Prieto Abogados > Santiago, Chile > Firm Profile
Prieto Abogados Offices
Alonso de Córdova 4355 (piso 15)
Vitacura
Santiago
Chile
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Prieto Abogados > The Legal 500 Rankings
Energy and natural resources > Electricity and hydrocarbons
Recent highlights for Prieto Abogados' ‘very responsive' and 23-strong energy and natural resources team include regulatory work, major M&A transactions, the construction of a large energy generation portfolio, and desalinisation projects. Its current caseload also includes the sale of a sizeable distributed generation portfolio and the acquisition, development and construction of non-conventional renewable energy projects (including the associated due diligence processes). The practice is co-led by M&A leader and energy and natural resources specialist, Juan Tagle; and corporate team head Fernando Bravo, who routinely acts for major energy sector clients. The second line of active advisers features Nicolás Yuraszeck K, who has longstanding experience in construction projects, tender processes, project finance, regulatory advice, and energy M&A; and AgustÃn Martorell, who acts on energy and natural resources-related projects and regulatory matters. At counsel level, Andrea Von Chrismar brings antitrust expertise to energy-related regulatory issues; and Federico RodrÃguez‘s wide-ranging practice covers negotiations with developers, corporate matters, financing, and renewable generation projects.Practice head(s):
Juan Tagle; Nicolás Yuraszeck; Fernando Bravo; AgustÃn Martorell
Testimonials
‘The team is very responsive and clients can see that there is real teamwork, which results in better service for the client.’
‘Solid knowledge of the matters being dealt with – responsible and responsive.’
‘The team is positively highlighted, particularly for its good communication levels and willingness to understand and reach agreements on different matters.‘
Key clients
Engie EnergÃa
Transelec
YPF Chile
Electrogas
Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte
Sigdo Koppers IngenierÃa y Construcción
Rockville Energy
GasValpo
STE Energy
5B International Holdings
Aguas Andinas
Solar E
Pacific Hydro Chile
Light E Holding
Tikuna
EDP Renewables
Work highlights
- Advised Engie EnergÃa Chile on the development and construction of several renewable projects.
- Advised Rockville Energy Holdings on the negotiations for the acquisition, construction and operation of 20 solar generation plants.
- Advised Engie EnergÃa Chile on two different controversies before the Electricity Law Experts Panel.
Chile > Bankruptcy, insolvency and restructuring Tier 2
The six-member practice at full-service legal major Prieto Abogados is routinely involved in Chilean insolvency judicial procedures such as liquidations and reorganisations. The group also leverages the firm’s significant bankruptcy expertise during restructuring and financing negotiations involving defaulting companies and debt negotiations. Its specialisms further extend to international and multi-jurisdictional Chapter 11 matters. In recent highlights, the group advised Banco Internacional on the bankruptcy-related reorganisation of Sencorp. The insolvency and restructuring department is co-led by BenjamÃn Grebe, a longstanding specialist in creditor-side insolvency procedures; and dispute resolution head Alberto González V, whose practice covers insolvency proceedings and bankruptcies. The associate pool includes Vicente Tapia and Javier Albornoz (2022 recruits from Australis Seafoods and Deloitte Legal Chile, respectively).Practice head(s):
BenjamÃn Grebe; Alberto González V
Testimonials
‘It is a very complete firm that offers various specialties; in insolvency matters it has a very solid team that coordinates well with the other practices of the office.‘
‘The lawyers have a very rigorous work ethic, which makes them study the issues that they have to attend to very deeply, and enabling them to project various scenarios.‘
‘The value of the firm is in the work discipline that they demonstrate and which makes them very analytical; they visualize problems in an integrated manner with other practices of the office.‘
‘Benjamin Grebe is a great negotiator who conveys confidence and allows solutions to complex problems to be built.‘
‘Albero González is a very good litigator.‘
Key clients
Banco Internacional
Chilena Consolidada de Seguros de Vida (Zurich)
Aguas Andinas
Fondo Inversión Privado Restop
Multisea (Multiexport)
Penta Vida
Mall Plaza
Fondo Inversión Privado (Moneda Asset)
Three Keys Capital
Engie EnergÃa Chile
Work highlights
- Advised Banco Internacional, Penta Vida CompañÃa de Seguros de Vida, and Chilena Consolidada de Seguros de Vida on the bankruptcy-related reorganisation of Inversiones y Rentas Sendero.
- Advised Banco Internacional on the bankruptcy-related reorganisation of Sencorp.
- Advised Next Meridian and Three Keys Capital on the bankruptcy-related reorganisation of Minera Tres Valles.
Chile > Capital markets Tier 2
The ‘very committed‘ six-member capital markets practice at full-service law firm Prieto Abogados has a strong market reputation for debt placements in both Chile and the US. Recent work has also focused on large numbers of bond issues. Other notable areas for the team are major IPOs and public acquisition tender offers (both at domestic and cross-border levels). Of additional note, the firm houses a robust investment funds practice. The team is jointly led by Patricio Prieto L, whose recent experience includes advising on companies’ bond issues; and recently-promoted partner Isabel Wolleter, a specialist in bond issuances and public offering processes. The next line of key advisers features investment funds counsel Maite Larrañaga and active associate José Pedro Poblete.Practice head(s):
Patricio Prieto; Isabel Wolleter
Testimonials
‘Very committed to details and always available.‘
Key clients
Plaza
Larrain Vial Activos (Administradora General de Fondos)
Caja de Compensación y Asignación Familiar Los Andes
Cementos Polpaico
Sociedad Concesionaria Vespucio Norte Express
Banmédica
Empresas Red Salud
Aguas Andinas
ILC
Salfacorp
Work highlights
- Advised Sociedad Concesionaria Vespucio Norte Express (and its shareholder BAIH) on the tender offer of AVN’s notes and BAIH’s notes.
