CMS > Barcelona, Spain > Firm Profile
CMS Offices
AVENIDA DIAGONAL 605
08028 BARCELONA
Spain
CMS > The Legal 500 Rankings
Spain > Data privacy and data protection Tier 2
CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo‘s Madrid-based data protection practice is a key adviser to numerous Spanish blue-chip companies and international technology businesses on contentious instructions and regulatory matters, in addition to providing day-to-day advice on data issues. Practice head and global head of communications Javier Torre de Silva, who is best known for his expertise in telecoms regulation, works closely with associate Miguel Recio in key contentious matters. Counsel José Luis Piñar is well regarded by clients and peers alike for his ‘privileged understanding of the regulations and the initiatives of the different European supervisors, as well as the discussions and values that led to their implementation‘. He is currently part of a working group drafting Spain’s Digital Rights Charter.Practice head(s):
Javier Torre de Silva
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘José Luis Piñar is truly part of your team in matters of data protection and has a privileged understanding of both the regulations and the initiatives of the different European supervisors, as well as the discussions and values that led to their implementation.’
‘I would like to highlight Javier Torre de Silva, who has an unusual knowledge among lawyers of current technology and an open mind when it comes to seeking tailored solutions for the particularities of each client.’
Key clients
Caixabank / Caixabank Payments and Consumer, EFC, EP, SAU
Ferrovial Group
Amazon and Amazon Web Services
Commerzbank AG
SoftwareOne Spain
Techem Energy Services SL
Celine (LVMH Group)
LOEWE
Sending Transporte y Comunicación
Credit Agricole
Lazard
Primark
Disney+
Iberia Cards
IP Belgian Services Company SRL (iPaper)
Neoelectra Energía
Savills Investment Management
EasyJet
Amenitiz
Bloomint
Work highlights
- Represented and defended Spanish bank CaixaBank in court proceedings initiated to challenge the Spanish Data Protection Authority’s decision imposing a fine of €6m and the obligation to adapt its internal procedures and protocols.
Spain > Industry focus: TMT Tier 2
The Madrid office of CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo is frequently involved in the local aspects of major transactions and development projects led through the firm’s international network. Prime examples include work for Meta on a new transatlantic subsea cable in cooperation with the Spanish telecoms operator Telxius, where practice head Javier Torre de Silva served as the key partner. Public law and litigation partner Jorge Sánchez in Barcelona is ‘capable of going down into the mud and making a decision taking smart risks’, while IP and digital business partner María González Gordon is a key adviser to media clients.Practice head(s):
Javier Torre de Silva
Other key lawyers:
Jorge Sánchez; María González Gordon; Ricardo Gómez-Barreda
Testimonials
‘In particular, Jorge Sánchez is a great professional who resolves complex issues in very limited time. The big difference between Jorge Sánchez and other professionals is his great commercial profile and his advice. Jorge is capable of going down into the mud and making a decision, taking smart risks. Jorge’s advice is always easy to read and understand, as well as extremely useful for making an immediate internal decision. Furthermore, Jorge’s availability is unconditional, whether or not it is his area of practice. ’
‘I must highlight the work and involvement of Jorge Sánchez. Jorge is always available to manage the most complex matters with great efficiency. He has great knowledge about the sector and market dynamics, and is able to advise in a practical and quick manner according to the company’s interests.’
‘In my opinion CMS is the reference firm for companies in the telecoms sector and new technologies. I believe that they are professionals who are at the forefront of these economic activities and with knowledge of the latest developments in national and international legislation. I consider that a very important value of this firm is its ability to face these legislative changes and changes in the productive sectors.’
‘Young and dynamic professionals, open to new technologies and knowledge of technological advances, but with great ability to deal with clients. I would highlight María González Gordon and Ricardo Gómez-Barreda.’
‘They are at the forefront of knowledge and client service.’
‘Javier Torre de Silva combines a technical knowledge of technology that is very scarce among lawyers, with a willingness to take responsibility for the result without delegating analysis to subordinates, together with great flexibility to meet the specific needs of the client.’
‘The most notable points of CMS Spain’s practice are (i) the deep knowledge of the legal aspects under discussion; (ii) understanding of the client’s true needs and a practical vision of the solution; (iii) closeness to the client; and (iv) flexibility in the definition of remuneration models.’
