Galicia Abogados S.C. > Mexico City, Mexico > Firm Profile
Galicia Abogados S.C. Offices

BLVD. MANUEL A. CAMACHO 24
LOMAS DE CHAPULTEPEC
MEXICO, D.F. 11000
Mexico
Galicia Abogados S.C. > The Legal 500 Rankings
Mexico > Banking and finance Tier 1
Standing strong among the big players in the banking and finance realm, Galicia Abogados S.C.´ stellar 23-strong practice, garners praise for its ‘top-notch command of the law, fantastic people-skills and an exceedingly well-deserved reputation for integrity’. The well-rounded team, which boasts ‘rock-solid technical skills’, is led by a ‘superstar roster’ of partners, including Arturo Perdomo, who also heads the fintech practice; Guillermo Pérez Santiago, who is highly regarded for his expertise in capital markets; and the head of insurance, Humberto Pérez-Rocha. The practice regularly acts for some of the leading banks present in Mexico, handling regulatory and compliance matters; corporate, sub-sovereign, structured, syndicated and bilateral financing transactions; and acquisition and asset-based finance. Key support is provided by senior associate Lili Abascal, who focuses on public financing, structuring and negotiating local and international financing, refinancing and debt restructuring transactions; and managing partner Manuel Galicia, lauded by some as ‘the elder statesman of Mexican law firms’. Promoted to counsel in October 2021, Rosemarie McLaren is the key finance contact in the firm's Monterrey office. Clients also value the firm’s ‘people-centred culture’, particularly regarding its pro bono and diversity initiatives, which ‘are widely recognised as industry-leading’.Practice head(s):
Arturo Perdomo; Guillermo Pérez Santiago; Humberto Perez Rocha
Testimonials
‘Galicia is without a doubt the leading firm in Mexico. Having wisely avoided the pitfalls that have plagued most of their competitors at one time or another, they have been able to maintain and grow an impressively talented and consistent team, both in terms of their technical skills and their integrity and personal traits. This has resulted in their continued involvement in some (if not most) of the most significant transactions over the past three decades. The banking & finance practice is probably the leading example of such qualities within the firm.’
‘Guillermo Pérez-Santiago, José Visoso, Humberto Pérez-Rocha, Eugenio Sepúlveda, Héctor Kuri, Maurice Berkman, Rodrigo Rivera and of course Manuel Galicia himself (probably the elder statesman of Mexican law firms) are a superb sample of both the practice’s and the firm’s superstar roster. The team is known for its top-notch command of the law, fantastic people-skills and an exceedingly well-deserved reputation for integrity.’
‘Galicia’s people, especially the banking and finance team, are lawyers with technical knowledge, the ability to propose lawful and innovative solutions and to provide multidisciplinary advice.’
‘Partners Arturo Perdomo, Guillermo Pérez Santiago and Rodrigo Rivera, and as associates Lili Abascal and Cecilia Rojas, all have extensive knowledge and skills that distinguish their work as efficient and of excellent quality.’
‘Both the partners and associates have outstanding legal training, technical knowledge and experience in the banking sector. The availability and attention with which they perform their role in the services they provide is unequalled in the sector.’
‘In addition to its team’s rock-solid technical skills, Galicia stands out among the rest of its competitors for its people-centred culture. Their pro bono and diversity initiatives, for instance, are widely recognised as industry-leading. But probably most remarkable (and revealing) is that whenever a new deal is entrusted to them, no matter how the team is assembled they never fail to work seamlessly and efficiently. And they are always surprisingly receptive.’
‘The firm is distinguished by a high understanding of transactions, with a vision of closing transactions with due care for the bank’s interests. Their service has always been professional and of high quality. Their knowledge of the subject matter and the alternatives they propose to meet the bank’s standards is what makes them particular.’
‘The relationship with the bank’s internal areas as well as with the bank’s external clients is always good.’
Key clients
BofA Securities
Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure
Citibank/Citigroup
BBVA
Leagold Mining Corporation
Equinox/Leagold
HSBC México
Bank of America
Credit Suisse
Santander
JP Morgan
UBS
Sabadell
IFC
IDB
Morgan Stanley
Scotiabank
Mizuho
Bancomext
Banobras
SMBC
MUFG (Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi)
Barclays
BNP Paribas
Credit Agricole
Nacional Financiera
Goldman Sachs
Blackrock
Ficade, SOFOM (Promecap)
Work highlights
- Advised HSBC México on a MX$520m financing via a credit agreement between HSBC and Blue Marine Capital, as borrower.
- Represented Atlantica in the closing of a €290m private placement of 1.96% senior secured notes.
- Advised Leagold Mining on the sale and acquisition by Equinox of 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the company, as well as the granting of a new $130m convertible debenture issued by the combined entity to Mubadala, and its obtaining of a $500m facility from a syndicate of lenders to refinance existing credit facilities.
Mexico > Capital markets Tier 1
Lauded for its 'enormous knowledge of the market', Galicia Abogados S.C.'s reputable capital markets practice covers the full range of legal services regarding domestic and international transactions, advising both issuers and underwriters in mandates such as bond and note offerings, IPOs and securitisation programmes. Heading the 10-strong team we find partners Guillermo Pérez Santiago, a trusted ally according to some clients and their ‘go-to partner’; and Maurice Berkman, who focuses on securities and financing transactional work. Other noted members of the practice include senior associate José Alejandro Cortés, who regularly represents issuers and underwriters in domestic and international equity and debt public, private and restricted offerings and securitisations.
Practice head(s):
Maurice Berkman; Guillermo Pérez Santiago
Testimonials
‘It is a firm with enormous knowledge of the market and one that we trust enormously. It is definitely our first call when we have a need’
‘Diversity and collaboration are very evident in their culture and way of working. They are always up to date with the standards in the market and that makes us always trust them a lot’
’The trust we have in Guillermo Perez Santiago is absolute, he is our “go-to” partner’
Key clients
BofA Securities
CEGE Capital
Goldman Sachs
Credit Suisse
Abertis Infraestructuras
GIC Special Investments
BBVA
JP Morgan
Grupo Palacio de Hierro
Morgan Stanley
Grupo Profuturo
Organización Soriana
SMBC Nikko Securities America
Citigroup Global Markets
Mizuho Securities USA
Work highlights
- Advised the underwriters regarding the registered offer and sale by Coca-Cola (issuer) of $1,250m principal amount of its 2.750% senior notes due 2030.
