Morales & Besa > Santiago, Chile > Firm Profile
Morales & Besa Offices
3477 ISIDORA GOYENECHEA AVENUE, 19TH FLOOR
7550106 LAS CONDES
SANTIAGO
Chile
Profiles
Morales & Besa > The Legal 500 Rankings
Chile > Banking and finance Tier 1
Routinely advising both domestic and international clients from the financial, energy, infrastructure, entertainment and retail sectors, Morales & Besa's 12-strong practice is best known for its lender-side credentials, while also being sought out by major borrower clients. ‘Among the top-five Chilean law firms for cross-border financings', the practice acts on a wide range of banking and finance deals in relation to restructurings, syndicated loans, derivatives, and structured and project finance. It also assists with transactions involving distressed debt, acquisitions and LBOs. On the non-transactional side, the team is also experienced in assisting companies with licensing, regulatory and compliance matters. The practice is jointly led by José Miguel Carvajal, who has enviable experience in domestic and foreign loans, project finance, bond offerings, and foreign investment and foreign exchange matters; and infrastructure and energy project finance specialist Myriam Barahona, ‘undoubtedly the soul of this practice'. Former senior associate Rocio Vergara left to establish her own practice in September 2022.Practice head(s):
José Miguel Carvajal; Myriam Barahona
Testimonials
‘The M&B finance and banking team gives confidence, a lot of technical knowledge, and great availability.’
‘The team has deep experience in banking and finance and project finance.‘
‘Among the top-five Chilean law firms for cross-border financings.’
‘Undoubtedly the soul of this practice is Myriam Barahona – availability, speed, precision and technique.‘
‘Partners Myriam Barahona and José Miguel Carvajal are solid, knowledgeable practitioners with substantial experience in the market.’
‘M&B’s banking and finance team is the bank’s preferred choice, our point of reference when compared with other studies. It gives confidence, had a lot of technical knowledge and great availability.‘
Key clients
KfW IPEX-Bank
DNB Bank
Enerside Solar Chile I
EIG Atacama Management
Banco Security
Banco de Chile
Banco Santander-Chile
Accel-KKR
AK Chile Holdings
Sociedad Concesionaria Autopista del Aconcagua
Global Vía Infraestructuras Chile
Enel Chile
Cencosud
Multitiendas Corona
Enjoy
Corpgroup
Banco de Crédito e Inversiones
Work highlights
- Advised a syndicate of international banks, which involved Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and MUFG Bank, on a financing granted to Parque Solar Fotovoltaico Luz del Norte for the operation of a photovoltaic power plant.
- Advised Banco Santander-Chile and Banco de Chile on a financing for the issuance of stand-by letters of credit and imports.
- Advised Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, MUGF Bank and Banco Santander on a $200m refinancing granted to Amanecer Solar.
Chile > Capital markets Tier 1
The six-member capital markets practice at full-service firm Morales & Besa is repeatedly sought out for complex deals involving issuers, underwriters, broker dealers, asset managers and securities industry professionals. The group is also highly active in regulatory matters. It additionally houses a leading practice in project finance bonds, as well as insolvency reorganisation processes that include capital markets aspects. The department is jointly led by founding partner Guillermo Morales, a go-to adviser for both underwriters and issuers; José Miguel Carvajal, whose practice covers capital markets (in addition to corporate law and banking and finance); and Andrea Díaz, whose track record includes playing key roles on large IPOs. Senior associate Gonzalo Pereira, a 2021 hire from the Financial Market Commission, is a specialist in corporate law, capital markets and financial regulation.Practice head(s):
Guillermo Morales; José Miguel Carvajal; Andrea Díaz
Key clients
The Republic of Chile
Credit Suisse
State Street Bank and Trust Company
Ruta del Loa Sociedad Concesionaria
Wenco
Work highlights
- Advised the Republic of Chile and its Ministry of Finance on the issuance, global offering and placement of sovereign sustainability-linked bonds for $2bn.
- Advised the Republic of Chile and its Ministry of Finance on the issuance, global offering and placement of a peso-denominated sustainable sovereign bond.
- Advised Falabella on the registration process of six indentures at the Securities Registry of the Financial Market Commission, and on the issuance and placement in the local market of Series AK bonds.
