ECIJA GPA acts for local and multinational clients from several industry sectors in M&A, corporate restructurings, as well as commercial and corporate law mandates. Noted for his ‘efficient and highly personalised service’, Michael Veintimilla co-leads the practice from the Quito office and is noted for his corporate restructuring expertise. Commercial law expert Santiago Vega, who is based in Cuenca, advises national and international companies navigating challenging business environments. Sitting in the Guayaquil office, Édgar Méndez handles significant corporate transactions, while Karen Álava assists large companies in Ecuador with corporate restructurings and commercial law matters. Gustavo Arrobo is another name to note in the corporate team in Quito.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The corporate law team stands out from other law firms because it is very proactive and seeks to provide solutions based on the knowledge and needs of the client. It is a team with several lawyers who respond to various queries and requirements in an agile and effective manner.'

  • ‘Both Michael Veintimilla and Gustavo Arrobo are lawyers with very high ethics who propose solutions aligned with the norm and always seek to be at the forefront of technologies and knowledge.'

  • ‘Édgar Mendez: high level of knowledge and problem-solving. Karen Álava: the gift of service and follow-up until the case is finished.'

  • ‘The management and communication is professional, it is carried out promptly to resolve concerns.'

  • ‘We maintain direct contact with Michael Veintimilla. The care provided is efficient and highly personalised. Among the skills that stand out in Veitimilla are his professionalism, deep knowledge of the subject, ability to actively listen and diligence in each application submitted.'

  • ‘Gustavo Arrobo's team consistently meets our needs with speed and efficiency.’

  • ‘ECIJA GPA stands out for its exceptional team, comprised of individuals renowned for their expertise and extensive experience. The team consistently delivers top-quality legal services. They are renowned for advising local and multinational clients and navigating the dynamic landscape of the corporate market in Ecuador. Their in-depth understanding of different industries ensures that clients receive practical and pragmatic solutions, even for the most complex issues. The team's commitment to excellence is evident in their unwavering dedication to work, ensuring they can always assist clients regardless of the nature of the query.’

Key clients

  • The Vazquez Group
  • FERREMUNDO
  • ROXCEL Holding
  • Balcama
  • DKT Deutsche Kennzelchen Technik
  • Pampa Energia
  • Compañia Servipaxa y Constitución de la Sociedad Urb. Montcarm
  • Wtz
  • The Larriva business group
  • Komatsu Finance
  • Alcarzarhold

Work highlights

  • Advised the Vazquez Group throughout the negotiation process involving 50% of the shareholders of the company, overseeing a series of transactions aimed at dividing the business group into two separate segments.
  • Advised DKT Deutsche Kennzeichen Technik GmbH on establishing its corporate presence in Ecuador.
  • Executed the spin-off of SERVIPAXA S.A., which held a high-net-worth and a complex financial structure, to establish the company U.R.B. MONTCARM S.A.S.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Michael Veintimilla, Karen Álava, Santiago Vega, Édgar Mendez