DLA Piper > Madrid, Spain > Firm Profile
DLA Piper Offices

Paseo de la Castellana, 39
28046 Madrid
Spain
DLA Piper > The Legal 500 Rankings
Spain > Industry focus: Manufacturing Tier 1
DLA Piper regularly acts for notable packaging, automotive and technology clients in a range of real estate, planning, corporate, IP and public law matters. The firm is regularly involved in large manufacturing transactions, with recent work highlights include representing MKS Instruments in the $5.1bn cash and stock acquisition of Atotech. Diego Ramos and counsel Francisco Perales are active members of the practice.Practice head(s):
Francisco Perales
Key clients
Ardagh Glass Limited
MKS Instruments
Renault
Macmillan
Work highlights
- Advised Ardagh Glass Limited on the design of a Covid-19 safety scheme that is compliant with Spanish and European Data Protection Laws.
- Representing MKS Instruments in the $5.1bn cash and stock acquisition of Atotech.
- Representing Macmillan in its appeal before the Spanish National Court against the decision of the Spanish Competition Authority in which 34 publishers were fined for an alleged cartel case.
Spain > Industry focus: Retail Tier 1
Commercial, technology and IP expert Diego Ramos is the standout practitioner in DLA Piper‘s retail team, which acts for clients across the real estate, corporate, finance and public sectors. Recent work highlights included its advice to the lenders in the refinancing of the debt of El Corte Inglés, and its assistance to Happy Socks regarding an IP rights case. Orson Alcocer is another active member of the practice.Practice head(s):
Diego Ramos; Orson Alcocer
Key clients
Avon
Levi Strauss
Newell Rubbermaid
Kering
Mondelez
Reckitt Benckiser
CBRE
NBA Properties
Bricor
Karen Millen
Work highlights
- Advising Amundi Inmobilier on the acquisition of two office buildings in Madrid, to be demolished and developed in two new buildings to be leased as multi-tenant buildings.
- Advising Banco Santander and a pool of lenders on the refinancing of the debt of El Corte Inglés.
- Advising Happy Socks in connection to the opposition of the misappropriation by a Spanish company of the use of the IP rights of the client.
Spain > Banking and finance Tier 2
DLA Piper‘s ‘expert and really efficient team‘ in banking and finance acts for major Spanish banks and a number of leading international financial institutions, its Madrid office being a key hub of the wider firm’s international network. César HerreroPractice head(s):
César Herrero
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘High knowledge of the market, very focused on the closing of the operation and very good technically.’
‘The team accumulates years of experience in the sector. They proactively assist and involve the in-house attorney throughout the negotiation process.’
‘The Spanish DLA Piper team is available and reactive. The team brought us concrete solutions.’
‘The DLA Banking team is a team with great expertise, pro-deal and very “hands-on”. In addition, when there is a problem in the negotiations, they find effective and creative solutions with “out-of-the-box thinking”. They are certainly always on our list of favorite teams.’
‘Although the entire team is fantastic, I’d highlight Cesar Herrero because technically he is outstanding, he always knows the operation and the documents in detail and thoroughly understands the needs of the parties, finding the optimal solution in the transactions.’
‘Top team at DLA led by strong partners. Expert and really efficient team that benefits from high quality work and expertise. This makes DLA one of the best legal firms in Spain and one of my preferences in the market.’
Key clients
Santander
BBVA
ABANCA
Corpbanca
Natixis
CaixaBank
Banco Sabadell
Société Générale
ING
Pemberton
Muzinich
Arcano
LGT
Silicon Valley Bank
Bank of Ireland
EBN Banco
Floa Bank
NatWest Markets
Strategic Value Partners
Altura Markets
A&G Banca Privada
OpenBank
Andbank España
Work highlights
- Advising a syndicate of Spanish and international banks as lenders on a first-of-its-kind, long-term back-stop facility in Spain granted to the Spanish Deposit Guarantee Fund of Credit Institutions, for €4bn.
- Acting for a pool of Spanish and international banks, led by Société Génerale, on the financing in favour of listed company CIE Automotive for circa €800m.
- Advising Aedas Homes on the financing granted by Incus Capital for the construction and development of a portfolio of build-to-rent assets across Spain.
Spain > Industry focus: Food Tier 2
DLA Piper has established a solid reputation in the market as a trusted advisor for multinational companies, assisting them in a range of mandates, from transactional and franchising matters to investigations and litigation. Diego Ramos leads the practice, closely supported by head of the EU and competition department Joaquín Hervada and IP specialist Paula González de Castejón.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Bacardi
Mondelez
SOIFA Alimentación
Hard Rock Café
Work highlights
- Advising Bacardi regarding the new terms and conditions of sale and purchase of products.