Chile > Projects and infrastructure Tier 1
The large projects team at full-service outfit Morales & Besa particularly stands out for its infrastructure credentials in relation to project development, acquisitions, financing, contracts, regulatory issues and related litigation. The multidisciplinary group’s recent track record includes mandates involving airports, solar power plants, PPP projects, toll roads, and renewables. The practice is also increasingly expanding its market share of engineering, procurement and construction matters. Heading the practice, Carlos Silva’s experience covers the gamut of project issues, from structuring to development, financing and M&A work; real estate and construction department leader Macarena Laso assists with corporate transactions, along with the structuring, acquisition and financing of public infrastructure projects; and Myriam Barahona and Eugenio Besa are both project finance experts. The next line of partners features recently-elevated Juan Carlos Valdivieso, who acts on energy and infrastructure-related transactional and regulatory aspects; and 2022-returnee and projects specialist Aldo Cardinali. Within the firm’s senior associate pool, Macarena López is noted for projects, construction and engineering matters, while Nicolás Corbeaux specialises in construction disputes. Former senior associate Katannya Jablonski left for the General Directorate of Concessions in October 2022.Practice head(s):
Carlos Silva
Testimonials
‘Diligence, coordination, speed, and consistency to the work.‘
‘Great human qualities and willingness to answer questions at all times.‘
‘Finds creative solutions.‘
Key clients
Global Infrastructure Partner
ADP International
Meridiam Infrastructure
Vinci
ISA (Intervial)
Globalvía
WPD
Corporación Interamericana para el Financiamiento de Infraestructura
Acciona Infrastructura
EFACEC
Work highlights
- Currently advising Sociedad Concesionaria Metropolitana de Salud on the development of the Félix Bulnes Hospital project.
- Advised Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel and its shareholders on the construction and operation of a new terminal at Santiago Airport.
- Advised Sociedad Concesionaria Autopista del Aconcagua (a toll road company that is part of the Globalvia group) on the refinancing of its existing debt with local banks.
Chile > Bankruptcy, insolvency and restructuring Tier 2
Further to Chile’s 2019 social crisis (as well as the pandemic), the recent track record of Morales & Besa's sizeable bankruptcy and restructuring practice focused on assisting domestic and international creditors and debtors with large companies’ reorganisation proceedings. The team's expertise covers out-of-court debt restructurings, insolvency and restructuring-related litigation and arbitration (including claw-back actions), and cross-border insolvency matters; it priarily acts for a client base of businesses drawn from the healthcare, financial services, aviation, construction, entertainment and energy sectors. The practice is co-led by financing and restructuring specialist Myriam Barahona; and dispute resolution expert Gonzalo Cordero, whose practice includes insolvency and bankruptcy-related disputes. Former senior associate Rocio Vergara left the firm in September 2022.Practice head(s):
Gonzalo Cordero; Myriam Barahona
Testimonials
‘The fact that the team has a high level of financial expertise makes it particularly attractive to work on international bankruptcy and restructuring cases, where financial issues are more prevalent than domestic restructuring cases in Chile.’
‘In Corp Group Banking, a chapter 11 case filed in Delaware, I represented two Latin American banks as secured creditors, one of which required the hiring of an expert in Chilean law. Myriam Barahona was our foreign law expert and it was a privilege to have her. She is an exceptional lawyer, very experienced in financial matters and brings an enriching perspective to the case.‘
Key clients
Banco de Crédito e Inversiones
Multitiendas Corona
Sociedad Concesionaria Metropolitana de Salud
Corporación Interamericana para el Financiamiento de Infraestructura
Official Unsecured Creditors Committee (LATAM Airlines bankruptcy procedure)
Work highlights
- Advised Banco de Crédito e Inversiones on certain credits granted to Corpgroup banking-related entities.
- Advised CIFI on the reorganisation procedure of Itelecom.
- Assisted the Official Unsecured Creditors Committee before the Chapter 11 court, in relation to LATAM Airlines’ bankruptcy proceeding.
