Energy boutique MCM Abogados is best known for its 'extensive experience in oil and gas matters in Mexico' and is counsel of choice to some of the international heavyweights of the sector, including ExxonMobil, and domestic leaders such as Vista Energy. Cross-border oil-and-gas work, particularly involving the US and the UK, is something of a central pillar at the firm, while on the power generation front, it's practice is steadily growing, with Kino Energia added as a client for wind power in 2023. Three partners coordinate the department: Manuel Cervantes, firm founder and managing partner, who is regarded as one of the go-to lawyers in the market for complex financial and development structures; Mariana Hernandez, an expert in corporate and M&A work in the energy space; and younger partner Jorge Cabeza, who acts for oil companies, investors, traders and service providers. Primary support to the practice heads comes from Francisco Valencia, a senior associate with experience in the hydrocarbons and power sectors, on both regulatory and litigious matters.

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Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘MCM's knowledge and experience in energy is unique. I have worked with dozens of law firms in Mexico on these issues and I believe that no one has more experience and treats their clients better than MCM Abogados.’
‘We admire the personal treatment and almost immediate response to our requests of Manuel Cervantes and Mariana Hernandez.’
‘Manuel Cervantes is a fantastic lawyer and a crucial part of our team.’
‘MCM Abogados is a firm with extensive experience in oil and gas matters in Mexico, as well as in administrative and litigation matters. His attention is immediate and very professional. The rates offered by the firm are below the market compared to other firms. There is direct attention from the partners and lawyers that comprise it.’
‘Manuel Cervantes, the main partner of the firm, personally attends to matters and at all times there is direct communication with him, he understands very well the requirements requested of him. Jorge Cervantes is also a very experienced lawyer and at all times makes the client aware of the status of the matter and its follow-up. Both have extensive knowledge of oil and gas law in Mexico and provide very high quality legal advice.'
‘It is a solid team that interacts dynamically to provide solutions.’
‘We appreciate the direct response of its partners and participation in solving problems.’
‘They have a deep knowledge of the regulations and the contracts we have in force, in addition to total immersion in the sector with all its actors. They have a good work team that responds timely and adequately to each request for support and their attention and service is very good.’

Key clients

Capricorn Energy
Perenco México
Petrolera Cardenas Mora – Cheiron Holdings
Lukoil Upstream Mexico
Pico Mexico
Saavi Energía
Schlumberger de México
ExxonMobil Mexico
Eni Trading & Shipping
Grupo México
Marlin Drilling
Halliburton
Vitol México
Huasteca Oil Energy
Armamex
Citla Energy
Renaissance Oil
TotalEnergies México
Fieldwood Energy Mexico
Vista Energy
Litasco
Versalis
Química Delta
Bardahl de Mexico
Brenntag Mexico
Centauro Energy
Clarasol
ENG Mexico Informatica
Ergon
Fugro
GeoPark
H2O Offshore
Hokchi Energy
James Fisher and Sons
Kino Energía
Mexico Petroleum Company
Tullow

Work highlights

Assisted ExxonMobil with obtaining permits for the import of oil refined products, lubricants and petrochemicals.
Advised Pico Mexico on charter contracts for the use of the “Pico IV” light offshore platform in oil projects in the Gulf of Mexico.
Advised ETS Mexico on the implementation of a hydrocarbons production scheme.