- Acted as deal counsel and advised Contigo as originator, structuring agent and underwriter in connection with the public offering of trust certificates notes.
- Advised the underwriters on the secondary public offering by CPP Investment Board Private Holdings, a subsidiary of Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, of 284,531,874 certificates, equal to 74.86% of the outstanding certificates of Fibra-E.
Mexico > Competition and antitrust Tier 1
‘A fully competitive team, well above their competition’, says one client of Galicia Abogados S.C.‘s 10-strong practice which, for another, sits comfortably among the ‘top five firms’ of the competition arena. Partners Christian Lippert and Carlos Chávez, who have extensive experience advising clients across a range of heavily-regulated industries including energy, rail and telecoms, co-lead the department, whose caseload extends beyond merger-filing assistance into the full array of cartel and antitrust investigations, leniency applications, and complaints before the competition authorities. With Lippert's election as co-managing partner, the firm has moved to strengthen the practice at partner-level, with both Gerardo Rodríguez (competition) Juan Carlos Burgos (competition, regulation, compliance) raised to the partnership in October 2021; while at associate level, semi-senior Maite Celorio is also active handling barriers-to-competition investigations, recently advising clients on significant investigations into the barley and rail-freight markets. The practice is also experienced in antitrust litigation and recently successfully challenged -via amparo- a COFECE resolution prohibiting Soriana of divesting grocery stores in various locations across Mexico by means of long-term leases.Practice head(s):
Christian Lippert; Carlos Chávez
Testimonials
‘Well-coordinated multidisciplinary team with extensive transactional and infrastructure knowledge.’
‘The team has in-depth knowledge and long-standing experience in this field of law, as well as sustained recognition, respect and credibility with the relevant Mexican antitrust enforcement bodies. It is clearly one of the top five firms in this area.’
‘Regularly provides accurate information on truly relevant developments in the law and jurisprudence in this area in his country.’
‘Proactivity, legal knowledge, quick and effective understanding of the issues, initiative and diligence in proposing strategies and solving problems.’
‘Galicia’s team has solid experience in competition matters and has lawyers with great knowledge in the field, which allows them to provide timely and appropriate advice.’
‘They have had the flexibility to adapt to the client’s needs for the definition of their fees, which has allowed them to have access to legal services with the best quality and at a fair price.’
‘A fully competitive team, well above their competition.’
‘They are always up to date with new cases and authoritative criteria.’
Key clients
Organización Soriana
Tokyo Gas
Abertis Infraestructuras
Elanco Animal Health Incorporated
Contourglobal
Best Day Travel Group
Cofra Group
BayWa r.e.
Iké Asistencia
Grupo México Transportes
Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy
Work highlights
- Successfully challenged, through an amparo, the resolution issued by COFECE by means of which it prohibited Soriana to divest of a single grocery store by means of long-term leases to Tiendas Chedraui in several locations in Mexico.
- Assisted Tokyo Gas in obtaining a favourable unanimous authorisation from COFECE concerning its joint venture with Engie in Mexico, related to several wind and solar powered projects.
- Advised Abertis Infraestructuras and GIC Special Investments on the acquisition of 72.30% of Red de Carreteras de Occidente.
Mexico > Corporate and M&A Tier 1
The 28-strong M&A practice at Galicia Abogados S.C. enjoys a solid reputation for housing one of Mexico's most dominant transactional teams. Always ‘working towards the deal and for the client’, the department covers a wide range of corporate mandates, including domestic and cross-border M&A, private equity and strategic investments, joint ventures, buyouts, divestments, spin-offs and split-ups, and public takeovers. Experienced partners José Visoso and Ignacio Pesqueira (who is frequently sought out by private equity clients), head the impressive team, which comprises notable practitioners such as founding partner Manuel Galicia, regarded as an ‘absolute leader in corporate matters’; the ‘practical and business oriented’ Christian Lippert, who also boast good expertise in antitrust matters; Arturo Perdomo; Héctor Kuri, who also focuses on finance and infrastructure; and Ramiro Sandoval who, while ‘not an ego-driven partner’, is ‘exceptional working under pressure’. Major mandates, recently, include advising Abertis on the acquisition of 72% of Red de Carreteras de Occidente in Mexico.
Practice head(s):
José Visoso; Ignacio Pesqueira
Testimonials
‘Galicia has a culture of working towards the deal and for the client. Undoubtedly one of the most prestigious M&A firms in Mexico, empathetic and straightforward in their dealings with the client, they leave ego behind.’
‘They work with a core team in which partners and associates were very coordinated and always 100% on top of the transaction, bringing to the table help from areas such as tax and litigation when necessary, but always in an efficient manner and without the apparent intention of making the deal more expensive.’
‘While their quality is as good or better than any other firm, the style is much less pretentious.’
‘They go out of their way to build a connection with the client and understand their motivations and priorities.’
‘The team is made up of lawyers with vast experience in the field and with extensive exposure to relevant M&A transactions in the Mexican market.’
‘Christian Lippert is a brilliant lawyer, a reference in antitrust and M&A matters. He is a very analytical, practical and business-oriented person. His negotiation skills are very good. Manuel Galicia is an absolute leader in corporate matters.’
‘Personalised, efficient, fast service. With a team committed at all times, dedicated and responsible.’
‘Ramiro Sandoval is exceptional working under pressure. It is appreciated that he is not an ego-driven partner who tries to impose his position before legal and business reasons. He puts the client’s needs and interests first.’
