Finding favour for its ‘ability to integrate and anticipate risks’, Arrieta Mantilla & Asociados’ practice is weighted towards representing energy and natural resources clients — primarily mining companies — in regulatory and administrative law matters, including judicial litigation. High-profile public law expert Carlos Gustavo Arrieta impresses with his ’experience and good judgment’; he is currently representing AES Colombia in two judicial proceedings challenging the divestiture of the Chivor hydroelectric plant. Yady Villaquirán co-heads the department together with Arrieta and is noted for her representation of mining companies in administrative and judicial procedures, including recent engagements for Zijin-Continental Gold and Cerrejón Zona Norte, among others. The group also includes infrastructure and energy-focused associate Rodrigo Sánchez Pineda, who is ‘very committed, resourceful, and innovative’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team's advice on mining matters is comprehensive; that is, it does not limit its analysis solely to specific regulations but has the ability to integrate and anticipate risks in administrative law, environmental law, etc. This makes its support extremely effective and generates security, making it stand out.’

  • ‘Yady Villaquirán is known for her friendly, efficient, and concise approach to the issues or cases we have with her. This personalised and clear approach generates security and trust.’

  • ‘The firm stands out for its sound judgment and experience. Lawyers work very well with other law firms when necessary.’

  • ‘Carlos Gustavo Arrieta stands out for his experience and good judgment.’

  • ‘Its professionalism is unique; lawyers are extremely committed, organised, structured, and innovative. I know few firms like this; in fact, Arrieta Mantilla is the first law firm we have engaged that truly demonstrates a commitment to the process.’
  • ‘Associate Rodrigo Sanchez is very committed, resourceful, and innovative, offering solutions even in very complex situations. He takes the power entrusted to him with complete seriousness.’

Key clients

  • Carbones del Cerrejón
  • Cerro Matoso
  • Colgas
  • Vatia
  • Drummond Coal Mining
  • Zijin - Continental Gold Ltd. (Colombia branch)
  • Cerrejón Zona Norte
  • P.A Río Frío
  • Aes Colombia
  • Orica Colombia / Orica Norway
  • Celsia
  • Conocophillips

Work highlights

Advised Vatia on corporate, regulatory and finance matters connected to the construction of a macro photovoltaic energy generation project.
Represented Colgas in an administrative proceeding seeking sanctions in relation to the supply and marketing of liquified gas.
Represented Cerro Matoso in a judicial process related to a nullity action held by the client against Contraloría General de la República as a result of a fiscal liability judgment.

Practice head

Carlos Gustavo Arrieta; Yady Villaquirán