Fernando Méndez
BLPBLP's ‘excellent' team is routinely the first port of call for leading international companies seeking advice on labour issues in Guatemala and Central America (supported by the firm’s extensive network of regional offices), including labour and social security compliance and immigration matters. On the contentious front, the team is increasingly active in representing employers in internal investigations, collective bargaining and disputes. Luis Ruiz, a standout adviser to multinational clients, leads the team, which was strengthened significantly with the additions of special counsel María Elena Barrientos (an expert in immigration and occupational health and safety issues) and director and seasoned litigator Fernando Zelada from Arias in 2023. Director Fernando Méndez is also noted for his strength in union negotiations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They have lawyers from different branches, which means that they provide comprehensive advice.’
‘The team is always willing to collaborate - it feels like having more work colleagues rather than an external adviser.’
‘The team stand out for their friendliness and good knowledge of this area of law.’
'An excellent team with a lot of experience. They follow up very well and are proactive, showing initiative and providing options for the actions to take in the cases assigned to them. They are every bit as good as other teams.'
'They stand out for their experience and knowledge of the topic, and direct and timely communication with the client. They are very ethical and proactive and we have total confidence in their actions. It is a pleasure to work with them. We would like to highlight Fernando Zelada.'
Key clients
- Siemens
- Zoetis
- PepsiCo
- AmsPec
- Dumen Orange
- Yildrim Group
- Microsoft
- Colliers
- Mastercard
- Ceva Logistics
- HCL
- Grupo Unicormer
- Ocean Network Express (ONE)
- Uber
Work highlights
- Advised Ocean Network Express on the labour issues relating to the opening of its operations in Guatemala.
- Representing PepsiCo in all labour-related claims initiated by employees.
- Advised Yildrim Group on the labour due diligence relating to the transfer of employees to a new employer.
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.
María Elena Barrientos
BLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Luis Ruiz, Fernando Méndez, Maria Elena Barrientos