Lauded by clients for being ‘a team with one foot in the office and the other foot on the ground’, boutique firm BEC Abogados offers a highly specialised water law practice with a strong emphasis on sustainable water use and efficiency. The group is particularly active in the agriculture sector, advising key players including exporters, producers and non-profit organisations managing water distribution. The team’s standout strength lies in its ‘deep understanding of the regulatory aspects of water management in rural communities and agribusiness’, which it leverages to help clients improve water resilience and navigate increasing regulatory scrutiny. The firm has also become a key player in natural resources litigation, representing clients before governmental bodies, courts of appeal and the Chilean Supreme Court. Led by partners Benjamín Bulnes León and Gonzalo Bulnes Llompart, the team delivers comprehensive advice on permitting, administrative litigation, ESG compliance, and crisis management related to drought and water scarcity. Senior associate Guillermo Reeves rounds out the practice, obtaining environmental permits and advising mining and energy companies on regulatory issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘In the more than two years we've been working with BEC, I've had a completely satisfactory experience. So far, all the consulting services provided have been successful. Their work is quality and demonstrates a deep understanding of the issues they address. Finally, it's important to mention that they don't just limit themselves to first impressions; they review and study every aspect of the case, beyond water law.'
‘In addition to their knowledge of the subject matter and their solid team, I would like to highlight their availability. Every time we've required on-site visits to projects, partner Benjamín Bulnes has been there. I can say it's a team that has one foot in the office and the other foot on the ground. I personally think it was a good idea to rely on their advice.'
‘This firm stands out from the rest for its in-depth knowledge of water and environmental law. The firm's approach combines legal excellence with a deep understanding of the regulatory aspects of water management in rural communities and agribusiness businesses. In this sense, it is a unique practice in the Chilean legal market.'
‘Without a doubt, the professionalism and dedication of his partner, Benjamín Bulnes, is of a superior level.'
‘They stand out for their experience and knowledge of the industry. They are up-to-date with the latest water regulations and innovations and are committed to providing personalized, on-site consulting services. I also emphasize their innovative technological systems and their constant attention to our needs.'
‘Benjamín Bulnes and Gonzalo Bulnes provide solid advice, protection, and solutions in an area of significant uncertainty. I especially commend Benjamín for his constant awareness of regulations and for his efficiency, speed, and concern in his advice. We had a problem on a property with the Convento Viejo Reservoir due to flooding in a cherry orchard, and, in addition to advising us on legal action, he arranged meetings with key players in the industry, which ultimately helped resolve a serious conflict.'
Key clients
- FCMI Chilean Holdings Limitada
- Territoria Apoquindo
- Agrícola Bauzá Limitada
- Viña Almaviva
- American Screw
- Agricultores de Aconcagua
- Asociación de Canalistas Unidos de Panquehue
- Junta de Vigilancia Río Lontué
- Inmobiliaria Patagonland
- Agrícola La Ensenada
- Exportadora Alcántara
- Besoain Wines
Work highlights
Advised the River Lontué Surveillance Board in the removal of the historical blockage that existed to enable the construction of a reservoir that is essential for the future of the Lontué River valley.
Advised Agrosanto on approval of alternative operation several deep wells and implementation of compliance measures.
Leading the defense of a consortium of agricultural companies and its groundwater rights and its use in the agricultural industry, in judicial proceeding for the constitution of several groundwater communities.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Guillermo Reeves
Practice head
Benjamín Bulnes; Gonzalo Bulnes
Other key lawyers
Guillermo Reeves Valentino