Hailed by many as ‘the best projects firm in the country’, Durán & Osorio Abogados Asociados impresses with its unparalleled record in structuring high-impact, pathfinder projects across Colombia and beyond. The group stands out for representing both private and public stakeholders — including government entities, multilateral agencies, concessionaires and construction companies — across the full projects life cycle, with its recent work spanning the roads, rail, airports, energy and social infrastructure spheres. High-profile projects expert Álvaro Durán remains highly sought after for his pioneering experience in the field; he is acting alongside up-and-coming partner Felipe Herrera to advise Odinsa on structuring an unsolicited PPP proposal for the Nuevo Aeropuerto de Cartagena project. Other partners to note include Álvaro Gasca, praised for his ’comprehensive project vision’; and public law veteran, Jorge Gabriel Taboada. At senior associate level, clients highlight Daniela Mejía Alzate (public law and infrastructure) and Sebastián Duque (infrastructure and finance) for their ‘talent, analytical rigour, and innovative approach’. Other recommended seniors are Alejandro Isaza, whose projects experience encompasses transport, energy and social infrastructure; and Edgardo Maya, who focuses on projects-related litigation. In June 2024, associate Carlos Andrés Sarasti left the firm for an in-house role at Aguas de Bogotá.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team brings a wealth of legal, technical, and financial expertise to the solutions required for project implementation. Its industry knowledge makes it especially recommended.’
‘Álvaro Gasca and Daniela Mejía Alzate are outstanding and true allies in project structuring and planning, adding value through their comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework and the technical and financial limitations and opportunities.’
‘Durán & Osorio is, by far, the best projects firm in the country. Its unique approach combines deep regulatory knowledge, innovative strategy, and impeccable execution, allowing it to lead the most complex and ambitious developments in infrastructure and energy.’
‘The team is characterised by its ability to structure high-impact projects with tailored solutions, integrating experience in the public and private sectors. Its ability to anticipate risks, adapt to regulatory changes, and maximise the value of each project clearly differentiates it from any other firm.’
‘Compared to other firms, Durán & Osorio not only meets market standards, but defines them. Its capacity for innovation and its influence in structuring strategic projects undoubtedly position it as the absolute benchmark in the country.’
‘Lawyers at Durán & Osorio stand out for their unique combination of experience, innovation, and leadership in structuring infrastructure and energy projects. Their approach goes beyond legal advice to provide strategic and creative solutions that generate a real impact on the country's development.’
Key clients
- International Finance Corporation / Ministerio de Obras Públicas
- Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional
- Odinsa S.A./Odinsa Aeropuertos
- Metro de Panamá
- Financiera de Desarrollo Territorial
- China Harbour Engeneering Company Limited
- Patria Investimentos Ltda.
- International Finance Corporation / ProPacífico
- Fundación Universidad del Valle
- Empresa de Acueducto y Alcantarillado de Bogotá
- World Bank
- Deutsche Gesellshaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit / Integrated Transport Planning Ltd.
Work highlights
Advised Odinsa on the structuring and submission of unsolicited PPP proposals for the Nuevo Aeropuerto de Cartagena project and the El Dorado Airport Expansion project.
Advised Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional on the structuring and ongoing public tender for the La Dorada–Chiriguaná Project, the first rail PPP in Colombia’s history.
Acted as lead international counsel to the IFC and Panama’s Ministry of Public Works on the structuring of Panama’s first successful PPP for the Pan-American East Highway.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Álvaro Gasca
Jorge Gabriel Taboada
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Felipe Herrera
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Sebastián Duque
Daniela Mejía Alzate
Practice head
Álvaro Durán; Jorge Gabriel Taboada; Álvaro Gasca; Felipe Herrera