Chile > Corporate and M&A Tier 2
The 21-strong corporate and M&A practice at Morales & Besa is regularly sought out by international buy-side clients to act as lead counsel on heavyweight acquisition transactions outside of Chile. Other areas of notable strength include major private equity transactions and complex mergers; while the firm’s enviable client base comprises energy, infrastructure, mining, construction and retail companies, as well as investment banks and private equity funds. At founding partner level, Guillermo Morales advises both domestic and multinational corporate clients on the execution of private acquisitions and sale deals, along with public tender offers, mergers, and restructurings; and Eugenio Besa specialises in commercial, financial and foreign investment work. The pair co-lead the team with Michel Diban (corporate and commercial matters – predominantly M&A); with further key partner level involvement provided by current managing partner, Macarena Laso, and Álvaro Barriga, whose practice is centred on corporate and M&A matters. Experienced senior associate Vicente Valdés focuses on commercial law, M&A and capital markets’ matters. Since publication, Diban has left the firm and Valdés has been raised to the partnership - effective as of December 2023 and March 204, respectively.Practice head(s):
Guillermo Morales; Eugenio Besa
Key clients
Global Infrastructure Partners
AKKR
SMU
Cencosud
Enel X Chile
Sonnedix
Sungrow Power Chile
Marsol
Patria Investments
Macquarie Group
Work highlights
- Acted for Global Infrastructure Partners, which (through a special vehicle) acquired 49% in Chile Renovables from AES Andes, a large Chilean wind farm.
- Advised AKKR on the acquisition of Aspel companies in Mexico and Colombia.
- Advised Cencosud on the purchase of 67% of The Fresh Market Holdings.
Chile > Competition and antitrust Tier 3
Covering the full range of antitrust and competition law work, Morales & Besa fields lawyers with backgrounds in both private practice and at the antitrust agencies. The three-member team is particularly active in complex merger-review procedures, as well as high-profile cartel litigation. It is also a notable presence in regulated-market matters -such as maritime transportation and ports- and is developing its caseload in relation to the regulation of the payments market. The department is led by former FNE anti-cartel unit head, María José Henríquez, an ‘extremely detail-oriented' expert in pre-merger reviews, and FNE and Supreme Court litigation. Benjamín González is the associate to note.Practice head(s):
María José Henríquez
Testimonials
‘Solid knowledge and detail.‘
‘María José Henríquez’s client service is extremely detail-oriented.‘
‘Morales & Besa has a very effective antitrust team, with high technical knowledge and a very good relationship with the authorities. They stand out for the speed and legal depth of the products they deliver. It is first class advice.‘
‘The competition team at Morales & Besa stands out for its closeness to the client and business vision, in addition to always working in a manner oriented towards results. Its lawyers are always up to date with the latest authority criteria, which is especially valued. María José Henríquez leads the team very effectively and delivers solutions in highly complex cases. It is very pleasant to work with her and her team since she gives a feeling of closeness and great technical knowledge.‘
Key clients
Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel
IGT Global Solutions Corporation Chile
Falabella
San Vicente Terminal Internacional
Caleta Bay Mar
Naviera Orca Chile
Servicios Portuarios Reloncaví
Stars Investments Asesoría de Inversiones
Work highlights
- Advised Stars Investments Asesoría de Inversiones on the pre-merger filing for the acquisition of control of Niu Foods.
- Successfully advised San Vicente Terminal Internacional (SVTI) on non-contentious proceedings initiated by Empresa Portuaria Talcahuano – San Vicente, which requested the elimination or amendment of vertical restrictions that had been applied to SVTI.
- Representing the concessionaire of the main national airport (Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel) in an abuse of dominance lawsuit before the Competition Tribunal (filed by the operator of an off-site parking lot).
Chile > Dispute resolution: litigation Tier 3
Notably active on behalf of international clients, Morales & Besa's large commercial and civil litigation practice covers disputes between contractors and infrastructure project owners, as well as class actions filed by final owners against construction companies. Recent mandates further include a tort case for a major bank, along with administrative disputes and civil liability claims. Group head Gonzalo Cordero is an expert in litigation, national and international arbitrations, reorganisations and insolvency; while Juan Ignacio Eymin -who has been director of the judicial group since the beginning of 2022- appears before a range of courts, from first instance tribunals to the Supreme Court. Senior litigation associate Nicolas Corbeaux is experienced in ADR, and civil and commercial procedures.Practice head(s):
Gonzalo Cordero
Key clients
Sociedad Concesionaria Metropolitana de Salud
Banco de Crédito e Inversiones
The Associated Press
Constructora Ingevec
Corporación Interamericana para el Financiamiento de Infraestructura
Cencosud Retail
Corona Corredores de Seguro
Icemarket
Work highlights
- Representing BCI in two claims which were initiated by the victim of a fraud (committed by a third party).
