Mr José Ignacio Vial > Barros Silva Varela & Vigil > Santiago, Chile > Lawyer Profile

Housing ‘several people with a good level of experience’, Barros Silva Varela & Vigil‘s environment team routinely handles environmental assessments, compliance with environmental regulations, and sanctioning proceedings before the Superintendency of the Environment and the Environmental Protection Agency. The nine-strong group, which also assists with environmental crime-related prosecutions, showcases Claudia Ferreiro, an expert in project-related environmental impact assessments, defending clients before State agencies, concessions and environmental regulations; and former Undersecretary of the Ministry of the Environment, Felipe Riesco. In the firm’s senior associate ranks, José Ignacio Vial is an experienced litigator; and Esteban Carmona advises on environmental regulation, administrative procedures and permit applications.

Displaying ‘exceptional mastery of government processes’, Barros Silva Varela & Vigil’s public and regulatory law practice provides strategic advice on the development of projects and business activities that require State authorisation. Its expertise further covers related litigation and relations with local communities. The team is co-led by former Undersecretary of the Ministry of the Environment, Felipe Riesco, whose practice encompasses administrative regulations, sanctioning procedures and litigation; and Claudia Ferreiro, who ‘excels in her legal knowledge’ and regularly defends clients before State agencies. In the senior associate group, José Ignacio Vial is an experienced litigator, while Esteban Carmona specialises in administrative proceedings and appeals.