Dispute resolution

D'Empaire

D'Empaire stands out for its prowess in investor-state arbitration, frequently representing major international companies in high-profile ICSID and UNCITRAL proceedings relating to nationalisations and similar measures carried out by the Venezuelan government. In addition, the team is skilled in handling both domestic and international commercial arbitration under ICC and AAA rules. On the litigation side of the practice, the team focuses on civil and commercial cases, with significant recent experience in claims going as far as the Supreme Court. José Humberto Frías, an expert in commercial and investor-state arbitration, and Pedro Perera, who specialises in civil, commercial, IP and constitutional litigation, lead the team. Associate Daniel Bustos lends support in arbitration.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘D'Empaire is a firm with a lot of experience in dispute resolution and they are undoubtedly a benchmark in Venezuela. They have a lot of experience in arbitration and know Venezuelan law perfectly. They have very good legal judgement and respond very efficiently.'
‘José Humberto Frías is a great lawyer - very attentive and focused on client service. Daniel Bustos is also very attentive and collaborative. They are both always available and creative in finding solutions to complex problems.'

Key clients

Lufthansa
Visa International Service Association
Smurfit Kappa
Liberty Mutual
Clorox
Diamante Trading Investments
RCTV
MMC Automotriz

Work highlights

Representing Lufthansa in an arbitration before UNCITRAL relating to measures taken by Venezuela that led to the client suspending operations in the country.
Obtained a victory in the Supreme Court for Visa International Service Association after obtaining a ruling declaring that Visa was not liable to pay damages of more than $70m.
Represented Smurfit Kappa in arbitration before ICSID relating to the nationalisation of its Venezuelan operation.