- Advised Salfacorp on the registration process of a capital increase, which involved the issuance of 100m shares.
- Advised Aguas Andinas (as local deal counsel) on its Rule 144A/Reg.S notes issuance.
Chile > Competition and antitrust Tier 2
Full-service firm Prieto Abogados fields a ‘great' five-strong team that regularly acts in contentious and non-contentious TDLC cases. It also assists clients before the FNE in cartel and abuse-of-dominant-position investigations, as well as merger-control reviews and the analysis of concentration operations. The group additionally provides pre-emptive advice to clients, in relation to contracts, antitrust protocols, reports and compliance programmes. BenjamÃn Grebe, whose practice covers preventive advice, FNE investigations and TDLC cases; and ‘very precise‘ counsel Andrea Von Chrismar, an expert in markets where economic regulation intersects with competition law, co-head the practice. Notable expansion at associate level includes the 2022 recruitment of Vicente Tapia, Javier Albornoz and Carolina Soto from Australis Seafoods, Deloitte Legal Chile and Andes Iron, respectively. Former associates Daniella Ibaceta and Santiago Errázuriz recently exited for the TDLC and LLM studies at New York University, respectively.Practice head(s):
BenjamÃn Grebe; Andrea Von Chrismar
Testimonials
‘A great team.‘
‘Prieto Abogados stands out for its teamwork. Its open-space office system speaks very well of a strategy of synergy between the senior lawyers and the younger ones, and it helps a lot during horizontal work. In this sense, Prieto greatly stands out.‘
‘The office has great talent and the good treatment of its lawyers is appreciated, which distinguishes it from other law firms where family and work life are not seen as separable.‘
‘Prieto Abogados gives clients full confidence.‘
‘Prieto Abogados stands out for the good level of its service, fluid communication and the quality of the information received, along with other soft skills that lead to a good cooperative relationship between clients and the advisers.‘
‘BenjamÃn Grebe’s seniority transmits tranquility and solid legal strategy.‘
‘Andrea Von Chrismar’s advice is very precise.‘
Key clients
Engie EnergÃa Chile
Watt’s
NYK Line
DP World Chile (Puerto Central)
Banco Internacional
Aguas Andinas
Consalud
Mall Plaza
Total Energies
Luval
Esmax
Enex
YPF
Liqui Moly
Metro
Work highlights
- Assisted Metro with a prejudicial action before the Competition Tribunal against Transbank, which related to payment means and charges.
- Acting for Banco Internacional in contentious procedures involving alleged anticompetitive conducts, such claims initiated by cryptocurrency exchange companies.
- Advised Aguas Andinas on a non-contentious procedure concerning the FNE’s request for the price fixing of nationwide sanitary services.
Chile > Compliance Tier 2
Prieto Abogados‘ four-member practice is sought out for its assistance with anti-bribery and corruption due-diligence matters, as well as internal auditing and training. It also assists with administrative sanctioning, compliance policy drafting, and the design of internal compliance and crime prevention systems. The compliance team’s expertise further comprises antitrust, labour, environmental and corporate law-related compliance issues; and it can draw upon the firm’s sector expertise in energy, food, TMT, insurance and real estate. Experienced in compliance and anti-bribery matters, lead partner José Andrés Pascual has particular expertise in corporate compliance work. Within the firm’s associate ranks, the practices of both Diego Madariaga and and Catalina Bruner encompass criminal liability issues, obligations to report certain activities to Chile’s authorities, and internal audits and training. Since publication, the firm has hired Romina Garrido -formerly in house at GobLab UAI- as practice director (effective as of December 2023); and white-collar litigator and economic criminal specialist MarÃa Jesús Becerra, formerly of Parraguez & MarÃn – effective as of January 2024.Practice head(s):
José Andrés Pascual
Testimonials
‘Prieto Abogados has great talent.‘
‘Prieto Abogados stands out for its excellent service.‘
‘Great treatment of its staff, which is an essential element of the professional relationship built up with clients.‘
Key clients
DP World Chile
Mediapro Chile
Mediapro Móviles Chile
Mediapro Contenidos Chile
Delivery Hero E-Commerce Chile
Consejo de Rectores de Institutos Profesionales y Centros de Formación Técnica Acreditados AG Vertebral
Paysafe Merchant Services Corp
GNL Mejillones
Engie EnergÃa Chile
Inmobiliaria Norte Verde
Watt’s
Work highlights
- Assisted DP World with the certification of its crime prevention system.
- Ongoing advice to PedidosYa in relation to its compliance with local laws.
- Advised professional association Vertebral on the elaboration of its code of ethics, crime prevention system and various other policies in order to ensure compliance with Law 20.393.
