Mayer Brown is noted for its background in oil and gas, LNG and energy transactions in Latin America. The firm represents some of the biggest Latin American businesses in the market, including Pluspetrol and CEMEX, and multinationals that are primarily focused on the region, such as CGX Energy and Frontera Energy. This Latin America focus has resulted in a stream of headline engagements, including advising Pluspetrol on the acquisition of Exxon Mobil Exploration Argentina from ExxonMobil Argentina Investments and QatarEnergy Argentina Holdings. Its Houston office houses a number of Latin America transactions specialists that also work in conjunction with the team in Brazil (through the firm’s association with Tauil & Chequer Advogados). The Latin America group features a number of natives from the region, along with bilingual and multi-lingual practitioners. Pablo Ferrante has emerged as a major player in Latin America oil and gas, LNG and energy transactions. Gabriel Salinas and Jose Valera are also prominent Latin America M&A specialists, while senior associate Federica Castro is another key member of the team. All named individuals are based in Houston.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Mayer Brown stands out as a top-tier NY firm in the M&A practice, with a particular focus on the Energy and O&G sectors, recognized for its dedication, depth, and exceptional analytical skills in complex transactions. Its team demonstrates deep knowledge of the Argentine market and a detailed understanding of the Oil & Gas industry, allowing them to anticipate trends and offer innovative solutions to their clients.’
- ‘I would like to single out Pablo Ferrante (partner) and Federica Castro (senior associate). With the team, we closed two highly significant transactions in the sector: the Vaca Muerta Sur pipeline JV and the Petronas exit.’
- 'They are able to pull in expertise from different branches of their company, which allows them to give expert legal advice considering local and regional laws. They never hesitate to discuss an issue with one of their representatives in another location.'
- 'Mayer Brown's M&A team, led by Pablo Ferrante (partner) and Federica Castro (associate), is excellent... In addition to their excellent service and work ethic, they are intimately familiar with the industry's reality in Latin America, which greatly facilitates discussions with in-house lawyers about the most sensitive aspects of a transaction.'
- 'They are a very solid and sought-after team in the market, led by Pablo Ferrante and other partners. Pablo has extensive knowledge of the Latin American market and, in particular, is frequently called upon for projects and transactions in Argentina. They are highly versatile and well-versed in energy matters.'
- ‘The lawyers I've worked with at the firm offer personalised attention with a sense of empathy for the client's needs. Added to this is their knowledge and experience in a field the company I work for has been venturing into in recent years: renewable natural energy sources.’
- 'Their level of knowledge and experience has contributed to solving complex negotiations. They have handled all types of transactions, which is a significant contribution.'
- 'Jon-Paul Bernard provides excellent advice on very complex structures and negotiations. Gabriel Salinas provides extensive experience in various areas, which together contributes greatly.'
- ‘Pablo Ferrante and Gabriel Salinas are lawyers who truly know how to listen and address their clients' real needs, optimising their time and accurately addressing their inquiries.’
- 'Their availability is much appreciated. They are very responsive to our needs.'
Key clients
- Talos Production
- Pluspetrol
- Bunge Brasil Holdings
- CEMEX
- CGX Energy
- Frontera Energy Corporation
- Engie Brasil Energia
- LSC Lithium
- POSCO International
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.
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
Pablo Ferrante; Jose Valera