Key clients
Intel Corp
Grupo México (División Infraestructura)
Tokyo Gas America
KPS Capital Partners
Promecap
Cofra Holding
CHPAF Holdings
AB&C Leasing de México
Leagold Mining Corporation
Abertis Infraestructuras
GIC Special Investments
Grupo Sordo Madaleno
Northgate Capital
Advent International
Organización Soriana
Balam Fund
RLH Properties
Actis
Grupo Azucarero Mexico
Cultiba
Citibanamex
BBVA Bancomer
Scotiabank
CADU
CEMEX
FEMSA
Arca Continental
Grupo Modelo
EDPR Mexico | EDP Renováveis
Fermaca
Hikvision
Recent Intercam
Invex
NextEnergy
Profuturo GNP
Recent Banco de Sabadell
Banco de Santander
Victory Park
Bimbo
Planigrupo
Sinopec
China Construction
CINUK
Club Premier Aeromexico
Costco
BlackRock
Work highlights
- Advised Abertis Infraestructuras on the acquisition of 72.% of Red de Carreteras de Occidente (RCO), one of the largest toll roads operator in Mexico; estimated deal value: $2.1bn.
- Advised Promecap on the first stage of its merger with Grupo Acosta Verde, a Mexican shopping center owner and operator.; deal value: $200m.
- Advised and represented Leagold Mining in connection with the Mexican aspects of its acquisition by Equinox Gold Corp; deal value: $578m.
Mexico > Energy and natural resources Tier 1
Galicia Abogados S.C. fields a stellar 20-strong practice, regarded as one of the market's top choices for energy transactional and financing matters, as well as for its expertise in mandates related to the structure and operation of the power sector (including, development, financing, acquisition and/or sale of generation facilities, transmission lines and substations), and which has also excelled of late in representing numerous clients before the regulatory authorities. Carlos De Maria y Campos, a renowned expert when it comes to project development, and Francisco Fernández Cueto, who focuses on power and natural gas transactions as well as project development, co-head the six-partner department. Other key names include Antonio Borja, Eduardo García-Travesi and Ernesto Partida, who all handle energy related infrastructure, project finance and M&A, and are frequently involved in high-value acquisitions in the sector. The group can also rely on Héctor Kuri's broad experience in the mining realm. Primary support at associate level comes from seniors Luis Manuel Rosendo who focuses on energy project development, energy regulation and also has environmental expertise; and Florent Patoret (mining and M&A).
Practice head(s):
Carlos de Maria y Campos, Francisco Fernández Cueto
Testimonials
‘The team is outstanding and has great experience and regulatory knowledge. Antonio Borja is a very reliable partner, with extensive experience and knowledge and very focused on the outcome of the business. Juan Manuel Camarena’s participation and assistance is also noteworthy. Eduardo García-Travesi also knows the industry and is a solvent lawyer.’
‘The good predisposition and timely achievement of objectives are some of the strengths of Galicia and of Antonio Borja’s team in particular. Antonio and his team keep up to date in the field, which makes them a point of reference in this area.’
‘They have a very deep regulatory knowledge of the electricity market, the best I have come across among the various firms in the sector. They are very agile in incorporating a holistic view of issues.’
‘Their flexibility in tariff structures is very much appreciated. Francisco Fernández Cueto: adaptability, agility to integrate the various disciplines of the firm around the issues, leadership and management of complex projects. Commitment and business vision. He is very empathetic towards clients.’
‘Quality work, well above other firms. They know the sector very well, they anticipate problems and provide innovative solutions.’
‘Extraordinary and responsible technical advice. Very business oriented. Good mix of partner-associate collaborations for balanced fees. Eduardo García-Travesi is very practical and business oriented, and his collaborator, Luis Manuel Rosendo is an outstanding technical professional in the electricity industry. They form a powerful mix.’
Key clients
Shell
Grupo Mexico
Sierra Oil & Gas
Avant
Repsol
Carso Gasoducto Norte
Fermaca
Hokchi Energy
Tokyo Gas
BHP Billiton
Bimbo
Femsa
Kuo
ContourGlobal
Engie
Canadian Solar
Mitsui
Invenesa
X-Elio
Neoen
Balam
Saavi Energia
AES Corporation
Sun Power
First Solar
BayWa
174 Global Power
Mitsubishi
New Fortress Energy
Tokyo Gas
EDP Renováveis
Total EREN
BHP Billiton
Nacional Financiera
BNP Paribas
Citibank
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Bancomext
Banobras
Banco Sabadell
International Finance Corporation
Interamerican Development Bank
North American Development Bank
KfW IPEX-Bank
Credit Agricole
Natixis
BoTM
BBVA
Banco Santander
Banorte
Citibanamex
Mizuho
ING
Morgan Stanley
Goldman Sachs
Work highlights
- Advised a syndicate of banks led by KfW IPEX on the construction, start-up, operation and maintenance of an ammonia plant in Topolobampo, Sinaloa, Mexico; deal value: $860m.
- Acted as Mexican counsel to Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, SMBC, and Blackstone, as the initial purchasers and lenders on the $1.1bn refinancing for the Tierra Mojada project.
- Represented Leagold Mining on the sale and acquisition by Equinox Gold Corp of 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Leagold for $578m, as well as on the granting of new $130m convertible debenture
Mexico > Life sciences Tier 1
‘One of the most specialised firms in the pharmaceutical industry’, Galicia Abogados S.C. houses a highly experienced, eight-strong life sciences practice. The department is fronted by two exceptional practitioners: Bernardo Martínez-Negrete, who focuses on all aspects of the pharmaceutical industry, from M&A to clinical trials; and Lisandro Javier Herrera, appointed counsel in January 2021, who has a solid background as regional director at generics company Teva, which he puts to use in his broad life sciences practice. The department is a regular advisor to key players in the pharmaceutical industry, which it assists in regulatory, compliance and day-to-day matters. Corporate matters and transactions, as well as dispute resolution also feature in the department's workload. Luis Marin Tijerina is a name to note at the associate level.
