International recognition

Sources are quick to praise senior partner Luis Pellerano, describing him as "excellent - always available and responsive, providing reasonable, practical advice." They go on to add: "He is sharp, fast, technically strong and a great facilitator." He concentrates on banking and finance matters as well as M&A and joint ventures. He regularly advises multinational financial institutions on their operations in the Dominican Republic. 

Deeply experienced practitioner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez continues to be recognised as a respected senior figure in the market, with sources praising him as "one of the best lawyers in the Dominican Republic." Recent work highlights include representing Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI in two separate disputes against the La Caleta municipal district.

Senior associate Carolina León has ample experience in multiple areas of corporate law such as foreign investment matters, regulatory issues and contracts, amongst others. Sources describe her as "available, sensible and helpful." She frequently advises international organisations on financing and equity investment in the Dominican Republic.  

Lucy Objio Rodríguez co-chairs the dispute resolution department and is highly regarded by market commentators, who describe her as "very responsive, professional and hard-working." She has experience advising international groups and foreign companies in contract, real estate and intellectual property litigation. Recent work highlights include representing international power source manufacturer Wartsila.

Band 1

The vastly experienced Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez is widely respected by peers in the market. He is held in high regard by sources, who say "his experience is essential in the process."

The seasoned Luis Pellerano heads the department and is "immediately accessible, attentive and very responsive," say interviewees. One adds: "He's a lawyer that we bounce ideas off - he's top of our list." Peers acknowledge Pellerano's extensive experience in M&A and foreign investment.

Corporate/Commercial:

 Band 1

Luis Pellerano heads the corporate and real estate and tourism practice groups at Pellerano & Herrera. He has a strong commercial practice with a focus on mining and government relations. He "provides incredible insight into the Dominican legal system," enthuse clients.

Founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez is a seasoned lawyer with a well-established reputation for constitutional, corporate and litigation work.

General Business Law
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 2: Ricardo Pellerano
Band 2: Marielle Garrigó
Band 2: Norman de Castro
Associates to Watch
Juana Barceló
Laura Feliz

This powerhouse “attracts the client loyalty and market devotion normally only seen in the upper echelons of the legal markets in London or New York”.  With 38 attorneys, this is the largest M&A team in the country and clients comment that “the lawyers deliver the highest international standards of service time and again.” In the field of dispute resolution, the firm is considered by many to be “the first port of call for complex and large cases.” It recently represented Cadbury Schweppes in a USD5 million lawsuit for alleged damages regarding a distribution agreement termination, a case that was resolved in the framework of the DR-CAFTA with the USA. Among other transactional highlights, US private equity firm Advent retained the team on its multimillion- dollar acquisition of Aerodom, the country's first LBO, and assisted Advent in obtaining the finance from Scotiabank and ING. Described as “a super-solid, worldly attorney with tons of international exposure”, Luis Pellerano led the team for Advent. He also assisted marquee client Barrick with a number of multibillion-dollar projects in the Dominican Republic, including the Pueblo Viejo gold mine project. Having worked on both of the above deals, “strong and intelligent performer”, Marielle Garrigó wins warm praise for her high-end M&A and regu­latory work. Managing partner Ricardo Pellerano is “one of the most responsive and strategy-focused attorneys there.” Clients also highlight his leadership skills: “Ricardo is the engine behind the firm's runaway success”. Widely described as a “flexible and business-minded corporate lawyer”, Norman de Castro continues to rise up the ranking, following glowing market recommendations. He recently joined partner Luis Pellerano and associate Juana Barceló advising Shell on the disposal of its retail network in the country and the USD150 million sale of its 50% stake in an oil refinery to the Dominican government. Barceló enters the ranking for the first time and is praised for her “exceptional work in all areas”. Also debuting in the tables, fellow associate Laura Feliz attracts a wave of positive comments for her work on M&A deals. She had a role in the Aerodom LBO and worked with lead partner Ricardo Pellerano to advise a major US-based insurer on the local aspects of its dissolution and restructuring. Under the guiding hand of founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano, a vastly experienced lawyer who frequently advises on key M&A and litigation matters, this team is thriving and remains comfortably at the top of the market. “A true first-rate litigator”, he recently acted for Federico Silfa, a former member of the government, in an Amparo procedure against the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic. Hipólito Herrera Vasallo led the team for long-standing client Ambev on a case related to the registration of a bottle design by Anheuser-Busch and is praised as “a truly impressive litigator with vast experience of intricate cases”. He continues to act for a number of Major League baseball teams, including the Chicago White Sox and New York Mets, in all their civil lawsuits and litigation matters.

General Business Law
Leading Firms
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera

Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 2: Marielle Garrigó
Band 2: Ricardo Pellerano

General Business Law: Dispute Resolution
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez
Band 2: Hipólito Herrera Vasallo

Celebrating its 55^th anniversary, Pellerano & Herrera remains a market leader. The largest team in the country, it possesses “ample personnel covering all areas of law, with solid experience and great prestige throughout.” Clients are attracted to its ability to “efficiently handle complex deals with an exceptional turnaround time.” Core practice areas include high-end M&A, securities, litigation, tourism and mining. It recently advised Shell on the sale of 50% stake in a national oil refinery to the Dominican government, a deal valued at USD180 million. It acted for the lenders in the debt restructuring and consolidation of Dominican Republic sovereign debt. Marquee client Barrick mandated the team with the ongoing Pueblo Viejo gold mining project which, at USD2.7 billion, is the largest foreign investment in the history of the Dominican Republic.

