Dechert LLP

Dechert LLP’s highly reputed multi-office international arbitration has a distinct emphasis on Latin America, with more than half of its cases involving a Latin American entity. Although globally recognised for its expertise in investment arbitration, the firm is also highly active in commercial arbitrations in the region, and is also noted for its experience in the enforcement of arbitration awards. It defends a large number of Latin American states in investment and commercial arbitrations, along with representing state entities as claimants. It also acts for an array of investors in cases against Latin American sovereigns. Energy, mining, construction, transport, telecoms and food are key sectors for the team. Many within the group are natives of Latin American states or are fluent Spanish or Portuguese speakers. The Latin America focused team is primarily located in Paris, where dual-qualified (Colombia/Paris) Eduardo Silva Romero is co-chair of the global international arbitration practice; he has ‘indisputable experience in commercial and investment arbitration’ and focuses primarily on arbitration involving states and state-owned entities. José Manuel García Represa is another experienced figure in the team, typically handling a large case load; both he and Silva are particularly noted for their expertise in damage quantification. Senior associate Catalina Echeverri Gallego (’a great professional’, ‘100% analytical and methodical’) is another Latin America specialist, while associates Javier Echeverri Díaz and Santiago Soto García are also highlighted by clients. All named individuals are based in Paris. Antonio Gordillo left the firm in July 2023. Since publication, the entire team has left to establish Wordstone Dispute Resolution AARPI, a Paris-based boutique tightly focused on commercial and investment arbitration (along with associated litigation) - effective as of Janaury 2024.