With a ‘perfect blend of deep technical expertise and sound commercial understanding’, Clifford Chance is a key port of call for clients navigating the tax implications of big-ticket M&A, corporate restructurings, capital markets and real estate transactions. The practice is led by Pablo Serrano De Haro, who regularly advises international investors on tax structuring. Roberto Grau is another key figure, who specialises in the tax aspects of capital markets and banking and finance transactions. Fernando Escribano also plays an active role in the tax practice.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Clifford Chance's tax team is celebrated for its ability to handle complex transactions and litigation with a perfect blend of deep technical expertise and sound commercial understanding.’
  • ‘The team is incredibly responsive and adaptable, making a concerted effort to align with client workflows.’
  • ‘Their expertise in SOCIMI structures is unparalleled in Spain, offering unmatched client service compared to other firms of similar stature. The team provides real, actionable advice, presenting options with clear pros and cons to aid informed decision-making.’
  • ‘The department’s hallmark qualities include its commercial approach, thorough research (background, jurisprudence, binding consultations), and innovative use of legal technology, which enhances both efficiency and creativity in their solutions.’
  • ‘Human quality and client focus are standout attributes, with the team demonstrating accessibility, professionalism, and a consistent willingness to make projects succeed. Pablo Serrano de Haro and Fernando Escribano are praised for their dedication, quick response times, and ability to craft effective, client-centred strategies.’
  • ‘Clients appreciate their balanced team dynamics and positive attitude, coupled with an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, strategic advice tailored to their specific needs.’ 
  • 'The team is very responsive to our requests and has made an effort (successfully) to adapt to our way of working.'
  • 'Julia Villalón (senior associate) and Pablo Serrano (partner) are our points of contact in the team. They are very responsive and helpful to sometimes challenging requests.'

Key clients

  • Generali
  • Värde Partner
  • Eroski
  • Orion Capital Managers
  • Primonial
  • P3 Spain Logistics Parks SOCIMI
  • BentallGreenOak
  • Kennedy Wilson
  • Autonomy Capital

Work highlights

  • Advised Generali on its agreement to acquire Liberty Seguros.
  • Advised the management team of Universidad Europea on the sale of a majority stake in Universidad Europea by Permira to EQT.
  • Advised a syndicate of existing and new lenders including, among others, Banco Santander, Bank of America and Société Générale, on the refinancing of Testa Residencial SOCIMI, S.A.

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.
Fernando Escribano
Clifford Chance
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Roberto Grau
Clifford Chance
Pablo Serrano de Haro
Clifford Chance

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Pablo Serrano de Haro

Other key lawyers

Roberto Grau, Fernando Escribano, Julia Villalón