Fielding lawyers who ‘stand out for their knowledge of the regulations and jurisprudence’, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría's water resources department in Santiago has a market-leading reputation for projects that require water, particularly the mining, energy, sanitary, industrial and agricultural sectors. The team assists at all stages of strategic planning, its advice also covering the required permits and authorisations for projects. The group’s expertise further extends to searching for water supply solutions for projects; preparing environmental impact studies; salt and desalinated water supply projects; hydroelectric power plants; underwriting long-term water supply contracts; and appearing before the General Directorate of Water, General Comptroller of the Republic, Chile’s ordinary and special courts of justice, and the Environment Superintendence. The water law practice is led by ’outstanding partner’ and former General Water director, Matías Desmadryl, a water resources, environment and natural resources specialist, who has extensive experience in general regulatory matters and litigation. In the firm’s associate ranks, ‘special mention goes to’ water and sanitation law practitioner Sergio Jaque, while Franco Valenzuela routinely acts for both national and international companies on a range of matters that involve the use of water. Former associate Francisca Mendoza left the firm during 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘They know the regulations very well and apply them correctly when recommending strategies.’
  • ‘Availability to attend to clients’ requirements - proactive attitude and collaborative relations.’
  • ‘Speedy responses to clients’ requirements.’
  • ‘Ability to follow up on cases - compares very favourably to other offices.’
  • ‘They stand out for their knowledge of the regulations and jurisprudence.’
  • ‘Good availability to accommodate requirements and agility in their response times to queries.’
  • ‘Accurate recommendations for each case and flexibility in their support.’
  • ‘Matías Desmadryl is an outstanding partner and special mention goes to associate Sergio Jaque.’

Key clients

  • Minera Los Pelambres
  • Antofagasta Minerals
  • Compañía Minera Zaldívar
  • Codelco
  • Viña Luis Felipe Edwards
  • AgroNegocios
  • Sociedad Agrícola Campanario
  • Agrícola Ballerina
  • Matetic Wine Group
  • Lago Sofía
  • Kinross
  • Hidromaule
  • Engie
  • Laboratorios SAVAL
  • Anpac
  • Norte Abierto
  • Hidroeléctrica El Paso
  • Cabo de Hornos
  • Indesa Inmobiliaria

Work highlights

  • Provides ongoing legal advice to the Antofagasta Minerals Group on water resources.
  • Assisted Codelco in relation to a fee for non-use that was incorrectly applied by the Dirección General de Aguas .
  • Advised Minera Los Pelambres on developing and implementing a strategy and action plan to maintain the water supply of a mining project, thus ensuring operational continuity.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Matías Desmadryl