in Buenos Aires to be able to provide this.’
Key clients
Skanska
Newmont
Zimmer-Biomet
American Tower Corporation
YPF
Pfizer
Nike
Diageo
Globant
Loma Negra
Consumer law Tier 1
Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s consumer protection practice has a ‘great international outlook’, according to sources. Certainly, the firm represents a impressive roster of major global companies — across a wide range of market segments — on product liability defence cases. Areas of expertise include labelling, advertising campaigns, product recall and insurance coverage, and the team routinely advises on complex and sensitive litigation and class actions. Among the names to note, the ‘highly experienced’ Leandro Castelli is highly sought after for product liability claims. Facundo Viel Temperley has ‘great litigation skills’ and is recommended for class actions. Alejo Gascón is a talented senior associate.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The best firm I have ever worked with in Argentina.’
‘They represent the biggest corporations doing business in the country, have a great international outlook and are easy to work with.’
‘Leandro Castelli is highly experienced in consumer law issues, with additional expertise in public policy.’
‘Facundo Viel Temperley has great litigation skills and international experience.’
Key clients
Massalin Particulares
Bristol Myers Squibb
Peugeot – Citroën
INC (Carrefour)
Philip Morris International
Polaris
General Motors
Goodyear
Columbia Sportswear Company
Hermès Argentina
Magneti Marelli Cofap
Apple
Booking.com Argentina
BNP Paribas
Lojas Renner
Banco Itaú
Corporate and M&A Tier 1
According to some, Marval O’Farrell Mairal is the ‘gold standard for M&A in Argentina’. The sizeable group ranks among the region’s largest dedicated corporate departments and stands out for its ‘broad knowledge in the majority of subjects’ and its ability to ‘lead on any local or international M&A transaction’. Certainly, the firm can turn its hand to deals in any industry and possesses first-class experience in the full range of transactions, from company incorporations and joint ventures, through to major M&As and restructurings. A key contender for regional and multi-jurisdictional matters, the team’s cross-border prowess was recently demonstrated by its advice to Japan-based SoftBank on its $1bn investment in food start-up Rappi, which represented the largest ever investment in a Latin American tech start-up. Other strings to its bow include its ability to lean on top-tier tax, competition and finance practices for support on high-end transactions. Among the names to note, corporate head Pablo Artagaveytia is a powerhouse on the M&A front and has a strong record in coordinating regional deals. Pablo Viñals Blake is another heavy hitter and spearheads the private equity, venture capital and agribusiness groups. Banking and finance head Santiago Carregal is also a leader on the corporate side and has ‘exceptional commercial sense’. Other experienced names included seasoned senior partner Héctor Mairal, real estate-focused partner Hernán Slemenson, M&A specialist Pablo Garcia Morillo and Diego Krischcautzky, who combines strength in M&A and private equity and led on the SoftBank deal. Diego Chighizola is a talented up-and-coming partner, with an emphasis on the agribusiness, energy and real estate areas, while María Laura Bolatti Cristofaro is a capable associate and supported on the SoftBank deal.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The gold standard for M&A in Argentina; few firms have their expertise or resources.’
‘Their strengths are their experience and expertise. They differentiate themselves from their competitors through the quality and speed of their responses; the detail in their work; and their availability to respond to the client’s requests.’
‘The group stands out for its knowledge of corporate matters. It is an excellent team which can lead on any local or international M&A transaction.’
‘They have broad knowledge in the majority of subjects.’
‘Santiago Carregal stands out as one of the most knowledgeable lawyers in the market, with exceptional commercial sense.’
‘Diego Krischcautzky and Macarena García Mirri are outstanding partners.’
‘An excellent team led by Diego Krischcautzky.’
Key clients
BP
Pfizer
Microsoft
Danone
Total
Turner – Time Warner
Solvay
Petrobras
Assurant
Adecoagro
EMS Capital (Edmond Safra)
Banco do Brasil
TCL
Diagnósticos da América (DASA)
Loma Negra
Bioceres
Lamb Weston
Dispute resolution Tier 1
Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s comprehensive dispute resolution department overshadows its competitors both in size and experience. The 11-partner group handles the full range of contentious matters, from local and cross-border litigation, through to class actions and highly sensitive international arbitrations. The firm represents an enviably diverse portfolio of clients, remaining a first port of call for a string of multinationals such as Assurant, Credit Suisse and Repsol. Ricardo Ostrower heads the department and brings to bear an impressive record in complex, politically charged litigation. Santiago Soria is highly regarded for his expertise in energy and natural resources-related disputes; he is representing Roch in a complex arbitration against Apco Austral and Pluspetrol. Senior of counsel Martín Campbell is also noted for his top-level experience. The recent arrivals of Julio César Rivera (h) and honorary partner Julio César Rivera (who is also a "supplementary judge" or “conjuez" of the National Supreme Court) from Rivera & Asociados further boosts the firm's contentious capability, particularly in the insolvency, arbitration and constitutional law areas. Other recommended names include banking litigation specialist Facundo Viel Temperley, Rodrigo García and Elías Bestani, who has an emphasis on insurance disputes.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘At Marval O’Farrell Mairal, Julio César Rivera — both father and son — are exceptional for disputes in Argentina.’
