Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría > Santiago, Chile > Firm Profile
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría Offices
EL GOLF 40, 20TH FLOOR
LAS CONDES, CP 7550107
SANTIAGO
Chile
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría > The Legal 500 Rankings
Chile > Capital markets Tier 1
With a long-established presence in both the national and international capital markets, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría‘s nine-member group covers both market entry and exit work. The team’s representative experience ranges from the issuance, registration, placement, trading and offering of securities, to advising on prospectuses, agreements, and stock market and over-the-counter market-related deals. The firm also houses highly active corporate governance and compliance practitioners. The practice is co-led by country manager Andrés Sanfuentes and Federico Grebe, who both have longstanding experience in assisting national and foreign companies with major capital markets transactions; and Marcela Silva, a specialist in advising underwriters and issuers of bonds and shares. In January 2023, IPO and debt issue practitioner Constanza Rodríguez and international capital markets financing lawyer Daniel Parodi were both elevated to director level, while former practice co-head Marcelo Armas retired from practice. Principal associate Guillermo Vial is also a key team member. Since publication, Parodi has been raised to the partnership - effective as of December 2023.Practice head(s):
Marcela Silva; Andrés Sanfuentes; Daniel Parodi; Constanza Rodríguez
Key clients
Bank of America
The Bank of Nova Scotia
BNP Paribas
Tanner Servicios Financieros
XTB Chile
Neuberger Berman Group
Empresas Lipigas
Work highlights
- Acted for the investors and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (as lender) on the issuance by Innergex (through Aela Generación) of green notes.
- Assisted Tanner Servicios Financieros before the Financial Market Commission on the issuance of a new trade bills facility (for up to approximately $120m).
- Assisted the Santiago Stock Exchange, the Lima Stock Exchange and the Colombian Stock Exchange with the integration of the three stock exchanges.
Chile > Corporate and M&A Tier 1
With 'deep and comprehensive knowledge of various jurisdictions', Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría's 23-strong M&A and corporate practice is highly focused on corporate advisory work (both contractual and commercial), as well as major investment operations, such as M&A deals, divestitures, joint ventures, spin-offs and other significant strategic transactions. The firm also houses specialists in a range of sectors, particularly energy, finance, technology, forestry and agriculture, along with infrastructure, healthcare and pharma. The group fields several experienced partners, namely: M&A, private equity and corporate law specialist Federico Grebe; Andrés Sanfuentes, who maintains a wide-ranging M&A practice; commercial transactions expert Juan Pablo Wilhelmy; and experienced corporate law, M&A and financing practitioner Alberto Pulido A. Also integral to the department, Carlos Alberto Reyes is an energy and mining-project specialist, while Nicolás Santana (a former international associate at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP‘s New York office), was raised to partner in early 2023. At non-partner level, director Constanza Rodríguez's practice incorporates M&A, capital markets and corporate law; while principal associate Guillermo Vial focuses on corporate law, M&A, infrastructure, project finance and capital markets. Since publication, Vial has been raised to the partnership - effective as of December 2023.Practice head(s):
Federico Grebe; Andrés Sanfuentes; Juan Pablo Wilhelmy; Alberto Pulido A; Carlos Alberto Reyes; Nicolás Santana
Testimonials
‘Great for the coordination of teams in different jurisdictions and their ability to attend in a very effective way the legal challenges that arise at the same time in the Colombian, Peruvian and Chilean jurisdictions.’
‘Deep and comprehensive knowledge of various jurisdictions that makes it very competitive with other law firms.’
Key clients
Epiroc
Minsait Payments Systems Chile
Bolsa de Comercio de Santiago, Bolsa de Valores
FIP IG Capital
HAL Investments
Inmobiliaria Algeciras Limitada and Inversiones Altair
Sumitomo Metal Mining Co Ltd and Sumitomo Corporation
MSB – Salar Blanco
Minera Las Cenizas
Kongregate Inc.
Vitamina Holding
Interchile
Work highlights
- Advised Sumitomo Metal Mining Co and Sumitomo Corporation on the sale of their 45% stake in the Sierra Gorda Mining Project.
- Assisted (in Santiago, Lima and Bogotá) the Santiago, Lima and Colombian Stock Exchanges with the process of integrating the three stock markets.
- Advised Interchile in relation to ISA Inversiones Chile’s capital increase and division into two different companies.