Key clients
Macquarie Capital
Telefónica
Orange
DIGI
YTL (Malaysia)
China Unicom
Echostar
Ferrovial Group
Meta
AWS
Microsoft
IBM
Work highlights
- Advised Macquarie Capital on the acquisition of a fibre optic network in rural areas owned by MásMóvil.
- Helping Echostar to obtain its spectrum and regulatory licenses in Spain and acting as the legal representative of Echostar in Spain for regulatory matters and relationships with CNMC and the Ministry, as well as for the regulatory aspects of the Complementary Ground Components (CGC).
- Advising Atresmedia on IP cases in Spain and in the EU, including against intellectual property rights collective management entities AIE (representing artists), and AGEDI (representing music producers).
Spain > Projects and energy Tier 2
With a ‘pronounced expertise’ in regulatory issues, PPAs, M&A and administrative-contentious proceedings, the global energy team at CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo is engaged by clients from the gas, renewables and electricity sectors as well as large international corporations investing in green energy projects. Luis Miguel de Dios has vast experience advising Spanish and international clients on corporate transactions involving infrastructure and energy assets. A key reference in the Spanish energy market, Ignacio Grangel is noted for his in-depth knowledge of regulatory issues. Alfonso Codes is a key point of contact for public authorities seeking assistance with non-contentious issues and disputes.Practice head(s):
Luis Miguel de Dios; Ignacio Grangel; César Albiñana
Other key lawyers:
Alfonso Codes; José Luis Pérez-Campoamor; Elena Alcázar; Juan Moreno
Testimonials
‘We worked with the firm on a large volume of renewables transactions. The cooperation was excellent at all times.’
‘Pronounced expertise, and agreed delivery dates were met at all times. ’
‘Elena Alcázar deserves special mention because she implemented the agreed changes as quickly as possible, especially in difficult contract negotiations, and improved them in each case by contributing her professional expertise.’
‘What I liked most about the CMS team is that apart from having specialists in all the subjects they apply, they do so without losing the joint vision of the project.’
‘They not only explain the alternatives and risks, but they also get involved in recommending the best option.’
Key clients
Siemens Gamesa
Siemens Energy
Iberdrola Renovables
Brookfield
Northland Power
Eni
Nexus Energía
Villar Mir Energía
Fusion Fuel
Arena Power
EEW Eco Energy World
Encavis AG
Spain > Public law Tier 2
CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo‘s practice covers a broad range of public law-related issues, including administrative contracts, concession agreements and public procurement processes. The team is also well positioned to handle judicial reviews, administrative claims and compliance matters in the energy, infrastructure and transport segments. Singled out for his in-depth knowledge of the energy sectors, practice head Ignacio Grangel often provides support to Spanish regulators in the drafting of regulatory frameworks. Alfonso Codes has vast experience in all areas related to interactions with public authorities, including both contentious and non-contentious matters. Javier Torre de Silva ‘stands out for his deep knowledge’ of public law, specifically in the telecoms sector. José Luis Pérez-Campoamor is considered an ‘excellent lawyer’, with a strong focus on administrative law aspects of M&A and financing deals, while Juan Moreno is named by clients as one of the ‘future stars of the Spanish legal profession’.Practice head(s):
Ignacio Grangel
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I would highlight Javier Torre de Silva. He is a magnificent lawyer; he stands out for his deep knowledge of law, in general, and public and civil law, specifically. He is a great professional.’
‘It is a firm of recognised prestige in all areas of work, which allows for a complete and efficient analysis of the issues.’
‘The team, both from a technical point of view and coordination, is impeccable.’
‘It is a fantastic team, but Juan Moreno, the firm’s counsel, stands out for his ability to communicate between other members of the firm and the client, maintaining an impressive technical standard.’
‘The quality of the CMS legal team is the differentiated treatment, the 24/7 commitment and the added value of having expertise in the corporate matters that we delegate to them. Alfonso Codes is a great lawyer specialising in public law.’
‘A young and brilliant team, specifically Alfonso Codes and Juan Moreno, who are aware of all the latest developments in the market and look for innovative solutions that are difficult to find in other markets.’
‘I believe that Juan Moreno is one of the future stars of the Spanish legal profession. He knows how to anticipate the market, see the commercial points and be flexible in terms of finding solutions.’