Key clients
Repsol
Assurant
Barclays Bank
BNP Paribas
Cargill
Credit Suisse
Falabella
General Motors
Peugeot Citröen
Roch
Total Austral
Monsanto
Pan American Energy
Transportadora de Gas del Sur
Environment Tier 1
Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s team impresses with its ‘professionalism’, ‘immediate response’ and ability to remain ‘informed on all topics’. A popular choice to represent major global energy and infrastructure companies on high-stakes and highly sensitive environmental litigation, the group also advises on regulatory issues and M&A related matters. Francisco Macías, who brings to bear strong experience in energy and infrastructure-related work, heads the department. Senior associate Gabriel Fortuna and semi-senior associate Jimena Montoya are also noted for their increasing prominence in the environmental law area.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The team is highly trained to respond to concerns and respond to requests.’
‘The differential is the high professionalism, the immediate response and the constant training that makes them informed on all topics.’
‘The fact that they are a full-service firm, gives the client security in their advice. We highlight Gabriel Fortuna and Jimena Montoya.’
Key clients
Volkswagen Argentina
GE
Goodyear
Shell
Danone Argentina
Glencore
Cargill
Compañía General de Combustibles
Compañía Mega
Adecoagro
Pachon (Xstrata)
Copetro (Oxbow)
Peugeot
Petronas
Insurance Tier 1
Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s ‘very professional team’ finds favour for its lawyers’ focus on ‘resolving conflicts in the most efficient, economical and practical way possible’. The enviably well-rounded group touches on all key pillars of insurance law, with strong skill sets across a broad range of insurance classes, including niche areas such as aviation and marine. Litigation is a sweet spot and the team handles insurance and reinsurance claims, product liability cases and collective actions against insurance companies. On the regulatory front, it routinely advises on general compliance matters, the marketing of insurance products and administrative proceedings. The firm’s market-leading corporate department also marks it as a popular choice to assist with M&A and general corporate matters. Department head Pablo Cereijido handles a mix of regulatory, contentious and transactional work and is singled out by sources as ‘the best insurance and reinsurance lawyer in the country’. Elías Bestani, who has an emphasis on contentious work, is also highly regarded for his ‘experience and analytical capacity’. María Victoria Rodríguez Mamberti is a talented semi-senior associate.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Marval’s insurance, reinsurance, maritime and aviation team stands out for its commitment and seriousness in handling the cases that are entrusted to it. Lawyers are always focused on resolving conflicts in the most efficient, economical and practical way possible for the interests of their clients.’
‘The practice covers all areas; it is the only Argentine firm with this multidisciplinary approach.’
‘They are a very professional team with excellent customer service.’
‘It compares very favourably to other firms due to its excellent professionals, who demonstrate strong analytical and decisive capacity.’
‘Pablo Cereijido is the best insurance and reinsurance lawyer in the country.’
‘We usually work with Elías Bestani and associate María Victoria Rodríguez Mamberti. In addition to their professional credentials, an outstanding feature of their way of working is that they interact with the client on a permanent basis. Occasionally we also work with Pablo Cereijido, who is another excellent professional.’
‘Elías Bestani is a real professional, who you can work with in a team very easily. We highlight his experience and analytical capacity.’
Key clients
Zurich
Mapfre
Marsh – Guy Carpenter & Company
SURA
Assurant Argentina Compañía de Seguros
Liberty Mutual Surety
Cardif Seguros
SCOR
Hanseatica Compañía de Seguros
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance
Intellectual property Tier 1
According to many, Marval O’Farrell Mairal stands out as ‘the leading IP firm in the market’, due to its ‘peerless strength and depth’ and ability to provide ‘clear advice, which is to the point and very concise’. The sizeable nine-partner department excels in all key areas of practice, fielding premier teams in trade marks, patents, copyright and IP litigation. The firm also covers the full spectrum of matters, from registration and protection strategies, through to litigation, with complementary skill sets in data protection, unfair competition, and advertising and entertainment. Among its sweet spots, its patents offering is particularly impressive and the group handles approximately 60% of the country’s patent litigation cases and 25% of patent applications. Among the names to note on the trade mark front, Iris Quadrio provides clients with a ‘true collaborative partnership’, Gustavo Giay is highly regarded for trade mark litigation, while Sergio Ellmann is one of Argentina’s most prolific trade mark filers. On the patent side, Martín Bensadon is a leading figure for complex litigation, while Ignacio Sánchez Echagüe and Martín Chajchir are up-and-coming patent litigation specialists.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The team’s main quality is to provide advice with high technical knowledge and, at the same time, with a wide availability to answer queries in the short term.’
‘The leading IP firm in the market; it has peerless strength and depth.’
‘Marval provides clear advice, which is to the point and very concise. As a non-Spanish speaker, I appreciate their excellent language skills.’
‘A very efficient and friendly team, whose speed of working stands out.’