Practice head(s):
Bernardo Martínez-Negrete; Lisandro Javier Herrera
Testimonials
‘The firm has a highly experienced Life Sciences practice and is one of the most specialised firms in the pharmaceutical industry’
‘They are very knowledgeable and trustworthy. They show honest concern and support for their clients’
‘They welcome feedback in a very open manner. They have a remarkable insight into international law. Their interaction with global law firms and associations gives them a very broad view’
‘Lisandro Herrera shows a great willingness to collaborate. He cares about understanding the client’s needs to the full. He keeps himself permanently updated’
Key clients
Mexican Health Foundation (FUNSALUD)
Carestream Dental de México
Work highlights
- Advised Mexican Health Foundation (FUNSALUD) on the implementation of digital health technology initiatives in Mexico, such as the use of drones, e-health, m-health, access to information, robots and Internet of Things (IoT) related to health matters.
- Advises Carestream Dental de México, a provider of digital imaging, software and practice management solutions for dental practitioners, on regulatory matters regarding medical devices.
Mexico > Projects and infrastructure Tier 1
Galicia Abogados S.C. fields a large and experienced project finance and infrastructure team over 30 lawyers-strong (including nine partners), which demonstrates genuine dexterity handling advisory mandates regarding the development, financing, negotiation, construction, operation, restructuring and sale of long-term infrastructure and energy projects. A preferred choice for players from the energy, petrochemicals, transport infrastructure (road, rail, maritime and aviation), telecoms and water sectors, the practice is co-led by partners Carlos De Maria y Campos and Alejandro De La Borbolla, ‘the great differentiator of the team’. Bernardo Martínez-Negrete, whose practice centres on project finance, health care and M&A; and finance specialist Humberto Pérez Rocha, bring significant additional expertise to the department.Practice head(s):
Carlos de Maria y Campos; Alejandro de la Borbolla;
Testimonials
‘I have found that the non-energy related projects and infrastructure team at Galicia delivers a high-quality work-product with close coordination between the infrastructure team and the M&A team.’
‘They are brilliant at identifying and helping us assess and address key risks.’
‘Alejandro de la Borbolla is outstanding in his knowledge of the relevant industries, approach to risks, thoroughness, project-financing experience and expertise.’
‘An excellent combination of a partner with great expertise in the field who has been able to deal with different governments over the years (and who has a human touch that goes beyond the professional, which allows him to know the clients’ needs to perfection)’, with a team of highly skilled junior lawyers,
‘Alejandro de la Borobolla is the great differentiator of the team. In addition to his knowledge and excellent personal treatment, he follows up on matters in a proactive manner’
‘Multidisciplinary team, well coordinated with excellent experts with extensive experience in international transactions.’
Key clients
Grupo Roadis
Grupo Azvi Cointer
Grupo Empresarial San José
Grupo Nieto
BlackRock
UDRA
IDB Invest
NadBank
Abertis Infraestructuras
GIC Special Investments
Banco Monex
Banco Santander
Work highlights
- Advised BlackRock on the acquisition of Autopistas de Tapachula by Fibra E Orión.
- Advised Abertis on the acquisition of 72.30% of Red de Carreteras de Occidente (“RCO”) from GIC.
- Advising Roadis Group, as concessionaire, regarding the concession contract granted by the ministry of communications (SCT) for the construction, operation and maintenance of the Monterrey–Saltillo highway and Saltillo bypass.
Mexico > Compliance Tier 2
The ‘first-class’ compliance unit –part of the larger regulatory practice group– at Galicia Abogados S.C. is divided into two main areas of work: day-to-day matters, including internal policy design and implementation, and training and manuals; and on the other hand, transactional compliance in connection with M&A, joint ventures, and government awards and procurement. The 10-strong team, which also regularly undertakes defence and representation in investigations before entities including the FTI, Competition Commission and Federal Data Protection Institute, is co-led by partners Christian Lippert and Carlos Chávez, who splits his practice between regulated market transactions and compliance and investigations. Recent matters range from preventative advice on the application of anti-corruption laws and internal policies, to internal procedures, hires, engagements and events; internal investigations dealing with compliance and environmental regulations; public procurement matters; and executive training. Raised to the partnership in October 2021, Juan Carlos Burgos is also noted.Practice head(s):
Carlos Chávez; Christian Lippert
Testimonials
‘They are a first-class team. The quality of their advice and the personalised service they provide is of an extraordinary quality.’
‘They are highly trained, but what makes them stand out most is the availability and excellent service they provide. They know their client and get involved with them as if they were part of the internal team.’
Key clients
Abertis
Work highlights
- Advised Abertis on the acquisition of 72.30% of Red de Carreteras de Occidente.
Mexico > Dispute resolution: arbitration Tier 2
Galicia Abogados S.C. houses a 16-strong ‘multidisciplinary group of experts who bring great value to highly complex disputes’. Partners Rodrigo Zamora, who specializes in commercial litigation and arbitration and boasts extensive experience as both counsel and arbitrator; and Cecilia Azar who understands ‘complex issues like no one else in the market, and also garners praise for her ‘unparalleled analytical mind’, co-head the department. As Azar's roles as current president of Instituto Mexicano de Arbitraje and vice president of the ICC’s Mexico Arbitration Commission would suggest, she is fully dedicated to arbitration - particularly in relation to the energy, infrastructure and construction sectors. Key support comes from dedicated senior associates Paola Aldrete (domestic and international commercial arbitration -institutional & ad hoc- particularly relating to construction, infrastructure and shareholder’s disputes) who acts as tribunal secretary or sole arbitrator, as well as counsel; and José Antonio Casas (primarily, international commercial arbitration and litigation related to construction, energy, hydrocarbons contracts and corporate disputes). The team was further strengthened with the hire of senior associate Arturo Rivera Méndez from Santamarina y Steta in July 2021.
Practice head(s):
Rodrigo Zamora; Cecilia Azar
Testimonials
‘Galicia’s team has an uncanny ability to respond quickly to complex issues and a deep knowledge of the subjects they work on. It is a team made up mostly of women and they have a fee schedule geared towards client satisfaction.’
‘Ceci Azar has an ability to understand technical and complex issues like no one else in the market, as well as an unparalleled analytical mind.’