Luis Pellerano was lauded from all corners of the market: “He brings a highly dynamic style to matters and communicates excellently with all parties.” A “resourceful and capable lawyer who always keeps his eye on the prize,” he led the team for Barrick and worked for Shell alongside Norman de Castro. De Castro is highlighted for his much-applauded work for Omnilife, Forbes and Manhattan and ABN AMRO, among others. Marielle Garrigó is “easy-going and impressive, demonstrating a can-do approach and commitment to the task at hand.” Clients a were pleased by this “energetic, articulate and well-spoken lawyer,” who has taken on may regulatory and capital markets matters in addition to high-end M&A. Managing partner Ricardo Pellerano often works on the administration side, but his “superb responsiveness, crystal-clear advice and empathy with clients” make him an essential name in the market. Sources expressed endless admiration for Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez. “Vastly experienced and influential,” he is “eminent in the market” and “the best name in litigation.” He works alongside the head of the disputes practice group Hipólito Herrera Vasallo, “a seasoned litigator who deserves considerable praise”.

Corporate/Commercial
Leading firms
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 2: Luis Rafael Pellerano

Dispute Resolution
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Juan Manuel Pellerano

The Firm: With 50 lawyers and eight partners, the corporate heavyweight remains a trusted port of call for global clients in big-ticket transactional work. A never-ending flurry of deals and market endorsement has cemented the firm’s position “at the very top of the legal tree in the country”. Born as a litigation group, commentators also highly extol the trailblazing diversification over the years to a more mainstream practice. Daily workload now comprises “first-class counsel” in capital markets, project finance, IP and M&A. “Global exposure, technological awareness, US-style quality standards and 24/7 partner availability” are the firm’s draw cards, according to clients.

The Lawyers: Dubbed “the best and most prestigious lawyer alive in the Dominican Republic”, Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez continues to impress with his “world famous” litigation skills. He scooped market praise for his role in the instruction phase of the Baninter fraud case. Founding partner Pellerano Gómez remains active, advising clients in the banking, insurance, communication and maritime industries.  At the helm of the international practice and foreign investment department, Luis Pellerano thrives on top M&A work. According to observers, he shares the credit for the firm’s current high visibility with managing partner and head of the banking department Ricardo Pellerano. The latter and Luis Pellerano are pegged as “an explosive winning combination of knowledge, prestige, excellence, expertise and availability.”

Clients/Work Highlight: Top mandates this year include counselling the lenders in a USD140 million airport project finance transaction and advising buyers in the acquisition of leading domestic insurer Seguros Popular. Elsewhere, Shell instructed the group on joint venture negotiations with the Dominican government. The team continues to act for luxury hotelier PUNTACANA, which this year mandated the group in a land property litigation matter. Other litigation cases included acting for carmaker Isuzu in a liability lawsuit, and representing Empresa Brasilera de Aeronautica in a matter arising from the executive embargo of an aeroplane. The firm’s prowess in IP-related issues was evident this year in the representation of BAT in both trade mark and copyright infringement in the Dominican Republic, and in the defence of Laboratorios Magnachem against correctional patent complaint. The firm’s list of select clientele also boasts Sol Meliá, Morgan Stanley, Carrefour and Banca Intesa.

Corporate/Commercial
Leading firms
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 2: Luis Rafael Pellerano
​Band 3: Ricardo Pellerano

The Firm: Commentators draw parallels between this “five-star” legal powerhouse and New York-based firms, citing its “first-class expertise and standards of service” as winning factors. With one of the biggest headcounts in the country and quality across the corporate sphere, the team has won mandates in many country’s biggest transactions of recent years. “Premium advice” in litigation, IP, M&A, capital markets and project finance is on the daily menu for clients.

The Lawyers: Founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano is “the most prestigious lawyer alive in the Dominican Republic”, according to peers. Famed for a “legendary” litigation practice, his workload also covers banking and M&A. Luis Rafael Pellerano succeeds in “bringing his point across positively to foreign investors and their lawyers” and has great insight into the domestic market. He has advised hotelier Grupo Punta Cana in all its operation in the country, as well as guiding American Beverage Corporation in its acquisition of local PepsiCo operations. Managing partner Ricardo Pellerano is credited with steering the firm to its leading market position. He recently advised Scotiabank in several local financing deals.

Clients/Work Highlights: This firm also boasts British American Tobacco and Mexican Frozen food giant Sigma Alimentos SA de CV as key clients.

Leading Firm (Corporate/Commercial)
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera

Leading Individual
Band 1: Juan Manuel Pellerano

The Firm: Ranking "easily in the top three," the firm is the country’s largest with close to 40 attorneys. The practice witnessed a noticeable shift towards litigation work following the collapse of BANINTER, one of the country's largest banks.

The Lawyers: Juan Manuel Pellerano was named as “definitely the right lawyer to highlight at this firm”. His peers expressed their admiration for him as a "lawyer's lawyer" who cites admiral­ty, commercial, banking and constitutional law among his areas of expertise.

The Clients: The firm represented the IFC in a project finance deal worth over $150 million. It was also involved in the acquisition of 65% of the shares in the largest bottling company in the country for $80 million.

Corporate/Comercial

Band 1

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

"These lawyers are outstanding. They have been involved in all aspects since the project's inception. They are very responsive and have been able to provide different perspectives on the law."

"They have been really helpful and very knowledgeable about their field. They've saved us an incredible amount of time and resources in trying to achieve our goals."

