The compliance and white-collar crime group at CMS Rodríguez-Azuero scores highly for its work on the ‘development, implementation, and improvement of governance structures’. Equipped to handle a myriad of compliance matters, transactional support issues and criminal law proceedings, the team is primarily active in advising on the implementation of Colombian anti-corruption policies, including SAGRILAFT (System of Self-Control and Management of the Comprehensive Risk of Money Laundering, Financing of Terrorism, and Financing of Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction) and PTEE (Transparency and Business Ethics Programme). Daniel Rodríguez is qualified in Colombia, New York and California and ’brings a global perspective’ to his practice; he co-heads the department alongside Jacques Simhon, who specialises in corporate and personal criminal liability. Key associates include seniors Santiago Calle (white-collar crime) and María Paula Sandoval (administrative law); and junior María Alejandra Ramírez (compliance and public procurement). In June 2024, former senior María José Correa left to go freelance, while criminal law-focused counsel Ligia María Vargas Mendoza joined from the Attorney General’s Office.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘We highlight the firm for its hands-on experience with multinational companies, communication skills, storytelling, and a diverse and collaborative team. Daniel Rodriguez brings exceptional human warmth, broad and deep knowledge of his practice area, and is always available and attentive.’
‘What distinguishes this practice is its ability to communicate complex concepts in a simple, clear, and innovative way. It goes beyond offering technical advice to translate legal information into understandable and practical terms for different audiences, facilitating decision-making.’
‘A team of highly trained professionals with deep subject matter expertise and also with the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and effectively. This enables it to offer strategic and accessible advice, promoting a better understanding of risks, opportunities, and regulatory compliance.’
‘According to the firm's internal procedures, as a client I always received confirmation from the team assigned to the referred consultation, and this team, in turn, indicated the time required to develop a solution tailored to the specifics of each case. The team stands out for its broad structure and agility.’
‘Daniel Rodríguez and associate María Alejandra Ramírez were an exceptional team assigned to a complex case, where their professional approach allowed them to clearly explain the risks to the highest authority of the firm, facilitating decision-making and the effective implementation of mitigation actions.’
‘CMS Rodríguez-Azuero stands out for its comprehensive approach, use of advanced technology, and highly qualified team. It offers advice on the development, implementation, and improvement of governance structures, systems, and compliance controls, covering prevention to anti-corruption.’
‘As part of a global firm with a presence in more than 40 countries, CMS Rodríguez-Azuero combines its more than 40 years of local experience with an international perspective, offering solutions tailored to the specific needs of the Colombian market.’
‘Daniel Rodríguez Bravo stands out for his extensive experience and skills in diverse areas of law, which allows him to integrate knowledge from different legal areas. He is admitted to practice in Colombia and also in New York and California in the US, which brings a global perspective to his practice.’
'This legal practice is distinguished by its exceptional focus on compliance and white-collar crime. Potential clients will appreciate the team's deep expertise in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and defending against high-stakes investigations. The firm's strengths include a robust understanding of corporate compliance, effective strategies for mitigating risks, and a proven ability to handle intricate white-collar crime cases such as fraud, insider trading, and money laundering.'
'Their qualities that I have valued most include their responsiveness, ensuring clients receive timely and effective counsel, and their collaborative spirit, fostering a team environment where diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions. Additionally, their commitment to professional development and staying abreast of the latest legal trends and technologies ensures they remain at the forefront of the industry.'
Key clients
- Investors - Victims of Felipe Rocha
- Gran Estación Propiedad Horizontal
- Investors – Victims of Arena Bogota Proyect (Coliseo MedPlus)
- Certicamara
- DR Reddys
- Camila Alfaro
- Estructurador Colombia
- Victims of Proyect “Edificio Neos Nogal”
- Victims of Estraval
- Flores Cattleya
- Gases de Occidente
- Victims of Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta
- María Paula Linares
- Camilo Mendoza and Daniel Tenjo
- Klym (formerly: Omnilatam)
- Prodesa S.A.
- Sueño Estéreo S.A.S.
- Sport City S.A.S. (SmartFit)
- Sara Azucena Parra
- SierraCol Energy Arauca LLC
Work highlights
Represented victims of the Arena Bogotá Project on criminal legal actions against the construction company.
Advised Consultora Nivel 7 – Anthology on designing and implementing both its SAGRILAFT and PTEE policies.
Advised Centro de Desarrollo Tecnológico de Producción de Vacunas – Bogotábio on compliance-related due diligence.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Santiago Calle
Practice head
Daniel Rodríguez; Jacques Simhon