‘They are a multidisciplinary group of experts who bring great value to highly complex disputes. They get involved from the most general to the last detail to understand disputes in depth. They have a strong ethical sense.’
Key clients
Chicoasén (consortium of three Mexican and one Costa Rican construction companies, and a state-owned energy company)
Work highlights
- Counsel for the claimant, the Chicoasén consortium, in an arbitration derived from a construction agreement for a hydroelectric plant that was executed by a consortium of three Mexican and one Costa Rican construction companies together with Mexico’s Federal Electricity Commission (CFE).
Mexico > Environment Tier 2
The ‘excellent environmental team’ at Galicia Abogados S.C. is led by environmental law expert Mariana Herrero, who draws on over 20 years of experience and boasts notable expertise in the environmental aspects of transactional and project development, corporate and liability management, and administrative permitting. The eight-strong practice, which is also highly experienced in contamination, water, hazardous waste management and litigation issues, includes other key practitioners like Carlos Escoto, who was promoted to partner in January 2021 and shows a particular dexterity when handling regulatory issues concerning oil, gas and renewables, and environmental impact and risk assessments. Lucía Manzo is a name to note at the associate level.
Practice head(s):
Mariana Herrero
Testimonials
‘An excellent environmental team. They respond quickly with timely answers and practical options’
‘I really like the fact that there is a woman leading the area’
Key clients
KfW IPEX-Bank
Abertis Infraestructuras
KPS Capital Partners
Cargill
GE Power
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Clarimex
Grupo Farmaceutico Somar
Guardian Industries
Lyondell Basell
Bancomext
Equinox Gold
Silver Wheaton
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Credit Suisse Securities (USA)
Promecap
Citigroup Global Markets
JP Morgan Securities
Banco Santander
Banco Sabadell
New Fortress Energy
Contour Global
Korean Export-Import Bank
Baywa
OMYA
Ericsson
Canadian Solar
Nacional Financiera, Sociedad Nacional de Crédito, Institución de Banca de Desarrollo
Balam Fund
Bunge Foods Mexico
Grupo Bimbo
Desarrollos Mira
Repsol
Pan-American (Hokchi) Energy
Work highlights
- Advised Abertis and GIC on the acquisition of 72.30% of Red de Carreteras de Occidente (RCO), including on the environmental aspects.
- Advised Citigroup and J.P. Morgan as representatives of the initial purchasers, for the offer and sale by Kimberly-Clark México of $500m aggregate principal amount of its 2.431% notes due 2031.
- Carried out the environmental due diligence of the Mercedes mining complex after Equinox’s acquisition of a 50% stake of Premier Gold Mines interests in the Hardrock project and Hasaga properties in Ontario.
Mexico > International trade and customs Tier 2
Partners Daniel Amézquita (who divides his time between administrative / constitutional litigation and IT&C matters), and Mario Valencia, who is always ‘involved down to the smallest detail’, and is renowned for his work in contentious customs and tax matters, co-head the practice at Galicia Abogados S.C., which reaps praise for its ‘extensive experience in foreign trade regulations and solid understanding of the subject’. The nine-strong group regularly advises clients from the energy, pharmaceutical, automotive, telecommunications, chemical, e-commerce and retail industries, on maquila (IMMEX) and PROSEC programmes, certified companies, VAT certificates, quotas, certifications, licenses, import and export permits; tariff classifications and compliance with tax and customs obligations, as well as anti-dumping and subsidies investigations, litigation and arbitration processes, and FTA negotiations. A strong second line of associates includes José Andrés Muñiz, Fernando Rodriguez and Sheidel Francioli.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Amézquita; Mario Valencia
Testimonials
‘They are distinguished by their extensive experience in foreign trade regulations and restrictions with a very solid understanding of the subject.’
‘Empathy, human quality, professionalism and experience are the main qualities of Mario Valencia and Sheidel Francioli.’
‘They offer a multi-task understanding of the subject, which helps us to understand the legal and business implications of the proposed strategy, and also gives them a competitive advantage over other purely accounting and/or tax firms.’
‘Mario Valencia and José Andrés Muñiz are always involved down to the smallest detail, they have been available in every emergency where we have even needed them.’
‘Even though they are a large and well known firm, the attention they have given us has always been first class. They are very accessible in their proposals without skimping on quality and attention to detail.’
‘Mario Valencia has shown us that he has a very good practice.’
Key clients
FCA Mexico
Stepan Mexico
Sura Asset Management Mexico
Alexander Dennis México
Sparber
Purolite Corporation and Purolite Mexico
BayWa re Solar Systems
Tata Consultancy Services
Carrier Mexico (UTC)
Poet
Hispacun
B&G Foods
Sunpower Corporation
Vestas WTG Mexico
Carestream Dental
Chobani
Edrington
Asociación Mexicana de Energía Solar Fotovoltaica
AT&T Mexico
Tiendas Chedraui
Newfortress
Sunglass Hut de Mexico
Work highlights
- Represented Carrier Mexico in audit process initiated by the tax authorities (SAT) to review its import operations, as well as in a parallel administrative procedure in customs matters.
- Representing Stepan Mexico in an antidumping investigation against the importation of triethanolamine from the United States of America.
- Advised Purolite Corporation regarding an administrative appeal filed directly by the company to provide additional evidence supporting the NAFTA origin of the resins it exports.
Mexico > Tax Tier 2
Consisting of a group of ‘highly qualified professionals in the Mexican tax field’, Galicia Abogados S.C.' young, four-partner tax department (which also incorporates the firm's wealth management area), covers a broad array of tax-related matters, including consulting, planning, controversy and litigation. Lauded for handling matters with the ‘utmost seriousness and professionalism’, practice head Gabriela Pellón demonstrates impressive technical dexterity when handling transactional matters and tax structuring. Other key members of the team include Federico Scheffler, who also specialises in transactional tax mandates; Edson Uribe Guerrero, a former deputy Chair of PRODECON, where he was officer in charge of implementing and supervising the first alternative dispute resolution procedure (tax mediation) in Mexico; and skilled litigator Denise Lester, who was promoted to the partnership in January 2021. Senior associate Alejandra Paniagua, whose practice spans estate planning, corporate law, corporate restructuring, non-governmental organizations, and regulatory tax audits, is another name to note.
