Project finance is the calling card of the banking and finance practice at Icaza, González-Ruiz & Alemán, which advises an array of domestic and international banks, public bodies and construction companies on high-profile developments. The team has been consistently active in advising on the financing of transport infrastructure projects, including port facilities and road networks, and has also assisted with recent healthcare and utilities projects. Gabriel González-Ruiz, who draws on four decades’ experience of advising international financial institutions and consortia on project financings; Luis Chalhoub, who wins praise for his ‘exceptional' service; and Michelle O de de la Guardia oversee the practice. Alfredo Fonseca is also a key name for financings in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'They have a practice that covers different areas of law, with a team of highly professional specialists, who are recognised in the industry, and with a network of high-level contacts that enables them to communicate and negotiate with significant business actors.'
  • 'Luis Chalhoub's high level of professionalism, in-depth knowledge of the law, personal qualities and availability to his clients mean his service is always exceptional.'

Key clients

  • Bank of Nova Scotia
  • Global Bank Corporation
  • Banco Nacional de Panamá
  • Bicsa Factoring
  • BAC Credomatic
  • HPH Consortium
  • Caja de Ahorros
  • Ministry of Economy and Finance of Panama

Work highlights

  • Advising Banco Nacional de Panama regarding its contract - secured by a real estate mortgage - with Panama Colon Container Port for the development of the port project in Isla Margarita.
  • Acted for Global Bank in relation to a factoring transaction for the design, construction and financing of a road project connecting Paso Canoas, Rio Sereno and Piedra Candela, directed by the Ministry of Public Works.
  • Advised a special purpose vehicle created by China Communications Construction Company for the factoring transaction for the design and construction of the Fourth Bridge over the Panama Canal.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Gabriel González-Ruiz, Michelle O. de de la Guardia, Luis Chalhoub