Key clients
Iberdrola Renovables / Iberdrola Generación
Repsol
Grupo Boluda
Totem Towerco
Orange
Mapfre
Solar 360
Siemens-Gamesa
SICE
Ontower Telecom Infraestructuras, S.A. (Cellnex Group)
Grupo Ullastres
Playtomic
Gestagua
EDP
Amazon and its subsidiaries
Ferrovial and its subsidiaries (Cintra, Ferrovial Construcción, Ferrovial Mobility and Airports)
Spain > White-collar crime Tier 2
Listed companies, major financial institutions and high-net-worth individuals all turn to CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo for its ability to navigate high-profile corporate crime cases involving money laundering, corruption, fraud and bribery allegations. The team is jointly led by Enrique Remón, who leverages a wealth of experience as a public prosecutor in investigations and white-collar crime cases to advise clients on criminal law matters, and Carlos Aguilar, who heads up the dispute resolution department. Specialised in corporate crime matters, Manuel Sánchez-Puelles and Emilio Moyano are recognised for their experience in defending clients before various courts in Spain.Practice head(s):
Carlos Aguilar Fernández; Enrique Remón Peñalver
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Knowledge of the client to be able to not only attend to but anticipate needs. Great expert knowledge.’
‘Great professionalism and technical knowledge of criminal law. Proximity to the client.’
‘Deep knowledge of the entire Spanish legal system.’
‘Serious and prestigious firm. Great professionals with a wide range of specialties.’
‘Impeccable attention from the entire team and especially from Enrique Remón. At all times I have felt cared for and perfectly advised.’
‘In my opinion, one of the strengths of the CMS criminal law team is that each and every member, at least those I have had the pleasure of meeting, is aware of all matters in the department and can discuss the procedure in question.’
‘One of the qualities, if not the most important in my opinion, is the individual treatment they give to each client.’
‘Availability of partners and personalised attention, an aspect that, in my experience, does not occur in other firms.’
Key clients
Deimos Space, S.L.U.
CM Capital Markets Holding, S.A.
Alejandro Antonio López Rodríguez (Onculture Capital, S.L.)
Deoleo, S.A.
Red Eléctrica de España
Banco Sabadell, S.A.
Portobello Capital, S.L.
Sociedad de Gestión de Activos Procedentes de la Reestructuración Bancaria (SAREB).
Work highlights
- Acted for Deimos Space, a technology subsidiary of the Elecnor Group, in criminal proceedings before the Central Court of Instruction of the Spanish National High Court and judged before the Criminal Chamber of the same Court, derived from a set of contracts entered into by the company DEFEX SA with the Ministry of the Republic of Cameroon in 2010.
- Advised Alejandro Antonio López Rodríguez, CEO and owner of Onculture Capital, S.L. on criminal proceedings before the Courts of Granada concerning administrative malfeasance, embezzlement of public funds, fraud in administrative contracting, misappropriation and money laundering.
Spain > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 3
Home to a sizeable corporate and M&A group split between Madrid and Barcelona, CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo is a popular destination for blue-chip companies, private equity houses, investment funds, and startups operating in an array of sectors, most notably telecoms, consumer goods, life sciences, real estate and energy. The latter is a key area of strength for the group, which is particularly well positioned to handle M&A involving renewable energy assets. Practice co-head José María Rojí, a seasoned M&A practitioner, sits in the Barcelona office. Key individuals to note in Madrid include: managing partner César Albiñana; Rafael Suárez de Lezo, who maintains a broad practice covering M&A, securities, finance and competition; Luis Miguel de Dios, who heads up the firm’s German desk in Spain; and Ignacio Cerrato, who handles a mix of domestic and cross-border transactions, commercial agreements and contractual matters.Practice head(s):
Jose María Rojí; César Albiñana
Other key lawyers:
Rafael Suárez de Lezo; Luis Miguel de Dios; Ignacio Zarzalejos; Elena Aguilar; Ignacio Cerrato; Elena Alcázar; Irene Miró
Testimonials
‘Irene Miró is responsive, hands-on, engaged.’
‘Young team with a good level of experience and client empathy.’
‘Important human treatment in the provision of the services. Elena Aguilar stands out.’
Key clients
Boluda Corporación Marítima and Boluda Towage
Boluda Shipping
BlueGem Capital
Siemens Gamesa
Siemens Energy
Bynder
KKR
Rentokil
Omnes Education
United Robotics Group
Grupo Watio
Synova
Atlas Copco
Work highlights
- Advised Avatel on the potential acquisition of Lyntia Access from Antin Infrastructure Partners.
