A ‘high level of specialisation in the oil and gas sector’ is the hallmark of MCM Abogados, a boutique firm with a 10-year history in the market and a broad array of clients representing the major players in Mexico’s oil and gas landscape. The firm is a strong choice for companies needing advice on the design, development and financing of projects, with the team also advising on day-to-day matters, from corporate and regulatory issues to antitrust and dispute resolution matters, among other areas. Manuel Cervantes is one of three practice heads and ’is particularly distinguished by his extensive experience’. His fellow practice heads are Mariana Hernandez, whose work during the course of 2022 significantly developed the firm's midstream and downstream hydrocarbon portfolios; and Jorge Cabeza, who is appreciated by clients for his ‘very deep and up-to-date knowledge of the regulatory and transactional aspects of the sector’. Associate Francisco Valencia provides key support - particularly as regards the upstream and downstream market segments.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘As for the team, the highlight is its high level of specialisation in the oil & gas sector. The firm's team has provided consistent support for several years now, showing an important understanding of the business and its objectives; their responses are quick and accurate, meeting the dynamic and urgent needs of the operation. His advice is regularly accompanied not only by theoretical aspects, but also by concrete precedents.’
‘Regarding people, Jorge Cabeza stands out for his very deep and up-to-date knowledge of the regulatory and transactional aspects of the sector. Manuel Cervantes is particularly distinguished by his extensive experience and sensitivity regarding the relevant legal issues of the industry.’
‘Firm with partners who complement each other in knowledge of the various regulations/regulators in the sector that allow clarity to make more effective analyzes and make better decisions.’
‘They have no qualms about attending outside of regular hours, they are committed to taking care of the matter as their own and they anticipate noticing relevant issues that are not easy to identify.’
‘The firm is distinguished by its deep knowledge of the industry and the sector; not only legal knowledge but also deep understanding of the business.’
‘Manuel Cervantes has helped us navigate the complexities and obstacles to obtaining key permits and authorizations for the operation of the company; also to reach positive solutions and agreements with third parties.’
‘High reaction capacity; competitive rates; great sense of empathy and alignment with the objectives of the company; and willingness to be an asset in managing the challenges they face instead of seeking leadership.’
‘Manuel Cervantes; Mariana Hernandez and Francisco Valencia. Depth of industry knowledge; and seek to provide pragmatic solutions, avoiding negotiations and excessive deadlines for solving problems.’

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

Work highlights

Advised Lukoil on its acquisition of the Fieldwood portfolio in Mexico.
Advised Capricorn Energy on Mexican law matters resulting from a potential merger of its publicly traded parent company Capricorn with Tullow Oil.
Advised Saavi Energia on a project involving power generation mobile units with a value of $22.7m.