Clients praise Arias, Fábrega & Fábrega‘s dispute resolution department for its ’global capabilities‘ and ’robust understanding of cross-border regulatory matters‘, which make the firm well placed to handle high-profile, multi-jurisdictional disputes; a standout recent example is its representation of McDermott International in a complex insolvency case. The team is also widely recognised for its strength in international commercial arbitration (particularly proceedings against the Panamanian government) and in domestic litigation, recently appearing in a series of constitutional cases before the Supreme Court. Claudio De Castro, whose extensive practice takes in administrative, commercial, civil, IP, shipping and tax litigation, leads the team with co-managing partner Fernando Arias. Sofía Cohen, who plays a leading role in regulatory disputes, including antitrust cases, and litigation relating to government contracts and concessions, and Juan Corro are also key figures, and the practice was further bolstered at partner level in August 2023 with the addition of Fernando Aued, who is well versed in commercial, civil, administrative and maritime disputes (as well as regulatory cases), from Dentons. The firm also strengthened its junior team in 2022 with the arrivals of associate Mariel Núñez from Britton & Iglesias and international associate Isabella de la Guardia from Baker McKenzie LLP’s Miami office.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Pragmatic and helpful advice. The ability to effectively cut through the issues and suggest an intelligent course of action and response to problems.'
  • 'Global capabilities, with a robust understanding of cross-border regulatory matters. Ability to see the big picture and advise dynamically.'

Key clients

  • McDermott International
  • Chevron
  • US Bank
  • Visa
  • BNP Paribas

Work highlights

  • Assisted McDermott International in obtaining, before Panamanian courts, the recognition and enforcement of Chapter 11 proceedings.
  • Successfully represented Heinz Panamá in administrative tax litigation.
  • Filed a joint motion with another Panamanian law firm and the Panamanian chapter of the International Chamber of Commerce to defend the constitutionality of Panama's arbitration law, in response to a lawsuit brought by an individual seeking to declare a provision of the law null and void.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
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.

Fernando Arias, Claudio De Castro