Few firms can match Durán & Osorio Abogados Asociados’ breadth of public law expertise, with the team praised by clients for ‘setting the standard for how relationships between the State and the private sector are handled and structured’. High-profile expert Álvaro Mauricio Durán Leal is a first port of call for market-transforming public law mandates; he is currently advising IFC and ProPacífico on analysing financing mechanisms for Colombia’s tertiary road network to evaluate a potential bankable structure that could encourage private capital participation. Firm co-founder Jorge Gabriel Taboada also contributes premier public law experience and recently paired up with Álvaro Gasca, noted as an ’absolute reference in the sector’, to advise the Secretariat of Infrastructure of Valle del Cauca on structuring a new public agency to develop regional infrastructure. Rounding out the partners is Felipe Herrera, who is commended as ‘one of the smartest minds in the region’; he specialises in public procurement and project structuring with a focus on the rail, road and airport sectors. A formidable second line of senior associates includes Sebastián Duque and Daniela Mejía, who are highlighted together for their ’exceptional ability to handle matters of the highest complexity’, as well as Edgardo Maya Araújo, who specialises in projects, public law and dispute resolution.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Durán & Osorio's public law practice not only leads the sector in Colombia: it dominates it with an undeniable advantage. It is by far the best firm in this field, setting the standard for how relationships between the State and the private sector are handled and structured.’
‘This team not only understands public law, it shapes it. Its active participation in the creation of regulatory frameworks, its deep knowledge of public administration, and its ability to design strategic legal solutions gives it a level of expertise unattainable by any other firm.’
‘While others react to regulatory changes, Durán & Osorio anticipates and, in many cases, defines them. It has constantly evolved, integrating the country's best talent. It is the firm that large companies, government entities, and multilaterals turn to when they need innovative solutions.’
‘Understanding the regulatory framework is always a strong point. Compared to others, this firm is characterised by proposing alternative, unconventional approaches that allow it to approach public projects with a perspective that favours their implementation and management of potential risks.’
‘We highlight their willingness to propose alternatives, seek solutions, and explore alternatives. I have worked with Sebastián Duque, Álvaro Gasca, and Jorge Gabriel Taboada. In general, they combine experience with a willingness to explore alternatives.’
‘Álvaro Gasca leads this practice with a level of expertise and vision that make him an absolute reference in the sector. At his side, Daniela Mejía and Sebastián Duque are the star associates: brilliant, strategic, and with an exceptional ability to handle matters of the highest complexity.’
Key clients
- World Bank
- Empresas Públicas de Cundinamarca
- International Finance Corporation (IFC) / ProPacífico
- Cundinamarca Transportation and Mobility Secretariat
- Infimanizales
- Inter-American Development Bank
- Instituto de Desarrollo Urbano
- Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional
- Unidad de Gestión del Patrimonio Autónomo Aerocafé
- Secretariat of Infrastructure of Valle del Cauca
- Odinsa Aeropuertos
- Ministry of Transport
Work highlights
Engaged by the World Bank — together with Steer Davies & Gleave and Crossrail International — to develop an ESG strategic framework for Colombia’s national railway sector.
Advised the Inter-American Development Bank and Colombia’s Ministry of Transport on structuring a fund to finance the transition of the national bus, cargo and taxi fleet to zero-emission vehicles
Advised the Secretariat of Infrastructure of Valle del Cauca on structuring a new public agency for the development of infrastructure in Valle del Cauca.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Practice head
Álvaro Mauricio Durán Leal; Jorge Gabriel Taboada; Álvaro Gasca; Felipe Herrera