Energy and natural resources > Mining Tier 1
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría's ‘great team of lawyers' is particularly well known for its mining-related M&A and project finance credentials; the group’s expertise takes in due diligence, deals involving mining issues, and mining contracts. The firm additionally houses a robust mining dispute resolution practice. Mining and natural resources group leader Juan Paulo Bambach is an expert in corporate law, M&A, energy, mining and natural resources, and enjoys a track record that includes high-stakes transactions on behalf of national and international mining exploration companies; mining and energy law expert Jerónimo Carcelén ‘provides an exemplary service'; while María Paz Pulgar (who was promoted to counsel in March 2022) is experienced in major mining deals. At associate level, principal Felipe Ossa P handles mining-related regulatory issues, in addition to advising mining companies on corporate, M&A and financing matters. Former senior Natalia Czwiklitzer and principal María José Sotomayor both left for in-house roles during the course of 2022.Practice head(s):
Juan Paulo Bambach; Jerónimo Carcelén
Testimonials
‘Very good handling of the entrusted issues, very well-ordered documentation, and great delivery at closing.‘
‘Solid preparation in environmental and corporate issues, good command of English, and very detailed.‘
‘PPU is a great office, with internal systems that really stand out.‘
‘An available and trustworthy team that is willing to listen and solve.’
‘PPU has a great team of lawyers, with the necessary experience and knowledge to resolve all the queries that clients might raise.‘
‘Provides a comprehensive service, which includes the most varied areas of law. The lawyers generate the confidence that clients need to make decisions.‘
‘Deep knowledge and practical solutions.’
‘Jerónimo Carcelén provides an exemplary service.‘
Work highlights
- Advised Sumitomo Metal Mining Co and Sumitomo Corporation on the sale of a 45% stake in the Sierra Gorda Mining Project.
- Advised Compañía Minera Mantos de Oro (a subsidiary of Kinross) on the process of reopening the La Coipa project.
- Advised MSB on the consolidation by Lithium Power Investment of up-to 100% equity ownership of the Salar Blanco lithium project (through a three-party cross-border merger and stock acquisition arrangement).
Chile > Environment Tier 1
The six-lawyer environment and sustainable development practice at full-service international law firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría has an enviable market reputation for high-stakes environmental projects. The team’s expertise takes in domestic environmental procedures (including project development and permitting issues), the environmental aspects of local and international M&A and financing deals, and high-profile administrative and judicial environmental litigation. Department head Juan José Eyzaguirre has long-established experience in major environmental projects and disputes; Felipe Arévalo (who was raised to the partnership in January 2022), is an administrative and judicial environmental litigator; and former Carcelén, Desmadryl, Guzmán & Tapia name partner, Matías Desmadryl, is a water resources, environment and natural resources specialist. At principal associate level, Mario Mozó routinely acts on the environmental law aspects of the energy, mining, agribusiness and infrastructure sectors.Practice head(s):
Juan José Eyzaguirre; Felipe Arévalo
Key clients
Anglo American Chile
Inmobiliaria Las Salinas
Compañía Minera Maricunga
Compañía Minera Mantos de Oro
Kinross Minera Chile
Empresa Nacional del Petróleo
Sociedad Nacional de Oleoductos
Empresa de Transporte de Pasajeros Metro
Minera Salar Blanco
Linde Gas Chile
Bodegas San Francisco
Sacyr Concesiones
Consorcio Eólico
Grenergy Renovables
Work highlights
- Assisted Anglo American with the preparation and processing of an appeal (before the Executive Director of SEA), against an Environmental Qualification Resolution of the Valparaíso Region’s Environmental Assessment Commission.
- Advised Inmobiliaria Las Salinas on the environmental impact assessment of a remediation project.
- Leading the defence of Compañía Minera Maricunga against two environmental damages lawsuits filed by the Chilean State Defense Council before the Environmental Court.