Dispute resolution

Band 2

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

"Pellerano & Herrera is one of the few law firms in the Dominican Republic that has the capacity and the know-how to represent international companies in big claims and projects. The lawyers communicate very well, are very responsive and are able to think on their feet."

"The lawyers have great experience in the local court system and very helpful working relationships."

Environment

Band 2

Gustavo Mena joined the firm in 2015. He is widely regarded as a leading expert in the field, with sources describing him as "a tremendous academic and a pioneer in environmental law." He has over 25 years of experience in all relevant areas including environmental litigation.

Labour & Employment

Band 2

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

"The lawyers have a very good mastery of the laws and are very up to date in the relevant subject matters. The lawyers form a very good team and they are very sensitive to the fact that we expect a quick turnaround and follow-up. They are very dedicated."

Real Estate & Tourism

Band 2

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

"Pellerano & Herrera is one of the largest, most recognised firms in Santo Domingo. The lawyers helped us with the entire process from its inception."  

CORPORATE/COMMERCIAL
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano

What the team is known for Long-standing leader in the corporate sphere, advising a notable clientele in both local and cross-border transactions. Well versed in the representation of borrowers, lenders and underwriters. Acts as counsel for multinational companies in the Dominican Republic for start-up operations, M&A and capital market issuances.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

"Pellerano & Herrera is a strong player that deserves its top-tier ranking. Working with them is a very good experience as the lawyers are excellent and the access is immediate. The team is very experienced, proactive and able to identify with the client while offering viable solutions."

Work highlights Advised Banco Popular and Citibank on a USD145 million syndicated loan to GB Group to finance the acquisition of Chevron's assets in the Dominican Republic.

Notable practitioners  The seasoned Luis Pellerano heads the department and is "immediately accessible, attentive and very responsive," say interviewees. One adds: "He's a lawyer that we bounce ideas off - he's top of our list." Peers acknowledge Pellerano's extensive experience in M&A and foreign investment.

The vastly experienced Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez is widely respected by peers in the market. He is held in high regard by sources, who say: "His experience is essential in the process." 

DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Leading Firm
Band 2: Pellerano & Herrera

Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano

What the team is known for Practice spans civil and commercial lawsuits, constitutional law cases and matters of ADR. Recognised experience in shareholder disputes and labour, real estate and consumer litigation. Represents many foreign international investors.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients) "They are a first-rate team who have the required knowledge and offer the appropriate support."

What's new? Addition of Vitelio Mejia Ortiz as of counsel.

Work highlights Acted as counsel to Nexus in a USD110 million lawsuit against the Dominican Republic regarding contractual rights for the construction of a marina.

Notable practitioners 

Founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez is a long-standing and respected figure in the market whose expertise lies in litigation as well as constitutional and corporate law.

ENVIRONMENT
Leading Firm
Band 2: Pellerano & Herrera

What the team is known for Full-service firm with an active environmental department offering specialisms in real estate, mining, energy and construction.

Work highlights Provides legal assistance to Cormidom on the regularisation of mining operations, including permits, licensing and litigation advice.

Notable practitioners 

Luis Pellerano is the key client contact.

LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT

Leading Firm
Band 2: Pellerano & Herrera

Leading Individual
Band 3: Isabel Andrickson

What the team is known for Experienced practice group with extensive experience advising international clients in the labour area. The team provides coverage across the sector, including labour agreements, employee rights and litigious matters.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients) 
"The lawyers are experts in this area, especially for the migration of personnel."

Work highlights Represents Avon Products in an ongoing labour litigation against 15 former distributors claiming damages amounting to USD10 million.

Notable practitioners 

Senior associate and head of department Isabel Andrickson impresses clients in the labour and employment field.

REAL ESTATE & TOURISM
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 3: Ricardo Pellerano

What the team is known for Esteemed real estate and tourism practice group with experience in advising major international resort and hotel chains. Also well versed in representing property owners, developers, financial institutions and construction companies.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

"This is a reliable team that is very experienced in terms of understanding foreign investment in the Dominican Republic."

Work highlights Advising Carnival Cruise Lines on the development and construction of a new sea port in Puerto Plata, worth USD65 million.

Notable practitioners

Luis Pellerano is described by peers as a prominent figure in the Dominican Republic and lauded by clients for his expertise in tax law. He acts as ongoing counsel to Carnival Cruise Lines on the development of a sea port in Puerto Plata.

Ricardo Pellerano is an experienced figure in the real estate market and is known for his substantial involvement in foreign investment in the tourism market.

CORPORATE/COMMERCIAL
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 1: Marielle Garrigó

THE FIRM This powerhouse firm focuses on transactional work, and benefits from international exposure as the Dominican member of Lex Mundi. The corporate practice group frequently acts on high-end M&A and project finance mandates from global clients, and also has a notable presence on local infrastructure projects. It recently joined forces with Debevoise & Plimpton, Pereyra & Asociados and Sidley Austin to advise global brewery company AmBev on its USD2.8 billion acquisition of Cervecería Nacional Dominicana. In other highlight work, the team acted as local counsel to underwriter Metro Group in a USD150 million bond issuance related to the development of several real estate projects in the country. It also assists Barrick Gold with the day-to-day operations of the country's largest mining project, Pueblo Viejo, which involves advising on corporate, environmental, litigation, project finance and tax planning issues.

Sources say: "We've found it to be a very strong and very supportive law firm."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Marielle Garrigó is regarded as a brilliant corporate attorney who is strongly involved in most of the firm's biggest finance and real estate transactions. She impresses market commentators with her "legal mind, business acumen and ability to provide ready-made solutions for new ventures in the country."