- Representing SCMS in a damages claim initiated by a subcontractor for the early termination of an EPC contract for the construction of the Felix Bulnes Hospital.
- Representing AP in a damages claim made by one of its former star photographers, which could potentially impact the relationship between photographers and news agencies generally, as well as the interpretation of Chile’s IP laws.
Energy and natural resources > Electricity and hydrocarbons Tier 3
Morales & Besa's energy practice covers both transactional work (alongside the firm’s projects, banking and finance, and M&A departments), and the regulatory aspects of energy projects. The ‘great team' particularly stands out for complex energy projects and transactions with cross-border elements. The group is jointly led by former Primer Energía general counsel Juan Carlos Valdivieso, who was raised to the partnership in January 2022 and whose recent track-record includes advising developers and lenders on the regulatory implications of insolvency cases in Chile’s power market; and projects and infrastructure practice head Carlos Silva. Experienced associate Constanza Araya has particular expertise advising on power sector-related regulatory issues.Practice head(s):
Juan Carlos Valdivieso; Carlos Silva
Testimonials
‘Great technical knowledge, quality resources, and a real willingness to work.‘
‘A great team that works for good results.’
‘Appreciated for its human qualities and availability, even in moments of great tension and demand.’
‘Great approach and commercial orientation from the team.’
Key clients
Global Infrastructure Partners
Sonnedix Solar International
DNB Bank
WPD Chile
Coordinador Eléctrico Nacional
Enel Green Power
Grupo Cerro
Enerside
EOSOL
Sungrow Chile
Caixabank
Olivos del Sur
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Banco Security
Work highlights
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners on its acquisition of several energy assets.
- Provides continuous regulatory and commercial advice to WPD Chile, a developer and owner of wind power assets.
- Advised DNB Bank on the refinancing granted to Santiago Solar (owned by AME and EDF) for the operation of a photovoltaic power plant.
Energy and natural resources > Mining Tier 3
The five-member mining law team at full-service firm Morales & Besa handles all aspects of mining projects. Its specialisms range from exploration and exploitation issues and complex regulatory work, to project feasibility matters, and high-value acquisitions and financings. The group is also able to leverage the expertise of its transactional and environmental law colleagues for mining issues. Recent mandates encompassed permitting, mortgaging transactions, mineral-acquisition agreements, and the purchase of mining rights. The practice is led by Aldo Cardinali, the former head of the Ministry of Mining’s Sustainability Division, who returned to the firm as a partner in early 2022 from Infante Valenzuela Molina Abogados. Associate Catalina Troncoso is also a key member of the firm’s mining team.Practice head(s):
Aldo Cardinali
Key clients
Rio Tinto Exploration
KGHM
Minera Carrizalillo
Las Cenizas, SCM Franke
Monte Oscuro
Eccora Resources
DIF Capital Partners
Work highlights
- Assisted Rio Tinto with negotiating the issue of a permit to explore on military land.
- Provides KGHM with legal reports on different aspects of its mining activities.
- Advised Ecora Resources on the postponement of a mortgage established by Mantos Copper.
Chile > Environment Tier 3
Morales & Besa‘s four-member team has notable experience in substantial environmental projects. Its expertise covers both environmental and regulatory aspects, including environmental assessments of projects, environmental litigation, and enforcement and sanctioning processes. The team additionally advises on urban matters, water issues, mining law and public contracts. Recruited as a partner in early 2022 for the firm’s environmental, mining, and natural resources practice from Infante Valenzuela Molina Abogados, Aldo Cardinali‘s recent experience includes providing environmental assessment advice to mining companies KGHM and Minera Carrizalillo. Former senior associate María Francisca Bannura left hte firm in August 2023.Practice head(s):
Aldo Cardinali
Key clients
KGHM Minera Carrizalillo
Las Cenizas, SCM Franke
Rio Tinto Exploration
The Republic of Chile – Ministry of Finance
EOSOL New Energy
Estabanell & Pahisa
Aconcagua Foods
Global Infrastructure Partners
Work highlights
- Provided KGHM and Minera Carrizalillo with environmental assessment advice.
