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: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- '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.'
- '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.'
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 Ainsa
Work highlights
Represented Holcim in a case against the Ecuadorian State for the reliquidation of mining royalties for 2009.
Practice head
Marco (Valentín) Elizalde; Jorge Cedeño Cuellar