Chile > Projects and infrastructure Tier 1
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría's sizeable 20-strong projects practice acts in a wide range of areas, particularly in the renewable energy, mining and water sectors. Its expertise covers negotiating project contracts, environmental assessments, permitting, and community affairs. The team also assists with the negotiation of partnerships, strategic alliances and joint ventures with third parties, as well as project acquisitions and sales. On the infrastructure side, the team is active in transportation, hospitals, schools, telecoms, real estate developments, and water and sewerage systems. The practice is jointly led by transactions and development expert Carlos Alberto Reyes; banking, financial and infrastructure project specialist Andrés Sanfuentes; and Marcela Silva, whose practice covers the lender-side of mining, infrastructure and energy project financing. The second line of key advisers includes Daniel Parodi (promoted to director in early 2023); and senior associates Guillermo Vial (complex projects), and construction and engineering-focused Mario Fava. In early 2023, former practice co-head Marcelo Armas retired from the firm. Since publication, Parodi has been promoted to the partnership - effective as of December 2023.Practice head(s):
Carlos Alberto Reyes; Andrés Sanfuentes; Marcela Silva
Testimonials
‘Projects and infrastructure teams must have experience in M&A operations and financing of different types of assets and projects in the electricity sector. From my point of view -and after 30 years in the market- PPU has the most experienced and talented team to negotiate asset purchase and sale contracts, PPA’s and financing.‘
‘Mainly his experience and his focus on “adding value” to the transaction.‘
‘Experienced team in projects and infrastructure. Great capabilities in complex document management and project approach. Organized and efficient closing procedures and great client service in general. Reasonable fees for excellent product.‘
‘Marcela Silva, great team management skills. Knowledgeable and excellent communication. Ignacio Chomali, organised and responsive. Keeps the rhythm and things moving forward, great deal timing and proactive.‘
Work highlights
- Advised Minera Salar Blanco on the consolidation by Lithium Power Investment of up-to 100% of the equity ownership of the Salar Blanco lithium project (through a three-party cross-border merger and stock acquisition arrangement).
- Advised Cintra on its participation (as a member of a consortium with Globalvia) in the tender process launched by the Chilean Ministry of Public Works for a concession for the improvement, repair, maintenance and operation of Route 78 Santiago–San Antonio.
- Advised lender Natixis (New York branch), on the financing of a solar portfolio consisting of 13 photovoltaic projects.
Chile > Real estate Tier 1
‘Very meticulous in its approach to real estate work’, market stalwart Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría acts for both international real estate investment funds and domestic real estate developers on major developments and transactions; and the team has enviable sector experience in residential condominiums, shopping centres, hotels, and apartment and office buildings, as well as urban and rural property-related developments. Practice head José Tagle is an expert in real estate investment funds, urban matters and corporate real estate law, whose caseload typically takes in residential projects, office buildings, hotels, shopping malls, mixed-use developments, multi-family projects, and agricultural real estate investments. Recently-promoted principal associate Cristóbal Uriarte acts, in turn, for agricultural and forestry clients, in addition to advising on real estate projects and related M&A deals. Former principal associate María Eugenia Badilla Lepe left the firm for IVM Abogados in March 2022.Practice head(s):
José Tagle
Testimonials
‘They are very quick in their responses.‘
‘Very meticulous in its approach to real estate work.’
‘Knows the market very well and looks for flexible solutions in order to reach agreements.‘
‘Speed in responding to the needs of our company. With practical as well as accurate and efficient solutions.’
‘Our lawyer is partner José Tagle and in the real estate field he is the most outstanding figure on the national scene today due to his negotiating skills, knowledge of real estate agents and his ease of accessing them.‘
‘The strong point of the real estate team is the trust they create with clients.‘
‘José Tagle has a very deep knowledge of the real estate sector. He is very commercial and a good negotiator. He gives excellent advice and explanatory assistance on his clients’ legal issues.‘
‘The work of Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is first class. They are fast and reliable. They are excellent when it comes to building bridges between the commercial and legal aspects. The main interlocutors have a very commercial mindset -which in my opinion is very important in real estate transactions- and they are particularly good negotiators. Even the most complex issues are presented in a transparent and understandable way; they always find good solutions to problems and solve them in the interest of their client. Comprehensive and competent care is guaranteed.‘
Key clients
Deka Immobilien
DWS | RREEF Management
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority
Jamestown
Credicorp Capital
Desarrollos Inmobiliarios
Inmobiliaria Duero
Penta Las Americas
Inmobiliaria Algeciras
Vivo Corp
Corp Group
Hotel Corporation Of Chile
Hancock Timber Resource Group
Folium Capital
FIA
Inmobiliaria Da Vinci
Grupo Urbana
Inmobiliaria Manquehue
CBRE Chile
Territoria
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Inversiones Thor
Orica Chile Distribución
Anglo American Sur
RWE Renewables Americas
Work highlights
- Advised Deka Inmobiliaria Chile One on its negotiations with tenants, in relation to units in the Titanium La Portada building.