Luis Pellerano heads the corporate practice group and has a strong commercial practice with a focus on mining and government relations. 

Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez is a seasoned attorney with a well-established reputation for constitutional, corporate and litigation work.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Leading Firm
Band 2: Pellerano & Herrera

Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano

THE FIRM This large full-service firm has long been a significant name in the dispute resolution field. It boasts a gifted, 12-strong team and has played a prominent role in some of the country's largest and most complex litigation cases. Recent dispute resolution work includes counselling Xstrata on its attempts to reverse an earlier judgment suspending the operation of its Falcondo copper mine. It also acted for Nexus in proceedings against the Dominican government concerning a marina construction project in Samaná. Barrick, Poker Rum and Spirit Airways are other significant clients.

Sources say: "The lawyers I deal with are excellent professionals."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez is acknowledged by sources to be "a big name in the market," with a well-respected litigation practice that spans transactional and contentious matters. He was the co-lead partner on the Nexus matter described above, which was valued at USD110 million.

ENVIRONMENTAL
Leading Firm
Band 2: Pellerano & Herrera

THE FIRM Pellerano & Herrera is one of the country's largest multidisciplinary firms and its five-strong environment team represents local and international clients in the real estate, mining and energy sectors on a wide range of environment work. The team recently advised Barrick on setting up a USD1 billion environmental remediation programme related to the Pueblo Viejo mine. It has also lately been representing Xstrata in a variety of environmental matters, including compliance, licensing and litigation work.

Sources say: "We have been working with the firm for several years and are extremely pleased with the exceptional level of service they provide. The response is quick and deadlines are respected. The team has a strong understanding of our business and the legal matters that affect it."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Luis Pellerano is the key client contact.

LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT

Leading Firm
Band 2: Pellerano & Herrera

Leading Individual
Band 3: Isabel Andrickson

THE FIRM This firm is a leader in the Dominican Republic market, and the labour practice benefits from its international exposure. The eight-strong team handles labour mandates for an impressive client roster and is frequently engaged to assist clients with labour contracts, dismissals, rights and litigation. It recently acted for Avon Products in 15 labour law suits filed by independent distributors. The team is also regularly instructed to assist North American baseball clubs such as the New York Mets, Pittsburgh Pirates and Philadelphia Phillies in labour law suits. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Senior associate Isabel Andrickson heads the firm's labour and employment department, and is highlighted by sources as a solid and experienced labour lawyer.

REAL ESTATE & TOURISM
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 3: Ricardo Pellerano

THE FIRM This large full-service firm's tourism and real estate practice group comprises four partners and seven associates, and advises on the whole spectrum of real estate and hospitality matters. It acts for several major international players in this sector, including hotel and resort chains, tour and cruise operators and airlines. The team recently advised hospitality chain Amhsa Marina on the USD130 million disposition of two of its holding companies, which also necessitated a corporate debt restructuring valued at USD32 million. In other highlights it provided guidance to Carnival Cruise Lines on the development and financing of a major sea port project in Puerto Plata, and successfully defended Barrick Gold in real estate litigation concerning ownership of an area of land currently part of its Pueblo Viejo mine.

Sources say: "We've been working with them for a while and they've handled several large operations for us successfully. We consider the firm to be a trusted and close adviser - it's impressive the way they're always asking us how they can improve."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Luis Pellerano "provides incredible insight into the Dominican legal system," enthuse clients. He was co-lead partner on the Barrick Gold and Carnival Cruise Lines matters outlined above, and also advises JetBlue Airways on the expansion of its Dominican operations.

Fellow partner Ricardo Pellerano has handled several of the firm's key highlights, such as advising Mexican developer Grupo Vidanta on litigation stemming from its USD20 million purchase of real estate for a new luxury resort.

CORPORATE/COMMERCIAL
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 1: Marielle Garrigó
Band 2: Ricardo Pellerano

THE FIRM

The Dominican Republic's largest law firm is a market leader across several sectors and handles an impressive volume of M&A, banking and due diligence work. The team advised Companhia de Bebidas das Américas, the largest brewer in Brazil and in South America, on the acquisition of E. Leon Jimenes, owners of 83.5% of Cerveceria Nacional Dominicana. The full-service powerhouse also handles project finance and transactional work, and recently participated in a USD1 billion deal for Gerdau, the Brazilian construction company, advising arranger Santander on matters relating to the issuer's Dominican subsidiary, Industrias Nacionales. The corporate team also assisted Dominicana de Vias Concesionadas (Dovicon) in financing the construction and upkeep of a USD400 million toll road project.

Sources say: "The quality of its services make it an important firm with a large volume of work and top-end clients."

KEY INDIVIDUALS

Marielle Garrigó is an expert in corporate, finance and real estate matters. "She's a detail-oriented lawyer who understands the twists and turns of negotiations and knows how to find solutions," say clients. "She's very agile and proactive in obtaining the best results for her clients." She advised Scotiabank as it provided a loan to Cervecería Nacional Dominicana to buy back bonds.

Senior partner Luis Pellerano assisted Jetblue Airways with contractual and permit matters related to new flight routes and the expansion of its aircraft fleet. 

Ricardo Pellerano is the firm's managing partner but remains on hand to advise on complex restructuring matters.

Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez has a long-standing reputation in the local market and is an expert in corporate and constitutional law.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano

This full-service powerhouse has an 11-strong disputes team and is frequently involved in landmark commercial, labor, IP, tax and administrative litigation and arbitration cases. The firm is instructed by companies from a range of industries and jurisdictions, handling disputes right across the Caribbean. The team successfully represented Barceló & Co in a 14-year shareholder dispute and acted for Barrick Gold in a string of labor, civil and criminal law suits. "The firm provides a personalized service," say clients, "and has organised and well-prepared lawyers whose dedication and effort are always outstanding."

Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez is a seasoned attorney hailed by sources for his incredible experience and expertise in corporate and dispute resolution matters. "Having him in the room brings instant credibility," say clients; "he's a very smart and impressive guy and I sleep better at night for knowing he's around." 

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT
Leading Firm
Band 2: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Associates to watch: Isabel Andrickson

This large, full-service firm has a strong presence in the market. A team comprising one partner and five associates provides contentious and non-contentious labor counsel, advising on dismissals, employee contracts, union relations and social security matters. The firm has handled a number of disputes related to the termination of executive labor contracts and recently acted for Avon Products in 15 lawsuits filed by individuals claiming to be employees of the corporation. Other clients include Norberto Odebrecht, Diageo, Wells Fargo and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. 

Senior associate Isabel Andrickson handles labor, employment and social security mandates, and is particularly knowledgeable of the sports and entertainment sectors.

REAL ESTATE & TOURISM
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 2: Marielle Garrigó

This full-service powerhouse is well known for its real estate and tourism expertise. Its nine-strong practice is widely recognised for its participation in high-profile investments and projects in the field, and the team has lately been particularly active handling acquisitions and financings for top-end international players. The firm recently assisted investment fund Barceló Crestline in acquiring management agreements, property rights and pre-sale vacation contracts from the Apple Group and the Mullen family in a deal valued at over USD100 million. Work highlights also include representing national holding company Magna Motors in terminating hotel management contracts at one of its hotels, and acting for Grupo Poma – Real on the acquisition of land and the negotiation of permits and licensing agreements for the construction of a hotel.

Luis Pellerano is highlighted as a well-rounded attorney with significant expertise in the field. He specialises in handling major transactions for foreign investors and recently advised North Island Development Holdings on the development of a resort and spa project in Cabarete, Puerto Plata.

Marielle Garrigó is described as "a technically sound, detail-oriented lawyer with brilliant knowledge of the law and its procedures." She handles a varied workload that includes real estate, corporate and finance law. 

Chambers Latin America 2012
Corporate/Commercial
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 1: Norman De Castro
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 1: Marielle Garrigó
Band 2: Ricardo Pellerano
Up-and-coming individuals
Laura Féliz

THE FIRM This firm is an incontestable leader in the Dominican legal market, with a long history of participating in many of the country’s most complex transactions. Sources affirm that the firm offers first-rate, international-standard legal services. The 20-strong corporate team advises on an array of issues across several different sec­tors, including telecoms, environmental law and business start-ups. Recent highlights include advising on securing financing for a Barrick gold mine operation and assisting Sol Meliá in the financing of a loan for the expansion of its local assets through Banco Popular Dominicano. On the M&A front, the firm acted as counsel to Shell in the spin-off of the company's remaining opera­tions in the country, including the sale of 340 petrol pumps. Other representative clients include Scotiabank, Barceló Crestline and Odebrecht.

Sources say: "The firm is undoubtedly first- rate and handles many of the most important matters in the country. It has a strong pres­ence, an excellent understanding of the mar­kets and a host of talented lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Marielle Garrigó focuses her practice on corporate affairs and project financing. Sources regard her as "knowledgeable and very responsive." Managing partner Ricardo Pellerano is praised for his business acumen and strategy in corporate matters. Sources highlight Luis Pellerano as one of the strongest lawyers in the country in this field, while Norman De Castro stands out for the international plavour of his practice. Founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez "is a lawyer of true stature," according to sources. He has enviable experience in the market and continues to be active in select­ed matters for the firm. Laura Féliz is seen as “a highly efficient lawyer, a fast learner and a lawyer who is unafraid of challenges.”

Dispute Resolution
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano

The dispute resolution practice group is at the very core of this legal powerhouse. It is widely respected in the market, with some young peers "wishing they could be like them when they grow up," while others attest that "they land many of the country's largest cases." Long-standing client Barrick retained the firm in a number of multimil­lion-dollar disputes relating to a mining project in the country. The team also suc­cessfully defended Shell against a USD9 million lawsuit filed by the Association of Petroleum Retailers for allegedly supplying fuel which was delivered at a temperature which promoted evaporation and impuri­ties. In other matters, the firm has been active in pro bono litigation: it represented the largest coalition of plaintiffs in the country's history, including students, teachers, NGOs, members of congress and other citizens, in a lawsuit against the national education budget for allegedly violating fundamental rights guaranteed by country's constitution and general education legislation. Founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez is working on the case, which is now on appeal. Pellerano is a highly respected lawyer and a reference point in both arbitration and litigation circles.

Intellectual Property
Associates to watch
Meris Francisco

Meris Fracisco impresses clients with her excellent response rate and high level of commitment at leading law firm Pellerano & Herrera. She is an associate with a growing profile in the sector and recently worked closely with the firm’s litigation team to advise Visa in a trade mark dispute.