Practice head(s):
Gabriela Pellón
Testimonials
‘They are highly qualified professionals in the Mexican tax field, they are undoubtedly at the level of the best law firms in Mexico’
‘Gabriela Pellón, Denise Lester, Fernando Gómez handle matters with the utmost seriousness and professionalism’
‘Galicia’s lawyers are our partners in all tax matters we face and provide us with certainty and support whenever required. They are 100% committed to the company and to our problems’
‘Gabriela Pellón provides a service superior to other lawyers, with a very high quality service’
Key clients
Sony Pictures Distribution Mexico
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment de México
Evertec México Servicios de Procesamiento
Operaciones Planigrupo
Disarch
Aranzazu Holding
Namce
Grupo TMM
Vertical CDMX
Liquor Lions
Tata Consultancy Services México
Saavi Energía
Grupo Fevisa
Libertad Servicios Financieros
Waldo’s Dólar Mart de México
KPS Capital Partners
CM del Pacífico
Cofra Holding
Axalta Coating Systems
New Fortress Energy
Grupo Bimbo
Grupo Bimbo
Cemex
HSBC México
BBVA Bancomer
Múltiple, Grupo Financiero BBVA Bancomer
Samsung
Walstead Group Limited
Hilco Real Estate
Inter-American Development Bank
CMACGM México
Inmobiliaria Monte Athos
Edrington México
Productores de Vinagre Provisa
Fundación Espacio
Weifang Kitchinet Corporation
Lomelin Administracion de Proyectos
Papu Media
Grupo Hexa
Servicios Administrativos Aluminicaste
GMI Capital
Grupo Meusnier
Jardín Guadalupano
Grupo Constructor Legacy
Pret Communique
Work highlights
- Assisted in various global due diligence processes in different plants, to determine the optimal way to continue complying with their tax obligations.
- Tax consultancy services to support a subsidiary of the Grupo TMM, which develops various port terminal services, in one of its new projects.
- Tax consultancy service in connection with a loan to finance a residential real estate project.
Mexico > Wealth management Tier 2
Boasting ‘an extraordinary knowledge of the legal framework’, as well as a considerable know-how in the area thanks to its combined strength with the firm's solid tax department, the young seven-strong practice at Galicia Abogados S.C. is a popular choice for individuals, families, family offices and trustees for advice on the legal aspects of estate planning strategies, including tax, corporate governance, real estate, wills, trusts, regulatory compliance and litigation protection. Garnering praise for its ‘exceptional human quality’, the group includes a number of key figures including Gabriela Pellón, who focuses on individuals and families regarding international investments and tax compliance, who co-leads the department with competition specialist Christian Lippert. Additional capability comes from fellow partner Federico Scheffler, who has broad expertise on all tax aspects of wealth management and estate planning. Strong associate support comes from Cecilia Díaz de Rivera and Fabiola Jiménez.
Practice head(s):
Christian Lippert; Gabriela Pellón; Eugenio Sepúlveda
Testimonials
‘Christian Lippert, Diego Valadez Cecilia Díaz de Rivera, Fabiola Jimenez, Begoña Rodriguez have an extraordinary knowledge of the legal framework and its relationship with various financial areas.’
‘Exceptional human quality, they make you feel part of a team and not a client.’
‘Proposals, solutions and plans that are adapted to your needs. They look for ways to bring the client’s wishes to fruition. Frankly, they make it a real pleasure to work with them.’
Mexico > Dispute resolution: litigation Tier 3
Galicia Abogados S.C. houses ‘the most complete practice in the market’. Praised for its ‘extensive knowledge in administrative, civil and commercial matters’, the team co-headed by partners Daniel Amézquita and Rodrigo Zamora handles a good mix of arbitration and litigation work, and has been particularly active lately in amparo actions. Amézquita, who is ‘always on-the-ball and knows each and every matter inside out’, focuses on administrative and constitutional litigation, while Zamora is active in both commercial litigation and arbitration. The practice is also characterised by its interdisciplinary team formation with other practice areas of the firm, notably energy and infrastructure. Senior associate Iván Valdespino is another name to note.
Practice head(s):
Rodrigo Zamora; Daniel Amézquita
Testimonials
‘It is the most complete practice in the market. Their lawyers have extensive knowledge of the various legal processes and procedures to address and resolve disputes and have extensive background knowledge in administrative, civil and commercial matters.’
‘Daniel Amézquita is always on the ball and knows each and every matter inside out. The team is very solid and has a thorough knowledge of procedural law.’
‘The attention to detail and the way they work to analyse the advantages and disadvantages of companies in litigation make Galicia the best choice.’
‘When dealing with an issue that involves several specialities, Galicia’s various specialists attend meetings and resolve the issue.’
‘I have received excellent service from Francisco Fernández and associate Gabriel Jiménez.’
‘Administrative litigation. I consider this to be a practice which, until now, was not very common, but which is increasingly required. It seems to me that Galicia’s administrative litigation specialists handle the subject perfectly well and resolve it successfully, always innovating in their solutions.’
Key clients
KfW IPEX-Bank
Organización Soriana
Cementos Apasco
Grupo Iberdrola
Grupo México
Wal-Mart de México
Siemens México
Dowell Schlumberger de México
Planigrupo
Aeromexico
Afore Invercap
Daimler Mexico
Sabadell Capital
Grupo Bimbo
Grupo Peñafiel
Palacio de Hierro
Banco Nacional de México
JC IpexDecaux Mexico
Banco Santander
Televisa
Scotiabank Inverlat
Fimpe Fideicomiso F/00185
Banobras
Truper
Schneider Electrics
Consorcio Industrial
Sunpower Corporation Systems
Wintershall Dea
Grupo KUO
Cámara Nacional de la Industria de la Cerveza y de la Malta
Work highlights
- Advised a syndicate of banks led by KfW IPEX on the scope, risks and consequences of legal actions brought before Federal Courts against the state-of-the-art Topolobampo ammonia plant project (in Sinaloa) by inhabitants and indigenous communities in the area, so that the banks can make investment decisions and accurately and objectively measure the litigation risks of the $860m project.