- Assisted Las Cenizas SCM Franke with obtaining environmental permits for the operational continuity of the Franke mine.
- Acted as special local counsel to the Republic of Chile and the Ministry of Finance, in relation to the issuance and global offering of the world’s first sovereign sustainability-linked bonds.
Chile > Real estate Tier 3
Morales & Besa’s six-member real estate and construction practice routinely works alongside the firm’s regulatory, banking and finance, tax, M&A and energy teams on major real estate and infrastructure projects. The team’s expertise encompasses purchases, sales, leases and financing, as well as development matters, construction, zoning regulations and title reviews. Group head Macarena Laso is an expert in public concessions, real estate, construction works and infrastructure projects; while senior associate Carolina Stalder is experienced in the negotiation of land agreements - such as purchases, long-term leases and easements.Practice head(s):
Macarena Laso
Key clients
Constructora Ingevec
Patagonia Ventures
Patagonia Ventures Chile
Enjoy
Bredenmaster
Global Infrastructure Partners
Scotiabank Chile
CMB Prime
Banco de Chile y Banco Santander
Sungrow Power Chile
Enel Group
Work highlights
- Advised Enel Group on the sale of the Santiago building where its current offices are located, as well as the lease of its new offices in the Mercado Urbano Territoria in Las Condes.
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners on its investment in the acquisition of energy assets owned by Actis.
- Advised Banco Santander-Chile and Banco de Chile on the issuance of stand-by letters of credit and import letters of credit as required by Comercial Motores de los Andes to comply with its obligations under a bus supply contract, such advice including the preparation of land studies.
Chile > Dispute resolution: arbitration Tier 4
The 10-strong practice at full-service firm Morales & Besa is routinely mandated for 'bet-the-company' national and international arbitrations. Recent matters include acting for concessionaires and a copper producer in high-stakes disputes; and -while the group is active across several sectors- it has notable expertise in disputes involving energy and infrastructure projects. The department is headed up by construction arbitration specialist Gonzalo Cordero (‘crucial to disputes'), whose career includes a stint as a lawyer for the Ministry of National Assets’ Prosecutor’s Office. Cordero is supported by director Juan Ignacio Eymin and senior associate Nicolas Corbeaux, both of whom maintain arbitration practices.Practice head(s):
Gonzalo Cordero
Testimonials
‘The experience with M&B is very professional and focuses on working closely with clients. Regarding other firms, the difference in the M&B team is that it shares all relevant information in order to solve problems.’
‘Shows a genuine interest in the entrusted case; and within the team, its leader Gonzalo Cordero is crucial to disputes.’
Key clients
Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel
Sociedad Concesionaria Metropolitana de Salud
Work highlights
- Representing Sociedad Concesionaria Metropolitana de Salud, the concessionaire in charge of Hospital Félix Bulnes, in a breach of contract arbitration against Astaldi (Chile branch).
- Representing Sociedad Concesionaria Nuevo Pudahuel, concessionaire of Santiago’s international airport, in a contract-related claim against the Ministry of Public Works.
- Acting for Sociedad Concesionaria Metropolitana de Salud in relation to overrun costs incurred as a result of pandemic-related contract modification instructions issued by the Chilean Government.
Chile > Tax Tier 4
Morales & Besa’s tax offering has evolved out of the firm’s substantial transactional practices to become a four-strong standalone department consisting solely of specialist tax lawyers. The team is experienced in tax advisory work, contentious matters, and major transactions involving complex, cross-border tax issues. The practice is led by recently-promoted partner and tax transactions expert Santiago Martínez, whose career includes working in the tax team of Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s London office. Key senior support is provided by experienced tax counsel Gracia Curtze.Practice head(s):
Santiago Martínez
Testimonials
‘Availability and advice that comes in on time.’
‘Santiago Martínez is very available and reviews cases in great detail.’