Labour & Employment
Leading Firms
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Norman De Castro
Associates to watch
Isabel Andrickson

This respected Dominican powerhouse has a leading labour and employment department which advises a host of large international and domestic players. Clients laud the firm’s tried and tested commercial knowledge and also highlight its depth, which results in constant availability to the client ― in line with international expectations. The team assisted AFP Popular in a precedent-setting matter concerning losses and damages arising from the 2010 Haiti earthquake. It also advised the Atlanta Braves and Tampa Bay Rays baseball teams in independent labour lawsuit settlements.

Other highlights include assisting food corporation General Mills with recommendations on the feasibility of applying schemes currently operated in the USA in the Dominican Republic. Pellerano & Herrera also provides day-to-day assistance with labour matters for the likes of Ericsson, GlaxoSmithKline and Wells Fargo. Sources say: “This firm’s strengths are the combined experience of highly competent professionals and exemplary client relationships. The advice rendered is excellent and there is a first-rate culture of service.” Partner Norman De Castro leads on many of the firm’s most significant labour matters. “De Castro is key in this field. He has an excellent Knowledge of the system and is always willing to give the client personal attention.” Associate Isabel Andrickson is also extremely active in this area. Sources highlight that “she delivers quality work and advice.”

Real Estate & Tourism
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 2: Norman De Castro
Band 2: Marielle Garrigó
Associates to Watch
Laura Féliz

This firm dominates much of the Dominican legal market, and real estate and tourism is no exception. Sources say: "Pellerano & Herrera is a leader in any field in this country. The firm has an excellent, responsive and knowledgeable team specialized in real estate and tourism law." The outstanding nine-strong team advises major international and domestic players on an impressive and broad array of real estate and tourism matters. Headline cases include providing ongoing advice to Portuguese group Visabeira on its EUR100 million project to refurbish a large baseball stadium, construct a museum and develop a five-star hotel. The team also assisted Barrick with land agreements and a 140-contract negotiation related to an electrical line, extending from the south of the coun­try to Cotui. It also defended the mining corporation against a USD100 million Iawsuit filed by local landowners. Other representative clients include Hyatt Holels, Sol Meliá and Grupo Punta Cana. Partner Luis Pellerano is seen by sources as "one of the strongest lawyers in the country― he is impressive, meticulous and proactive.” Clients highlight partner Norman De Castro for his “quality work and sound advice.” Marielle Garrigó is also particularly active in this field, while associate Laura Féliz has latterly been assisting some of the senior partners on several significant real estate and corporate transactions.

Corporate/Commercial
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 1: Ricardo Pellerano
Band 1: Marielle Garrigó
Band 2: Norman De Castro
Associate to watch: Juana Barceló
Associate to watch: Laura Féliz
Associate to watch: Urania Paulino

THE FIRM Pellerano & Herrera is the undisputed leader in the Dominican legal market. The firm has a highly experienced 40-strong team dedicated to corporate and commercial work and provides a world-class service, according to clients. It is involved in almost all the market's major transactions and projects, and advises many of the most important international clients in the coun­try, such as Barrick and Shell. It is also a long-standing legal adviser to Banco Popular Dominicano. The team recently represented JetBlue Airways in obtaining clearance and validation for its airport safe­ty and security plans. It also filed for an amended corporate charter of the country's largest insurance company, Seguros Universal, the first filing conducted under new legislation. Other highlights include assisting Bloomberg with the regulatory issues involved in setting up operations in the country. The firm employs state-of-the- art technology and maintains strong inter­national ties through networks such as Lex Mundi, World Services Group, Lataxnet and International Business Consortium.

Sources say: "Pellerano & Herrera is the best firm in the country, It has years of experience; the attorneys are open-minded and creative, provide an excellent service and can handle the most specialised transactions. It is also always ahead in terms of technology, creating systems to improve the service provided."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Marielle Garrigó is "a spectacular lawyer— she is proactive, knows the region and is a true asset at the negotiation table," according to clients. Luis Pellerano is "a truly amazing lawyer, probably the best in the country he is highly intelligent and his reasoning is bril­liant." Norman De Castro is a distinguished lawyer with a strong international practice covering both transactional work and litigation. Ricardo Pellerano heads the department and is the brain of the team, according to sources, who praise his commercial mindset and strategi­cal thinking. Clients also highlight his excel­lent working relationships with the govern­ment, local authorities and both local and foreign attorneys. Founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez has unparalleled experience in the market and continues to participate in the firm's trans­actions. Juana Barceló represents a new generation at the firm and is a “skilled, hard-working and intelligent attorney.” She specializes in the energy sector and works closely with Luis Pellerano in all matters handled for Barrick. Two other young attorneys, Laura Féliz and Urania Paulino, also stand out and are quickly making names for themselves in the market.

Dispute Resolution
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 3: Luis Rivas

It comes as no surprise that the country's leading firm has a highly distinguished liti­gation team. The team acts for a high-profile clientele, including Shell, Cadbury Schweppes, Colgate-Palmolive and Seguros Universal, and has been busy handling a range of commercial litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime cases, among others. It has also represented clients before the antitrust authorities; for example, it acted for the association of soft drinks bottlers, Asibegas, in the much-publicized Embotelladores case. The team also success­fully represented Stream International in a lawsuit brought against a criminal gang, the first time that a Dominican court has ruled on cyber crime. Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez heads the team and is involved in its most sophisticated cases. Clients highlight his exceptional expertise across the board. Luis Rivas focuses on dispute resolution and is widely praised by sources.