Chile > Corporate and M&A Tier 2
The 29-strong practice at full-service firm Prieto Abogados has an enviable M&A track record in major cross-border deals, private equity transactions and joint ventures; and during 2022, the firm was particularly active in deals involving the insurance, energy, banking, utilities and sanitary sectors. The multidisciplinary M&A team additionally leverages support from the firm’s tax, labour, corporate, environmental and litigation departments. The practice is co-led by M&A, joint venture and bidding process expert, Juan Tagle; and Fernando Bravo, who routinely advises energy sector clients. A further line of experienced partners features energy and natural resources sector expert, José Andrés Pascual; the recently-promoted Isabel Wolleter, who works on both capital markets and corporate and M&A matters; and corporate law, M&A, and infrastructure and construction project practitioner, Nicolás Yuraszeck. At non-partner level, counsels Federico RodrÃguez and Maite Larrañaga, along with senior associates AnÃbal Larrain and Andrés Laymuns (a July 2022 returnee from Anglo American), are additional active advisers.Practice head(s):
Juan Tagle; Fernando Bravo
Key clients
Rockville Energy Holdings
DP World Chile
Paysafe Merchant Services Corp
Bice Inversiones
Anglo American Chile
Work highlights
- Advised Rockville Energy Holdings on the acquisition, construction and operation of 20 solar generation plants.
- Advised DP World Chile on the development of a container depot terminal and storage facility in San Antonio.
- Advised specialised payments-platform, Paysafe Merchant Services Corp, on the $441m acquisition of SafetyPay from Safety Pay.
Chile > Projects and infrastructure Tier 2
Prieto Abogados’ large projects and infrastructure practice is consistently sought out to advise on the development, implementation, financing and acquisition of heavyweight projects. Recent workloads cover transmission lines, renewable energy, mining, construction and toll roads. A quartet of principal advisers co-lead the practice. Juan Tagle’s experience includes power plants (particularly renewables), transmission lines, ports, mining and desalination construction projects; banking and finance team leader Mario Gorziglia is a project finance expert; Nicolás Yuraszeck K has longstanding experience in construction projects, tender processes, project finance, regulatory issues, and related M&A deals; and counsel Isabel Monge is experienced in the financing of mining, electricity transmission and renewable energy projects. The associate to note, Emilio Del Real, advises on project financing, tender processes and construction projects.Practice head(s):
Juan Tagle; Nicolás Yuraszeck; Mario Gorziglia; Isabel Monge
Key clients
Bonatti International
EDP Renewables
Plaza Maule
DP World
CompañÃa Minera Doña Inés de Collahuasi
AngloAmerican
Engie Group
Pacific Hydro
Sigdo Koppers
Rockville
Electrogas
Aguas Andinas
Solar E
Societe Generale.
Natixis
BNP Paribas
Export Finance Australia
Work highlights
- Advised CompañÃa Minera Doña Inés de Collahuasi on the bidding processes (and negotiation of construction and operation and maintenance agreements) for a water desalination plant.
- Advised Engie EnergÃa Chile on the negotiation and execution of a turbine supply agreement with Goldwind for the Lomas de Taltal project.
- Advising Pacific Hydro Chile on the negotiation of construction and operation agreements for the Desierto de Atacama photovoltaic power project.
Chile > Banking and finance Tier 3
Well-known for its borrower-side credentials, Prieto Abogados' banking and finance team is also mandated by major lenders for significant financing transactions. The department is notably active in deals involving the energy and mining sectors, including project financing, corporate loans and acquisition financings. The group is co-led by project finance and tax specialist Mario Gorziglia (‘strong negotiation skills'); and Isabel Monge, who was promoted to counsel in 2022, has extensive financing experience and is ‘always concerned with details'. Also key to the group are finance lawyer Isabel Wolleter E, a partner since 2022; and ‘very clear' senior associate AnÃbal Larrain, who advises on syndicated loans, project financings, revolving facility agreements and international debt placements.Practice head(s):
Mario Gorziglia; Isabel Monge
Testimonials
‘I’d highlight their technical ability – a very complete team with a lot of legal knowledge.‘
‘Always available to answer questions – studious and well-coordinated with each other.‘
‘The recently-inaugurated new offices are without a doubt a great success – modern, with open spaces and many well-equipped meeting rooms to receive clients.‘
‘We like working with Prieto because Mario Gorziglia and Isabel Monge are always involved in the work. Clients have a close relationship with them and this sets it apart from other law firms.’
‘Mario Gorziglia is very good – he has strong negotiation skills and he is always available for clients’ needs.‘
‘Isabel Monge has been essential for clients – she has technical knowledge, and is always concerned with details and client service.‘
‘Senior associate AnÃbal Larrain is very clear – he explains complex issues well and his support has been great.’
Key clients
Banco de Crédito e Inversiones
BNP Paribas
Export Finance Australia
ING Capital
MUFG Bank
Natixis
Société Générale
Rockville Energy Holdings
Engie EnergÃa Chile
Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte
Plaza
Disal Holding (now Ambipar Enviroment)
Solarity
Scotiabank
Banco Security
Codelco
Automotores Gildemeister
Sociedad Concesionaria Vespucio Norte Express
Work highlights
- Advised two Chilean insurance companies (part of a consortium of lenders) on negotiations with Sociedad Concesionaria Nueva Pudahuel (as borrower), Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (global administrative agent) and Banco Santander (Chilean collateral agent) for the restructuring of the 2016 $580m project financing for the expansion of Santiago’s airport.
- Advised Codelco on the negotiation of a $500m loan agreement with Export Development Canada.
- Advised Rockville Energy Holdings on the negotiation of a $100m project financing with Natixis to fund the acquisition and construction of a 150MW portfolio of photovoltaic projects.