‘We work mainly with Iris Quadrio. She is friendly and good fun to work with. She has no ego and is happy to accept suggestions from us on how we run our cases, leading to a true collaborative partnership.’
‘Ignacio Sánchez Echagüe stands out for his great knowledge in IP matters, his excellent predisposition and his availability to offer quick advice.’
Key clients
Glaxo SmithKline
Ford Motor Company
The Procter & Gamble Company
F. Hoffmann-La Roche
Novartis
The Coca-Cola Company (in Argentina and the Caribbean)
Adidas
Virgin Enterprises (in Argentina and Latin America)
Chanel
Bristol-Myers Squibb
McDonald’s Corporation
Arcor
Microsoft Corporation
Honda Motor
Johnson & Johnson
Pilot
Merck, Sharp & Dohme
Netflix
New Balance
Entertainment One
International trade and customs Tier 1
Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s group finds favour for its ‘excellent professionals’, who ‘deeply understand antidumping rules in Argentina’. Indeed, the practice is widely recognised as a dominant force in trade remedies, where it is a leader in terms of market share. However, the deep and broad department also packs a punch in customs law, tariff code interpretation, quantitative restrictions and WTO dispute-resolution proceedings. The team’s ability to draw on its financial services and administrative law departments is also a valuable asset for clients looking for advice on foreign exchange controls. Department head Pablo Gayol ‘always anticipates the actions taken by the authorities’ and has an impressive track record in antidumping investigations. Experienced counsel Patricia López Aufranc also concentrates on antidumping matters, with supplementary expertise in import restrictions. The team also includes ‘hard-working’ associate Jazmine Daruich and customs specialists Horacio García Prieto and Juan Pablo Rothschild.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘They have excellent professionals, who deeply understand antidumping rules in Argentina.’
‘Pablo Gayol is very clever and has a solid background in antidumping rules. He always anticipates the actions taken by the authorities. Associate Jazmine Daruich is a very hard-working professional. Drafts and letters prepared by them both are perfect.’
Key clients
Ariston Thermo / Ariston Thermo Argentina
O Tek Argentina
ABIT Associação Brasileira da Indústria Têxtil e de Confecção
Roca Brasil / Roca Argentina
adidas Argentina
Itagres Revestimentos Cerâmicos
Incepa Revestimientos Ceramicos
Capricornio Textil
Covolan Indústria Textil
Textil Canatiba
Companhia De Fiacao e Tecidos Cedro e Cachoeira
Companhia De Fiação E Tecidos Santo Antônio
LG Electronics Argentina
Steptoe & Johnson
Clorox Argentina
Seaboard Energías Renovables y Alimentos
Aguas Danone de Argentina
Labour and employment Tier 1
‘Strategic and business-oriented’, Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s labour and employment group scores highly for its ability to ‘solve the client’s problems as efficiently and effectively as possible’. The practice fields a deep bench, which includes six dedicated labour law partners, ensuring that it is a top choice for complex litigation and large-scale corporate support work. It also advises on collective bargaining, restructuring and compliance issues. The firm’s strength in both local and cross-border matters is a recurring theme among sources and its client list includes multinational employers such as Amazon, Globant and Nike. Managing partner Javier Patrón is widely recognised as one of the market’s foremost labour litigators. Enrique Stile is noted for his ‘practical sense of the business problems at hand’ and has strong experience in advising international employers. Other recommended names include José María Llano, who focuses on complex litigation, up-and-coming partner Diego Kelly, who specialises in non-contentious matters, and litigator Guillermo Osorio, who was recently promoted to partner.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The Marval labour team is particularly impressive. The attorneys are first rate and solve the client’s problems as efficiently and effectively as possible. It is a great experience working with them.’
‘Throughout the years, Marval’s labour and employment team has been recognised in Latin America for the excellence and high quality of its legal services. The reason is that, in addition to constantly developing its professionals, Marval provides its services from strategic and business-oriented mindsets, handling labour issues with excellent results.’
‘There are other Argentine law firms following Marval’s path, but the fact that Marval is a full-service firm makes it unique. Currently, labour and employment matters, depending on the situation, require a multidisciplinary approach including advice on tax, corporate, contractual (etc.) matters related to labour, and Marval has the capacity provide all of this in a very client-oriented and cost-effective way.’
‘Enrique Stile in particular stands out. He has a very practical sense of the business problems at hand and knows exactly what to do to solve it as quickly and efficiently as possible. He is very easy to work with and remains calm and good-natured throughout the representation.’
‘Enrique Stile led the team in both the domestic and international market with an outstanding performance. He worked in an inspiring, collaborative spirit with all his peers, international laws firms and several institutions.’
‘Diego Kelly and Rodrigo Solá Torino are up-and-coming individuals who provide great work for domestic and international clients.’