- Advised Siemens Gamesa on the €613m sale of a major portfolio of wind farms under development located in Spain, France, Italy, and Greece with a total capacity of 3.8 GW.
- Advised Macquarie Capital on the acquisition of a majority stake in the fibre optic network in rural areas owned by MásMóvil which will cover more than 1.1 million Spanish households.
Spain > Dispute resolution Tier 3
CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo is renowned for its expertise in banking litigation, regularly handling instructions from some of Spain’s largest financial institutions. A frequent presence before the ICC, CRICA, and the Madrid Court of Arbitration, the team is skilled in arbitration proceedings related to financial, corporate and director liability disputes, as well as those arising from breaches of SPAs and distribution and agency agreements. Practice chair Carlos Aguilar focuses his practice on the criminal aspects of financial law, in addition to boasting broad knowledge of civil, corporate, and constitutional matters. Also noteworthy is Luis Javier Vidal, who is ‘on top of each case, providing the added value of his long and complete experience‘, particularly in the areas of civil, corporate, banking, and insolvency law. Communications sector expert Jorge Sánchez and experienced arbitrator Juan Ignacio Fernández Aguado are also active team members.Practice head(s):
Carlos Aguilar
Other key lawyers:
Juan Ignacio Fernández-Aguado; Luis Javier Vidal; Jorge Sánchez; Salvio Codes; Antonio Fernández de Hoyos; Elisa Martín; Gonzaga Guerrero
Testimonials
‘Luis Javier Vidal is a great lawyer, with a great strategic vision. He studies the issues in depth and pays great dedication to the preparation of actions both in arbitration and before the jurisdiction.’
‘It is a multidisciplinary team with the best in each field and with maximum attention and rigour in their work.’
‘I would highlight Jorge Sánchez for his availability and talent.’
‘The team shows a commitment to the cases above normal, with the direct participation in the cases of partner Luis Javier Vidal Calvo. Experience in complex cases, even with international ties, providing complete and complex advice even from the pre-litigation phase. Client-centered advice.’
‘Luis Vidal is a partner who is concerned about advising the client and is on top of each case, providing the added value of his long and complete experience.’
‘Good organisation and an excellent team for litigation.’
‘Salvio Codes: Close, technically good and very committed.’
‘High legal knowledge that, in our case, they have been able to combine perfectly with technical knowledge.’
Key clients
Caixabank
Mr. Alexandre Rosell
BBVA
Abei Enegy
ROYCASA
Spain > Employment Tier 3
At CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo, the employment team is retained by an impressive client base of both domestic and international blue-chip companies from across the financial services, real estate, pharmaceuticals, energy and technology sectors. The group is well versed in corporate transactions, workforce restructurings, hiring and termination proceedings, and also demonstrates strength in litigation. At the helm of the department, César Navarro assists with collective dismissals, outsourcing and M&A deals. Eva Ceca offers key support in social security, trade unions and occupational risk prevention issues.Practice head(s):
César Navarro
Other key lawyers:
Eva Ceca; María José Ramos
Testimonials
‘The CMS labour team has a very high level of professionalism. They have a diverse team, with different experiences but very high technical knowledge. As a firm, it’s one of the most professional I’ve ever met.’
‘Their service is adapted to the client and the specific situation, thanks to an understanding of how our sector works, the company and its processes.’
‘They offer proactive advice and anticipate business needs in order to mitigate or avoid risks in a changing and increasingly demanding regulatory framework.’
‘María José Ramos is an excellent lawyer in the firm’s labour practice. Her excellent legal training and high analytical capacity make her a true business partner who understands the need to provide quality technical advice, without neglecting the immediacy and profitability demanded by clients in our sector.’
‘Eva and César develop their work practice with their own style of quality and personalised client service that makes them unique.
‘Their fees, in addition to being flexible, are clearly aimed at retaining their client and being part of their external team in long-lasting, fruitful and stable professional relationships.’
‘Eva Ceca is a reliable and talented lawyer who comprehensively addresses all aspects of employment law that a regulated company needs. Ease of treatment and speed in accurate response. ‘
‘In-depth knowledge of employment law and vast experience in complex employment cases. They have an exceptional ability to resolve labour disputes efficiently and successfully. They are always available to answer our questions and provide guidance when we need it most.’