Key clients
Cencosud
Enerside Solar Chile I
Global Infrastructure Partners
Anglo Pacific
Work highlights
- Advised Cencosud on the tax aspects of the purchase of 67% of Fresh Market Holdings.
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners on the tax aspects surrounding the closing of the purchase of Atlas Renewable Energy’s renewable energy projects in LatAm.
- Advised Anglo Pacific Group on the tax side to the acquisition from South32 of rights under a royalty agreement with Minera Santo Domingo SCM.
Chile > Labour and employment
Chile > Public law
Morales & Besa > Firm Profile
Morales & Besa was founded in 1992 by a group of outstanding professionals in the areas of corporate, financial and tax law, with the purpose of achieving the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and quality of service. Since then, we have been committed to building a first class firm and providing excellent service.
Our firm seeks, selects and integrates the best legal talent based on their personal merit and skills, to train them in its culture of excellence and teamwork. Many of our lawyers have postgraduate degrees from leading law schools in the U.S. or Europe and have completed internships in renowned foreign law firms.
Practice areas
Banking and Finance: Morales & Besa has a highly regarded and experienced banking & finance team. We have participated in numerous highly complex financings in both local and international markets, including: foreign exchange transactions;, syndicated financings; club deals; and refinancing of existing debts.
We represent both creditors, whether banks or other financial institutions, and debtors, in all kinds of transactions, including: secured and unsecured financings; structured financings; acquisition financings; securitizations; restructurings and capitalizations.
Capital Markets: Morales & Besa are leaders in the area of capital markets. We have extensive experience in of the full spectrum of transactions, including: stock exchange openings;, secondary public offerings of shares;, capital increases; short and long-term debt issuances; restructurings; and, various types of financial and stock market operations, both locally and internationally.
Competition & Antitrust: Morales & Besa’s antitrust team has vast experience advising national and international clients.
Our advice extends to representation in merger approval proceedings before the National Economic Prosecutor’s Office (“Fiscalía Nacional Económica” or “FNE”), as well as to judicial representation before the Chilean Competition Tribunal and the Chilean Supreme Court. We also have extensive experience advising clients in investigations by the FNE, in regulatory compliance and antitrust compliance.
Corporate: At Morales & Besa we provide services to all types of national and international commercial entities, including open and closed corporations. We provide advice on corporate, financial, tax and regulatory matters. We know that every business is different, and we provide personalized and creative advice, which is valued by our clients and reflected in the long-standing relationships we have with corporates from various sectors.
Criminal Law: Morales & Besa provides legal advice to natural (individuals) and legal persons (corporates) regarding economic crimes, tax, environmental, cybercrime, money laundering, violation of anti-corruption laws and infringements of intellectual property laws. We provide support for clients both accused of committing a crime, or who have been victims of a criminal offense.
Energy: Through the advise and support we have provided our clients, our energy practice has had a fundamental role in the development of the energy sector in Chile. We have advised key players in the generation, transmission and distribution of energy, transportation and distribution of fuel, as well as financiers, investment funds, offtakers and regulatory entities.
Environmental: Our environmental law practice advises on the environmental regulation for all types of projects (mining, energy, sanitary, real estate, and infrastructure) at the different stages of their development.
Intellectual Property and Data Protection: At Morales & Besa, we specialize in the registration and protection of trademarks; registration and protection of copyrights on a wide range of assets; protection and revocation of internet domain names; and, in the registration and protection of invention patents.
Labor: At Morales & Besa, we provide our clients with the full range of services in labor and employment law, advising all types of employers, both in the public and private sector, including foreign employers.
Litigation, Arbitration & Dispute Resolution: Morales & Besa’s Litigation and Arbitration practice is central to what we do. We advice on all categories of disputes and conflicts. Our team works in an integrated manner with all the other practice areas of the firm.
Merger & Acquisitions: Mergers & Acquisitions has been at the heart of our Firm since its inception. We advise a broad array of national and international clients. We help our clients analyze their options in depth by providing cutting-edge and innovative advice, always with a global perspective and a very clear business outlook, underpinned by our extensive and varied experience in this field.
