According to satisfied sources, CMS Rodríguez-Azuero’s practice is ‘distinguished by its great technical capacity and its dedication to the client’. The team, which covers the full range of compliance and white-collar crime matters, also scores highly for its ability to advise on multi-jurisdictional issues; indeed, one clients asserts: ’it excels at understanding how local regulations interact with international regulations’. Daniel Rodríguez co-heads the department and brings to bear robust hands-on experience in both compliance and corporate criminal law matters; he recently advised multinational retailer Decathlon Colombia on the implementation of an anti-corruption compliance system. Jacques Simhon, who co-heads the department, also receives strong reviews for his ability to provide ‘personalised attention’. The group additionally benefits from the experience of counsel Beatriz Molina, who is a former prosecutor, judge and magistrate. At associate level, newly promoted seniors Santiago Calle and Paula Andrea Gutiérrez are recommended. María Lucia Amador joined Mendoza Abogados in July 2022.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The compliance team is fully dedicated to its clients, solving their doubts and adapting to their needs. Lawyers are very knowledgeable about the subject, as well as the potential consequences of each possible option when making a decision.’
‘We value the personal commitment of the lawyers in charge of our processes, particularly Jacques Simhon and associate Santiago Calle.’
‘The team is distinguished by its great technical capacity and its dedication to the client. Undoubtedly, lawyers stand out for their mastery of the subject, which allows the client to feel completely confident with their advice.’
‘The team is extremely professional. Lawyers are very willing to answer questions, they are always one step ahead of their clients' needs.’
‘Jacques Simhon provides personalised attention, very clear advice, and demonstrates and transmits security to the client.’
‘Daniel Rodríguez is a lawyer with extensive technical knowledge and a perfect understanding of how Colombia and its institutions work. In addition, he enjoys great international recognition.’
‘Not only does the team understand the local regulatory aspects of compliance, but it excels at understanding how local regulations interact with international regulations. This is critical for companies that operate cross-border.’
‘In each matter there is an expert to advise you, usually a partner or associate. In other offices this does not always happen. In addition, the attention is immediate.’

Key clients

Decathlon Colombia
María Paula Linares
FCC Aqualia
Victims of Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta
Grupo Empresarial Oleoflores
Odinsa
Minex
HP Colombia
Neos Nogal PH
Federación Nacional de Departamentos

Work highlights

Advised Federación Nacional de Departamentos on the strengthening of its policies for the prevention and management of smuggled products.
Advised FCC Aqualia on a due diligence process concerning certain target companies belonging to a high-risk sector in terms of money laundering, financing of terrorism, and corruption.
Represented an individual in criminal proceedings before the Office of the Attorney General relating to domestic violence committed by the individual’s ex-husband.