Chile > Dispute resolution: litigation Tier 3
The ‘top-level team‘ at full-service practice Prieto Abogados consistently acts before Chile’s ordinary courts in energy, construction, real estate and retail-related disputes. Other areas of increasing strength include claims and disputes involving the transportation, mining, agriculture, finance, healthcare and software sectors. The firm also houses public law litigation specialists. The combined litigation and arbitration department is co-led by Fernando Samaniego, who acts primarily in real estate, construction and antitrust litigation; and real estate, construction and energy arbitration expert, Alberto González V. At counsel level, Juan Pablo Riesco assists with claims involving public law, consumer rights, real estate, construction and energy, while AgustÃn Prado and Cristóbal Ipinza are the associates to note. Since publication, the team has been further strengthened with the hire of white-collar litigator and economic criminal specialist MarÃa Jesús Becerra, formerly of Parraguez & MarÃn – effective as of January 2024.Practice head(s):
Fernando Samaniego; Alberto González V
Testimonials
‘Prieto Abogados stands out for its teamwork, which gives clients full confidence.’
‘Great level of service.‘
‘Fluid communication and quality information, along with other soft skills that lead to a good collaborative relationship with clients.‘
‘Prieto’s litigation team is of high quality – strong commitment to the client.’
‘Great knowledge of clients that have their headquarters in another country and have different cultures.’
‘Brings together a top-level team to address and resolve through excellence clients’ conflict resolution and litigation requirements.’
‘The entire stands out for its ability to work very well as a team.’
Key clients
Engie EnergÃa Chile
Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte
Huawei
Plaza (Falabella Group)
Delivery Hero (PedidosYa)
VivoCorp
Aguas Andinas (Veolia Group)
YPF Chile
Banco Internacional
Metro (Santiago’s Subway)
Cosmo Consult Chile
Work highlights
- Acted for Engie EnergÃa Chile, Central Termoeléctrica Andina, Inversiones Hornitos, and Electroandina in their unlawful-conduct claim against GasAtacama Chile.
- Defending YPF Chile against a torts law liability claim by 1652 artisanal fishermen, further to an oil spill at a plant in Cullen.
- Defended Metro against a constitutional protection action which requested suspension of extension works to Line 2 of the Santiago Subway due to the alleged risk of collapse.
Energy and natural resources > Mining Tier 3
The ‘very responsive' 10-member mining practice at full-service firm Prieto Abogados advises an array of domestic and international clients (including investment funds) on mining rights - particularly since these have become increasingly critical to the funding sought for the development of energy, infrastructure and real estate projects. The mining department also assists with a range of judicial proceedings and private arbitrations. The team is jointly led director of the firm's environmental and public law practices, AgustÃn Martorell (who was raised to the partnership in January 2022), whose broad expertise covers environmental law and project development, in relation to the mining, energy, infrastructure, and fishing and aquaculture industries; and M&A leader Juan Tagle, who is also experienced in mining projects. Associates Ignacio Matte (environmental, regulatory and mining law) and Ignacio Quintana (a 2022 hire from BEC Abogados) complete the team. Former seniors Andrés Maldini and Jorge EcheverrÃa left the firm for Solek Holding Chile and Rockville Capital, respectively, during the course of 2022.Practice head(s):
Juan Tagle; AgustÃn Martorell
Testimonials
‘The team is very responsive, and clients can see that there is real teamwork, which results in better service for the client.’
‘Knowledge of the matters that are dealt with – responsible and responsive.‘
Key clients
Cleantech Lithium (and its Chilean subsidiaries)
Inmobiliaria Puente
AgrÃcola Ballerina Chile
CompañÃa Minera Doña Inés de Collahuasi
Andes Copper
Anglo American Chile
CODELCO
YPF Chile
Engie EnergÃa Chile
Work highlights
- Advised Cleantech Lithium (and its Chilean subsidiaries) on the negotiations with several mining concession owners for purchase agreements and purchase option agreements.
- Assisted Inmobiliaria Puente with the judicial procedure to constitute exploration mining properties (to protect several real estate development projects).
- Advised AgrÃcola Ballerina Chile on maintaining mining concessions to protect agricultural projects developed on surface lands.
Chile > Environment Tier 3
‘One of the best with which clients could work‘, Prieto Abogados‘ energy-focused-environmental law team consistently participates in environmental assessment processes throughout Chile. The team additionally houses real estate industry experts, while also being active in environmental law-related sanctioning proceedings. The practice group’s recent mandates include assisting with environmental damages actions before Chile’s environmental courts in relation to soil, underground water and infrastructure, among other matters. Recently-promoted partner and practice head AgustÃn Martorell is an ‘exceptional lawyer‘, whose experience encompasses the mining, energy, infrastructure, and fishing and aquaculture sectors; while counsel and former Environmental Assessment Service legal department head, Romina Tobar, is an April 2023 recruit. In the associate pool, Ignacio Matte advises on environmental law and regulatory issues. Former associates Andrés Maldini and Isabel Becerra both departed the firm during 2022.Practice head(s):
AgustÃn Martorell
Testimonials
‘Compared to other firms, Prieto’s environment and energy group is one of the best with which clients could work.‘
‘Great knowledge of the industry, as well as regulatory issues – very beneficial from a client’s point of view.‘
‘In addition to having a highly disciplined and expert team in its fields, the practice has a close relationship with both people and government agencies, which gives its legal and regulatory knowledge an advantage.’
‘A team of lawyers that stands out for its excellent work, providing a personalised and high-level service compared to firms of the same type.‘
‘Prieto’s environmental practice is characterised by being led by a partner AgustÃn Martorell with extensive experience and knowledge of environmental issues, procedures and strategies – one of the best environmental practices on the market.’