Key clients
Alexion Pharma
Nike
Exxon
Morgan Stanley
Sensient Technologies
Brother International Corporation
Moët Hennessy • Louis Vuitton
DUFRY
US Department of Justice
Amazon
Brembo Group
Accenture
Mining Tier 1
The ‘second-to-none’ mining practice at Marval O’Farrell Mairal impresses with its ‘vast resources coupled with peerless experience and commitment’. The team excels across the full range of mining issues, including planning and mining rights, environmental matters, project construction, joint ventures and finance deals. The group also benefits from its ability to lean on the firm’s market-leading corporate practice to advise on complex, multi-jurisdictional mining transactions, such as its advice to South Korea-based POSCO on its $280m acquisition of lithium brines-related mining rights from Galaxy Resources. Additionally, it packs a punch in contentious work, with strong expertise in commercial and regulatory litigation. Widely lauded as a market leader, department head Luis Lucero ‘simply towers above the competition’ on the back of his involvement in many of Argentina’s largest mining projects — he led the POSCO deal. Dedicated mining partner Leonardo Rodríguez is also highlighted as an ‘exceptional lawyer’ and specialises in commercial law and litigation. Associate María Mercedes Rudolph, who ‘excels in company and corporate law’, and senior associate Andrés Villarreal are also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Marval’s mining team is second-to-none. Vast resources coupled with peerless experience and commitment make this the outstanding mining practice in Argentina.’
‘They have excellent delivery: quick, precise and without any errors. It is a multidisciplinary team, which reassures us that we can trust them to advise on any kind of matter.’
‘The client service of the whole team is very friendly. I think they are superior to other teams in other firms.’
‘The team is excellent, both in terms of its technical knowledge and its experience and network of contacts.’
‘The head of the practice is Luis Lucero. He is the go-to person for all matters, especially those that, in light of their complexity, require an innovative approach. Having worked with most of his peers, I would not hesitate to reach out to Luis and his team in future. He simply towers above the competition.’
‘In spite of clearly being the leading practitioner in the field, Luis Lucero is happy to make himself available whenever his sound advice, clear judgement and legal and industry knowledge are required. No matter is too trivial, or too complex for him. He also makes sure the issue gets resolved, taking a personal interest in the outcome and deliverable required.’
‘Leonardo Rodriguez is an exceptional lawyer with experience in many practices but a particular focus and specialisation in the mining industry, which gives him an advantage.’
‘Leonardo Rodriguez demonstrates excellent knowledge and skill sets in his realm of expertise.’
Key clients
Glencore
AngloGold Ashanti
Newmont Goldcorp
Pan American Silver
Hochschild Mining
POSCO
Anglo American
Sumitomo
Cámara Argentina de Empresarios Mineros
Coeur Mining
Public law Tier 1
Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s ‘outstanding’ public law department is distinguished by its ‘dedicated professionals’ and its ‘scope and sophistication’. The first-class group specialises in all areas of public law, from the design of regulatory frameworks, through to procurement proceedings and complex public law disputes. The team also works closely with the firm’s compliance department to advise on regulatory and anti-corruption matters. Héctor Mairal is a senior expert, with strong experience in M&A transactions and sensitive disputes. Other key contacts include María Lorena Schiariti, who stands out for her ‘unparalleled’ knowledge and experience, and Enrique Veramendi, who specialises in complex public law issues. Associate Gonzalo Santamaria is also recommended for his focus on public law.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Public law in Argentina is a very specific area of law which requires agility and experience. As an in-house lawyer, I need to know that the whole external team will be available to handle any urgent matters that arise. The lawyers in Marval, O’Farrell Mairal’s public law team are dedicated professionals, with great experience in the area.’
‘The team is detail-oriented and available to assist their clients at any time. The firm’s lawyers have a broad knowledge of public law and advise us accurately on public procurement issues.’
‘The work of the public and administrative law department has been outstanding; we cannot compare them to other firms in the market because of the scope and sophistication of the service they provide.’
‘What especially stands out is that the solutions they offer, and the responses they provide to our queries, are always creative and show strong conceptual skills, which enables us to make safe commercial decisions.’
‘We work with María Lorena Schiariti and her team, including Juan Manuel Naveira and Gonzalo Santamaría. They specialise in public and administrative law, as well as compliance and anti-corruption. ’
‘We have chosen to work exclusively with Ms Schiariti for many years and there are very clear reasons for this: her knowledge and experience in regulatory matters is unparalleled by other lawyers in the market. Her broad experience allows her to respond to our queries precisely and in detail, providing advice that has a perfect balance of value and efficiency.
‘María Lorena Schiariti is one who stands out for her high level of professional capability and client care.’
