Palacios Lleras’ signature public law focus is reflected in its litigation practice, where it specialises in representing domestic and multinational companies in constitutional and administrative law disputes. The team is experienced in litigation across all key economic sectors, but it is arguably best known for its activity in the mining and infrastructure spheres due to its close relationship with marquee client, Drummond. Department head and firm founder Hugo Palacios Mejía is a former co-judge of Colombia’s State Council, the Constitutional Court, and the Supreme Court and is sought after for his administrative litigation expertise. Palacios was recently engaged by Grupo SURA to advise on contentious matters emerging from the hostile takeover launched by Grupo Gilinski. Other senior names include Óscar Gutiérrez, who represents natural resources and infrastructure companies in contentious tax, regulatory, transportation, and mining law matters; Pedro Pacheco, who handles a mix of commercial and administrative law disputes; and Luis Miguel Falla, who was promoted to partner in March 2022. Senior associate Giselle Herrera left the firm in April 2022.
Key clients
- Drummond
- Fondo de Garantías de Instituciones Financieras - Fogafin
Work highlights
- Advising Grupo SURA on contentious matters emerging from the hostile takeover launched by Grupo Gilinski.
- Defending Avianca in a constitutional action in which the plaintiff alleges that Avianca violated collective rights related to the antitrust and consumer rights regime, due to its proposed corporate integration with Viva Air.