- Advising Soifa Alimentación on contractual matters to the Spanish market leader of Hummus, falafel and other Mediterranean food stuff.
- Advice to International Procurement and Logistics Limited regarding the new legal framework in Spain on food procurement.
Spain > Industry focus: TMT Tier 2
DLA Piper is well versed across the spectrum of telecoms and media work, and is highlighted for its ability to take on ‘the toughest innovative matters’. Clients benefit from the expertise of the Spanish team, headed by technology and privacy law specialist Diego Ramos, which can also draw from the firm’s global strength in this field. Also noted is Paula González de Castejón, who leads the gaming and gambling practice and has solid experience in technology and IP.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Their expertise and their experience is very useful in order to deal with the toughest innovative matters.’
Key clients
Warner Bros
Adobe
Axiell Group
BigCommerce
Bluebeam
EOLO toys Limited
HBO
Hyundai IntelePeeri
LOQ Oy
LG Electronics Inc
Loewe
Open Bank
Técnicas Reunidas
Trumpf GmbH & Co. KG
Work highlights
- Advised HBO in connection with age rating requirements under the Spanish legislation and market practice.
- Advised International Olympic Committee in connection to the privacy standards of IOC global reach events.
- Advised Trumpf GmbH & Co in connection with the assessment of its ownership rights on twenty state-of-the-art software applications in the context of a corporate deal.
Spain > Projects and energy Tier 2
Notable Spanish and foreign institutions, banks, insurance companies, investment funds, issuers, borrowers and sponsors seek out DLA Piper‘s energy practice for its unique ‘customer- and solution-oriented expert advice’. Recently, the team, which is jointly led by César HerreroPractice head(s):
César Herrero; Javier Santos
Other key lawyers:
José Manuel Sala; Juan Gelabert; Carmen Sánchez; Carmen Fernández-Ladreda
Testimonials
‘The customer- and solution-oriented expert advice you get is unique.’
‘We consider Javier Santos to be among the very best of his field.’
‘The work they have carried out has been impeccable and in different fields, experienced people, with excellent client service and commitment.’
‘The operations in which we have worked with DLA on Energy projects have been successfully formalised, with a very professional and serious team.’
‘Excellent professionals, fully involved in the operation. I have worked with Juan Gelabert and his team in Project Finance operations. The work has been more than outstanding. It has helped us a lot to reach agreements with complicated clients.’
‘César Herreo, Carmen Sánchez and Carmen Fernández-Ladreda are very committed and with a very deep legal knowledge.’
‘Javier Santos was available at all times as the main contact person. He distinguishes himself on the one hand by his calm and mediating manner and on the other hand by an extremely high expert know-how as well as detailed knowledge of all negotiated contracts. Javier Santos is extremely efficient and expeditious in his execution. He was also able to convince the teams of other law firms in many negotiations with cogent argumentation and therefore significantly enhanced many contracts as a whole.’
‘Jose Manuel Sala is a great professional with solid knowledge in matters of the regulated energy sector, and in administrative procedures.’
Key clients
Aquila Capital
Commerz Real
Edison
Sol Noctis
Suez Group
Iberdrola
Sampol Energía
Banco Sabadell
Banco Santander
CaixaBank
Bankinter
Falck Renewables
BayWa
Unión Fenosa Gas
Forestalia
EDP Renovaveis
ING
BBVA
Natixis
Banco Itaú
Banco CorpBanca
Banco Estado de Chile
Work highlights
- Advised Aquila on the acquisition of two portfolios combining more than 1.3GW of Spanish photovoltaic plants under development.
- Advised Commerz Real on the acquisition of a 130MW photovoltaic portfolio.
- Advised Banco Sabadell on the financing of the construction and operation by Forestalia Renovables of a c.50MW photovoltaic plant in Aragon.
Spain > Real estate and construction Tier 2
The real estate and construction practice at DLA Piper utilises its global network of offices in 40 countries to assist national and international investors, financial institutions and major corporates on high-value and multi-jurisdictional deals. Orson Alcocer leads the team and assists clients in navigating a transaction’s entire life cycle, from investments, development and funding, to construction, management and commercialisation. In addition, the group advises on real estate litigation, leases, purchase-sales, condominium structures and project finance. The team is supported by real estate development expert José María Oliva, legal director and restructuring specialist Ignacio Antón, planning law advisor and of counsel Francisco Perales and senior associate Angel Maestro. The group’s client base spans the hospitality, retail and insurance sectors, and includes Rakuten and Allianz.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Experience in the sector, global vision of operations and technical knowledge to defend those points that are most relevant to the client. Good negotiation skills.’
