What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments?

Emerging technologies are rapidly reshaping the legal profession, and several stand out for their significant impact in the near future. Generative AI is transforming contract drafting and review, moving beyond simple template completion or automation to the development of playbooks that include model clauses, fallback positions, and non-acceptable terms. This not only streamlines the process but also reduces errors and ensures greater consistency in contract management.

Additionally, the use of intelligent agents such as those powered by Harvey or Copilot optimise both legal and operational processes. For example, automating approval workflows and integrating with electronic signature technologies like DocuSign make documentation and agreement validation more efficient and traceable.

Within our legal department, having dedicated teams focused on legal operations and innovation is crucial. These teams constantly seek ways to improve processes, implement new technologies, and keep the organisation at the forefront of legal service delivery. Another key development is the adoption of advanced document management systems that allow for quick retrieval of precedents and knowledge generated by the legal teams. This not only facilitates consultation but also enhances decision-making and ensures efficient access to institutional knowledge.

Given the fast pace of technological change, keeping up to date in the legal profession is essential. Continuous learning and openness to new tools are highly valued, alongside fostering teams with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. This diversity enriches analysis, encourages innovation, and helps prevent confirmation bias—which can limit the ability to anticipate and solve new challenges. It also inspires creative solutions thanks to the participation of people with different contexts and mental frameworks.

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently (these can be legal, political, economy or business-based)?

We work with and in approximately 24 countries, so I will refer to what, from my perspective, can be some of the key business opportunities I see today in our amazing region:

Energy and Electricity Generation:
There is a marked increase in global electricity consumption, which is also reflected in Latin America. The region is experiencing significant growth in renewable and alternative energy sources, including wind, solar, green hydrogen, geothermal, and hydropower. Additionally, energy security has emerged as a key priority for governments across the region.

Energy Storage and Battery Technologies:
The advancement of energy storage solutions is poised to become a pivotal factor in the integration of renewable energy into the grid. Effective storage will enhance the stability of energy supply and pricing, both of which are essential for the financial viability and bankability of energy projects.

Energy Transmission Infrastructure:
The expansion and modernisation of transmission infrastructure are critical to supporting increased electricity generation and integration of renewables. Government and private sector involvement and regulatory frameworks will be fundamental to ensuring the success of these initiatives.

Digital Infrastructure and Data Centres:
The exponential growth of artificial intelligence technologies is driving demand for robust digital infrastructure, particularly data centres, which require substantial electrical power. This trend is creating new intersections between the technology and energy sectors.

Strategic Industries – Latin America’s Global Positioning:
The region is increasingly regarded as a strategic global supplier (or potential supplier) in several key areas, including:

Renewable energy resources

Mining (notably lithium, essential for energy transition and battery production)

Rare earth elements

Water and biodiversity

Agricultural production and food security

Semiconductors and the CHIPS Act:
Ongoing shifts in global supply chains, coupled with nearshoring trends and legislative initiatives such as the U.S. CHIPS Act, present significant opportunities for Latin American countries to position themselves as competitive players in the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors.