Silvia Benítez
Vouga AbogadosActive in the drafting of bills and regulations, Vouga Abogados is regularly retained by international agencies to advise government offices. As well as public entities, the firm counts an extensive list of national and international institutions among its clients, offering advice across highly regulated areas, such as the oil and gas, mining, energy, telecommunications, agribusiness and health sectors. The team also has a successful track record in disputes involving public entities, from alleged infringements to tax disputes. Practice co-head Manuel Acevedo is an expert in public procurement procedures and handles procedures for the obtention of licenses and permits on behalf of public institutions. Senior associate Silvia Benítez co-leads, bringing a strong background in administrative and civil litigation and expertise in extra-judiciary negotiations to the group, often supported by associate Andrés Vera. Rodrigo Fernández advises a diverse clientele that spans the pharmaceuticals, food and tobacco industries. Mirtha dos Santos is another key contact in the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Vouga assists the company in administrative VAT return processes. In this field, Silvia Benítez, together with Andrés Vera, have vast knowledge and experience.’
‘They have developed truly remarkable monitoring tools that allow them to standardize processes, with the efficiency that this translates, as well as a monitoring that is very close to the judges' criteria within the framework of the process and judging of said processes. With this, they demonstrate proactivity in the search for clear and effective communication with the client.’
‘Vouga's team is always characterised by its commitment to providing practical and out-of-the-box solutions in simple terms for every legal challenge faced by our business. The team keeps in mind our ethos and big-picture priorities, ensuring that all recommendations protect our relationship with our stakeholders while complying with local regulations and internal policies of a multinational company. Vouga has proven to be a reliable business partner with a quick turnaround.’
‘Rodrigo Fernández is a stand-out from Vouga, with his deep legal knowledge and immersion in the commercial necessities and priorities of our business. Along with his wide experience in matters of counterfeit products and general IP, Rodrigo is always available with quick, practical, cost-efficient advice that keeps in mind the ethos and commercial relationships of our company, while maintaining our strong focus on compliance. Manuel Acevedo has positioned himself as a reliable business partner to our business, always available and committed to providing practical and efficient solutions with his deep understanding of local legal regulations and landscape, ensuring we remain in compliance through every turn.’
‘Priority attention to consultation topics - wide knowledge and speciality in required topics.’
‘They understand the needs of the business and help find solutions to the challenges posed.’
‘We find at Vouga Abogados high standards of legal knowledge and quality of work, solidly based on their many years of experience in legal practice in Paraguay.’
‘We note previous research work in areas of jurisprudence, legislation and previous experiences to incorporate prior knowledge of the new situations that the client is exposed to. We have worked with Silvia Benítez and Mirtha dos Santos.’
Key clients
- Paracel
- CPC Corporation Taiwán
- Centelsa
- World Bank Group
- Prosegur
- Iridium Satellite
- Nextar (Petrobas)
- Paresa (Coca Cola)
- Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)
Work highlights
- Advised a foreign cable supplier in a high-value out-of-court claim filed by a state entity for alleged breaches in the quality of the products supplied in a bidding contract.
- Represented Paraguay Energy Operaciones y Logística in an administrative proceeding initiated by the customs administration due to alleged inconsistencies detected in the verification of fuel imports, obtaining a favorable result for the client.
- Assisting with the drafting and negotiation of the first private PPA in Paraguay.
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.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Manuel Acevedo, Silvia Benítez