Team size:   6  

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organization’s resilience? 

My approach to managing legal aspects during instability or crises is centered on a methodical and strategic analysis of the situation. Initially, I focus on identifying and analyzing the key components of the problem to develop an action plan that harmonizes with the company’s objectives, mission, and vision. This plan aims to mitigate harm while providing a competitive advantage. 

Understanding the repercussions and impact on the various commercial areas where the company operates is crucial for safeguarding the brand and image. The strategy must align with the applicable regulatory framework and the company’s fiscal and accounting schedules, ensuring compliance with fair market practices. Additionally, it’s important to evaluate the potential impact on different departmental units, considering economic, productive, commercial, and punitive perspectives. 

Exploring alternative conflict resolution mechanisms, such as negotiation, conciliation, mediation, and arbitration, is also a key component of our approach before resorting to litigation. This strategy helps in addressing issues effectively while minimizing legal exposure and maintaining alignment with broader business objectives. 

What are the main cases or transactions you have been involved in recently? 

Recently, I managed several high-profile transactions and projects. One of the significant cases involved overseeing the acquisition of a multi-million dollar Villas and Lots Project in Cofresí, Puerto Plata, for the Lifestyle Holidays Hotels and Resorts Project. This acquisition was pivotal in expanding the project’s property portfolio. Additionally, I facilitated the multi-million dollar acquisition of the Sea La Vie Beach Club and Restaurant in Cofresí, Puerto Plata, integrating it into the Lifestyle Holidays Hotels and Resorts Project. This involved handling all necessary permits before the Ministries of Environment, Health, and Tourism. My responsibilities also included managing litigation processes in labor, civil, commercial, and criminal matters related to the Lifestyle Holidays Hotels and Resorts Project. Furthermore, I supervised due diligence, real estate transfers, and commercial transactions for various real estate units, including managing several individual properties valued at over USD 1,500,000. 

What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company? 

Our company has integrated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices into its core business operations with the guidance of the legal department. A dedicated sustainability division has been established, which operates under the supervision of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors. This division assesses the company’s waste production, pollution levels, and resource usage, recommending sustainable practices for business operations. In my role, I contribute by coordinating regular reports from the sustainability division to the Executive Committee, ensuring that directives and instructions are followed. This involvement helps drive and maintain sustainable practices within the company, reinforcing our commitment to ESG principles. 

What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments? 

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data analytics are set to significantly impact the legal profession. Artificial intelligence enhances efficiency in managing large volumes of information, automating repetitive tasks, and analysing legal documents more accurately. Blockchain offers a secure and transparent method for handling transactions and contracts, with potential applications in intellectual property and supply chain management. Big data analytics improves decision-making by identifying patterns and trends in vast datasets. To stay updated on these developments, I actively participate in technology and law conferences, engage in discussion forums, and research specialized publications. Additionally, I maintain a network of contacts with technology experts, which helps me stay informed about the latest innovations and their applications in the legal field. 

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently (these can be legal, political, economic, or business-based)? 

In Dominican Republic, several key trends are shaping the current landscape: 

Penal Code Reform: The Penal Code, dating back to 1884 and based on Napoleonic codes, is undergoing scrutiny for its relevance to contemporary social issues. There have been attempts to reform the code over the past two decades, but ideological and political clashes have hindered progress. Recent proposals include expediting the approval process while addressing concerns such as the decriminalisation of abortion and the criminal liability of organisations. 

Tax Reform: There is an ongoing discussion about tax reform, focusing on a balanced approach that includes not just increased taxation but also a review of public spending and incentives. A well-concerted fiscal strategy could boost economic growth and improve tax collection by enhancing the wealth generation capacity of businesses.