- Advised DWS on its negotiations with tenants, in relation to a major mixed-use building.
- Advised The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority on the acquisition of an 80% stake in Territoria Apoquindo.
Chile > Water law Tier 1
The Santiago office of full-service international law firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría fields a five-member team that consistently advises on major projects that require water; the ‘very committed, attentive and high-level’ group is particularly focused on the mining, energy, sanitary, industrial, and agricultural sectors. Its assistance covers environmental impact studies; hydroelectric power plants, and salt and desalinated water supply projects; the underwriting of long-term water supply contracts; and appearing before the General Directorate of Water, General Comptroller of the Republic, ordinary and special courts of justice, and Environment Superintendence. The firm’s water resources offering is led by ‘excellent water law technician’ Matías Desmadryl, whose track record includes being appointed Chile’s General Director of Water between 2010-2012, during which time he spearheaded the establishment of Chile’s National Water Information System. Supporting Desmadryl at associate level are administrative and water law expert Francisca Mendoza; and Franco Valenzuela, who is experienced in high-profile sanctioning procedures before the General Directorate of Water.Practice head(s):
Matías Desmadryl
Testimonials
‘A very committed, attentive and high-level team.‘
‘Good contacts that allow the firm to have visibility of how the procedures are going, and it gives clients peace of mind that the issues are addressed from various angles.’
‘Knows the process in its entirety and all the edges that may arise along the way.‘
‘Enough experience in the industry to make a difference to the advice provided.’
‘A high level of knowledge and strategic vision of how to face the issues – this differentiates it from competitors.‘
‘Excellent specialists, with strong technical levels and practical business outlooks.’
‘The fact that Matías Desmadrylwas the General Director of Water gives a unique characteristic to the advice they provide.’
‘Matías Desmadryl – in addition to being an excellent water law technician, he is a lawyer with business sense who knows how to understand clients’ needs well.’
Key clients
Minera Los Pelambres
Antofagasta Minerals
Compa{ia Mineea Zaldívar
Codelco
Aguas Andinas
Viña Luis Felipe Edwards
AgroNegocios
Sociedad Agrícola Campanario
Agrícola Ballerina
Matetic Wine Group
Lago Sofía
Kinross
Hidromaule
Engie
Laboratorios SAVAL
Anpac
Norte Abierto
David del Curto
SCM Minera Lumina Copper Chile
Hidroeléctrica El Paso
Cabo de Hornos
Work highlights
- Advised Minera Los Pelambres on developing and implementing a strategy and action plan to maintain a mining project’s water supply.
- Advised Corporación Nacional del Cobre on several water resources matters.
- Advising Matetic Wine Group on the development of various projects (wine, livestock, agriculture and tourism) that contemplate the use of water.
Chile > Banking and finance Tier 2
With ‘extensive experience in financial matters‘, full-service legal practice Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría fields a seven-member banking and finance practice that acts for both foreign and domestic banks and financial institutions (as well as borrowers and sponsors) on major transactions. Core areas for the group range from energy, mining and infrastructure project finance, to syndicated financing, aircraft finance (including aircraft lease and financing operations), and offshore bonds and shares issuances. Following the early 2023 departure of practice co-head Marcelo Armas , the group is jointly led by the ‘always well-informed and accessible‘ Marcela Silva, an expert in the financing of mining, infrastructure and energy projects; and recently-elevated director Daniel Parodi, who regularly assists with asset, project and corporate finance. The duo are also flanked by banking, finance and infrastructure projects expert Andrés Sanfuentes, along with senior associates Pedro Pablo Valenzuela (‘very independent and thorough‘) and Ignacio Chomalí, both of whom handle domestic and cross-border banking and finance deals, along with project finance work. Since publication, Parodi has been raised to the partnership - effective as of December 2023.Practice head(s):
Marcela Silva; Daniel Parodi
Testimonials
‘The PPU team has extensive experience in financial matters – its experience in different industries with local and foreign clients makes the advice both suitable and effective.‘
‘Always available and willing to answer questions. Contributes creative ideas based on experience. Very good during negotiations when arguing the points and defending the client’s position.‘
‘Very diligent when it comes to complying with analysis and document delivery times.‘
‘Very responsive and clear in their statements. Prices are reasonable (more so than those of other players in the same jurisdiction).’