Key clients
Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy
Haitong
Rockwell
Qualifyze
Dynabook
Stuart
DNEG (Double Negative)
ZF Group
N26
Kubota
Wacker Group
Lime
Work highlights
- Advised Google on the implementation of a restructuring proceeding.
- Advised Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy on the preparation, negotiation and implementation of a complex collective redundancy procedure to reduce the headcount of the corporate offices of the company affecting up to 352 employees.
Spain > Insurance Tier 3
The insurance and reinsurance team at CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo stands out for its ‘highly knowledgeable’ individuals, who are able to advise major industry clients on insurtech, M&A, corporate restructuring, bancassurance agreements, regulatory matters and litigation. Jaime Bofill handles the entire spectrum of matters, bringing together experience in portfolio transfers, insurance and reinsurance distribution, as well as policy cover issues. Senior associate Jorge Etreros is noted for his in-depth knowledge of insurance regulations, product liability claims and litigation. Guillermo Ruiz Barrilero, who is particularly experienced in transactional matters, joined from Hogan Lovells International LLP in August 2022.Practice head(s):
Jaime Bofill
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Jaime Bofill – communication capacity, regulatory knowledge and agility in the management of matters.’
‘The CMS insurance team is highly trained and highly knowledgeable of the insurance industry, not only in legal matters, but in new business models – the recommendations to its clients and collaborators are very accurate.’
‘Jaime Bofill is a great lawyer – he stands out from his competitors in the way he faces circumstances and challenges. Bofill manages moments and circumstances with great creativity, pragmatism, understanding and resolution capacity.’
‘The professional and personal treatment is unbeatable as well as its speed and efficiency.’
‘The CMS teams with which we have worked are well led, very competent in their area of competence and offer several alternatives for action in each case.’
‘In our case, Jaime Bofill is the person in whom we place our total trust.’
Key clients
Howden Iberia, S.A.U.
Ibercaja/Pensumo
DUAL Ibérica Riesgos Profesionales, S.A.
Mapfre Group
Mediterráneo Vida S.A., de Seguros y Reaseguros
Aseguradora Aserta, S.A. de C.V., Grupo Financiero Aserta
Monument Assurance Luxembourg
CNP Santander Insurance Europe DAC and CNP Santander Insurance Life DAC (“CNP Santander”)
Anacap Finaltial Partners
Tokio Marine HCC
Generali España Sociedad Anónima de Seguros y Reaseguro
Solunion Seguros, Compañía Internacional de Seguros y Reaseguros, S.A.
April Insurance Group
ANV
Chubb European Group Se Suc.España
Monument Life Insurance Dac
Zurich Insurance plc Suc.España
PIB Group Spain (UK) Limited (“PIB”)
Howden Group Holdings Limited
Luko Cover SAS
Work highlights
- Advised PIB Group on 6 acquisitions of brokers in Spain.
- Advised IBERCAJA on a project that resulted in a change in the Spanish pensions regulation.
- Assists Generali Spain with complex litigation matters concerning civil liability and bonding insurance.
Spain > Intellectual property: Copyright Tier 3
With the ability to handle a broad range of IP work for international clients, CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo is singled out for its strong performance in copyright litigation. In addition to contentious matters, the group is also well positioned to advise on transfer agreements, publishing contracts, software licensing and film rights assignment. Known for its experience in the media and technology sectors, the practice is led by litigator María González Gordon, who is ‘dedicated and builds trust‘. Counsel Ricardo Gómez-Barreda, who handles both contentious and non-contentious work, and Jaime Bello play central roles in the practice.Practice head(s):
María González Gordon
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very professional.’
‘I work closely with María González Gordon; she has a lot of knowledge and great capability to understand the situation. She provides confidence, is dedicated, builds trust and has great relationships.’
‘Their work procedures and availability are outstanding. The treatment, availability and communication towards the client is excellent. The use of technology in the form of communication with clients and in teamwork is very good. I want to highlight, above all, the high degree of legal knowledge of legislation, jurisprudence, and especially procedural law.’
‘The special availability and interest with which they work. The treatment with clients and lawyers is outstanding as well as their ability to work as a team. María González Gordon and Ricardo Gómez-Barreda are recommended.’
