Its stellar list of domestic and foreign clients sees Vouga Abogados actively participate in both national and international arbitration, with specialist expertise advising on the application of Paraguayan law in foreign centres. The team enjoys a ‘leading position in the sector’, and is adept at representing clients in both judicial proceedings and out-of-court negotiation, primarily in corporate and commercial litigation, but also spanning civil, labour and administrative disputes. Active in high-profile litigation on both a national and international basis, Mirtha dos Santos leads the team alongside Rodolfo Vouga Müller, who brings a wealth of dispute resolution experience to the team. Practice co-head Rodolfo Guillermo Vouga bolsters the team’s international capabilities and is experienced in cross-border transactions and admitted to the New York bar. Associate and practice co-head Silvia Benítez has a strong background in administrative and civil litigation and is particularly skilled in negotiations in connection with public procurement contracts. Elio Agüero, associate, represents clients in litigation related to damages, commercial distribution and agency and representation contracts. Also at the associate level, Marcela dos Santos spearheads the team’s litigation work in consumer and labour disputes, while Sebastián Silva plays a leading role in collections and executive lawsuits.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Vouga Abogados' international disputes practice is distinguished by its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. This team not only has highly qualified lawyers with experience in complex litigation at an international level but also stands out for its multidisciplinary approach, allowing a deep understanding of its clients' industries and offering personalised and effective legal solutions. One of the team's key strengths is its ability to combine local knowledge with a global perspective, which is essential for the resolution of disputes that cross borders.'

  • 'In terms of innovations, Vouga Abogados has implemented various initiatives that improve its service and efficiency. On the people side, they have adopted mentoring and continuing professional development programs to ensure their team is at the forefront of legal and technological trends. Compared to the innovations of other firms, Vouga Abogados' initiatives reflect a genuine commitment to continuous improvement and a proactive approach to meeting the challenges of today's legal market. This comprehensive approach, combined with its specialisation in international disputes, places Vouga Abogados in a leading position in the sector.’

  • ‘The distinctive factor that makes the lawyers of Vouga Abogados, and in particular Mirtha dos Santos, stand out from their competitors lies in their unique combination of practical experience, personalised approach to the client and leadership in legal innovation. Mirtha dos Santos, with her notable track record in international disputes, stands out for her deep knowledge of the law and her ability to navigate legal complexities in multiple jurisdictions. One of Mirtha's most outstanding qualities is her strategic and meticulous approach to conflict resolution. Her ability to anticipate legal and business challenges, combined with an unwavering commitment to excellence, has earned the trust and respect of clients and colleagues alike.'

  • 'Mirtha dos Santos is recognised for her leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion within the legal sector. Her dedication to mentoring young lawyers, and fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment, reflects a genuine commitment to the professional development of her team and building a more inclusive and equitable firm. Vouga Abogados is differentiated not only by its legal excellence but also by its human approach and its ability to build lasting relationships with its clients. In summary, the qualities that make Mirtha Dos Santos stand out include her exceptional legal knowledge, her client-centered approach, her leadership in diversity and mentoring, and her ability to lead and adapt in a globalised and constantly changing legal environment.’

  • ‘The lawyers have a lot of experience and technical qualifications.’

  • ‘Mirtha dos Santos is very experienced and has a great ability to anticipate risks.'

  • ‘We have a great relationship with them, as they know our case in depth, always come up with good ideas and are available to contact at any time. I would also like to take this opportunity to praise the documents they produce and all the support they give us on a daily basis.'

  • ‘As a general rule, our contacts at Vouga are the lawyers Mirtha dos Santos and Silvia Garcia. They are very competent, intelligent and proactive.’

Key clients

  • Archer Daniels Midland
  • Naviera Chaco
  • PARESA
  • Prosegur Paraguay
  • Equifax
  • Mastercard
  • GSI BRASIL Industria E Comercio De Equipamentos Agropecuario
  • Laad - Latin American Agribusiness Development Corporation
  • Lohia Corp Limited
  • Jebsen & Jessen
  • Brother Int. Corp. of Argentina
  • Petroleo Brasileiro
  • Copetrol
  • Paracel

Work highlights

  • Assisted the defendant in an international arbitration proceeding based in New York City regarding two important banks debating on the scope of the compensatory clause in the context of a merger by absorption, obtaining a favourable result for the client.
  • 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 favourable result for the client.
  • Succeeded in recovering tax credits for a considerable amount for the Naviera Chaco.

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.
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.

Mirtha Dos Santos, Rodolfo Vouga Müller, Rodolfo G. Vouga, Silvia Benitez