‘Marcela Silva and senior associate Pedro Pablo Valenzuela are extraordinary professionals and great people.’
‘Marcela Silva grants her associates a lot of freedom, but is always well informed and accessible.‘
‘Director Daniel Parodi has extensive experience and his friendly nature facilitates negotiations – very available to serve clients promptly and efficiently.‘
‘Pedro Pablo Valenzuela is very independent and thorough.‘
Key clients
The Bank of Nova Scotia
Scotiabank Chile
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
MUFG Bank
BNP Paribas
Work highlights
- Advised the investors and lender (Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation) on the issuance by Innergex, through Aela Generación, of $710m of green notes and a a $93.1m letter-of-credit facility.
- Acted for Scotiabank Chile, Banco de Crédito e Inversiones, Banco Internacional and BTG Pactual (as lenders) on the financing to DB Terra Chile Holdco (to partially finance the acquisition of Mundo Pacífico).
- Advised the sponsors (Ibereólica Renovables and Repsol) on the financing of an approximately 165.3MW wind farm.
Chile > Bankruptcy, insolvency and restructuring Tier 2
International law firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría has an enviable reputation for heavyweight bankruptcy work. The team’s credentials cover liquidation and reorganisation proceedings, as well as cross-border insolvencies and defence-side creditor matters. Notable recent experience includes representing certain creditors during the reorganisation of LATAM Airlines. Country manager Andrés Sanfuentes, an expert in banking, financial and infrastructure projects is the key figure on the financial side; however, the practice lost disputes specialist Jorge Vial, who frequently acted on major cross-border insolvencies and reorganisations, and Ignacio Larraín (whose broad practice included representing debtors and lenders in insolvency proceedings), with the pair’s departure to re-establish their own firm in September 2023.Chile > Labour and employment Tier 2
The ‘highly specialised and experienced lawyers' at international law firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría houses a nine-member team that routinely advises on employee hirings and terminations, unfair dismissal, HR company policies, due diligence, internal employment audits, and restrictive covenants. The group also comprises experts in subcontracting, outsourcing, labour taxation and compensation packages, along with collective bargaining, union relations, labour litigation, social security, and M&A-related employment issues. The practice is co-led by labour, employment, social security and immigration specialist Paulina Miranda, whose practice encompasses new areas such as "#MeToo" , gender pay gaps, gig economy work and AI, along with data privacy, internal investigations and compliance; and recently-raised partner Sergio Montes, who is a labour and social security law expert. Experienced senior associate Aref Cosma advises on the employment side to major transactions, including M&A deals.Practice head(s):
Paulina Miranda; Sergio Montes
Testimonials
‘Highly specialised and experienced lawyers, whose relationships with clients are close, business-oriented and executed with a sense of urgency.‘
‘Great attention to detail and excellent knowledge of the market.‘
‘Stands out for the teamwork carried out, and the lawyers provide real solutions for matters that could impact clients’ businesses.‘
‘Very accurate technically, and friendly and cordial attention, along with excellent response times and great attention to detail.’
‘Great experience in both litigation and the corporate labour side to local law issues.’
‘PPU’s employment attorneys are always available. They can be contacted in emergencies and their responses are always quick.’
‘Sergio Montes is great for his ability to convey complex messages with simplicity.’
‘Gives practical answers in a timely manner. Clients highlight Paulina Miranda and Sergio Montes, as well as senior associate Aref Cosma.’
Key clients
Codelco
Anglo American
Yamana Gold
Decathlon
Vitamina Chile
SAP
Walt Disney Company
Diageo
Arrigoni Ingeniería
Schlumberger (Mediciones Geolec)
Zubale
Pager Duty
Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology
Work highlights
- Successfully acted for the Chuquicamata Division of Codelco in a case against the Labour Governmental Authority (and involving three of Codelco’s main unions), in which Codelco was accused of accessing employees’ medical records illegally.
- Represented Arrigoni Ingeniería in a labour claim for indemnification, further to an employee’s Covid-19-related death.
- Provides SAP Chile with day-to-day employment law advice.