‘They are always one step ahead. They can provide advice with minimal instructions at short notice and thanks to their dedication to our retainer prove invaluable to achieve our business objectives and keep our clients happy. Their assistance goes beyond mere legal advice and comprises great business acumen. We benefit incredibly from their knowledge of the local customs and contractual environment.’
‘Ricardo Gómez-Barreda is able to turn out complex instructions into sound legal documents. His attention to detail is priceless. We benefit greatly from his accurate risk assessment.’
Key clients
Atresmedia Corporación de Medios de Comunicación
Cameron Mackintosh
Audible
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Studios
Banco Sabadell
Squirrel Media
Realogy Group
Hakkasan Limited
Adama
Leifheit
Wiloc Technologies
Work highlights
Spain > Intellectual property: Trade marks Tier 3
Spain > Tax Tier 3
CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo has a ‘magnificent‘ team that advises on a range of transactional tax issues across various sectors, including banking and finance, private equity, real estate, energy, and telecoms. It is also regarded for its strong capabilities in complex negotiations with tax authorities, audits, and litigation proceedings. The team is led by Diego de Miguel, who has ‘deep technical and business knowledge that allows him to provide constructive and feasible solutions‘. Recently promoted partner Ricardo Héctor is another standout individual who often advises private equity funds and multinational corporates on tax structuring issues.Practice head(s):
Diego de Miguel
Other key lawyers:
Ricardo Héctor
Testimonials
‘Exceptional work with great involvement and extensive knowledge of the sector.’
‘Technical competence, immediate availability and close treatment.’
‘Diego de Miguel is the team’s reference. Deep technical and business knowledge that allows him to provide constructive and feasible solutions. Great ability to organise his team by delegating asks and focusing his efforts on the truly relevant aspects. Ricardo Héctor is a very important asset to the team and takes on an increasingly important role.’
‘The CMS Tax team is magnificent. They go to great lengths to understand their clients’ needs well, to offer practical solutions to problems that may arise in companies, and, above all, they maintain excellent treatment with all their clients so that communication is fluid and work is effective. It is a very complete team, with enormous technical quality and great human quality.’
‘The best qualities of the team are empathy, communication, technical quality, the constant concern they show for their clients, and their willingness to offer the best possible solutions for the problems that arise in our daily work. Diego de Miguel is an excellent professional, always committed to offering the best service to his clients, with a brilliant way of approaching issues and ensuring, at all times, that communication is fluid and the analysis offered is practical and efficient.’
‘Apart from the technical excellence that CMS-level firms are presumed to have, what makes their tax team different is that both Diego de Miguel and his team members are very practical when it comes to providing advice. They perfectly identify our needs and whenever we have requested it, they have been totally flexible and very successful when it comes to fitting their services into our projects to do “tailored” work for us.’
‘Diego de Miguel is very well connected and maintains good personal relations with many of his counterparts in other jurisdictions, which has been useful to us on many occasions. Finally, in terms of fees, they are reasonable and certainly flexible.’
‘Diego has a well-deserved reputation in the sector. He is considered one of the reference tax market advisers, which, based on our experience, is fully deserved. Technically he is very good and, above all, very complete. He has a broad vision of the tax panorama, which allows him to identify issues that others do not see. In addition, he has a great commercial vision.’
Key clients
Maquarie Capital
Rothschild Bank
Idemia Group
Brookfield
Solar 360
BlueGem Capital Partners
Siemens Energy
Sandaya
Blackrock
Perial
Re:Cap
Aquila Capital
Spain > EU and competition Tier 4
Benefitting from close ties to the firm's corporate and M&A department, CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo is equipped to assist clients from a variety of sectors, most notably consumer products, manufacturing and telecoms, with merger control proceedings and litigation. In addition to his strong track record in merger clearance issues, Carlos Vérgez is often engaged by multinational companies seeking advice on the design and implementation of compliance programmes. Also part of the core team, Aida Oviedo handles abuse of dominant position and unfair competition cases. Both practitioners receive praise for their ‘level of service, quality of advice and standard of reporting’.Practice head(s):
Carlos Vérgez
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Carlos Vérgez is technically impeccable, an excellent people manager, generous with the team and his co-workers, and has very good commercial skills.’
‘It has provided outstanding service and support to an especially long and complex transaction.’
‘Carlos Vérgez and Aida Oviedo – the level of service, quality of advice and standard of reporting has been exceptional.’
‘Carlos Vérgez is charming, one of the best people in antitrust law in Madrid and has experience in all types of transactions.’
