Described as ‘excellent at defining litigation strategies, integrating innovative and efficient solutions, always taking into account the sector’s risk level’, Pino Elizalde Abogados specialises in government disputes and administrative litigation. The group has a strong presence in the food and beverage sector, including in matters connected to beer distribution. Marco (Valentín) Elizalde has a practice which revolves around administrative and constitutional litigation. Elizalde leads the team alongside Jorge Cedeño Cuellar, who was made partner in March 2025 and is key to the group’s procedural strategies within litigation. The team handles bankruptcy before administrative and civil courts, for which Jorge Cedeño is well known, while senior associate Rafael Ulloa is a key name at associate level.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'It is a firm that has a spectacular litigation and disputes team. They are excellent at defining litigation strategies, integrating innovative and efficient solutions, always taking into account the sector's risk level.'
- 'A go-to firm for advice on litigation and regulatory matters. The firm's members possess in-depth knowledge of Ecuadorian procedural law, both theoretically and in its practical application, which distinguishes them from other firms. We believe this is largely due to the doctoral studies in administrative law of its partner, Marco (Valentín) Elizalde, who also manages this department. He also has exceptional prestige as a litigating lawyer.'
- 'When it comes to Dispute Resolution, Pino Elizalde Abogados sets itself apart with its strategic approach and ability to manage disputes with effective solutions. Marco Elizalde and Jorge Cedeño Cuellar lead the structuring of solid strategies for litigation and arbitration, ensuring solid and well-founded representation. Rafael Ulloa complements the team with his skill for detailed analysis and agile execution in each process. What makes them stand out is their ability to negotiate, efficiently resolve conflicts, and their great capacity to think outside the box with different strategies.'
- 'Working with Pino Elizalde has been an exceptional experience. Their team stands out for their professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to our goals. We have noticed a great ability to adapt to our specific needs, far surpassing other firms we have worked with. They have incorporated advanced technology that improves communication and efficiency, in addition to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that we highly value. Their transparent approach to billing and close collaboration with our team ensure we continue to choose them with complete confidence.'
- 'The firm's lawyers stand out for their personalised approach and commitment to each case, offering innovative and effective solutions. Valentín Elizalde stands out for his ability to address complex situations with precision and clarity. Jorge Cedeño is recognised for his dedication and ability to provide close and detailed support to his clients. Rafael Ulloa is distinguished by his strategic approach and commitment to excellence in each case. The combination of experience, attention to detail, and passion for their work significantly differentiates them from their competitors, guaranteeing exceptional results.'
- 'Pino Elizalde's strength is its litigation practice. They are our lawyers for the most complex and strategic litigation. They tend to integrate more "out of the box" solutions, which makes them especially good for those more complex and challenging cases. They can work hand in hand with communications teams and technical areas when required, further contributing to the definition of effective litigation strategies.'
Key clients
- Cervecería Nacional
- Dinadec
- Holcim Agregados
- Guayaquil Charity Board (Junta De Beneficencia De Guayaquil)
- Sociedad Promotora De Inversiones Inversur
- Megadatos
- Aebe (Asociación De Exportadores De Banano Del Ecuador Aebe)
- AFP Genesis Administradora De Fondos Y Fideicomisos
- Biofeeder
- Security Max
- Industrial Pesquera Santa Priscila
- Global Hydro
Work highlights
Represented Holcim in a case against the Ecuadorian State for the reliquidation of mining royalties for 2009.
Acted in a dispute for a client regarding a breach of contract claiming indemnification for more than $6m of investments in the execution of a maquila contract.
Successfully assisted Cervecería Nacional with annulling a payment order.
Practice head
Marco (Valentín) Elizalde; Jorge Cedeño Cuellar
