Latin America - Latin America: International firms

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a global leader in international investigations and this standing is illustrated by its acclaimed track record and reputation in Latin America. It frequently advises clients on internal investigations and public investigations by civil regulators and criminal prosecutors, often involving parallel investigations in multiple jurisdictions. The firm is steeped in FCPA compliance expertise and has extensive experience in Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Chile and other key markets. It has landed key roles in connection with Operation Lava Jato and the FIFA corruption scandal. The firm frequently represents major multinationals in cross-border investigations and regulatory defence matters, including matters involving Latin American subsidiaries, and also acts for large Latin American corporates, senior executives and individuals. Along with regular big-ticket investigations, the white collar and regulatory defence team is often involved in risk-based compliance due diligence relating to proposed M&A transactions. Andrew Levine is co-head of the Latin America group and is a ‘rock star’ in anti-corruption and investigations in the region. Washington DC partner Kara Brockmeyer previously had over 15 years working at the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including five and a half years as chief of the enforcement division’s FCPA unit. Also in Washington DC, David O’Neil has an extensive record in FCPA investigations around the world, including Latin America. Bruce Yannett is chair of the white collar and regulatory defence group. Named partners are based in New York unless stated otherwise.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Debevoise & Plimpton is a firm that ensures the highest quality in its services through the organisation within the firm, the agility of response and the analytical skills of its lawyers.’

  • ‘A highly notable characteristic of D&P attorneys is that they are thought leaders in the areas of compliance, internal investigations, and arbitration.’

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Key clients

  • Marcelo Odebrecht and Emilio Odebrecht
  • Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan

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Work highlights

  • Represented Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan and Alberta Investment Management Corporation, through their controlled subsidiary Grupo Saesa in acquiring Enel Transmisión Chile, involving risk-based compliance due diligence.

Abbreviated data is displayed for this firm.