Legal team size: 4 people

What are the projects that you are most proud of working on over the past 12 months?

Over the past 12 months, I am particularly proud of having led, from the in-house legal department, the formalisation of contracts, documentation, and annexes for the sale of lots and buildings within gated communities. This was done as part of an innovative master plan that drives the development of a mini city in “Nueva Asunción”, across the “Héroes del Chaco” Bridge. This real estate project, located just minutes from Asuncion’s corporate hub, aims to offer a more peaceful lifestyle without distancing itself from major urban centers.

The legal department has worked on structuring and designing the internal processes and specific contracts for each venture within the plan, ensuring that each legal aspect aligns with the urban, environmental, and commercial vision of the project. Legal rigour was key to building the necessary trust that enabled the attraction of foreign investors, who valued both the quality of the real estate product and the sustainable approach of the development — with advanced underground installations and a strong commitment to preserving the native fauna and flora of the Paraguayan Chaco.

Along the same lines, another project I am particularly proud of is the establishment of strategic trusts, which allow us to manage certain assets and structures differently, opening the door to new investment opportunities both domestically and internationally.

The internal legal department worked comprehensively on the legal design of these instruments, ensuring their regulatory soundness and alignment with the financial and operational goals of the organisation. This work involved not only drafting and reviewing the trust agreements, but also providing continuous support in regulatory compliance, risk identification, and the creation of legal structures that build trust and transparency with potential investors.

These types of projects reflect how the internal legal role can and should transcend the traditional control function, positioning itself as a key enabler for financial innovation, capital attraction, and the sustainable development of new business models.

Based on your experiences in the past year, are there any trends in the legal or business world, specific to Paraguay, that you are keeping an eye on that you think other in-house lawyers should be mindful of?

Over the past year, I have clearly observed a growing trend in Paraguay’s legal and business landscape: the urgent need for in-house lawyers to stay up to date with technology, artificial intelligence, and process automation. I believe it is essential for legal departments to move beyond being seen solely as control entities and instead become drivers of innovation within their organisations.

The adoption of technological tools not only optimises time and resources, but also allows legal teams to anticipate risks, offer more efficient solutions, and align with the fast-paced dynamics of today’s business environment. In this context, corporate lawyers take on a key strategic role — guiding companies through complex legal and regulatory frameworks while also actively contributing to the design and execution of their strategic plans.

This holistic view of the legal role, combined with a proactive attitude toward innovation, makes the in-house lawyer an essential ally in achieving sustainable and competitive growth in the Paraguayan market.

What are some key attributes every in-house lawyer should possess?

I believe every in-house lawyer should have certain key attributes that enable them to deliver real value to their organisation. First and foremost, proactivity is essential. In-house counsel must anticipate potential legal risks, identify opportunities for improvement, and act as a preventive collaborator — not merely a reactive one — across the company’s operations.

Composure is another indispensable trait, allowing lawyers to navigate high-pressure or complex situations calmly and with sound judgment, instilling confidence in both the legal team and senior management. Efficiency is also crucial in fast-paced corporate environments, where legal matters must be addressed with agility and precision, without compromising technical quality or regulatory compliance.

Additionally, it is vital for in-house counsel to stay focused on how they can contribute to the business. Their role goes beyond interpreting laws — it involves understanding the company’s strategy and aligning legal work with business objectives. To achieve this, they must work closely with other departments, understand their challenges and needs, and provide legal solutions that support safe and sustainable decision-making. Their role as a strategic partner is becoming increasingly important in building strong and competitive companies.