Key clients
Tecpetrol
Dow Chemical
Refinor
Autopistas del Sol
Globant
Oracle
ISA
Salini Impregilo
McKinsey
Grupo Concesionario del Oeste
Tax Tier 1
The ‘exceptional’ tax team at Marval O’Farrell Mairal finds favour for its ‘multidisciplinary knowledge’, ‘good business sense’ and ‘great technical understanding’. The deep and broad practice provides comprehensive coverage of tax law, with its first-class corporate offering a key driver of its work on the transactional side — it also has specialist experience in financial services and energy-related deals. On the contentious front, the firm is routinely engaged to advise on complex litigation, including representing companies before the National Tax Authority. Additionally, the group’s multinational client list stands as testament to its strength in cross-border tax matters, with Phillip Morris, General Motors and Trafigura all on the department’s books. María Inés Brandt is commended by many as ‘the best tax lawyer in the country’ and handles a mix of high-level transactional and contentious work. Tax and customs specialist Horacio García Prieto is highlighted as a ‘leading lawyer for constitutional and customs matters’. Other senior names include Gabriel Gotlib, who is recognised for his record in international tax, Walter Keiniger, who focuses on corporate transactions and wealth planning, and Fernando Vaquero.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The tax team is exceptional. Their responses to our queries are rapid and thorough.’
‘They have a great technical understanding of tax matters in Argentina and provide us with constant support.’
‘They are practical and flexible, with a strong understanding of the current and historical tax situations that will influence decision making.’
‘The firm has lawyers who are highly specialised in different areas of law. There are various law firms with teams that provide a high-quality service, but Marval is a market leader in many areas.’
‘The team is very good at putting together and structuring deals and is very creative. An innovative team with multidisciplinary knowledge and lawyers with good business sense.’
‘María Inés Brandt is my go-to tax lawyer. She is a leader in the market and heads a very well-rounded and professional team that always takes care to respond to clients on time and in full.’
‘María Inés Brandt is a creative lawyer, which is essential in a tax adviser, but her advice is always substantial and reliable, with an accurate assessment of the risks and benefits. In my opinion, she is without a doubt the best tax lawyer in the country.’
‘For constitutional and customs matters, partner Horacio García Prieto is, without a doubt, a leading lawyer. His experience, solid knowledge, and very clear and precise explanations are evident in his work.’
‘Gabriel Gotlib and associate Constanza Eva Ferreyra Fernandez show excellent availability and responsiveness. They have an in-depth knowledge of the tax code and a good understanding of the commercial side of our business.’
‘Walter Keiniger is always extremely available and agreeable, and always seeks out solutions to our legal issues.’
‘Fernando Vaquero is an extraordinary lawyer and person. He is always available, attentive and well informed.’
Key clients
Trafigura
Airbnb
Banco Itau
Cargill
Citibank
Cofco
Globant
General Motors
Julius Baer
Norwegian Air Shuttle
Phillip Morris
Tata Consultancy Services
Faena Group
TMT Tier 1
According to some, Marval O’Farrell Mairal is ‘the best in Argentina’ for TMT matters, on the back of its ‘business-savvy’ and ‘very smart lawyers’. The group stands out for its impressive combination of regulatory and transactional expertise, and it also benefits from its ability to lean on the firm’s specialist offering in technology-related white-collar crime. The department’s client roster is well balanced across all key pillars of TMT, including major local and global names such as Claro Argentina, Intelsat, Grupo Vila-Manzano and Google. Daniel Di Paola advises on transactional and regulatory matters related to the telecoms, broadcasting and entertainment sectors. Di Paola jointly heads the team together with transactional specialist Javier Etcheverry Boneo and Gustavo Giay, who specialises in IT and privacy law. Up-and-coming technology partner Diego Fernández is ‘very knowledgeable and responsive’.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘They are well recognised in this field; I believe the best in Argentina.’
‘Great service, quality advice and very smart lawyers.’
‘The team, led by Javier Etcheverry Boneo, is very business-savvy and well versed on the issues that concern digital platforms and the gig economy. They are determined to investigate matters further, and provide practical advice.’
‘Javier Etcheverry Boneo and Claudia Paluszkiewicz have been great advisors in navigating us through the maze of regulatory laws in the sector in Argentina, as well as providing pragmatic, down-to-earth advice, taking into consideration important business factors, and actual evidence as well. They are aware of business, and understand your specific needs.’
‘Diego Fernández was very knowledgeable and responsive and a pleasure to work with. I could not ask for a better external counsel.’
‘Diego Fernández is very proactive and understands the needs of the clients.’
Key clients
Facebook / WhatsApp
América Móvil / Claro Argentina
Microsoft
Grupo Vila-Manzano / América TV
BBC
Airbnb
Logitek
Medallia
Alarm.com
Advent International
Electricity Tier 2
Arguably best known for its corporate strength, Marval O’Farrell Mairal’s power practice also deserves credit for its robust commercial and regulatory expertise. Most notably, the energy group is working alongside the firm’s banking and administrative law teams to advise China Gezhouba Group on regulatory power issues and contract negotiation related to the development of the largest hydroelectric project under construction in the country. Sebastián Iribarne leads the electricity practice and has strong transactional experience. Francisco Macías heads the overarching energy department and is recommended for regulatory and transactional matters. Public law associate Gonzalo Santamaria is a talented rising star.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Total
GE
Gezhouba Group
Interconexión Eléctrica (ISA)
Scatec Solar
Genneia
Canadian Solar
Engie – Tractebel Energía
Colbun
San Martin del Tabacal
Loma Negra
Adeco
Vestas
Senvion
Enercon
Grandsolar
Sealed Air
Oil and gas Tier 2
Marval O’Farrell Mairal finds favour for its ability to bring an ‘out-of-the-box perspective’ to its oil-and-gas work. The experienced group is well versed across the full hydrocarbons supply chain, from exploration and production through to midstream and downstream issues. On the transactional side, the team kept busy advising on bid rounds, farm-in agreements and restructuring matters. It also has a prominent position in regulatory and contentious work, with recent roles on several high-profile disputes for companies such as Roch and Shell. High-profile figure Francisco Macías is an oil-and-gas expert, who advises on transactions, contracts and regulatory issues. M&A and capital markets partner Ricardo Beller is noted for oil-and-gas transactions. Senior associate Jimena Montoya is also recommended for her focus on energy work.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The firm approaches the main themes with an ‘out of the box’ perspective.’
‘The team is always available and ready to assist the client, regularly incorporating other internal teams if needed.’
‘We totally recommend Francisco Macías.’
Key clients
ExxonMobil / Exxon
Royal Dutch Shell / Raízen Argentina
Compañía MEGA
Corporación América / Compañia General de Combustibles (CGC)
BP
Engie (formerly, GDF Suez)
Total
Petrobras
Transportadora de Gas del Sur (TGS) / controlling company Compañía de Inversiones de Energía (CIESA)
Schlumberger Argentina
Archer Well
Trafigura
Dow
Vitol
Gasoducto Nor Andino
Gasoducto GasAndes
Litoral Gas
Tullow Oil
ENI
Searcher Seismic
TGS / Spectrum
Roch
Tecpetrol
Capetrol
Sumitomo
Real estate Tier 2
Marval O’Farrell Mairal leverages its top-tier corporate practice to specialise in advising on transactional matters, particularly sale and purchase transactions, investment deals, real estate finance and leasing. It also has robust development expertise and its close relationships with key clients Hilton Hotels and property tycoon Edmond Safra underpins a significant proportion of that work. Corporate finance partner Hernán Slemenson co-heads the practice and spearheads much of the group’s activity in the hotel sector. Department co-head Diego Chighizola is an impressive up-and-coming real estate specialist.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Hilton Hotels
InterContinental Hotel
Edmond Safra
Faena Group
Guggenheim Nicklaus Partners
Pegasus Real Estate
Adecoagro
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
JPMorgan Chase Bank
ABN AMRO Bank (Argentina)
Nassef Sawiris (NNS)
Honeywell
Marval O’Farrell Mairal > Firm Profile
Founded in 1923, Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal is the largest law firm in Argentina. A market leader at both local and Latin American levels, the firm has been providing sophisticated, high-quality advice to international and local clients for more than 95 years. The firm comprises over 300 lawyers and has wide experience of international business issues and the complexities of cross-border transactions.
Main areas of practice: Banking, finance and capital markets: credit facilities, trade finance, leasing. Trade, vendor, project, acquisition, structured real estate finance. Debt restructurings. Preferred stock, receivables, asset purchase programs. Debt, equity securities, securitizations, derivatives, synthetic products, financial trusts, mutual funds. Regulatory matters.
Bankruptcy/restructuring: advising creditors, shareholders, debtors and trustees from financial trusts in all types of proceedings in a range of sectors.
Commercial and competition: international trade law, commercial agreements and sale, purchase and leasing agreements. Antitrust and unfair competition issues. Product liability and consumer law.
Compliance, Anti-corruption & Investigations: compliance programmes, anti-corruption due diligence in M&A transactions, internal investigations,
and cases with regulatory authorities and the courts.
Corporate/M&A: M&A, private equity transactions, due diligence audits, planning and joint ventures, shareholder agreements, restructurings and spin-offs.
Employment: restructuring, collective bargaining and government/union negotiations. Employee stock options and benefit plans. Litigation.
Energy/natural resources: project financing/development, mining M&A, exploration permits and title rights. Oil and gas exploration, production, transportation, distribution, trading and marketing. Development/operation of pipelines, gas treatment facilities and power projects.
Environment: litigation, transactional, administrative and regulatory matters and contracts. Environmental audits and assessments and evaluation of environmental liabilities and remediation programs, M&A and real estate transactions.
Insurance/reinsurance: incorporation and acquisition of insurers, drafting and adaptation of insurance plans and policies to Argentine law and registration of foreign reinsurers and reinsurance brokers. Litigation.
Intellectual property: IP protection and management, transfer of technology and license agreements, international franchising agreements and licensing and registration of software. Protection of patents, utility models and ornamental design rights, trademark matters and worldwide trademark protection.
Internet & IT: advise internet start-ups on IP, tax, corporate structure and governance, employee benefits and executive and consultant compensation packages. E-commerce and internet-related issues. IT contracts, hardware contracts, software licensing, development and maintenance agreements, and outsourcing contracts.
Litigation and arbitration: civil and commercial litigation, administrative proceedings, arbitration and ADR. Enforcement of foreign judgments and awards in Argentina. Bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, including recovery of debts. International arbitration.
