Baker McKenzie Chile’s five-member group is best known for its mining-sector credentials. The firm’s projects practice is also increasingly active in relation to renewable energy (solar, wind and geothermal), desalination plants, and port and road projects. The department is co-led by Antonio Ortúzar Jr, who has longstanding experience in natural resources and large-scale projects; and mining project specialist Mirco Hilgers. Experienced in energy, environmental and mining work, associate Santiago Vial re-joined the team in October 2022 (further to completing a Master’s Degree in London).

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'This legal practice in infrastructure and projects in Chile stands out for having the best lawyers in the field, including partners Antonio Ortuzar Vicuña and Mirco Hilgers. Their recognition and leadership both nationally and internationally position them as indisputable benchmarks in legal advice for large-scale infrastructure projects. Their extensive experience in regulations and specific infrastructure legislation in Chile sets them apart in the industry. The team has a unique combination of talent and experience in the field of infrastructure and projects in Chile. Their in-depth knowledge of local regulations and their ability to negotiate and structure agreements make them valuable resources for clients. Compared to other firms, this practice stands out for the leadership and recognition of those mentioned in the field of infrastructure and projects. They have invested in advanced technology to improve efficiency in case management and industry-specific legal research. In addition, they have promoted diversity and inclusion in their team, recognising the importance of different perspectives in the legal advice of infrastructure projects. Their collaborative approach and ability to quickly adapt to regulatory changes in Chile set them apart from other law firms in the country.'
  • 'The partners Antonio Ortuzar Vicuña and Mirco Hilgers stand out in the firm thanks to their efficiency, speed and solid technical training in infrastructure projects. They differentiate themselves from their competitors by their agile approach and ability to provide fast and accurate legal solutions.' In addition, they stand out for their commitment to inclusiveness and diversity in the legal team, which allows them to approach challenges from different perspectives. Their experience and specialised skills make them leaders in the industry. Other outstanding associates complement the team, further strengthening the firm's capacity in infrastructure and projects.'

Key clients

  • Ferrovial Aeropuertos España
  • Nordex USA
  • Energía Viva
  • Emeco
  • Macquarie Bank
  • Aenza
  • Cargill
  • Deutsche Pharma
  • Gilbarco Andina Latin America
  • Battery Mineral Resources
  • Orica Chile

Work highlights

  • Advised Ferrovial Aeropuertos España, which creates sustainable infrastructure in order to deliver mobility services, on the due diligence for an infrastructure project.
  • Advising Nordex USA on the construction of wind farms.
  • Advised Energía Viva on the development of small hydrological projects in southern Chile.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Antonio Ortuzar Jr, Mirco Hilgers