Known in the market for having ‘a high level of knowledge and strategic thinking’ as regards environmental matters, the practice at Prieto Abogados‘ effectively operates as boutique within a full-service firm. The nine-strong team has particular expertise in the energy sector, where it advises both consolidate industry players and emerging actors. The practice group also plays a key role in other sectors including agriculture, tech infrastructure and mining. One significant recent matter for the group involved defending Caitan on a high-profile regulatory matter involving a demolition order targeting sanitary infrastructure. The team includes several lawyers with significant public-sector experience (such as in the Environmental Assessment Service, Superintendence of the Environment and the Comptroller’s Office), giving the team considerable expertise in advising on environmental assessments, compliance, permitting and contentious matters. Practice head Agustín Martorell has particular expertise leading on complex project development strategies across various industries, from energy and mining to aquaculture. Appointed associate practice director back in 2023, Romina Tobar (’a tremendous asset‘) brings over 15 years’ experience of environmental assessment processes and permitting, especially in relation to energy and infrastructure projects. Senior associate Elisa Anguita contributes significant regulatory expertise, guiding clients through Chile’s complex environmental landscape.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘This is a well-established area in the Chilean market, with two leaders in their field, Romina Tobar and Agustin Martorell.'
‘They have professionals with extensive experience in the field, especially in highly complex matters. Attorney Romina Tobar, in particular, has been a tremendous asset to the team, as she has extensive experience in highly specialised and complex environmental matters. Romina's experience in top-ranked offices such as Vergara Galindo Correa and her subsequent leadership of the Environmental Assessment Service position her to achieve outstanding performance and results in her field, providing a service of excellence and quality unique in the market. Agustin Martorell previously worked in the environmental practice of Claro y Cia, an office that also excels in these matters.'
Key clients
- SMU Group
- Scala Chile Data Centers
- Acciona Agua (Agencia en Chile)
- Sociedad Punta del Cobre
- Solek Chile Services
- Libertad
- Metro
- Caitan
- Bio Energía Molina
- Engie Energía Chile
- Envases del Pacífico
Work highlights
Advised Scala Chile Data Centers on environmental matters for the development of its four projects in the context of Chile's rapidly growing data storage industry.
Advised Engie Energía Chile on all phases of development of its portfolio of renewable energy projects, including the environmental assessment strategy, meetings with authorities, preparing key documentation and ensuring the obtaining of environmental qualification resolutions at the SEIA.
Advised Caitan on a high-profile regulatory defence against a demolition order issued by the Municipality of Mejillones, targeting essential sanitary infrastructure within a desalination plant and water supply project.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Agustín Martorell, Romina Tobar