Watson Farley & Williams LLP’s team offers specialist expertise in tax structuring, regulatory matters pertaining to the aquaculture sector, and shipping M&A mandates. The practice is jointly led by Alfredo Cabellos, who assists domestic and international shipowners and other stakeholders with port terminal financing, ship arrest procedures, regulatory compliance and dispute resolution; and Laura Cadenas, who specialises in ship and aircraft financings. Jose María Pery and Daniel Refoyo are additional key contacts for asset finance.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘What makes WFW's practice unique is its ability to understand the project as a whole, not just focusing on the contracts within its scope. The team gets involved in issues such as tax leases and tax structuring, something other firms often overlook. Furthermore, the active participation of partners from different areas is noteworthy, enriching the overall perspective. We were impressed by their dedication to patiently explaining complex legal matters, adapting to our SME profile. Compared to other teams, they offer a more personalised and transparent service at a very competitive price.’
  • ‘WFW's strength lies in its combination of technical rigour and close client relationships. Unlike other firms, they don't simply deliver a "standard" contract; instead, they dedicate time to evaluating alternatives and explaining them clearly.'
  • ‘I have worked with this law firm and team over an extended period and have been consistently impressed by their professionalism and strategic approach. The team excels not only in legal expertise but also in retaining and developing top talent, ensuring continuity and strong client service. Their use of effective translation tools has materially improved the efficiency and accuracy of our cross‑border transactions. They are a reliable and forward‑thinking partner.’
  • ‘I have worked with Alfredo Cabellos for many years across numerous projects. He deserves credit for building and nurturing a strong team and developing talent. Humble and team‑oriented, he is extremely accessible, very personable and a genuine pleasure to work with. Alfredo is efficient and consistently finds smart, practical solutions.'

Key clients

  • DS Autotransport I LLC
  • Magallanes Renovables
  • Prow Capital, manager of the Green Shipping Fund
  • USV AS
  • HSBC UK
  • Intership

Work highlights

Advising Magallanes Renovables on the construction of an offshore floating turbine.
Advised USA AS, a consortium of Norwegian owners, on the first-of-its-kind unmanned vessel to support the offshore wind industry built in Spain.
Advised Intership and several other aquaculture sector owners and their financiers on their newbuilds in Spain.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

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

Alfredo Cabellos; Laura Cadenas

Other key lawyers

José María Pery; Daniel Refoyo