Key clients
Thomson Reuters and Wolters Kluwer
Macquarie Capital, Aberdeen Standard Investments, Arjun and Daiwa
Boluda Corporación Marítima
Logista
KKR
Siemens Gamesa
Loewe
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
Hero AG
Cellnex
Loewe
DIGI Spain
Medvida
KELLOGG ESPAÑA
Nobel Sports (Sofisport Group)
Work highlights
- Advised Thomson Reuters and Wolters Kluwer on the joint sale of its legal publishing business in Spain (Aranzadi) together with the Spanish and French businesses of Wolters Kluwer to Karnov, working as advisors to both vendors (Thomson Reuters and Wolters Kluwer).
- Advised Logista on competition compliance matters and merger control issues.
- Advised Siemens Gamesa on the sale of a portfolio of wind farms located in Spain (31 projects), France (19 projects), Italy (9 projects) and Greece (14 projects), with a total capacity of 3.8 GW.
Spain > Intellectual property: patents Tier 4
Spain > Real estate and construction Tier 4
Recognised by clients as ‘one of the most important players in the sector’, CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo handles the full spread of real estate matters, from financing to construction contracts and disposals. Backed by over 20 years of industry knowledge, Álvaro Otero ‘stands out for his expertise in the subject along with his ability to synthesise and analyse risks’. Javier Colino is another key name to note, highlighted for his ‘attention to detail', and experience in asset deals and financing transactions.Practice head(s):
Álvaro Otero
Other key lawyers:
Javier Colino; Jorge Duran
Testimonials
‘Technique, prestige and immediate response – CMS is one of the most important players in the sector.’
‘Álvaro Otero stands out for his expertise in the subject along with his ability to synthesise and analyse risks.’
‘Javier Colino – attention to detail and control of the transaction.’
‘Very practical, fast, experienced in a broad sense.’
‘High-quality service; dedication and availability.’
‘They offer a full service and are able to coordinate with multiple parties involved in any transaction.’
‘They are very agile and commercial in their position and recommendations during the transaction. The senior team and partners are completely involved in the transactions, which allows us to go into detail about the elements that may constitute some risk in the transaction. In the transactions that we have carried out together from a real estate angle, the real estate team has managed internally.’
Key clients
Catella AM
CBRE IM
Delin
Franklin Templeton Social Infrastructure Fund (FTSIF)
Invesco
Kommunalkredit Austria AG
Nuveen
Pictet
Primevest Capital Partners
Principal
Savills Investment Management
Schroders Capital
SERRIS REIM Real Estate Investment Management
Aquila Capital
Work highlights
- Advised CBRE IM on the sale of its 49% stake in the Resa Group to the Dutch pension fund, PGGM.
- Advised Schroders on the acquisition of a 5 star luxury hotel operated by The Standard brand under an HMA along with the hotel’s operating business.
- Advising Primevest on the acquisition of three residential development project (build-to-rent) in Sevilla, Valencia and Albacete.
Spain > Restructuring and insolvency Tier 4
CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo advises on a broad range of pre-insolvency and insolvency matters, guiding clients throughout the entire proceedings, from the petition of solvency to the proposal of arrangements or liquidation. The team acts for both debtors and creditors, and its client roster includes domestic and international corporates, investors, and financial institutions. It is also well versed in debt restructuring and refinancings, including cross-border matters. Juan Ignacio Fernández Aguado stands at the helm of the practice; he is a go-to adviser for complex insolvencies and has a track record of dealing with contentious proceedings, including litigation and arbitration. Elisa Martín is also an active team member.Practice head(s):
Juan Ignacio Fernández Aguado
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘CMS has an excellent restructuring and insolvency team.’
‘They have very good knowledge of the practice, especially taking into account the continuous legislative changes in Spain and the EU.’
‘The team is knowledgeable and has the ability to advise the client on managing the crisis of restructuring or insolvency.’
‘In our case, Juan Ignacio Fernández Aguado is very practical in his approaches. He knows how to choose the best alternative. He is accessible, available and 100% reliable as a person and as a professional.’
‘Juan Ignacio Fernández-Aguado is a great, dedicated and conscientious lawyer.’
