BLP takes advantage of the firm's regional presence to advise leading multinationals on the labour law aspects of their operations in Guatemala and Central America, including labour due diligence on M&A transactions, hiring processes, compensation and benefits programmes, workplace regulations and employee dismissals. Collective bargaining negotiations and labour litigation are also among the team's core areas of expertise. The 'always attentive and knowledgeable' Luis Ruiz leads the practice, bringing extensive experience in union strategies, collective bargaining and the dismissal of high-level employees. Director Fernando Zelada, a key name for labour disputes, and special counsel María Elena Barrientos, who is particularly skilled in immigration and health and safety issues, are also noted.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The BLP team provides very detailed and personalised follow-up to all of our issues. I can say that, in our case, it feels as if we are their only clients, although we know they handle many more.'

  • ‘Luis Ruiz is always attentive and knowledgeable about his clients' issues, even if they are not within his specific area of ​​expertise. He provides a personal approach and oversight that gives clients peace of mind.’

Key clients

  • PepsiCo
  • Aliaxis
  • Mastercard
  • Dollarcity
  • Bimbo
  • Ocean Network Express - ONE
  • MSC Shipping
  • Mission Produce
  • Merck
  • Newland Chase

Work highlights

Advised PepsiCo on labour matters across its Central American operations, offering comprehensive legal support in Guatemala.
Assisting Bimbo with comprehensive immigration management services for the client’s foreign personnel and offering support to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Advising Ufinet on regulatory and labour matters, including employee benefits, compliance with labour laws, and internal workplace regulations.

Lawyers

Leading associates

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

María Elena Barrientos

Practice head

Luis Ruiz