Mining and Natural Resoures: In the mining industry, we advise both national and international companies, providing comprehensive advice on all mining-related matters. We accompany our clients on their journey, helping to establish strategies and plans for the acquisition, disposal and development of exploration and exploitation projects; processing of mining property and water rights; environmental assessment; obtaining permits and authorizations; preparation and negotiation of all kinds of contracts; capital venture; royalties; streaming agreements; project financing; due diligence; and, also providing continuous corporate, labor, tax, litigation and environmental advice at all stages of the development of such projects.
Projects and Infrastructure: Our project and infrastructure teams advises major concessionaire companies, banks and financial institutions, as well as the Republic of Chile on national public infrastructure projects, including matters related to the structure, management and implementation of public works concession contracts.
Public Law: Faced with the undeniable reality that the areas in which the State regulates the activities of individuals are growing, Morales & Besa increasingly advises clients on their relationship with State entities.
Our public law advice covers administrative law, state contracting, administrative claims, and regulatory processes. The advice we give seeks to prevent risks, or to achieve the resolution of disputes with the Administration.
Real Estate and Construction: Our real estate and construction team advises on complex and diverse real estate and infrastructure projects. It works closely with our other practices, to provide our clients with comprehensive and in-depth advice on their real estate and construction matters. Our collaborative approach allows us to guide developers throughout the life of a project.
Restructuring & Insolvency: Our Reorganization and Insolvency practice has advised clients on some of the most emblematic proceedings of the recent past. We have participated in almost all cross-border insolvency proceedings with effects in our country. We have experience representing both debtors and creditors in these proceedings, as well as in relevant local insolvency proceedings, mainly in insolvency reorganization.
Tax: At Morales & Besa we are experienced in the design of innovative tax solutions required by complex business structures, especially as a result of foreign investments and participation in the Chilean market.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Banking and Finance | José Miguel Carvajal | jmcarvajal@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727064 |
Banking and Finance | Myriam Barahona | mbarahona@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727050 |
Capital Markets | Guillermo Morales | gmorales@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727007 |
Capital Markets | Andrea Díaz | adiaz@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727015 |
Capital Markets | José Miguel Carvajal | jmcarvajal@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727064 |
Corporate – M&A | Guillermo Morales | gmorales@smoralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727007 |
Corporate – M&A | Eugenio Besa | ebesa@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727017 |
Corporate – M&A | Carlos Silva | csilva@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727024 |
Corporate – M&A | Michel Diban | mdiban@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727011 |
Corporate – M&A | Macarena Laso | mlaso@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727034 |
Employment | Valentina Morales | vmorales@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727083 |
Litigation / Arbitration | Gonzalo Cordero | gcordero@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727016 |
Projects & Infrastructure | Carlos Silva | csilva@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727024 |
Competetition and Antitrust | María José Henríquez | mjhenriquez@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727040 |
Environment, mining, and natural resources | Aldo Cardinali | acardinali@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727012 |
Energy | Juan Carlos Valdivieso | jcvaldivieso@moralesybesa.cl | +(56) 224727020 |
Tax | Santiago Martínez | smartinez@moralesybesa.cl | +56 2 2472 7057 |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Ms Myriam Barahona | Partner of Banking & Finance at Morales & Besa. | View Profile | |
Mr Eugenio Besa | Senior Partner at Morales & Besa. | View Profile | |
Mr Aldo Cardinali | Partner of Mining, Natural Resources and Environment team at Morales & Besa. | View Profile | |
Mr José Miguel Carvajal | Partner at Morales & Besa and co-head of Banking and Finance, Project… | View Profile | |
Mr Gonzalo Cordero | Partner at Morales & Besa, head of Dispute Resolution arbitration and litigation… | View Profile | |
Ms Andrea Díaz | Partner of Capital Markets at Morales & Besa. | View Profile | |
Mr Juan Ignacio Eymin | Director of the Litigation, Arbitration & Dispute Resolution at Morales & Besa. | View Profile | |
Ms María José Henríquez | Partner at Morales & Besa. Head of Competition / Antitrust and Compliance… | View Profile | |
Ms Macarena Laso | Managing Partner at Morales & Besa and head of Real Estate and… | View Profile | |
Mr Santiago Martínez | Partner of Tax team at Morales & Besa. | View Profile | |
Mr Guillermo Morales | Founding Partner at Morales & Besa, head of Capital Markets and co-head… | View Profile | |
Mrs Valentina Morales | Head of Labor at Morales & Besa. | View Profile | |
Mr Carlos Silva | Partner of Projects and Infrastructure at Morales & Besa. | View Profile | |
Mr Juan Carlos Valdivieso T. | Partner of the Energy practice at Morales & Besa. | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Other fee-earners : 72 Total staff : 105Other
Partners : 13Morales & Besa > Firm Profile
The firm: Morales & Besa was founded in 1992 by a group of outstanding professionals in the areas of corporate, financial and tax law, with the purpose of achieving the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and quality of service. Since then, we have been committed to building a first class firm and providing excellent service.