‘I would highlight José María Oliva and his outstanding experience in accompanying and negotiating operations of this nature within the real estate sector. Technical capacity, availability and agile execution and decision-making of Angel Maestro.’
‘It is a team that works well and is responsive.’
‘The team really do manage our transaction processes well and have got to know what really matters for us.’
‘Orson Alcocer and Angel Maestro are always available and incredibly proactive. They approach matters with good humour which really makes a difference.’
Key clients
Amundi
Starwood Capital
Rakuten
GLP
ING Real Estate Finance
HIG Europe
Hines
Goodman
GreenOak
Generali
GMP
REDEVCO
NH Hoteles
Lar España Real Estate SOCIMI
AXA Real Estate
Grupo Didra
INMARK
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
KGAL GmbH
Allianz
Work highlights
- Advised Amundi on the forward acquisition of the future L’Oréal headquarters in Madrid.
- Advised HIG Real Estate on the acquisition of a stake in the developer of Madrid Content City, the future Spanish-speaking media hub where Netflix studios will be installed.
- Advised on the acquisition by Allianz of a residential portfolio through the acquisition of the ELIX Vintage Residential SOCIMI.
Spain > Capital markets: Equity Tier 3
DLA Piper‘s capital markets practice is now overseen by broad corporate law expert José María Gil-Robles, supported by capital markets specialist of counsel, Jesús Palencia. This follows the departure of Iñigo Gomez-Jordana in January 2021. The firm has nevertheless continued to field cross-practice teams to assist its clients in capital markets transactions, and its key strengths on the equity side are in capital increases and SOCIMIs.Practice head(s):
José María Gil-Robles
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great knowledge and professionalism.’
Key clients
Iberdrola
Atlantia.
Europac
EDP Renováveis
Azora Gestión SGIIC
Banco Santander
Natixis
Repsol
Goldman Sachs & Co.
Abengoa
Clínica Baviera
Société Générale
Altura Markets
Global Dominion Access
Citigroup Global Markets
Avenue Europe International Management
Allianz Real Estate
Fracttal
Inmark Prime
Spain > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 3
Hailed for its ‘technical knowledge and experience, coupled with a deal-maker profile’, international firm DLA Piper is home to one of the largest M&A practices globally. Its offering in Spain is spearheaded by José María Gil-Robles, who thrives in all stages of the M&A process, from tax and legal structuring through to due diligence and transaction documentation; he possesses a notable track record in leveraged buyouts and distressed M&A and is supported by Joaquín Echánove, noted for his ‘problem solving orientation’. The team routinely draws upon the expertise of its colleagues in tax, financial services regulation, corporate governance and employment to deliver a full-service offering.Practice head(s):
José María Gil-Robles
Other key lawyers:
Joaquín Echánove; Enrique Chamorro
Testimonials
‘Technical knowledge and extensive experience coupled with a deal-maker profile that sets them apart from others.’
‘Joaquín Echánove stands out for his technical knowledge and extensive experience, through his problem solving orientation and innovative solutions.’
‘Very pragmatic, efficient, responsive.’
Key clients
Avenue Capital
Allianz Real Estate
Waterfall Asset Management
DDM-Group
Globant España Sau
Lineage Logistics Holdings
Nemetschek
Renta Garantizada
Formentor Capital Partners
La Saleta Care
Waterland Private Equity
Polhem Infra
Starwood Capital Europe Advisers
GED Iberian Private Equity
Adamo Telecom (EQT)
Colisée Patrimoine Group SAS (“Colisée”)
Sherpa Capital
Baluarte Capital
Cognita
Iberica Partners
Syna Capital Partners
Oxy Capital, SGFCR
Work highlights
- Provided advice to companies owned by funds managed by Avenue Capital in the debt restructuring of listed company Quabit, and the subsequent merger of Quabit and Neinor and certain acquisitions of assets from the merged entity by Avenue Capital.
- Advised Allianz Real Estate on the €140m acquisition of Elix Vintage Residential Socimi from KKR.
- Advised Globant on the separate acquisition processes of Spanish companies BlueCap, Habitant and Walmeric.
