Team size: ten

What are the most significant cases or transactions you and your team have been involved in?

We have been involved in several cases of great importance both for the company and the telecommunications industry. CLARO CS has been one pioneer company in opening the telecommunications monopoly in the country; therefore, the judicial and administrative process for deploying the national telecommunications network has gained significant relevance. Additionally, last year we were involved in a legal arbitration procedure, which ended on a positive note for the company — the highest judicial authority in civil matters in the country reaffirmed its trust in CLARO CR, defining it as an ally of the judicial system and provider of quality services that benefit the Costa Rican market. Furthermore, we have advised and participated in the creation and administration of a new group company aimed at distributing other services, which involved meticulous analysis to avoid and risk management strategies.

How do you feel the pandemic has changed the world of work for in-house counsel and the function of the general counsel?

The pandemic has had an impact on both our personal and work life. General counsel had to adapt to new virtual communication methods, both for meetings and trials; even though the team I lead comprehends 100 percent millennials, we have not been exempted from training ourselves to keep up with technology. One of the main changes and challenges has been to find the best and safest electronic contracting dynamics in the telecommunications sector — pre-pandemic, it was not a recurring topic of analysis and application. A significant challenge has been adapting to hybrid work dynamics (virtual and face-to-face) both in the office and from remote.

How do you suggest in-house lawyers build strong relationships with business partners?

It is essential to build relationships of trust and support — internal lawyers can create attainable solutions for business partners, considering their needs for expedited execution and raising awareness. Constant support must always be provided, primarily in times of crisis. To find viable solutions that allow the company’s long-term growth, technical training of the commercial partners on topics of interest that may affect the company is necessary. It is also crucial to constantly carry out analysis of the applicable legislation and provide constant recommendations to business partners.