Our firm seeks, selects and integrates the best legal talent based on their personal merit and skills, to train them in its culture of excellence and teamwork. Many of our lawyers have postgraduate degrees from leading law schools in the US or Europe and have completed internships in renowned foreign law firms.
About 45% of our lawyers have a Master’s degree in Law. Of these, 84% obtained their degree in international universities, mainly in the US, and the remaining 16% in Chilean universities.
Those who have studied abroad have had the opportunity to participate in a foreign associate program, having the option of joining some of the most prestigious law firms.
We are constantly invited and participate in the main international seminars and conferences in the various fields of law, such as those organized by the IBA, ABA and other prestigious institutions.
We have a policy of collaboration with leading law firms around the world, which opens the doors to the exchange of ideas, approaches, knowledge and experience, resulting in innovative solutions.
Diversity: The foundation for success is our people, teamwork and the key ingredient is diversity. That is how we select and hire the best talent in the legal world and support them to reach their full potential by promoting a merit-based culture, where people are recognized and rewarded for the excellence of their work. We value the day-to-day demands of achieving excellence, so we strive to keep our people motivated in an inclusive and supportive work environment where the differences of each individual are valued and respected.
Diversity is an important part of who we are and that is why we strive to achieve it. Having a diverse and solid team for our clients translates into perspective, innovative thinking and creativity when finding solutions to complex situations.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Senior Partner | Guillermo Morales E. | gmorales@moralesybesa.cl | +56 2 2472 7007 |
Senior Partner | Eugenio Besa J-H. | ebesa@moralesybesa.cl | +56 2 2472 7017 |
Managing Partner | Macarena Laso A. | mlaso@moralesybesa.cl | +56 2 2472 7034 |
Staff Figures
Partners : 13 Lawyers : 65Languages
Espanol English PortugueseMemberships
IBA (International Bar Association) ABA (American Bar Association) AmCham American Chamber of Commerce British Chamber of CommerceInternational capabilities
International Capabilities
Since its establishment in 1992, Morales & Besa was conceived and has consolidated as a local firm with international outlook. Thus, in our almost 30 years of history, we have gained a great international understanding that came through many sources, including our experience with international clients with local presence and with local clients with foreign exposure. Because of our reputation in the international arena we are routinely called upon as legal advisors to big-name clients in some of the most challenging and emblematic cross-border transactions and operations.
We also have experience in acting as foray as legal advisors in transactions that do not include Chilean factors, but in which the client trusts our significant international experience and performance, to look after their interests.
Network
Morales & Besa has been able to build and maintain solid relationships with some of the main law firms present in the Americas, Europe and Asia, with which we work, on a regular basis, in advising clients or projects developed in Chile. We are routinely recommended by these same law firms to their clients to support them in the legal aspects related to the Chilean jurisdiction.
In addition, we regularly participate in the main events of the international legal field, including encounters of the American Bar Association and the International Bar Association and other specialty events led by some of the main players in the different specialties.
International training
Most of our lawyers pursue postgraduate studies in some of the most prestigious international universities, mainly in the United States, but also in Europe. The ample majority of these, remain working as international associates in firms with which we collaborate permanently. More than half of our partners were part of these programs and cultivate these links to date.
Languages
Our team is fluent both in Spanish and English. Portuguese, French and German is also spoken.
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Projects and infrastructure
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Bankruptcy, insolvency and restructuring
- Corporate and M&A