Real Estate & Tourism
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano

It comes as no surprise that the market's leading full-service firm has an exceptional real estate practice. The well-established ten-strong real estate team attracts major inter­national and local clients and is backed up by lawyers from the firm's finance, tax and litigation practice groups. Clients say: "The team is excellent ― the lawyers are knowledge­able and responsive, and provide fundamental support on project development in the coun­try". The team has been involved in an exten­sive list of transactions and projects, despite the market downturn. It represented Portuguese group Visabeira in the creation of a consortium with Dominican architec­tural and engineering firm Rodríguez Sandoval, which will refurbish the largest baseball stadium in the country, build a baseball museum and develop a five-star hotel in the vicinity of the baseball complex. It also advised real estate developer Group Metro on the USD27 million issuance of bonds to finance the construction of a golf club and residential development. Luis Pellerano heads the team and is a tremendous attorney with the knowledge and skill to negotiate in this area, according to clients.

Corporate/Commercial
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano
Band 2: Norman De Castro
Band 2: Ricardo Pellerano
Band 2: Marielle Garrigó
Associates to watch: Juana Barceló

This powerhouse "attracts the client loyalty and market devotion normally only seen in the upper echelons of the legal markets in London or New York." With 38 attorneys, this is the largest M&A team in the country and clients comment that "the lawyers deliver the highest international standards of service time and again," US private equity firm Advent retained the team on its multimillion-dollar acquisition of Aeradom, the country's first LBO, and assisted Advent in obtaining the finance from Scotiabank and ING. Described as "a super-solid, worldly attorney with tons of international exposure," Luis Pellerano led the team for Advent. He also assisted marquee client Barrick with a number of multibillion-dol­lar projects in the Dominican Republic, including the Pueblo Viejo gold mine proj­ect. Having worked on both of the above deals, "strong and intelligent performer", Marielle Garrigó wins warm praise for her high-end M&A and regulatory work. Managing partner Ricardo Pellerano is "one of the most responsive and strategy-focused attorneys there." Clients also highlight his leadership skills: "Ricardo is the engine behind the firm's runaway success," Widely described as "a flexible and business- minded corporate lawyer," Norman De Castro continues to rise up the ranking, following glowing market recommendations. He recently joined partner Luis Pellerano and associate Juana Barceló advising Shell on the disposal of its retail network in the country and the USD150 million sale of its 50% stake in an oil refinery to the Dominican government. Barceló enters the ranking for the first time and is praised for her “exceptional work in all areas.” Also debuting in the tables, fellow associate Laura Feliz attracts a wave of positive comments for her work on M&A deals. She had role in the Aerodom LBO and worked with lead partner Ricardo Pellerano to advise a major US-based insurer on the local aspects of its dissolution and restructuring. Under the guiding hand of Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez, a vastly experienced lawyer who fre­quently advises on key M&A and litigation matters, this team is thriving and remains comfortably at the top of the market.

Dispute Resolution

Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 1: Hipólito Herrera Vassallo

This legal powerhouse maintains its well- earned position at the top of the market and is considered by many to be "the first port of call for complex and large cases." Peers acknowledge that the 15-strong team has achieved almost unparalleled excellence in all areas of dispute resolution, and clients high­light the team's "extraordinary level of service". The team successfully represented Cadbury Schweppes in a USD5 million lawsuit for alleged damages regarding a distribution agreement termination, a case that was resolved in the framework of the DR-CAFTA with the USA. The Group was retained by long-standing client Ambev on a case related to the registration of a bottle design by Anhauser-Bush. Hipólito Herrera Vassallo led the team for Ambev and is praised as “a truly impressive litigator with vast experience of intricate cases.” He continues to act for a number of Major League baseball teams, including the Chicago White Sox and New York Mets, in all their civil lawsuits and litigation matters. The market praises found­ing partner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gomez for his legendarily high standing in the practice area. “A true first-rate litigator”, he recently acted for Federico Silfa, a former member of the government, in an Amparo procedure against the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic.

Real Estate & Tourism
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano

With over 50 lawyers operating out of three offices, this is a legal colossus in the Dominican Republic. Sources say the real estate team's solid, creative and commercial solutions, coupled with its international exposure, enable it to provide “outstanding advice on high-end transactions” With high-quality expertise in top-end finance, private equity, development, tax and litigation, the group is well placed to advise on all aspects of a complex deal, as demonstrated by its ongoing work for Spanish hoteliers Barceló. Following on its acquisition of Casa del Mar Hotel, this marquee client returned to Pellerano & Herrera for a USD450 million acquisition of six hotels and resorts in the country. Highly regarded by clients, Luis Pellerano has outstanding tech­nical skills and is praised for his solution-oriented approach. He led the team acting for Barceló.

Corporate/Commercial
Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano Gómez
Band 1: Luis R. Pellerano
Band 2: Ricardo Pellerano
Band 2: Marielle Garrigó
Band 3: Norman De Castro