Chile > Public law Tier 2
‘A team with solid knowledge’, the public law department at full-service international law firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is particularly active in administrative law disputes, and -of late- increasingly involved in urban affairs (on behalf of real estate companies) and public procurement issues. Recent mandates also include acting for telecoms clients, as well as a raft of state agencies and state-owned enterprises. The 10-strong team is led by José Luis Lara, a longstanding expert in public procurement, and administrative and constitutional law. Lara is flanked by public law-focused senior counsel Guillermo Zavala, who also advises on related areas, such as environmental law, regulatory work, public procurement, and municipal and urban law; and counsel Jorge Femenías, a dispute resolution director who is experienced in environmental damage-related liability issues, administrative sanctioning law, and negotiations involving Chile’s public authorities. At senior associate level, Matías Larroulet and Florencia Portales are also key group team members.Practice head(s):
José Luis Lara
Testimonials
‘A team with solid knowledge of the public/administrative area, which is well positioned within the market and fields lawyers with experience in different areas.‘
‘Lawyers with extensive experience in several areas.‘
‘Great public law knowledge.’
‘Excellent relationship and coordination with the client. A great deal of knowledge from the partners and associates, not only of the matter to hand, but also of the market, the environment, the entities involved, and the people linked to this space – this greatly facilitates the work, especially when compared with other law firms.’
‘The whole team is very willing to work together and has very good strategic vision.’
‘PPU has a very good regulatory law team. It has professionals who are specialised in different areas and its sub-areas are well-organised, which makes the work efficient and of quality.’
‘Excellent mastery of the subjects by the entire team. José Luis Lara is highlighted for being personally involved in the issues, as well as the dedication of senior associates Matías Larroulet and Florencia Portales.‘
‘Matías Larroulet has outstanding skills in constitutional and customs matters, and his availability to solve complex queries is especially valued.’
Key clients
UC Christus
Globenet Cabos Submarinos Chile
Enap (Empresa Nacional del Petróleo)
Fundación Ciudad del Niño
SAP Chile
Inmobiliaria del Puerto
Comercial Kaufmann
Metro
Municipalidad Las Condes
Minera Los Pelambres
Work highlights
- Currently assisting Ventisqueros with a legal action against the Undersecretary of the Armed Forces, in relation to the expiration of a concession for installing a salmon farm in Chiloe (due to lack of activity).
- Assisting Globenet Cabos Submarinos with obtaining a telecoms concession.
- Defended Fundación Ciudad del Niño against an invalidation proceeding initiated by the Municipality of San Miguel Urbanistic Department, in relation to construction project-related licenses.
Chile > Tax Tier 2
Fielding both experienced senior lawyers and an in-house accountant, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s ‘committed and flexible’ thirteen-strong tax practice focuses on corporate and private wealth matters, domestic and international tax planning, and tax litigation and administrative procedures before Chile’s tax authorities. The practice is co-led by Mario Silva, who assists with corporate and personal taxation, along with tax planning and corporate restructuring; finance, and energy and natural resources sector expert, Guillermo Infante; and tax disputes head Arturo Selman, who was elevated to partner during 2023 and is a former Chilean IRS lawyer. Principal associate Ariel Castillo focuses on tax advisory work, business and international taxation, tax structuring, and reorganisations.Practice head(s):
Guillermo Infante; Mario Silva; Arturo Selman
Testimonials
‘Professionals who are committed and flexible.’
Key clients
America Móvil
Avery Dennison Chile
Territoria Apoquindo
Isapre Cruz Blanca
Work highlights
- Advised America Móvil on the tax aspects of a joint venture with Liberty Latin America.
- Assisting Avery Dennison Chile with challenging a transfer pricing adjustment.
- Advised Territoria Apoquindo on the most efficient use of VAT credits.
Chile > Dispute resolution: litigation Tier 3
The September 2023 departure of practice head Jorge Vial and fellow partner Ignacio Larraín to establish their own firm means in conjunction with director of the contentious administrative and regulatory practice Jorge Femenías means the dispute resolution practice at full-service firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is undergoing a period of transition. Capable senior associate Manuela Cross has been raised to practice director and has experience on mandates concerning construction, infrastructure and consumer protection, along with the the energy and entertainment sectors, insurance-related claims, and litigation concerning real estate disputes, and civil and commercial conflicts. She can call on the deep expertise of senior counsel Jaime Irarrázabal; along with the assitance of counsel Guillermo Zavala on both litigation before the ordinary courts and contentious administrative matters. Josefa Larraín was a 2022 departee for Albagli Zaliasnik.Practice head(s):
Jorge Vial
Testimonials
‘The team is very professional and stands out for the quality of service and availability to take on assignments with excellent professionalism.’