- Challenged, through an amparo the resolution issued by COFECE by means of which it prohibited Soriana to divest of any grocery stores by means of long term leases (to Tiendas Chedraui in several locations in Mexico).
- Represented Cementos Apasco in an amparo action challenging a $50m fine issued by the Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT).
Mexico > Bankruptcy and restructuring Tier 4
Galicia Abogados S.C.’s restructuring and insolvency practice is led by Monterrey-based partner Eugenio Sepúlveda, an experienced practitioner who tackles mandates through the provision of advice that covers tax, contracts, international law and other areas to assist in out-of-court workouts and bankruptcy litigation. The department is mostly active on the creditor side, with a track record in major bankruptcy proceedings in various sectors, including aviation, real estate and manufacturing.
Practice head(s):
Eugenio Sepúlveda
Mexico > Insurance Tier 4
Galicia Abogados S.C.'s five-strong insurance department, which is jointly led by Rodrigo Zamora (who also heads the commercial litigation and arbitration practice) and transactional expert Humberto Pérez Rocha (who is also highly experienced in banking and finance, project finance and M&A), is a solid choice for many domestic and foreign entities and corporations for advice on insurance-related corporate matters and regulatory issues. Clients also seek the team's assistance in the analysis and negotiation of claims. The practice has developed extensive knowledge in the financial services, food and beverage, energy, oil and gas, retail and mining industries, and handles some interesting cases in state and federal courts, as well as before domestic and international arbitral tribunals.
Practice head(s):
Humberto Pérez Rocha; Rodrigo Zamora
Testimonials
‘They have broad and deep knowledge of the regulation of the law of Insurance and Bonding Institutions, the law on the insurance contract, and everything related to the law of Commercial Companies applicable to Insurance Institutions’
‘Humberto Pérez Rocha has extensive knowledge of insurance and bonds, companies and contracts. He has very good experience of the Mexican financial system in which insurance companies operate, and the interaction with the various regulators’
Mexico > Real estate Tier 4
The real state practice at Galicia Abogados S.C., ‘strikes a very good balance between knowledge of the commercial and industrial real estate industry, and transactional experience and skills’. Following the departure of former department-head Alejandro Trujillo in mid-2020, leadership of the department has been assumed by Ramiro Sandoval (a ‘brilliant negotiator’), who brings extensive experience handling acquisitions and divestitures, public and private joint ventures, structuring and the formation of private equity funds and REITs to the practice primarily, which has a certain focus on mixed-use projects and the hospitality industry. He works closely with fellow partner Rodrigo Rivera, who adds extensive know-how on the financing side.Practice head(s):
Ramiro Sandoval
Testimonials
‘Rodrigo Rivera stands out for his extensive knowledge in the field, good experience and an unbeatable timely attention.’
‘Although small, the real estate team at Galicia Abogados strikes a very good balance between knowledge of the commercial and industrial real estate industry and transactional experience and skills.’
‘They are very efficient and savvy negotiators in real estate transactions.’
‘Partner Ramiro Sandoval is an outstanding attorney with strong transactional experience and a deep knowledge and understanding of the commercial and industrial real estate sector. He is a brilliant negotiator.’
Key clients
CHPAF Holdings
Promecap Acquisition Company
Tessera Capital
FIBRA Macquarie
Grupo Sordo Madaleno
Guess
HSBC
Liverpool
Marhnos
Orpea Groupe
Pontegadea
Promecap
Rodina
SMBC (Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation)
Soriana
Stack Infrastructure
Vertex Real Estate Investors
Yama
AT&T
Banco Sabadell
Work highlights
- Advised CHPAF Holdings on the acquisition of 27.1% of the capital stock of RLH Properties.
- Advised Promecap and Promecap Acquisition Sponsor on their investment in Valores Integrales Inmobiliarios, the holding company of Grupo Acosta Verde, in exchange for 37.98% of the total outstanding shares of Acosta Verde.
- Advised Tessera on the negotiation and execution of a hotel management agreement with Grupo Presidente and a franchise agreement with Hyatt Corporation.
Mexico > TMT Tier 4
Galicia Abogados S.C. offers ‘deep knowledge of the TMT industry from different angles: regulatory, transactional, competition, and litigation’ according to clients. The firm maintains a six-strong telecoms team as part of its wider regulatory practice group of 16 lawyers which, on the telecoms-side, handles day-to-day matters, transactional operations and administrative disputes; and on the technology front, undertakes regulatory, transactional competition, privacy, tax and IP-related matters, along with fintech. The ‘well-rounded and extremely talented’ Carlos Chávez, who has a strong focus on competition matters and public sector contracting, heads all the firm's telecom and media mandates. Additional partner expertise is provided by fintech specialist Arturo Perdomo and Humberto Pérez Rocha.
Practice head(s):
Carlos Chávez; Ricardo Garcia; Arturo Perdomo; Humberto Perez-Rocha
Testimonials
‘Galicia Abogados has a multidisciplinary team with a deep bench for TMT matters, led by the well-rounded and extremely talented Carlos Chávez.’
‘The team has strong capabilities in regulatory, competition matters and M&A transactions in this field. Carlos Chávez is brilliant at coordinating these teams.’
‘Carlos Chávez is exceptional being a truly well-rounded transactional, regulatory and competition lawyer, and expert in TMT.’
‘Ignacio Pesqueira is a brilliant negotiator with an ability to identify and address risks important to an asset management company like ours. Associate Maria Fernanda Luna is highly technical and hard-working.’
‘Galicia Abogados is innovative in offering clients a multidisciplinary team with a deep knowledge of the TMT industry from different angles: regulatory, transactional, competition, and litigation.’
