Arias advises an array of high-profile international clients, including household-name brands in the pharmaceuticals, fashion and consumer goods sectors, on a comprehensive range of IP issues. The team is highly sought after to advise on the management of clients’ trade mark and patent portfolios in Guatemala, as well as coordinating their expansion and protection in other jurisdictions throughout Central and Latin America, working alongside the firm’s regional offices. In addition, the group is often active in IP litigation, particularly anti-piracy and anti-counterfeiting actions, and has increasing expertise in the IP issues involved in software licensing and technology-related contracts, marketing campaigns and data protection. The team is led by Ivón Hernández, who has a strong reputation for advising on complex trade mark and patent matters both locally and internationally. Senior associate Cristina Ortega, who is the current vice-president of AmCham Guatemala’s IP Committee, has notable experience in IP protection and emerging technology areas.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • Ivón is an exemplary professional, very capable and willing to resolve any issue that arises quickly and efficiently.
  • The interrelationship between the offices, especially with Honduras and El Salvador, is phenomenal. You really feel like it's a one-stop shop. In particular, Guatemala has a partner who is very involved in the local ecosystem, which facilitates the quick resolution of any request.
  • The team excels in its ability to combine specialised technical knowledge in intellectual property with a strategic business approach, offering clear and effective solutions for the protection, management and defence of intangible assets.
  • In-house counsel will particularly value the team's ability to provide clear, practical and business-oriented advice, as well as its expertise in portfolio management, trade mark protection and enforcement.
  • Arias's practice is distinguished by its high level of technical expertise, regional focus and commitment to institutional strengthening, particularly in areas such as intellectual property. The team not only provides top-tier legal counsel but also actively participates in training programs.
  • The Arias team's main differentiating factor is the human and professional quality of its members, who combine technical expertise, leadership and a clear commitment to impacting the development of the legal environment. In particular, Ivón Hernández stands out. Her knowledge and experience in intellectual property are truly admirable, and her career reflects solid leadership and a deep commitment to the country. For her part, Cristina Ortega is distinguished by her technical skills, strategic approach and modern, collaborative vision.

Key clients

  • The Procter & Gamble Company
  • Sanofi
  • Bayer
  • AstraZeneca
  • Inditex
  • Philip Morris Products
  • Boehringer Ingelheim International
  • Viatris
  • Chery Automobile Co.
  • Himalaya Global Holdings

Work highlights

Acting as local counsel and regional coordinator for Naturaceites’ trade mark portfolio in Guatemala and other jurisdictions.
Represented Aspen México during a judicial non-use cancellation action process.
Overseeing and managing the trade mark and patent matters of Clarke Modet & Co's clients in Guatemala.

Lawyers

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

Ivón Hernández