Key clients
Novo Banco
Abanca
Haitong Bank
Engie Group
Grupo Inmobiliaria Chamartín
Diageo
Grupo ITEK
MGO By Westfield
Adveo
Deoleo
Spain > Banking and finance Tier 5
The Madrid-based banking and finance team at CMS Albiñana y Suárez de Lezo ‘offers comprehensive advice‘ to borrowers and lenders on transactional and regulatory matters, benefitting from the firm’s vast international footprint. Acquisition finance and debt refinancing are key areas of strength for the department, which also showcases a strong track record in the financing of renewable energy projects. The team stands out for its financial services regulatory expertise, covering banking, payment services, asset management and anti-money laundering (AML) issues. Practice head Ricardo Plasencia is recommended for his ‘great knowledge of financial regulatory matters‘, including fintech. The ‘technically brilliant‘ Borja Vázquez joined from Ashurst LLP in March 2023. Former practice head Guillermo Muñoz-Alonso left the firm in July 2023.Practice head(s):
Ricardo Plasencia
Other key lawyers:
Borja Vázquez; Marta González
Testimonials
‘They form an exceptional team at all levels. Very senior and experienced team that is always involved and technically excellent. It offers comprehensive advice, supported, if the operation requires it, by their very extensive international network.’
‘They have a highly technically qualified team and, from a personal point of view, they show a closeness that most law firms lack. They have recently hired Counsel Borja Vázquez, who came from an English firm, who is technically brilliant, always available and offers practical and efficient commercial solutions to be able to close the deal in the best interest of his client. It is a pleasure to work with him from a personal and professional point of view.’
‘The regulatory banking team (Ricardo Plasencia) is exceptional, highly knowledgeable on the subject and with great client service.’
‘Ricardo Plasencia: great knowledge of financial regulatory matters, outstanding availability and client care skills.’
Key clients
Haitong Bank
Global Student Accomodation
Onivia / Macquarie
Nuveen
Redburn
FNZ
Elavon
Visa Europe Limited
Sabadell Venture Capital
Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure
easyHotel
Work highlights
- Advised Ucles Infraco, S.L. (Onivia) on the amendment and restatement of the existing English Law Senior Facilities Agreement arranged by Natixis to increase the commitments to €165m to finance the acquisition price of additional FTTH network from Masmovil.
- Assisted the Sabadell Venture Capital, S.A. in the venture debt granted to Pangealand, S.L. through the vehicle that Sabadell Venture Capital, S.A. set up with the European Investment Bank as co-investor.
- Advised Elavon Financial Services DAC on the reorganisation of its business in Spain, moving from a branch to a representative office, including all relevant corporate and regulatory steps.
Spain > Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences
CMS > Firm Profile
CMS’ Spanish-based firm, CMS Albiñana & Suárez de Lezo, employs more than 100 lawyers located in Madrid, Barcelona and Seville, and is regarded as one of the most prestigious in the Spanish market, striving to establish a close working relationship with clients in order to fully understand their needs and offer innovative solutions in all areas of Law.
Ranked as a Top 10 Global Law Firm, CMS is present in 41 countries and 72 offices worldwide. Our 4,800 plus CMS lawyers offer specialist advice on numerous sectors tailored to our clients needs, whether in the local market or across multiple jurisdictions.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing Partner | César Albiñana | cesar.albinana@cms-asl.com | |
Managing Partner | Rafael Suárez de Lezo | rafael.suarezdelezo@cms-asl.com |
Languages
Spanish English French GermanLegal Briefings
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Doing business in the UAE
CMS’s John O’Connor and Harkee Wilson discuss the challenges and issues businesses face operating in the UAE and investigate some of the recent changes in the business environment.
Comparative Guides
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United Arab Emirates: Advertising & Marketing
Published: October 2023
Authors: Ben GibsonKhiloni JobanputraJaleela JohnsonEve Brady
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Advertising & Marketing laws and regulations applicable in United Arab Emirates.
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United Kingdom: Advertising & Marketing
Published: October 2023
Authors: Tom ScourfieldStuart Helmer
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Advertising & Marketing laws and regulations applicable in United Kingdom.
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Italy: Advertising & Marketing
Published: October 2023
Authors: Paola GhezziGiulia Tomassini
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Advertising & Marketing laws and regulations applicable in Italy.
- Data privacy and data protection
- Industry focus: TMT
- Projects and energy
- Public law
- White-collar crime
Firm Rankings
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Insurance
- Intellectual property: Copyright
- Intellectual property: Trade marks
- Tax