Spain > Dispute resolution Tier 3
DLA Piper‘s litigation and regulatory team ‘gives straightforward answers, is very responsive and fields first class professionals‘. Under the leadership of Borja de Obeso, the department acts for major companies, with an emphasis on the financial services, energy and construction sectors. In 2020, the firm launched its own third-party funding product, Aldersgate Funding Limited, which is available to its clients. Highly regarded counsel Ben Sanderson ‘possesses all the necessary qualities that an in-house lawyer needs and expects‘. Andrea Rodríguez is a name to note at the senior associate level.Practice head(s):
Borja de Obeso
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Borja Obeso is an added value for the legal practice of the firm that makes DLA Piper stand out in the arbitration hearings. A sure value in arbitration lawsuits.’
‘DLA Piper’s Madrid office is very easy to communicate, gives straightforward answers, is very responsive and fields first class professionals.’
‘Ben Sanderson is easy to communicate with, very responsive, provides clear answers, thinks ahead, has deep knowledge about investment arbitration and gives a sense of confidence.’
‘The reliability of the managing partner during the hearings in the case is an added value to the good work in the writing of the briefs.’
‘Ben Sanderson is always available; has invaluable insights into problems and invariably provides the correct answer. It is a pleasure to discuss complicated issues with him. He possesses all the necessary qualities that an in-house lawyer needs and expects. Furthermore, his excellent and comprehensive knowledge of PIL is a rare talent to find among partners in international law firms. As he has practiced law as counsel for many years, he is very skillful in advising on procedure and tactics.’
Key clients
Lithuania
Interpol
Work highlights
- Defending new client Lithuania in a BIT claim relating to bank nationalisation.
Spain > Employment Tier 3
DLA Piper‘s employment practice is led by Pilar MenorPractice head(s):
Pilar Menor
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Magnificent work team, wonderfully led by Pilar Menor. I would highlight the ability to understand the culture and strategy of the company, and recommend the best path according to them.’
‘The main partner, Pilar Menor, oversees everything and offers her great experience, as well as having the opportunity to discuss the general strategy and details with her.’
Key clients
Nomad Foods Europe
Clark Shoes
Dyson
Stuart Delivery
Etihad
SuperGroup
Adobe
Ardagh Group
Becton Dickinson
BorgWarner Europe
Commvault
London Stock Exchange
Hilton
Levi-Strauss
NetApp
Axalta Coating Systems
Uber
Newell Brands
Shiseido
Dr Martens
Discovery
Dolby
Generali
Sodexo
Verizon
Elavon
Fiat
Work highlights
- Advised Hard Rock Spain on the implementation of a collective dismissal process affecting more than 85 employees in Madrid.
- Acted for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Spain in the preparation and implementation of a temporary-lay off based on organisational grounds linked to Covid-19.
- Assisted Hotel Ritz with various negotiations of new collective suspension of employment contracts and legal advice in relation to a serious work-related accident.
Spain > Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences Tier 3
Paula González de Castejón heads the life sciences practice in DLA Piper's Madrid office, which is well known for its expertise advising clients on regulatory, transparency, data protection and advertising matters. González de Castejón has a good insight into the sector thanks to her time on secondments in two major pharmaceutical and medical devices companies.Practice head(s):
Paula González de Castejón; Diego Ramos
Testimonials
‘DLA Piper Spain has a department specialized in regulatory affairs which is very useful for our company and our sector. This has allowed us to be able to obtain fast answers to complex matters and has saved us time.’
‘I have personally worked with Paula González de Castejón. She was very available, understood the complexity and approach we were looking for.’
Key clients
Pfizer SLU
Abbott Medical España
VERTEX
SYNEOS
Kartos Therapeutics
Telios Pharma
Incyte Corporation
Iovance Biotherapeutics
Tilak Healthcare
Sherpa Capital Entidad Gestora
TFS Trial Form Support S.L.
GED Iberian Private Equity
Work highlights
- Advised Pfizer with regulatory advice on transparency matters, relationships with healthcare professionals, data protection matters and public procurement.
- Advising Abbott Medical España on regulatory, commercial and public procurement matters, as well as on tax and employment matters.
- Advising Syneos Health on telemedicine regulation, particularly on regulatory requirements applicable to nursing services at trial subjects’ homes.
Spain > Private equity Tier 3
DLA Piper has recently employed its broad geographical footprint to act on matters pertaining to Belgium, Italy, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Peru, the UK and the US, among other jurisdictions. José María Gil-Robles serves as practice head and is adept in a wide range of matters, including the tax and legal structuring of investments, due diligence processes and transaction-related agreements. Clients include private equity investors, hedge funds, management teams, debt providers and portfolio companies, which rely on the group for its full-service offering, which also covers refinancing and debt restructuring affairs. Teresa Zueco left the firm in November 2021.Practice head(s):
José María Gil-Robles
Other key lawyers:
Joaquín Echánove; Enrique Chamorro
Testimonials
‘Very high quality personalised attention and flexibility in availability.’