‘AgustÃn Martorell is an exceptional lawyer in terms of his knowledge of the industry as well as legal knowledge.’
‘AgustÃn Martorell is a serious lawyer, with a lot of experience and professionalism, as well as deep knowledge of environmental institutions and procedures.‘
‘AgustÃn Martorell is characterised by his high level of knowledge, and dedication and commitment to clients – delivers an excellent service in the field of environmental law.‘
Key clients
Engie EnergÃa Chile
Conexión Kimal–Lo Aguirre
Empresa de Transporte de Pasajeros
Verano Capital Holding
Solek Chile Services
Inmobiliaria Vivo Santiago
Engie Austral
Eduardo Kohn
DP World Chile
Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte
Work highlights
- Assisted Zona Franca de Iquique with its claim against Engie in the Environmental Court for significant environmental damage to soil and water.
- Advised Conexión Kimal–Lo Aguirre on the regulatory and environmental aspects of a power transmission project.
- Assisted Metro with a sanctioning procedure that concerned charges for non-compliance with noise-emission standards.
Chile > Insurance Tier 3
Prieto Abogados' seven-strong team has strong insurance regulatory credentials in relation to the formation of new (or the acquisition of) existing insurance companies. The group also has extensive experience in insurance product-related distribution agreements, such as bancassurance agreements, and mortgage-related, cell phone protection and extended warranty policies. It is additionally active in claims against insurance companies, as well as negotiating tailor-made insurance policies. The department’s principal adviser is insurance regulatory specialist Patricio Prieto L, who advises on insurance distribution agreements, policy drafting, and group policy-related matters. Former associate MarÃa Cristina RÃos exited the firm in May 2022 for Coca Cola Andina.Practice head(s):
Patricio Prieto L
Key clients
Assurant Chile CompañÃa de Seguros Generales
American Bankers Life Insurance Company of Florida
HDI Global Network
HDI Global
Talanx
Seguros Generales Suramericana
Southbridge CompañÃa de Seguros Generales
Chubb Seguros de Vida Chile
HDI Seguros
Seguros Generales Suramericana
Work highlights
- Acted for Seguros Generales Suramericana in judicial proceedings concerning a claim made by Inversiones Futuro.
- Advised Delivery Hero E-Commerce Chile on the review and analysis of its Chilean insurance policy programme.
- Assists American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida (on a daily basis) on every aspect of its operations in Chile.
Chile > Labour and employment Tier 3
‘One of the top law firms in labour law matters’, Prieto Abogados’ labour, employment and immigration department is routinely sought out for complex labour litigation. The six-member group regularly assists with the labour aspects of corporate matters, as well as maintaining a robust collective bargaining practice. It is also increasingly active on behalf of foreign clients, particularly in relation to immigration work. The team is jointly led by collective bargaining and labour litigation specialist, Christian von Bergen, who acts for companies from the port, mining, electricity and casino sectors; and the ‘outstanding’ Cristóbal Raby, whose broad practice covers defence-side labour litigation. The practice of experienced associate Valentina Flen takes in litigation, social security, immigration, and individual and collective law.Practice head(s):
Christian Von Bergen; Cristóbal Raby
Testimonials
‘Prieto’s labour team stands out from other firms due to the fact that it is exclusively dedicated to labour matters – two partners are in charge of the area, and they are permanently aware of all relevant issues.‘
‘By having a low partner-associate ratio, the involvement of a partner in all matters is ensured. On the other hand, the price-quality ratio is adequate and the availability of team members is always secure, regardless of the day or time that contact is required.’
‘Complete and up-to-date advice, which is adapted to clients’ specific requirements.’
‘One of the top law firms in labour law matters.‘
‘Innovative strategies and defence of the cultural values of client companies make the firm stand out from other offices.’
‘Probably the most notable aspect of Prieto Abogados’ practice is the involvement of partners in the matters entrusted. Cristóbal Raby is permanently involved in the work.’
‘Cristóbal Raby is outstanding – great market vision, very high legal standards, and in-depth knowledge of the labour law market’s key players.’
‘Cristobal Raby is a very efficient lawyer who is easily available and always attends to clients’ needs.’
Key clients
Sodexo Chile
CompañÃa Minera Teck Quebrada Blanca
Gildemeister
Sherwin Williams
SBA Communications
Conavicoop
SMU
Fitch Ratings
Mundo Dreams
DP World
Work highlights
- Acting for delivery company Pedidos Ya in several labour trials, which were commenced by former riders claiming the existence of a labour relationship between them and the company.
- Acted for SMU in labour trials, which were commenced by former and current employees throughout the country.
- Advised port operator DP World on several collective bargainings.
Chile > Public law Tier 3
The ‘proactive, committed and responsible’ 10-member public and administrative law department at full-service practice Prieto Abogados covers public law disputes, sanctioning proceedings, transactions-related regulatory reviews, and interactions with authorities; the team’s recent caseload includes public law matters involving healthcare, telecoms, infrastructure, and environmental sector clients. The group is led by the ‘very innovative’ counsel Juan Pablo Riesco, who acts for both national and international companies on regulatory and administrative matters. Partner-level support is provided by Fernando Samaniego, whose disputes practice covers proceedings before administrative and regulatory authorities; and AgustÃn Martorell, a recently-promoted partner who is increasingly active in administrative, public and regulatory law-related work.Practice head(s):
Juan Pablo Riesco
Testimonials
‘The Prieto team stands out for being proactive, committed and responsible.‘
‘Empathetic and has developed very satisfactory communication skills.‘
‘Very adequate cost-benefit ratio according to clients’ needs.’