Key clients
Metro
Despegar.com
Scarlet Star Group
Ibereólica Cabo Leones II
GPG Solar Chile 2017
Forum (BBVA)
Arrigoni
Enap
Minera Los Pelambres
Municipalidad de Santo Domingo
Energy and natural resources > Electricity and hydrocarbons
The energy and projects practice at full-service international firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría houses specialists in both electricity law-related regulatory matters and energy transactions. The team’s representative experience covers major M&A deals and energy project financings, along with power purchase and off-take agreements. It also advises on complex engineering, procurement and construction contracts, and operation and maintenance agreements. The team’s principal advisers are projects, energy and M&A expert Carlos Alberto Reyes, whose practice covers natural resources and oil and gas-related transactions and developments, as well as electricity work; and Eduardo Escalona, a specialist in project development, international tenders, and economic litigation before the Panel of Electricity Experts.Chile > TMT Tier 3
The multi-disciplinary practice at full-service international firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría comprises experts in TMT, corporate law, banking, data privacy and regulated markets. The team regularly advises Chilean food retailer SMU on e-commerce matters, while other notable matters include advising Metropago on the implementation of a prepaid payment method using an an app that enables compatibility between Chile’s transport system and smartphone users. Regional TMT partner Eduardo Escalona is a specialist in the economic regulation of public services, particularly those concerning TMT, energy, data protection and consumers; he is also in charge of the firm’s recently-established Digital Desk initiative.Practice head(s):
Eduardo Escalona
Testimonials
‘Eduardo Escalona has great knowledge of electiricty regulatory matters, among other issues.‘
Key clients
Experian
SMU
Metropago
Metro
Ministry of Energy
Work highlights
- Advised Experian on implementing the acquisition of control of Sinacofi.
- Advises SMU on e-commerce matters.
- Advising Metropago on the implementation of a prepaid payment method.
Chile > Competition and antitrust Tier 4
The September 2023 departure of practice head Ignacio Larraín -taking associates Catalina Montero and Camilo Larrain (among others) with him- sees the competition team at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría now led by capable associate director Gabriel Budnik, who can draw on a decade's experience. He is supported by juniors Pablo Antonio Aguayo and Catalina Commandari.Practice head(s):
Gabriel Budnik
Testimonials
‘Speed, precision and efficiency.’
‘Excellent communicators, providing clients with regular updates, legal insights, and detailed explanations of the steps taken to achieve clients’ objectives.’
Work highlights
- Acting for Comercializadora Chile Nutreco before the TDLC, in relation to the FNE’s charge of an alleged cartel in the salmon feed industry.
- Acting for Banco Santander-Chile in three different collective abuse of dominance claims currently being litigated before the TDLC.
- Acting for Banco Crédito e Inversiones (BCI) in a lawsuit filed by Arcadi against BCI and eight other banks for allegedly engaging in anti-competitive conduct.
Chile > Data privacy Tier 4
The four-member team at the Chilean office of full-service regional firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is able to leverage the firm’s strong TMT-credentials for data privacy matters. In addition to housing experts in big data, blockchain, cryptocurrencies and analytics, the group also regularly works alongside its banking and competition law colleagues. A key partner in the regional TMT practice, Eduardo Escalona also co-heads the firm’s digital desk initiative.Practice head(s):
Eduardo Escalona
Key clients
SMU
Experian
Work highlights
- Advising SMU on data protection issues.
- Advising Experian on data protection matters.
Chile > Venture capital Tier 4
The seven-member venture capital and technology practice at ‘first-class’ international law firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría routinely acts for start-ups, investors, foreign and domestic VC funds, and companies with corporate VC initiatives. The ‘very powerful’ team covers fundraising rounds, internationalisation structures, fintech and regulatory matters, and clients additionally benefit from the firm’s approximately 10-year strategic alliance with Endeavor, which provides mentoring assistance to entrepreneurs when launching in foreign jurisdictions. The principal advisers are Nicolás Santana (‘demonstrates great knowledge of the industry’), who advises start-ups on capital raising; and principal associate and international tax law specialist, María Jesús Ibáñez.Practice head(s):
Nicholas Santana; Maria Jesus Ibanez
Testimonials
‘The team is very powerful – a first-class firm with lawyers who are very gifted and highly qualified.‘
‘Relationships with clients are very good and the team is truly incredible.‘
‘The VC team is highly efficient. It differs from how it connects with clients, and the way it communicates really stands out.‘
‘Outstanding team for the great availability of all its professionals.‘
‘The value for money and the delivered product were excellent.‘
‘The services were provided proactively and in strict compliance with the agreed timescales.‘
‘Nicolás Santana provides agile advice and demonstrates great knowledge of the industry and the market.‘
‘The team’s best qualities are its professional skills, highly gifted legal knowledge, and a willingness to answer all clients’ questions. Nicolás Santana and María Jesús Ibáñez are personally highlighted.‘
Work highlights
- Advised Softbank on the Chilean aspects of VC fund SoftBank Latin America Fund’s investment in the series C round of Nowports, which raised $150m.
