Labour and employment boutique Chapman Wilches scores highly for its ‘problem-solving focus, and practical and disruptive solutions’. The practice is distinguished by its comprehensive national coverage, which takes in platforms in Bogotá, Medellín, Bucaramanga and Barranquilla, while it also has an ownership stake in Bucaramanga-based associated firm Pilonieta Alvarez Abogados Laboralistas. Firm founder Charles Chapman co-heads the department and is highly regarded for his expertise in collective bargaining matters; he recently represented the Colombian Football Association and DIMAYOR (the Major Division of Colombian Football) in resolving a conflict with their unions. Fellow co-head Mirna Wilches is also a high-profile name in the market; she is a key contact for individual and collective labour law and administrative litigation. A deep pool of experienced associate directors includes litigation manager Heimy Blanco; Medellín office director Elizabeth Jiménez; Mauricio Crespo, who manages the consulting area; Leda Mejía Martínez, who manages guardianship disputes; and Daniela Matute, who serves as co-ordinator of advisory services.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The law firm is distinguished by its deep knowledge of our business sector and its ability to offer strategic legal advice tailored to the specific needs of our industry. Its approach is not only reactive.’
- ‘The team stands out for its closeness to the client, and willingness to support according to the specific needs of the sector. Lawyers stand out for their experience and reliability of service.’
- ‘The team is made up of highly qualified professionals, some with years of experience in their respective fields. They also foster a collaborative work environment, allowing for better communication with clients and comprehensive solutions.’
- ‘Lawyers stand out for their agility, problem-solving focus, and practical and disruptive solutions. We highlight the team’s sustainable and quality processes.’
- ‘Lawyers at Chapman Wilches work with speed, precision, and efficiency. The firm has built internal tools that make it a comprehensive team that adapts to the needs of each client and each sector. The team's positioning and its goal of identifying the problem is key.’
- ‘The team is interested in understanding the company's specific needs, the future of our industry, and how they can support us.’
Key clients
- Integral Medicine Company - Prepaid Ambulance Service EMI
- Bank Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria Colombia
- Port of Santa Marta
- Cordoba Minerals
- Tenaris Tubo Caribe Ltda.
- Orbia Group (Mexichem Colombia, Celta and Pavco de Occidente)
- Claro Colombia
- Steward Colombia Group
- Quirónsalud Colombia
- Cannon Industries of Colombia
- Oleoflores
- Proyect E S.A.S. (Laika Colombia)
Work highlights
Advised the Colombian Football Association and DIMAYOR (the Major Division of Colombian Football) on resolving a conflict with their unions.
Successfully represented a multinational bank before the Ministry Labour in demonstrating that it did not violate union rights.
Advised a multinational company on a collective dismissal matter.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Mirna Wilches
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Heimy Blanco
Leda Mejía Martínez
Practice head
Charles Chapman; Mirna Wilches