‘Effective communication, emotional intelligence, integrity, and creativity.‘
‘Juan Pablo Riesco is very innovative.‘
Key clients
Consalud
Inacap
Metro
SBA
CofradÃa Náutica Del PacÃfico
Alimentos y Bebidas Chile
Delivery Hero
Empresa de Transporte de Pasajeros
Autoplaza
Plaza
Work highlights
- Represented Consalud in its appeal for protection against the Superintendency of Health’s promulgation of an administrative act that changed the rules allowing modification of the base prices of health insurance plans.
- Successfully assisted Inacap with its Supreme Court appeal to annul the Undersecretary of Higher Education’s Resolution 2607, which affected the enrolment capacity that IP Inacap and CFT Inacap could offer to thousands of students throughout Chile.
- Advising Delivery Hero on the implementation of new business models, which includes assisting with obtaining permits and licenses.
Chile > Real estate Tier 3
Providing a ‘great level of service’, Prieto Abogados’ four-member real estate team is regularly sought out for complex projects, as well as ongoing real estate and urbanisation issues. The group’s expertise includes acquisitions, financings, development and construction work, as well as due diligence processes, land use, environmental matters and real estate-associated tax issues. The practice of the firm's dispute resolution head, Fernando Samaniego, also incorporates property law, construction, M&A, and capital markets; he and director Alejandra Bañados, who acts for both national and international clients on real estate and corporate work, are the key practice figures. Former senior associate Camila Urzúa departed the firm for Villarino e Ilharreborde in May 2022.Practice head(s):
Alejandra Bañados
Testimonials
‘Prieto Abogados stands out for its teamwork.‘
‘Great level of service.‘
‘Always willing to support with accurate and timely legal advice.‘
‘Very good relationships with its clients – they are great at helping us make decisions.‘
‘They not only inform but also give clients their opinion, helping them choose between the different options.’
‘Director Alejandra Bañados is key to the general management of the advice provided to clients.‘
Key clients
Vivocorp (Grupo Patio)
Inmobiliaria Simon Gutierrez
Delivery Hero Stores Chile
Automotores Gildemeister
Guala Closure
SBA Communication
Siena Inmobiliaria
Inmobiliaria Deisa
DP World
AgrÃcola Quiahue
Work highlights
- Advised Vivocorp (Grupo Patio), one of Chile’s largest shopping centre developers, on an administrative process before the Municipal Building Department.
- Advised Inmobiliaria Simon Gutierrez on the negotiation of a long-term building lease agreement entered into with Banco Itaú.
- Advised Delivery Hero Stores Chile on the negotiation and drafting of several lease and sublease agreements.
Chile > Tax Tier 3
The eight-strong team at Prieto Abogados fields specialists in direct, indirect, municipal and inheritance taxes, as well as international taxation and the application of double taxation conventions. The firm also routinely assists with IRS matters (including during audits); and acts in tax litigation before the High Courts of Justice, as well as the Tax and Customs Courts. The team is co-led by Mario Gorziglia, who advises domestic and foreign clients on corporate reorganisations and business structuring; and Leonidas Prieto, who ‘has very detailed knowledge of tax regulation and practice’. At counsel level, Luz MarÃa Calvo is a former adviser to the Ministry of Finance’s tax policies department, while senior associate Beatriz Bustos is an April 2022 hire from PCM Abogados.Practice head(s):
Mario Gorziglia; Leonidas Prieto
Testimonials
‘A team with high levels of specialisation that proactively informs clients of relevant tax regulation changes.’
‘Mario Gorziglia is a brilliant lawyer with an extraordinary knowledge of the tax laws and the way companies operate.‘
‘Mario Gorziglia is always attentive to the requirements of clients, and quickly and deeply understands the issues that are raised.’
‘Leonidas Prieto has very detailed knowledge of tax regulation and practice, and he is agile in his responses and very efficient in the execution of projects.’
Key clients
Isapre Consalud
Bupa Chile
Export Finance Australia
Societé Géneral
BNP Paribas
MUFG Bank
Natixis
Fundación Nocedal
Medicenter
Paysafe Merchant Service Corp
Plaza ValparaÃso
Fundación Cerro Guido
Rockville Energy Holdings
Scotiabank
Work highlights
- Advised Bupa on new legislation requiring all services to be subject to VAT.
- Assisted Veolia Solutions and Veolia Aguas with the legal drafting of judicial and administrative claims in response to IRS inspections and assessments.
- Advised Scotiabank on the tax aspects of a syndicated loan.
Chile > TMT Tier 3
Prieto Abogados’ ‘very solid and sharp team’ has a strong reputation for its telephony sector credentials. The 10-strong TMT practice encompasses experience in SUBTEL actions (Chile’s telecoms agency), negotiations with telephony concessionaires, and telephony-related regulatory issues. Recent TMT mandate’s also include major M&A deals. Group head Mario Gorziglia is particularly noted for his telephony industry expertise; and media, entertainment and technology specialist José Andrés Pascual, who ‘stands out for his negotiating skills‘, advises on cinema and television production agreements, sport rights management and the implementation of audiovisual services. Associates Diego Madariaga and Catalina Bruner both maintain active compliance practices.Practice head(s):
José Andrés Pascual; Mario Gorziglia
Testimonials
‘Great attention to detail and very good during negotiations.‘
‘Because of their attention to detail, clients can tell that these lawyers are very experienced.‘
‘A very solid and sharp team that is very aware of changes within the media and technology industry. Great during high-risk negotiations and when under pressure.‘
‘José Andrés Pascual particularly stands out for his negotiating skills and knowledge of the TMT environment.‘
‘Associate Diego Madariaga stands out for his IP knowledge.‘
Key clients
Mediapro Chile
Mediapro Móviles Chile
The Mediapro Studio Chile
Delivery Hero
Delivery Hero E-Commerce Chile
iConectiv
SBA Communications
Work highlights
- Ongoing advice to Mediapro Group on its activities in Chile.
