The ‘great team' at Carey is routinely involved in the development and financing of Chile’s most significant mining projects. The firm also fields a go-to practice for major mining sector-related M&A transactions; and regularly advises domestic and foreign metallic and non-metallic minerals companies on their exploration, exploitation and processing activities. Other key areas for the team include mining, water and land use surface rights; environmental and community issues; agreements for mining projects; and mining-related litigation. Jointly leading the group, Rafael Vergara (’the best mining lawyer in Chile') acts for many of the world’s largest global mining companies; Alberto Cardemil is a renowned water rights specialist; and counsel Francisco Corona regularly acts on major mining transactions. At associate level, Maximiliano Urrutia focuses primarily on natural resources, mining and energy work; and Esteban Fresno's track record includes the corporate governance aspects of a copper project development.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The team has a lot of experience. It compares positively with other firms due to its level of expertise in each area.'
  • 'A great team and the product delivered is excellent.’
  • 'The team is at a very good level and understands clients' needs.'
  • ‘Rafael Vergara is the best mining lawyer in Chile - his experience translates into the level of advice he delivers.'

Key clients

  • Teck Resources
  • CODELCO (National Copper Corporation of Chile)
  • Barrick Gold Corporation
  • Minera Valle Central
  • Minsur - Minera Andes del Sur
  • Kinross
  • Arauco
  • Aftermath Silver
  • Hudbay Minerals
  • Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries
  • Melón
  • Marimaca Copper Corp
  • New Century Resources
  • Quiborax
  • Antofagasta Minerals

Work highlights

  • Advised KGHM on the sale of shares (owned by Sumitomo) in the Sierra Gorda project.
  • Advised Nueva Unión (subsidiary of Teck Resources and Newmont Goldcorp) on the implementation of a copper project.
  • Advised Marimaca on the implementation of its Marimaca Copper project in the Region of Antofagasta.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Rafael Vergara
Hall of fameCarey
Partner of Carey and co-head of the firm´s Natural Resources and Environment Group.
Leading associates
Rising stars with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Rafael Vergara, Alberto Cardemil, Francisco Corona