‘This is a people business and Joaquin Echánove has been crucial to closing the transaction thanks to their work and determination to do things right and give the best possible client service.’
‘Dedication and availability. Really understand client needs and adapt accordingly. Team is always available.’
‘Attention to detail – they have comprehensive view of all legal doc’s and very much aware of the implications changes can have on overall documentation.’
‘Problem solvers rather than problem makers. I would count on Joaquín Echánove and team on future projects.’
Key clients
Avenue Capital
Allianz Real Estate
Waterfall Asset Management
DDM-Group
Globant España Sau
Lineage Logistics Holdings
Waterland Private Equity
Formentor Capital Partners
Starwood Capital Europe Advisers
GED Iberian Private Equity
Adamo Telecom (EQT)
Colisée Patrimoine Group SAS (“Colisée”)
Sherpa Capital
Baluarte Capital
Cognita
Iberica Partners
Work highlights
- Provided advice to companies owned by funds managed by Avenue Capital in the debt restructuring of listed company Quabit, which involves the conversion of sustainable debt into preferred shares.
- Advised Allianz Real Estate on the €140m acquisition of Elix Vintage Residential Socimi from KKR.
- Advising GED Iberian Private Equity on its buy and build consolidation project in Europe.
Spain > Restructuring and insolvency Tier 3
DLA Piper brings its cross-practice expertise in corporate, banking, finance and litigation to assist in restructuring and insolvency matters on behalf of international financial institutions with stakes in Spain. Juan Gelabert is the resident restructuring expert, recently assisting with the financial matters of several refinancing and restructuring transactions. He co-leads the group with corporate and M&A expert José María Gil-Robles and Borja de Obeso, who specialises in litigation and regulatory advice.Practice head(s):
Juan Gelabert; José María Gil-Robles; Borja de Obeso
Key clients
Apollo
Beech Tree
Blackstone
Blantyre Capital
Bregal Capital
Calyon
Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management
Centerbridge
Avenue Capital
GLG Partners
Holzverpackung Hüfingen
KKR Asset Management
LHT Partners
Oaktree
Sherpa Capital
Springwater Capital
Stellex Capital Management
Sun Capital
Work highlights
- Advising Banco Santander and a pool of lenders on the refinancing of the debt of El Corte Inglés.
- Advising companies owned by funds managed by Avenue Capital on the €140m debt restructuring of Quabit.
- Advising Banco Santander and Abanca as the lenders on four syndicated financings running in parallel aimed at restructuring the Tyche Group’s existing debt.
Spain > EU and competition Tier 4
Under the leadership of the ’technically brilliant’ Joaquín Hervada, DLA Piper‘s competition department, which receives praise for showing ‘great knowledge‘, houses a particularly high level of expertise in the telecoms, healthcare and automotive sectors. The department can regularly be found advising relevant clients in matters ranging from infringement proceedings, merger control and competition litigation to day-to-day advice and compliance mandates. Associate Rafael Maldonado is another key practitioner in the team.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘It is a team that works like the mechanics of a watch, technically brilliant and always providing business-oriented solutions guaranteeing legal certainty.’
‘Joaquín Hervada is technically brilliant, and anticipates the needs of the business, gives realistic solutions guaranteeing the position of his client.’
‘Joaquín Hervada is a great Antitrust lawyer, great technical knowledge of his area, great ability to understand business, availability and very fast response, and with a very good team behind him.’
‘The DLA team we work with are very professional and experts in Competition Law. They have shown great knowledge in the matter at all times.’
‘We highly value their accessibility and proximity. Also the interest in knowing the business.’
‘Extensive knowledge of our industry.’
‘Ability to adapt situations from other sectors to ours. They greatly help the didactic work towards the authorities.’
‘An extraordinary partner: Joaquín Hervada. The best I’ve ever seen.’
Key clients
Quirónsalud
Renault
Pfizer
Vodafone
Orange
Dentsu Aegis Network
Mondelez
Macmillan
Springer Nature
Air Liquide
Colegio de Registradores de la Propiedad, Mercantiles y Bienes Muebles de España
Bacardi
Stericycle
Straumann
Fenin
Asociación Nacional de Establecimientos Financieros de Crédito (ASNEF)
MKS Instruments
Société Générale
AOC Health
Polski Bank Komorek Macierzystych (PBKM)
Work highlights
- Representing MKS Instruments in the $5.1bn cash and stock acquisition of Atotech.