Public/administrative law: administrative law and regulatory matters, including litigation.
Real estate: sale, purchase and leasing agreements, structuring, financing and development.
Tax and customs: tax-efficient structures for transactions, strategic tax planning and innovative tax-driven products. Customs and dumping claims.
Telecommunications: regulatory and corporate matters, M&A and financing.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Banking and finance | Santiago Carregal | ||
Banking and finance | Gabriel Matarasso | ||
Bankruptcy/restructuring | Fernando Hernández | ||
Competition | Miguel del Pino | ||
Compliance, Anti-corruption & Investigations | Pedro Serrano Espelta | ||
Corporate/M&A | Pablo Artagaveytia | ||
Employment | Javier Patrón | ||
Employment | Enrique Stile | ||
Energy/natural resources | Francisco Macías | ||
Energy/natural resources | Luis Lucero | ||
Insurance and reinsurance | Pablo Cereijido | ||
Insurance and reinsurance | Elías Bestani | ||
Intellectual property | Iris Quadrio | ||
Intellectual property | Martín Bensadon | ||
Litigation and arbitration | Ricardo Ostrower | ||
Public/administrative law | Héctor Mairal | ||
Public/administrative law | M Lorena Schiariti | ||
Public/administrative law | Enrique Veramendi | ||
Real estate | Hernán Slemenson | ||
Real estate | Santiago Carregal | ||
Tax and customs | Horacio García Prieto | ||
Tax and customs | María Inés Brandt | ||
Tax and customs | Gabriel Gotlib | ||
Tax and customs | Walter Keiniger | ||
Telecommunications | Daniel Di Paola | ||
Telecommunications | Gustavo P Giay | ||
Telecommunications | Javier Etcheverry Boneo |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Mr Pablo A Artagaveytia | Pablo A. Artagaveytia has been a partner at Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal… | View Profile |
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Patricia López Aufranc | Her practice has focused on international financial and commercial transactions, mergers and… | View Profile |
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Mr Ricardo W Beller | Ricardo W. Beller has been a partner of Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal… | View Profile |
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Martín Bensadon | Martín Bensadon joined Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal in 1991 and has been… | View Profile |
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Mr Elias F Bestani | Elías F. Bestani specializes in shipping and maritime law, insurance and reinsurance… | View Profile |
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Mr Cristian D. Bittel | Cristian Daniel Bittel joined Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal in 2004 and became… | View Profile |
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Pablo Viñals Blake | Pablo Viñals Blake leads the Private Equity, Venture Capital and Agribusiness Groups.… | View Profile |
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María Inés Brandt | María Inés Brandt is a partner of Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal Tax… | View Profile |
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Mr Guillermo Burman | His area of specialization is corporate and finance law. He gives legal… | View Profile |
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Martín Campbell | Martin Campbell joined Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal as partner in 2000. Since August… | View Profile |
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Mr Santiago Carregal | Santiago Carregal is the Head of the Banking and Finance Department and… | View Profile |
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Mr Leandro M Castelli | Leandro M. Castelli joined Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal in 1994 and became… | View Profile |
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Mr Pablo S Cereijido | Pablo S. Cereijido joined Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal in 1993 and has… | View Profile |
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Mr Martín G Chajchir | He specializes in intellectual property litigation with a focus on trademarks, domain… | View Profile |
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Mr Diego A Chighizola | Diego Chighizola specializes in banking and finance, capital markets, M&A and real… | View Profile |
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Ms Jazmine Daruich | Her current practice focuses on international trade, particularly antidumping investigations, import/export legal… | View Profile |
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Mr Miguel Del Pino | Miguel specialises in competition law and is dedicated to the practice area.… | View Profile |
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Mr Daniel Di Paola | Specialises in telecommunications and broadcasting, entertainment and corporate/M&A. He advises several key… | View Profile |
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Mr Juan M Diehl Moreno | Juan specializes in commercial, banking, foreign exchange control and capital markets law.… | View Profile |
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Ignacio Sánchez Echagüe | He specializes in industrial property and more particularly in patent law, having… | View Profile |
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Mr Sergio M Ellmann | Sergio M. Ellmann specializes in industrial property law, advising national and international companies… | View Profile |
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Mr Javier Etcheverry Boneo | Javier Etcheverry Boneo specializes in business law, his practice includes M&A, corporate finance,… | View Profile |
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Mr Diego Fernández | Diego Fernández is a technology expert, with 14 years of experience. His… | View Profile |
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Mr Gonzalo J Fontana | Gonzalo Fontana specializes in litigation and commercial and corporate law. Within this… | View Profile |
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Mr Gabriel A. Fortuna | Gabriel A. Fortuna has a strong focus on environment law. He has… | View Profile |
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Mr Rodrigo F García | An expert in procedure law, he specializes in commercial and corporate law… | View Profile |
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Mr Pablo Garcia Morillo | Pablo García Morillo specializes in business and corporate law and his professional… | View Profile |
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Mr Pablo Gayol | Pablo J. Gayol specialises in international trade and has particular expertise in… | View Profile |
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Mr Gustavo P Giay | Gustavo P. Giay specialises in IP litigation and leads the work of… | View Profile |
