Marval O’Farrell Mairal stands out for its ‘personalised service’ and ’technical expertise’ in mining law and the support provided throughout all stages of lithium, copper, and gold mining projects. The practice advises clients on various matters, including government contract bids, structuring joint ventures, securing environmental permits, and acquiring and consolidating mining rights and titles. Additionally, the team handles disputes related to mining projects, including environmental liabilities and contract enforcement. The lawyers also assist in executing exploration and option agreements and help clients navigate complex regulatory frameworks, particularly in tax and foreign exchange control matters. Practice head Leonardo Rodríguez is recognised as a ‘strategic advisor’ in litigation, M&A, and joint venture matters within the mining sector. He is supported by senior associates Ignacio Alonso, who defends clients against environmental damage claims, and Agustina Dellacasa, who focuses on corporate, contractual, and regulatory work. Of counsel Luis Lucero formally left the firm in 2024 to take a position as the Secretary of Mining.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Marval's mining law team stands out for its technical expertise and personalised support to meet all client needs.'

  • ‘Leonardo Rodriguez stands out primarily for his technical expertise in mining corporate law and his attentiveness to the pace of the industry to propose the best legal solutions.'

  • ‘Marval has a very solid team in the mining sector, led by Leonardo Rodríguez.'

  • ‘Leonardo Rodríguez has many years in the industry and great experience.'

  • ‘The team's advice is multidisciplinary, not limited strictly to mining regulations. They provide a comprehensive approach to problem resolution. Delivery times are excellent. Costs are appropriate for the quality of service.'

  • ‘Leonardo Rodríguez has extensive industry experience, making him a strategic advisor.'

Key clients

  • Glencore
  • AngloGold Ashanti
  • Newmont Corporation
  • Pan American Silver
  • Hochschild Mining Corporation
  • BHP
  • Oroplata
  • Yamana Gold
  • Cerro Vanguardia
  • Metalla Royalty & Streaming
  • Pan American Energy
  • Stellantis

Work highlights

Assisting companies and their shareholders in the legal aspects of the $2.5bn integration of the infrastructure of the Bajo de la Alumbrera mine and the Agua Rica project (the combined mining operation is known as Project MARA).
Advising Australian multinational mining and metals company, BHP, on its due diligence of the Josemaria and Filo del Sol copper projects in the province of San Juan, and advising on the implementation of the acquisition of 100% of Filo Corp., and the formation of a JV to hold the Filo del Sol and Josemaria projects.
Assisting Kinross Gold in its due diligence of Project Diablillos to make an investment, together with Central Puerto, in Project Diablillos in the Province of Salta, held by AbraSilver Resource.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

Leonardo Rodríguez

Other key lawyers

Ignacio Alonso; Agustina Dellacasa