- Advising Société Générale and ALD on the merger control aspects of the acquisition of the leasing business of Banco de Sabadell.
- Advising AOC/PBKM on the competition aspects of the acquisition of Vita34.
Spain > Intellectual property: Copyright Tier 4
DLA Piper‘s IP and technology group assists major multinationals with the safeguarding and strategic management of their copyright portfolios. The team advises on a wide spectrum of issues across the practice area, from proprietary rights, licensing and the implementation of protection schemes to rights acquisitions and regulatory compliance. Headed by IP expert Diego Ramos, the team’s client base includes household names Pfizer, Warner Bros Entertainment and Bacardi, and covers such sectors as e-commerce, technology, pharmaceuticals, media, entertainment, software and consumer goods. The group is supported by pharmaceutical law specialist Paula González De Castejón and senior associate Elisa Lorenzo.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Diego Ramos is the person to turn to if you have intellectual property problems or doubts in Europe.’
‘In my opinion, they provide the best advice on intellectual property.’
Key clients
Técnicas Reunidas, S.A.
TRUMPF GmbH + Co. KG
Levi Strauss
Warner Bros Entertainment Spain
Colisee France SAS
Pfizer Spain
Banco Santander
Bacardi Iberia
iLOQ Oy
Work highlights
- Provided legal advice to TRUMPF, an engineering software group, in connection with the assessment of its ownership rights on 20 major software applications in the context of a corporate deal.
- Represented Levi Strauss in brand protection efforts in the Spanish market, including advice regarding the design and implementation of schemes for the protection of Levi Strauss intellectual property and industrial property.
- Representing WB in the management and protection of its IP rights in Spain, including negotiation with actors and contributors.
Spain > Public law Tier 4
Of counsel José Manuel Sala heads the public law practice at DLA Piper, which is lauded by clients for its ‘excellent technical skills’ and for offering a service which is described by another client as ‘fast, diligent and rigorous’. The department, which regularly handles the gamut of both advisory and contentious matters, endured the departure of former practice co-head José Ignacio Monedero. Senior associate Carlos Daza is another recommended member of the practice.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Carlos Daza; Joaquin Hervada
Testimonials
‘The immediate attention, availability, the magnificent knowledge of the subject and the contribution of practical solutions to the problems (Joaquin Hervada).’
‘The added value of the DLA Piper Public Law Department is that the team has extensive experience in the field as well as being very familiar with the theory applicable to this very theoretical and complicated part of the law. Likewise, I would highlight their ability to find solutions to complicated problems and their good treatment when negotiating with counterparts.’
‘They are professionals with excellent technical skills. In addition to this, it differs from its competitors in the enormous involvement of its partners and in the respectful and courteous way they negotiate, reach agreements and work together with the other party’s lawyers so that both clients benefit.’
‘The service provided by DLA in the area of public law stands out for being fast, diligent and rigorous. Perhaps the main added value is its ability to find legal solutions that suit our needs.’
‘Our main interlocutor in the framework of Public Law is Carlos Daza. Carlos stands out for his vast legal knowledge and for his ability to present complex problems clearly and succinctly.’
‘Good legal analysis of the problem or situation that arises’
‘Carlos Daza is a lawyer with great professionalism, work capacity and always responds to the needs of our company. He is very transparent and clearly states the different alternatives that exist.’
Key clients
Lubrizol Advanced Materials
Iberdrola
Asociación Nacional Establecimientos Financieros (ASNEF)
ASCAFOR/ASIDAC
Arauz de Robles Abogados
Abbott
Grupo Ornua
Caixabank
Colegio de Registradores de la Propiedad y Mercantiles
Deutsche Bank AG London
Aviapartner
Alliance Medical
Dentsu Aegis
Adamo Telecom Iberia
Banco Santander
Bankinter
Aquila Capital
Commerz Real
Work highlights
- Representing Lubrizol on the renewal of the integrated environmental authorisation, and subsequent appeals by third parties against such authorisation.
- Advising Dentsu Aegis Network Iberia’s and its subsidiary in relation to the prior procedure before the Court for Public Procurement of the City of Seville and now before the High Court of Justice of Andalusia.
- Advised Abbott before the Courts of Justice in relation to a complex judicial procedure.
