D'Empaire’s public law team remains active in advising clients navigating Venezuela’s shifting regulatory landscape. The group continues to support companies pursuing compensation claims against the state, particularly in relation to nationalisations and expropriations, through proceedings before the administrative courts. The team is also noted for assisting clients in relaunching operations under the evolving legal regime, particularly in light of the removal of foreign exchange and price controls. Clients operating in the pharmaceutical, telecoms and media sectors turn to the firm for guidance, and the group has additional experience advising foreign investors in the mining sector, particularly on the implications of US and EU sanctions. José Valentín González and José Humberto Frías co-head the practice and are recognised for their expertise in public law litigation and regulatory advisory work. Associate Daniel Bustos is also a key member of the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Excellent client service and always providing solutions.'
‘People who always find solutions. They understand the global environment. José Valentín González is one of the best lawyers in the country.'
‘D'Empaire has a diverse and multidisciplinary team.'
‘They are attentive to our needs and are highly specialised in their respective fields. José Humberto Frías is our main contact, and is always available and attentive to our needs.'
'Practical approach to problems. Excellent execution.'
'Depth of knowledge of the subject matter and excellent client service. José Humberto Frías is an excellent lawyer.'
'The team stands out as being the most experienced team in the country in advising foreign and local companies in high-profile public law cases. It has a deep understanding of local challenges and practices as well as the requirements of transnational companies. This team knows best how to balance these circumstances and manage both internal and external stakeholders.'
'The ability to integrate public law issues with the business perspective, providing practical solutions in line with the needs of the business and local legislation and practices.'
Key clients
- Corporación de Actividades Petroleras, S.A. (COAPetrol)
- JMF Consulting, C.A.
- Precisión Mecánica, C.A. (PREMECA)
- TA Gas Technology, S.A.
- Warner-Lambert (Pfizer)
- Sanofi-Aventis
- Cámara Venezolana de Medicamentos (CAVEME)
- Radio Caracas Televisión, C.A. (RCTV)
- Radio Caracas Radio, C.A.
- Radio Caracas 92.9 FM
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.
Daniel Bustos
Practice head
José Valentín González; José Humberto Frías
Other key lawyers
Daniel Bustos