Brigard Urrutia

In a figure that demonstrates its formidable strength in merger filings, Brigard Urrutia handled over 35 merger control procedures during 2022. Alongside its dominant merger practice, which is driven by the firm’s top-tier corporate offering, the group also frequently advises on antitrust investigations, leniency agreements and unfair competition disputes, among other matters. Department head Alejandro Garcia de Brigard, who is dual-qualified in Colombia and New York, is particularly sought after for his expertise in complex transactional cases; he is representing Avianca before the Colombian Civil Aviation Authority (Aerocivil) in a merger-review procedure triggered by its acquisition of Viva Colombia. Among its behavioural highlights, Garcia de Brigard represented Bavaria in an antitrust investigation into alleged abuse of dominant position in the beer market; the case was terminated by the SIC without the imposition of any fine as a result of the offering of commitments. The team also includes practice co-ordinator Nicolás Cardona, who was recently promoted from senior associate to director and provides capable support. In December 2022, intermediate associate Natalia Amado Pérez joined from Baker McKenzie S.A.S..