Spain > Tax Tier 4
DLA Piper expanded and diversified its tax offering in January 2021 with the hire of transfer pricing expert César Salagaray from KPMG Abogados, Spain. His expertise in that arena adds to a practice that acts in tax restructurings, reorganisations and contentious matters, with a particularly strong presence in the real estate sector. Practice head Carlos Rodríguez has significant expertise in tax investigations and tax litigation, while Miguel Baz is a key contact for tax support on real estate M&A.Practice head(s):
Carlos Rodríguez
Other key lawyers:
César Salagaray; Miguel Baz; María Alonso; Guillermo Bailach; Carlos Espinosa
Testimonials
‘DLA Piper’s tax team is very thorough and experienced. Its technical level is very high and its greatest ability is to anticipate client needs. This is achieved by knowing the client well and interacting appropriately for it.’
‘The team led by César Salagaray has done a magnificent job, with a perfect understanding of business aspects that result in better advice.’
‘César Salagaray – empathy and technical excellence.’
‘Its closeness and predisposition to be by the side of the company whenever needed. In this, of course, Carlos Rodríguez and Miguel Baz stand out. Also María Alonso and Guillermo Bailach, as legal directors, have the same closeness and predisposition.’
‘DLA Piper has an excellent team, very dedicated and that perfectly understands the needs of its client, so the experience of working with DLA has always been wonderful.’
‘I’d highlight the delivery and understanding the needs of its client, as well as teamwork with other teams involved in the operation.’
‘The DLA Piper Tax team treats its clients as if they were part of their family. There is no small or too complex issue to be discussed. The team is also very technical and proactive, anticipating client’s needs before they are actually a thing. Finally, César Salagaray and his team communicate in a very simple manner so tax matters are understood by every level of the enterprise.’
‘César Salagaray and Carlos Espinosa treat their clients as family members and, consequently, their problems become family issues which must be solved quickly and as smoothly as possible. César Salagaray is one of the most technical and hands-on partners I have ever worked with. He is always available and works very closely to his clients.’
Key clients
Cabify
EDP
Grupo Antolin
Grupo Fracttal
Grupo Lantero
Grupo Prisa
Insud Pharma
Macquarie
PetroRio
Alstom
Danaher
Five Guys
Take-Two
Vat-it
Verallia
Work highlights
- Advising KGAL on the tax structuring for the investment in an office building in Barcelona, through a tax transparent German vehicle.
- Assisting Patrizia with the acquisition of a Spanish residential building in Barcelona, including tax structuring and funds flow.
- Advising Fracttal on its multi-jurisdictional reorganisation involving changes in the shareholding of the group.
West Midlands > Employment > Employment Tier 1
DLA Piper excels in advising on high-profile and complex employment tribunal and High Court litigation for a range of key local and national clients, usually on issues as diverse as wrongful/unfair dismissal through to whistleblowing and discrimination claims. Under the direction of Emma Phillips, the group has played a pivotal role in numerous multi-jurisdictional projects. Sandra Wallace is also recommended for her work on issues such as business reorganisations and diversity issues. Lisa Hodgson is a primary contact for a number of well-known names in the high-end retail arena.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A broad team with a very diverse range of expertise, able to cover the full spectrum of employment law for its clients in the region. Sandra Wallace has enormous expertise and experience which enables her to provide a brilliant service for her clients.‘
‘The team is a good blend of partners & associates; always available when needed, with pragmatic advice.‘
‘The team is very responsive, with good strength in depth. The lawyers understand our business and are able to anticipate our position on a range of issues. The team coordinates the provision of a global helpline and goes above and beyond to facilitate the smooth delivery of advice globally. Emma Philips – technically excellent and exceptional client service. Lisa Hodgson – very good sounding board, able to balance legal knowledge and practical/commercial application.‘
‘Commercial approach, speedy responses, always available, good relationship building, excellent understanding of the business and adapt advice as needed. Sandra Wallace – always available to discuss key issues, very supportive with a commercial approach. Lisa Hodgson – excellent lawyer, always available, always very responsive, very commercial in her approach, considers all aspects and provides options, very knowledgeable.‘
‘The team in DLA’s Birmingham office is excellent. The lawyers are responsive, well-prepared, legally savvy, and always prepared to go the extra mile. Bethan Odey – very helpful, great advice, commercial, works with us to find solutions. Samantha Haglington – very helpful whenever our main partners are not available and has also done some great work for us on a project.‘
‘DLA Piper strikes the perfect balance between having lawyers who are available, responsive, willing to roll up their sleeves when necessary, legally able, and commercial in their approach. Lisa Hodgson is extremely impressive. She knows the detail of a case back to front, is on top of the factual and commercial issues, but is also acutely aware of the legal issues arising from any given set of facts. Clients have confidence in her advice because she is able to speak authoritatively and from the benefit of experience. She is the perfect all-rounder.‘