- Advice to Delivery Hero SE on day-to-day legal matters.
- Ongoing advice to SBA Communications Chile on its permits and other administrative matters.
Chile > Dispute resolution: arbitration Tier 4
Full-service law firm Prieto Abogados fields a five-member team that regularly appears before arbitrators in disputes related to energy, construction, real estate and retail. It is also increasingly active in arbitrations involving mining, agriculture, investment funds, finance, healthcare and software. The group is jointly led by Fernando Samaniego, who is frequently appointed as arbitrator in construction disputes; and ‘great lawyer‘ Alberto González Vidal, who is a real estate, construction and energy disputes expert. Key support is provided by counsel Juan Pablo Riesco and associate AgustÃn Prado, who both act in civil and commercial proceedings before the arbitration courts.Practice head(s):
Fernando Samaniego; Alberto González Vidal
Testimonials
‘In addition to being very well prepared on the substantive aspects, the team is very client friendly, as well as being very receptive to the comments and suggestions that clients make.‘
‘Commitment to the case and great collaborative work with clients’ internal lawyers).’
‘The team has the ability to listen and understand technical issues, and then transform them into legal arguments. In conversations with them, and thanks to their approach, the arguments are strengthened, which allows clients to achieve very satisfactory results in arbitrations.’
‘The Prieto Abogados team has always stood out for its proactivity and desire to collaborate with clients at all stages of the arbitration process.’
‘The service provided is excellent, always attentive to the needs of the client, and they provide a clear and effective strategy for conflict resolution, which accounts for the knowledge and experience they have.’
‘Alberto González Vidal is an excellent professional, who is very accurate in his opinions and legal strategies.’
‘Alberto González Vidal is a great lawyer and also an excellent person. Friendly in his approach and well prepared on the fundamental issues. Knows the regulations and also clients’ business, which is very important as it gives clients confidence.’
‘Prieto’s dispute resolution and arbitration team, led by Alberto Gonzalez Vidal, provides excellent support during complex matters. Such support has not only been in arbitration matters but also in potential friendly exit options.’
Key clients
Engie EnergÃa Chile
Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte
Huawei
Plaza
Delivery Hero (PedidosYa)
VivoCorp
Aguas Andinas (Veolia Group)
YPF Chile
Banco Internacional
Metro
Cosmo Consult Chile
Work highlights
- Acting for GTA Chile against Sociedad Eléctrica de MedellÃn in a CAM Santiago arbitration concerning an alleged breach of an electromechanical assembly contract.
- Acting for Machiels Groups in its enforcement of a private fund purchase agreement against Equitas Capital, Recycling Corp and others, which includes a procedure for the appointment of an arbitrator.
- Acting for Mall Plaza Group in the enforcement of eight claims against MTEK, further to the failure of a CAM Santiago mediation proceeding.
Prieto Abogados > Firm Profile
Firm Overview:
Prieto is a business-oriented law firm with more than 45 years of experience, with consolidated prestige in handling complex matters and providing personalized attention to foreign and local client. The firm’s broadly experienced team of lawyers with international exposure provides specialized legal services across a wide range of practice areas. Prieto has an active participation in energy, natural resources and public utilities, capital markets and taxation. The firm’s experience in insurance, M&A, securities, litigation and antitrust stands out.
Main Areas of Practice:
Administrative:
Prieto counsels domestic and international companies on public and administrative law aspects during due diligence processes or at litigation phases. The firm assists especially in matters concerning public procurement; public works and infrastructure concessions; public-private associations; public financing; urbanism; and in general regulated markets.
Antitrust:
Prieto is highly regarded in this area, having participated in numerous investigations conducted by the FNE and cases before the TDLC, regarding concentration, vertical and horizontal integration, cartels and unfair competition in various industries. Prieto has developed antitrust compliance programmes and pre-emptive advice to clients.
Banking, Finance & Capital Markets:
Prieto has developed a broad experience in these areas and is recognised for its strong team of lawyers involved in securities’ offerings, IPOs and project finance transactions involving high profile energy and infrastructure projects and financial and capital markets transactions, usually representing both local investment banks and issuers in several equity/debt offerings locally and abroad. Prieto has developed a strong practice in the formation and management of investment and private equity funds.
Corporate & Securities:
Much of the firm’s work includes corporate finance, corporate governance, takeover bids, joint ventures, reorganisations and partnerships.
Data Protection
Prieto has extensive experience advising clients on all matters related to current technology, including: preparation, analysis, and negotiation of licensing, maintenance, and technical support contracts, Cloud contracts, in SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS modalities; compliance with regulations in AI projects, preparation of privacy policies; models for the prevention of breaches in personal data protection.
