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Colombia • City focus
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Cali

Advocat

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Initially based in Cali but now headquartered in Bogotá, Advocat continues to build its national presence, particularly in banking and finance, where it maintains a thriving practice. Key banking partner Nicolás Fernández De Soto splits his time between regulatory and transactional work and recently advised Canada-based First Principles Fund (FPF), as lender, on structuring an asset-based loan facility. The firm also houses an active corporate and M&A department, co-led by Cali-based María Isabel Rodríguez together with Bogotá partners María Claudia Armenta and Francisco Cabal. Additional senior figures include regulatory partner Victor Ayalde, noted for TMT and competition; labour and employment head Camilo Bernal; and tax-focused Juan Guillermo Becerra.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • Advocat stands out as a legal practice uniquely positioned to navigate the complexities of the fintech industry with precision, agility, and a forward-thinking approach.’

  • ‘Nicolás Fernández de Soto is a highly skilled and strategic legal expert, with a deep understanding of financial regulation, transactional structures, and risk management. His leadership is complemented by a dynamic and multidisciplinary team that thrives on innovation and adaptability.’

  • ‘What sets Advocat apart is its ability to embrace complexity with audacity and ingenuity. It does not simply provide legal solutions—it crafts tailored strategies that anticipate regulatory shifts and business challenges, ensuring clients stay ahead in an industry as fast-evolving as fintech.’

  • ‘Advocat’s strength lies in its exceptional individuals. Each professional brings a unique combination of expertise, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the fintech landscape, which sets it apart from competitors, who often take a more traditional, rigid approach to legal advisory.’

  • ‘Among the outstanding legal professionals at Advocat, Maria Antonia Recio stands out for her unparalleled professionalism, deep knowledge of financial regulation, and precise, insightful advisory in regulatory and contractual matters related to the payments industry.’

  • ‘The team stands out for its personalised and timely attention. In-depth knowledge and clarity to find options that make businesses viable within the legal framework. It is clear that lawyers know the legislation very well. The team brings a lot of experience and commitment.’