‘The team has strength in depth, with a solid understanding of employment law and litigation amongst all its practitioners. No matter who you are working with, you are assured that they know the case and the law well. Matt Jeavons is good at balancing client expectations against the requirements of the courts, and brings clients along with him on the litigation journey. He is great at identifying the correct balance between legal and commercial and practical needs.‘
‘Stand-out lawyers in the employment team are Samantha Haglington and Matt Jeavons – both are technically excellent, commercially focused and fantastic to work with. I cannot fault them.‘
Key clients
C&J Clark International UK Limited (Clarks)
Boparan Limited (2 Sisters Food Group and Northern Foods)
Synopsys, Inc
Dyson Technology Limited
Shure UK Limited
Hilton Hotels UK Limited
Genting Casinos
Sodexo
National Grid
Lomondo Limited (Melia Hotels)
Dignity plc
Crawford & Company
Superdry
Valentino
Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy
Parfums Christian Dior
RCI Europe
Prologis
Infosys
Work highlights
- Provided a global employment helpdesk service with a dedicated team of employment lawyers globally to provide an on demand advice service, accessed by Dyson Legal and HR across 33 countries. Designed, launched and managed by the employment team in Birmingham.
- Advising Clarks on a wholesale change to terms and conditions of employment impacting c.800 UK based employees at its head office and distribution centres. The matter received significant press coverage as part of the trade union and political campaign against fire and rehire strategies to legitimately effect changes to terms and conditions of employment. The team advised at all stages.
- Designed a tailored workshop for a client’s investigative team covering race and sexual harassment investigations, including a detailed case study; an in-depth look at specific concerns in such investigations; delivering a pilot session; and then delivering a full programme to 30 specialist investigators.
DLA Piper > Firm Profile
Global co-chairs: Roger Meltzer and Jon Hayes
Co-chief executive officers: Simon Levine and Cameron Jay Rains
Number of partners: 1,500
Number of lawyers: 5,000
Languages: The firm speaks over 60 languages
Offices: Lawyers located in more than 60 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.
Please see https://www.dlapiper.com for further information about the firm.
Lawyer Profiles
Diversity/Community
At DLA Piper we are firmly committed to diversity and inclusion. For us, diversity isn’t just about visible differences, it’s the unique blend of talents, skills, experiences and perspectives that makes each of us an individual and we know it’s crucial to have a culture and environment where those differences are genuinely valued. As a global business law firm, with a diverse client base, we know that our clients expect our people to represent the communities in which we work and value our ability to advise them on both local and global cultures and markets. We believe that our approach to diversity and inclusion enables us to attract the best talent, build the most effective teams and deliver the highest level of client service.
For more information on our specific D&I initiatives please see www.dlapiper.com
Comparative Guides
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United Kingdom: TMT
Published: September 2022
Authors: Kit Burden Meredith Hammond
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to TMT laws and regulations that may occur in United Kingdom.
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The Netherlands: Tax
Published: September 2022
Authors: Jian-Cheng Ku Rhys Bane
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Tax laws and regulations that may occur in The Netherlands.
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Colombia: Mergers & Acquisitions
Published: April 2022
Authors: Juan Manuel de la Rosa Felipe Quintero
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Mergers & Acquisitions laws and regulations that may occur in Colombia.
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Tanzania: Mergers & Acquisitions
Published: April 2022
Authors: Burure Ngocho
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Mergers & Acquisitions laws and regulations that may occur in Tanzania.
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United Kingdom: Tax Disputes
Published: October 2022
Authors: Jason Collins Stuart Walsh Clara Boyd Lauren Redhead
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Tax Disputes laws and regulations that may occur in United Kingdom.
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United Kingdom: Renewable Energy
Published: May 2022
Authors: Natasha Luther-Jones
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Renewable Energy laws and regulations that may occur in United Kingdom.
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Denmark: Restructuring & Insolvency
Published: May 2022
Authors: Henrik Sjørslev Per Astrup Madsen Peter Hedegaard Knudsen Henrik Lund-Koefoed
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Restructuring & Insolvency laws and regulations that may occur in Denmark.
- Industry focus: Manufacturing
- Industry focus: Retail
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- West Midlands > Employment > Employment