Energy & Natural Resources:
Prieto counsels national and international players involved in the energy generation and transmission sectors. The firm has strong experience in advising developers and owners in traditional fossil-fuel energy projects and also in renewable energy projects, such as hydro, mini hydro, wind farms and photovoltaic plants. The firm’s involvement in this area varies from financing, development, implementation and related disputes in connection with said kinds of projects. It also serves as regular counsel to one of the biggest energy groups in the world which controls and operates the main energy generators of the North Interconnected Grid in Chile.
Environment:
The environmental department has evidenced the relevance of permit validity and integrity regarding the acquisition of a company, in the context of transactions that involve productive entities. An accurate diagnosis has allowed clients to adequately negotiate the price of a sellable business unit or complex. Additionally, the design and implementation of defence strategies as a result of permit granting or facilities inspections are a mainstream service, reaching high delivery standards within the market.
Insolvency, Bankruptcy & Business Reorganisation:
Prieto is one of the full service Chilean firms that have an active participation in bankruptcy procedures, representing debtors and creditors in the most relevant insolvency procedures in the country.
Insurance & Pension Funds:
The insurance department has a solid base of local and international insurance companies and brokers, with an experienced group of specialists. Prieto has protracted experience in insurance claims and litigation insurance matters. The firm also represents private pension funds and health care providers.
Labour:
This department advises clients in establishing incentive programs for executives and employees, in collective bargaining procedures, in training programs and in the restructuring of companies. The labour team represents an increasing number of companies in labour planning, in collective bargaining and in litigation as well.
Litigation & Arbitration:
Prieto regularly represents clients on relevant disputes related to energy, construction, real estate, retail, insurance, securities and transportation, before both ordinary courts and international and domestic arbitrators. In addition, its partners act as arbitrators in various proceedings relating to investment, construction and energy.
M&A:
Prieto has a seasoned team with extended experience in multinational, cross-border and domestic M&A transactions and due diligence work, representing buyers, sellers and investment banks, in all type of industries, such as energy and natural resources, oil and gas, telecommunication, finance, retail, shipping, transportation, pension funds, forestry, food industry, department stores and supermarket chains, infrastructure, information technology, pharmacies, among others.
Public Utilities:
Prieto has extensive experience in gas, power, water and telecommunication services. It has advised in matters related to the construction and financing of gas works, including cross-border pipelines and GTAs. Prieto has represented some blue chip companies in the country in the power generations, transmission and distribution areas. The firm has participated in the acquisitions and financing of combined-cycle power plants and in the privatisation and acquisitions of the main water utilities in the country.
Real Estate, Construction & Infrastructure:
Prieto provides a comprehensive advice on legal matters in the real estate area, from due diligence, financing, purchases, leases and mortgages to planning, development and construction of housing and commercial projects. Legal advice also includes real estate trusts, local permits, and all type of regulatory, tax and environmental issues.
Tax:
The tax department at Prieto advises clients in respect of all tax issues, particularly in the structuring of diverse and complex transactions. The team advises local and foreign companies, business groups and individuals in their tax planning. Also the team has broad experience in tax and custom litigation whether at the administrative level as well as before Chilean tribunals an courts.
White – Collar Crime
Our services include risk detection, preventive advice, and the recommendation of future courses of action regarding possible criminal conducts. We also advice criminal law disputes, especially regarding economic crimes, assuming the representation of clients as victims and defendants before the Public Prosecution Office, criminal law courts, Courts of Appeal, and the Supreme Court.
Languages:
Spanish and English
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Founding Partner | Patricio Prieto S | [email protected] | |
Founding Partner | Alberto González E | [email protected] | |
Corporate and M&A | Juan Tagle | [email protected] | |
Corporate and M&A | Fernando Bravo | [email protected] | |
Energy and natural resources | Juan Tagle | [email protected] | |
Compliance | José Andrés Pascual | [email protected] | |
Energy and natural resources | José Andrés Pascuall | [email protected] | |
Banking, finance and capital markets | Patricio Prieto L | [email protected] | |
Litigation and Arbitration | Fernando Samaniego | [email protected] | |
Litigation and Arbitration | Alberto González V | [email protected] | |
Labor | Christian Von Bergen | [email protected] | |
Labor | Cristóbal Raby | [email protected] | |
Environment | AgustÃn Martorell | [email protected] | |
Customs and international trade | Mario Gorziglia | [email protected] | |
Tax and administrative | Mario Gorziglia | [email protected] | |
Tax and administrative | Leonidas Prieto | [email protected] | |
Administrative | AgustÃn Martorell | [email protected] | |
Arbitration and antitrust | Benjamin Grebe | [email protected] | |
Real estate, construction and infrastructure | Fernando Samaniego | [email protected] | |
Projects and Infraestructure | Nicolás Yuraszeck | [email protected] | |
Capital Markets | Isabel Margarita Wolleter | [email protected] | |
Tax | Luz MarÃa Calvo | [email protected] | |
Banking and Finance | Isabel Monge | [email protected] | |
Investment Funds | Maite Larrañaga | [email protected] | |
Antitrust | Andrea Von Chrismar | [email protected] | |
Data Privacy | Romina Garrido | [email protected] | |
Environment | Romina Tobar | [email protected] |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Other fee-earners : 46Languages
Spanish EnglishMemberships
Meritas International Law Firms Mackrell International (Global Network of Independent Law Firms) Legalink (A global network of Leading Independent Law Firms)Other
Partners : 16- Energy and natural resources > Electricity and hydrocarbons
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Bankruptcy, insolvency and restructuring
- Capital markets
- Competition and antitrust
- Compliance
- Corporate and M&A
- Projects and infrastructure