Brigard Urrutia
More informationIn 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..
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team is well prepared and knows how the SIC works. It also seems to maintain a quite stable team, which, for clients that wish to work together for several years is a plus, as the same team can be involved in the different cases over the years.’
- ‘Alejandro Garcia de Brigard leads the practice in a very competent way. He is practical and can make himself available at short notice when needed.’
Key clients
- Avianca
- Suzuki Motor de Colombia
- Bavaria
- Global Layer Distribution
- Colombia Móvil
- Sociedad Puerto Industrial Aguadulce
- Droguerías y Farmacias Cruz Verde
- UPS
- ABB
Work highlights
- Advised Avianca on the merger-control procedure before the Colombian Civil Aviation Authority (Aerocivil) triggered by the acquisition of Viva Colombia, and also advised Avianca on the antitrust investigation, launched by the SIC, for alleged gun jumping with Viva Colombia.
- Represented Bavaria in the antitrust investigation launched by the SIC into alleged abuse of dominant position in the beer market, derived from Bavaria's exclusivity contracts.
- Acted for Suzuki Motor de Colombia in the antitrust investigation launched by the SIC concerning alleged anticompetitive conduct in the public procurement of motorcycles.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Alejandro Garcia de Brigard