Public law is a mainstay at Esguerra JHR, with clients highlighting the firm as an ‘expert in administrative law’. Primarily recognised for the strength of its contentious expertise, the team frequently represents both public-sector entities and corporate clients in complex administrative proceedings and constitutional law actions. On the non-contentious front, the group additionally advises on the negotiation of public contracts and project structuring, among other matters. The department is co-led by former Minister of National Defence Juan Carlos Esguerra, who brings heavyweight government-side experience; and go-to public law litigator Felipe Piquero, who is praised for his ’strategic thinking’, and is well versed in fiscal liability and administrative sanctioning matters. The pair are currently representing Suramericana in multiple lawsuits connected to the construction of the Hidroituango hydroelectric power plant, including in proceedings brought by Empresas Públicas de Medellín concerning damages related to the blockage of one of the dam's tunnels that caused significant flooding. The practice also draws on next-generation partner Adriana Nieto, who is ‘sound in her opinions’, and specialises in PPP projects, administrative law and state contracts; and new managing associate Juan Diego Mojica, who joined from Serrano Martínez CMA in July 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘A great, well-formed and well-managed team, demonstrating high ethical and work standards combined with first-class legal knowledge.’
‘Felipe Piquero is exceptional. His handling of situations, strategic thinking, and knowledge of multiple topics, combined with his experience, make his advice an invaluable asset to us. For this reason, we have worked together for over 20 years without a single setback.’
‘Adriana Nieto is a wonderful professional: serious and responsible, and sound in her opinions.’
‘This team is expert in administrative law, with excellent recognition and litigation skills, ensuring quality interventions in legal proceedings with excellent results. Lawyers are characterised by their warm and courteous approach and excellent service. Their responses are timely and accurate.’
‘Lawyers stand out for their excellent service and experience. It is an expert team that generates credibility and provides excellent results.’
‘The firm's public law practice is a team with strong knowledge and experience, enabling it to provide the advice required in this area of law. It is constantly updated on regulations, doctrine, and jurisprudence in the sector, allowing it to take a strong position on the subject.’
Key clients
- Seguros Generales Suramericana
- PAYC S.A.S./Egis Group
- Cemex Colombia
- Constructora AIA
- Bancolombia.
- Seguros Bolivar
- Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Bogotá
- UNE EPM Telecomunicaciones
- Comunicación Celular S.A. (COMCEL)
- Seguros Confianza
Lawyers
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Next Generation Partners
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Practice head
Juan Carlos Esguerra; Felipe Piquero