Key clients
BestDay Travel Group
Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology
Intel Corp
Solenis Technologies Mexico
Ericsson
The Impossible Orchestra (pro bono)
Radio Teocelo (pro bono)
Mexican Health Foundation (FUNSALUD)
Work highlights
- Advised BestDay Travel Group on the divestiture of its subsidiaries Viajes Beda and Transporturist to Despegar.com Corporation, an online travel company in Latin America.
- Advised Intel in relation to the Mexican aspects of the sale of its NAND memory and storage business unit to South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix.
- Advised the partially state-owned Chinese manufacturer and supplier of video surveillance equipment for civilian and military purposes, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology, in connection with its $65m acquisition of a participation on Sistemas y Servicios de Comunicación and Syscom.
Galicia Abogados S.C. > Firm Profile
GALICIA was founded in 1994 and is the only Mexican leading firm able to offer its clients a strong transactional and regulatory advice with strategic capabilities in litigation and ESG.
The firm has more than 25 years of experience advising a wide array of national and international clients. Renowned law firm for its impeccable reputation and superb knowledge in strategic sectors, such as: Financial, Energy & Infrastructure, Private Equity, Regulated Industries, Real Estate & Hospitality and Health.
One of the main differentiators in the legal market in Mexico is that we are the only Top Tier / Band 1 firm able to provide our clients with strong transactional and regulatory offerings coupled with strategic litigation capabilities.
The strategy and forward thinking vision of our partners, have allowed us to consolidate our leadership through a multidisciplinary approach through our practice areas.
We stand out for our distinctive collaborative, innovative and diverse oriented culture. We prepare ourselves and our strategy to face the next decades with the same enthusiasm and forward thinking culture. We are an independent firm with broad international reach through our network in Europe, Latam, US and Asia.
Being regarded as a solution-oriented firm, at GALICIA we seek and train highly qualified professionals with international presence, most of whom have studied at prestigious universities and have worked at leading law firms in the United States and Europe.
Our collaborative, innovative and diversity oriented culture as well as our commitment to generate an impact within our society are the foundation of our day-to-day work.
Our 2020-2022 Sustainability Model includes 4 axes:
•Talent
•Community
•Integrity
•Environment
in which we are active and committed in our daily operations.
Our diversity & inclusion driven culture has positioned 16 women as leaders in different fields, such as:
06 Practice Areas
02 Excecutive Positions
03 Counsel
06 Management Positions in our Business and Administrative Teams
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Banking and Finance, M&A and Managing Partner | Manuel Galicia | mgalicia@galicia.com.mx | |
Energy and Project Finance | Carlos de Maria y Campos | cdemaria@galicia.com.mx | |
M&A and Private Equity | Jose Visoso | jvisoso@galicia.com.mx | |
Corporate Services, M&A and Private Equity | Ignacio Pesqueira | ipesqueira@galicia.com.mx | |
Banking and Finance, M&A and Fintech | Arturo Perdomo | aperdomo@galicia.com.mx | |
Competition, M&A and Wealth Management | Christian Lippert | clippert@galicia.com.mx | |
M&A, Banking and Finance and Insurance | Humberto Perez-Rocha | hperezrocha@galicia.com.mx | |
Energy and Project Finance | Francisco Fernández Cueto | ffcueto@galicia.com.mx | |
Infrastructure and Project Finance | Alejandro de la Borbolla | aborbolla@galicia.com.mx | |
Life Sciences, Infrastructure and Project Finance | Bernardo Martínez-Negrete | bmartineznegrete@galicia.com.mx | |
Mining and M&A | Hector Kuri | hkuri@galicia.com.mx | |
Energy and Project Finance | Antonio Borja | aborja@galicia.com.mx | |
Administrative Litigation | Daniel Amézquita | damezquita@galicia.com.mx | |
Capital Markets, Banking & Finance | Maurice Berkman | mberkman@galicia.com.mx | |
Competition, Compliance and TMT | Carlos Chávez | cchavez@galicia.com.mx | |
Environmental | Mariana Herrero | mherrero@galicia.com.mx | |
Restructuring and Insolvency and M&A | Eugenio Sepúlveda | esepulveda@galicia.com.mx | |
Banking and Finance and Capital Markets | Guillermo Pérez Santiago | gperez@galicia.com.mx | |
Energy and Project Finance | Eduardo García Travesí | egarciatravesi@galicia.com.mx | |
M&A and Technology, Media and Telecomm | Ricardo García Giorgiana | rgarcia@galicia.com.mx | |
Tax Consultancy and Wealth Management | Gabriela Pellón | gpellon@galicia.com.mx | |
Commercial & Civil Litigation & Arbitration | Rodrigo Zamora | rzamora@galicia.com.mx | |
Banking and Finance, Real Estate and ESG | Rodrigo Rivera | rrivera@galicia.com.mx | |
M&A and Real Estate | Ramiro Sandoval | rsandoval@galicia.com.mx | |
Arbitration | Cecilia Azar | cazar@galicia.com.mx | |
Tax Consultancy | Federico Scheffler | fscheffler@galicia.com.mx | |
Tax Controversy | Edson Uribe | euribe@galicia.com.mx | |
Energy and Project Finance | Ernesto Partida | epartida@galicia.com.mx | |
Customs and International Trade | Mario Valencia | mvalencia@galicia.com.mx | |
Tax Litigation | Denise Lester | dlester@galicia.com.mx | |
Environmental | Carlos Escoto | cescoto@galicia.com.mx |
Staff Figures
PARTNERS : 31 COUNSEL : 05 EMPLOYEES : 230+Languages
Spanish English French Italian GermanMemberships
The Interlex Group Canadian Business Chamber (CANCHAM) American Chamber of CommerceComparative Guides
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Mexico: Public Procurement
Published: January 2022
Authors: Bernardo Martínez-Negrete E. Antonio Borja Alejandro de la Borbolla Alan Rogel Juan Manuel Camarena Diego Manzano
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Public Procurement laws and regulations that may occur in Mexico.
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Mexico: Technology
Published: August 2021
Authors: Humberto Perez-Rocha Carlos Chávez Ricardo García Irma Ross
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Technology laws and regulations that may occur in Mexico.