- Advises Kaufmann Ventures on an ongoing basis.
- Advises Lilac Solutions on general corporate matters.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría > Firm Profile
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uria is the first major Ibero-American law firm, with offices in Chile, Colombia and Peru. Uria Menendez also brings to the firm its network of offices.
Areas of practice
Banking, finance and capital markets: advises banks on syndicated financing, asset financing and project financing and the development of the innovative financial structures and products, represents underwriters and issuers in the placement of bond and securities in Chile and abroad.
Competition: antitrust, including investigations by authorities, litigation concerning cartels and abuse of dominance, consultations on M&A operations, settlements, audits on level of compliance and legal reports.
Corporate and M&A: all aspects of corporate law, including business integrations, tax matters, structuring and implementing public tender offers and the acquisition and sale of listed companies, restructurings, national and cross-border mergers and acquisitions, spin-offs and business reorganization proceedings.
Dispute resolution: prevention and resolution of civil and criminal disputes involving complex legal and technical issues for national and international clients spanning a wide range of industries.
Energy, mining and natural resources: highly specialized lawyers provide comprehensive advice on legal matters for the development of projects in different areas such as mining, industrial, energy, corporate, infrastructure and real estate, among others.
Infrastructure and projects: advising companies involved in toll roads and ports and purchasers and sellers; participated as counsel in financing; and on the privatization of public utilities and ports.
Intellectual property/life sciences: all aspects of intellectual property, patents, trademarks, industrial designs, utility models, copyrights, sports and entertainment matters, litigation, unfair competition, pharmaceutical licensing and health registrations.
Labor: litigation, collective bargaining, employee benefits, due diligence and audits, corporate restructuring, immigration, pensions, internal policies, wages and benefits, taxation, health and safety.
Private clients and family: long-term all inclusive legal advice, in accordance with the highest international standards, for business families on the development of estate planning structures.
Public law: long-standing public law department advising a wide range of clients from the private and public sectors, such as governmental entities.
Real estate: shopping mall planning and construction, superstore construction, real estate trusts and leasing, long term lease agreements, due diligence, real estate guarantees, regulatory issues and local permits.
Tax and international trade: structuring domestic and international operations and transactions involving foreign trade, customs and foreign exchange, tax planning, customs consulting and tax litigation.
TMT (technology, media and telecommunications): advising multinational media and technology companies in all their regional legal matters, from software licenses and TV formats to customs matters.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Co-chairs | M Armas | ||
Co-chairs | M Acero | ||
Banking, finance and capital markets | M Armas | ||
Competition | I Larraín | ||
Corporate/M&A | JF Gutiérrez | ||
Corporate/M&A | F Grebe | ||
Corporate/M&A | A Pulido | ||
Corporate/M&A | JP Wilhelmy | ||
Corporate/M&A | CA Reyes | ||
Dispute resolution | E Alcalde | ||
Dispute resolution | C Conejero | ||
Dispute resolution | G Subercaseaux | ||
Energy, mining and natural resources | JJ Eyzaguirre | ||
Energy, mining and natural resources | JP Bambach | ||
Energy, mining and natural resources | CA Reyes | ||
Infrastructure and projects | A Sanfuentes | ||
Infrastructure and projects | CA Reyes | ||
IP/life sciences | A Pulido | ||
Labor | P Miranda | ||
Private client and family | JF Gutiérrez | ||
Public law | JL Lara | ||
Real estate | J Tagle | ||
Tax and international trade | M Silva | ||
Tax and international trade | G Infante | ||
TMT | A Pulido | ||
TMT | E Escalona |