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Mr Gabriel Gotlib | Gabriel Gotlib specializes in tax, corporate and financial law. He has broad… | View Profile |
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Fernando Hernández | Fernando Hernández specializes in corporate matters, finance, capital markets and insolvency. His… | View Profile |
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Mr Sebastián M Iribarne | Sebastián M. Iribarne specializes in banking, finance and corporate law. His practice… | View Profile |
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Mr Walter C Keiniger | His practice involves counseling local and foreign companies in the design, planning… | View Profile |
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Mr Diego S. Kelly | Diego S. Kelly provides full employment advice to multinational and local corporations,… | View Profile |
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Mr Diego Krischcautzky | His practice is focused on commercial, corporate and insurance law. He has… | View Profile |
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Mr Juan M. López Mañan | Juan M. López Mañán specialises in trademarks and domain names and has… | View Profile |
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José María Llano | His practice has focused on Labor and Social Security Law and he… | View Profile |
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Mr Luis E Lucero | He practices law in the fields of natural resources (with a focus… | View Profile |
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Mr Francisco A Macias | Francisco A. Macías specializes in oil & gas, power, public services, infrastructure,… | View Profile |
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Héctor Mairal | An expert in administrative and business law, he has been involved in… | View Profile |
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Ms Cecilia M Mairal | Her professional practice is centered on giving companies and banks general advice… | View Profile |
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Mr Gabriel G Matarasso | His areas of specialization include corporate, commercial, finance and capital markets, both… | View Profile |
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Mr Alberto D Q Molinario | Alberto D. Q. Molinario has more than 30 years’ experience. He specialises… | View Profile |
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Mr Fernando M Montes de Oca | He is specialized in litigation and dispute resolution in the civil and… | View Profile |
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Mr Gustavo Morales Oliver | Gustavo Morales Oliver specializes in advising international clients on Compliance & Investigations… | View Profile |
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Mr Martín J. Mosteirin | Martin provides legal advice (both contentious and non-contentious) to leading multinational companies on… | View Profile |
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Mr Luciano M Ojea Quintana | He specializes in banking, commercial and corporate law and in capital markets.… | View Profile |
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Mr Ricardo A Ostrower | Ricardo A. Ostrower is the head of the Litigation and Arbitration Department in… | View Profile |
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Mr Alfredo M O’Farrell | Alfredo specializes in general corporate and company law, M&A, privatizations, “shareholders disputes”… | View Profile |
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Mr Miguel O’Farrell | Miguel O’Farrell joined Marval, O’Farrell & Mairal in 1963 and as a… | View Profile |
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Javier Patrón | Javier Enrique Patrón is responsible for the firm’s labor and social security… | View Profile |
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Mr Arturo Pera | Arturo Pera joined Marval in 2016 as Of Counsel in the Oil… | View Profile |
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Mr Iván A Poli | Iván Poli specialises in IP law and advises foreign and domestic clients… | View Profile |
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Horacio García Prieto | He is an expert on tax and customs law and has advised… | View Profile |
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Ms Iris V Quadrio | Iris V. Quadrio specialises in IP law, with extensive experience advising domestic… | View Profile |
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Mrs Barbara V Ramperti | Bárbara Ramperti specializes in commercial and corporate law. She has advised clients… | View Profile |
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Mr Leonardo G Rodriguez | Leonardo G. Rodríguez is a mining specialist with more than 15 years’… | View Profile |
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Mr Juan Pablo Rothschild | Specialises in tax and customs planning and litigation | View Profile |
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María Lorena Schiariti | As a specialist in Administrative Law, she works in matters of great… | View Profile |
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Mr Pedro Serrano Espelta | Pedro Serrano Espelta specializes in corporate law, M&A, Oil & Gas and… | View Profile |
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Mr Roberto Silva Jr | He specializes in corporate, commercial and banking law. Within his area of… | View Profile |
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Hernán Slemenson | Hernan Slemenson has participated as legal advisor in a broad range of… | View Profile |
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Mr Rodrigo Sola Torino | Rodrigo Solá Torino’s practice focuses on advising in labor & employment matters,… | View Profile |
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Mr Santiago Soria | Santiago Soria has vast experience in complex commercial litigation, including disputes among… | View Profile |
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Mr Enrique M Stile | He specializes in labor and employment law. His practice in the firm… | View Profile |
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Mr Fernando M Vaquero | Specialises in taxation issues related to M&A, financing, business restructuring, real estate… | View Profile |
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Mr Enrique Veramendi | He provides advice on public law, economic regulation and administrative contracts to… | View Profile |
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Mr Facundo Viel Temperley | A member of the Litigation Department, he specializes in procedural law and… | View Profile |
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Andrés Villarreal | Andrés Villarreal has unique experience in mining M&A and the acquisition of… | View Profile |
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Mr Santiago del Rio | Santiago specialises in competition law and has recently handled merger control matters… | View Profile |