Legal team size: Five

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

Over the past year at Civis Soluciones Inmobiliarias, I led key initiatives that strengthened the company’s legal framework. One of the most significant achievements was redesigning our legal model for developments, transitioning from individual corporations to project-specific trusts. This change, along with the creation of a real estate investment trust, allowed us to attract capital more securely and efficiently, enhancing transparency and protection for investors.

Another major milestone was providing comprehensive legal advice for the launch of CIVIS X and CIVIS XI, our first two skyscrapers. Both projects mark a new phase in local urban development, focusing on biophilic design, sustainability, and quality of life. From acquiring properties to structuring contracts and obtaining regulatory permits, the legal team played a crucial role in making these complex ventures feasible.

In addition, we drove the implementation of a dual-validation electronic signature system, which enhances operational efficiency and legal security, especially in contracts involving foreign parties. This innovation, along with improved internal processes, enabled our five-person legal team to support sustained growth in operational volume.

Based on your experiences from the past year, are there any legal or business trends specific to Paraguay that you are following and believe other in-house lawyers should be aware of?

I see three relevant trends: First, the rise of technology in the real estate sector (Proptech), which requires lawyers to understand the risks associated with digital platforms, electronic signatures, cybersecurity, and data protection. Second, the growing interest in projects that incorporate ESG criteria, which demands that we be prepared to advise on environmental regulations, social responsibility, and energy efficiency. And third, the evolution of the regulatory framework to facilitate real estate investment, where in-house lawyers must take a proactive and strategic approach to interpret and apply these changes.

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

Beyond technical knowledge, I believe it is crucial to have strategic vision and business understanding, especially in dynamic sectors like real estate. It is also essential to lead teams with empathy and efficiency, encourage collaborative work, and be results-oriented. The ability to communicate clearly across different departments, negotiate with multiple parties, and anticipate risks is indispensable. Finally, acting with integrity, promoting compliance, and being a facilitator of safe and viable legal solutions adds distinctive value to the role.