Celebrating its 55th anniversary, Pellerano & Herrera remains a market leader. The largest team in the country, it possesses "ample per­sonnel covering all areas of law, with solid experience and great prestige throughout." Clients are attracted to its ability to "efficient­ly handle complex deals with an exceptional turnaround time." Core practice areas include high-end M&A, securities, litigation, tourism and mining. It recently advised Shell on the sale of a 50% stake in a national oil refinery to the Dominican government, a deal valued at USD180 million. It acted for the lenders in the debt restructuring and consolidation of Dominican Republic sovereign debt. Marquee client Barrick Gold mandated the team with the ongoing Pueblo Viejo gold mining project that, at USD2.7 billion, is the largest foreign investment in the history of the Dominican Republic. Luis Pellerano was lauded from all corners of the market: “He brings a highly dynamic style to matters and communicates excellently with all parties.” A “resourceful and capable lawyer who always keeps his eye on the prize,” he led the team for Barrick Gold and worked for Shell alongside Norman De Castro. De Castro is highlighted for his much-applauded work for Omnilife, Forbes & Manhattan and ABN AMRO, among others. Marielle Garrigó is “easy­going and impressive, demonstrating a can-do approach and commitment to the tasks at hand.” Clients were pleased by this “energetic, articulate and well-spoken lawyer,” who has taken on many regulatory and capital mat­ters in addition to high-end M&A. Managing partner Ricardo Pellerano often works on the administration side, but his, “superb responsiveness, crystal-clear advice and empathy with clients” makes him an essential name in the market. Sources expressed endless admiration for Juan Manuel Pellerano Gomez. “Vastly experienced and influential,” he is “eminent in the market” and “the best name in litigation.”

Dispute Resolution

Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera

Leading Individuals

Senior Statesmen: Juan Manuel Pellerano
Band 2: Hipólito Herrera Vassallo

This legal giant celebrated its 55th birthday in 2008 amid universal market recognition as "the undisputed leader of the Dominican Republic legal scene." While the firm is now a fully-fledged one-stop shop for legal services, it remains true to its litigation roots and con­tinues to attract extensive market praise for handling a hefty portfolio of mandates in the area. Recent highlights include advising Dell on a contract termination dispute with its former local distributor, involving the pro­tection of rights under the Dominican Republic constitution. Long-standing client Shell retained the firm in a number of high- profile litigation matters involving the Dominican government, and Spanish hote­lier Barceló instructed the team in an arbitra­tion process. From the dedicated disputes team, sources identify founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano Gomez as the éminence grise of the practice and "a mentor for the younger generation at the firm." He handled the Shell case with Hipólito Herrera Vassallo, who debuts in the tables after warm commendation form market sources. By all accounts “a seasoned litigator who deserves considerable praise,” Herrera chairs the practice group.

Real Estate & Tourism

Leading Firm
Band 1: Pellerano & Herrera
Leading Individuals
Band 1: Luis R Pellerano

A legal giant with three offices and over 40 lawyers in the country, this "entrepreneurial, New York-style firm" is considered "incredibly dynamic." On the back of its huge presence in the corporate arena, the firm has managed to forge a reputation as "an impressive, promi­nent and highly skilled force" in the market. One of the team's recent highlights was act­ing for Barceló Crestline Hotels during its acquisition of Casa del Mar Hotel. Luis Pellerano led the group acting for Barceló, and possesses "a strong business acu­men, sharpened by his knowledge of the mar­ket." He also advised Ritz Carlton on its part­nership investment in Cap Cana. In addition, the team advised Marsans International on the purchase of numerous commercial prop­erties, in a deal valued at USD11.2 million.

Financial and corporate:

One competitor calls Pellerano and Herrera “a leading firm in the market,” adding, “They have a certain kind of prestige and is our number one competitor for complex and high-end work.” Another adds: “Despite their rocky tenure over the past few years, the firm remains a leader in the market because of its strong connections. It is extremely well-positioned.”

Energy and infrastructure:

“A very active firm,” a peer says. “It’s a top firm in the country. Luis Rafael Pellerano is a top attorney, and the firm has very good lawyers.”

Pellerano took on several of the firm’s key transactions in 2013 and clients highly respect his expertise.

“He is very knowledgeable in both energy and infrastructure, not only on the legal aspects but also on the commercial and technical side of the business,” one says.

Financial & Corporate ― Tier 1

Pellerano & Herrera reported plenty of staff changes over the past year – two partners, Norman De Castro and Luis Rivas, and seven associates left and were replaced with another three partners, Mariangela Pellerano, Adolfo Toca and Lucy Objío, and three associates, all promoted internally. Staffing changes have not impacted on the firm’s work though with one competitor pointing out that the firm is “still involved in most major deals”. “Responsive” and “smart” is how clients describe the firm’s lawyers. One long-term international client is particularly impressed with the firm’s legal expertise and communication, noting that the firm is very good at “government relations” and “exploring how local laws work” for international clients. “They have their own marketing professionals who always follow up to make sure they are doing a good job,” the client adds. “I highly recommend this law firm to any companies doing business in Dominican Republic”.

Partner Luis Rafael Pellerano is singled out for praise by clients, with one noting: “He has great judgment and is knowledgeable. He is somebody you would want to ask to help you in difficult situations.”

Deals

Under partner Marielle Garrigó and Luis Rafael Pellerano, the firm participated in a number of impressive transactions over the past year. Highlights included advising Americas Beverages Company on its acquisition of Cervecería Nacional Dominicana, the biggest alcoholic beverage company in the country. Valued at $2.5 billion, the deal is the largest M&A deal in the country’s history and was closed in April 2012.

Another transaction highlight closed in December 2011 saw the firm representing Citibank and Deutsche Bank, who acted as underwriters, in the issuance of $250 million sovereign bonds for the Dominican government. The bonds are planned to support the financing of several infrastructure projects in the country as well as several other sectors of the Dominican economy.

Leading lawyers
Marielle Garrigó
Luis Rafael Pellerano
Ricardo Pellerano

Rising stars
Mariangela Pellerano

Financial & Corporate ― Tier 1

Pellerano & Herrera gets high marks from competitors and glowing praise from clients.

Over the past year, the firm promoted 14 paralegals to associates to address an increase in complex cases. Partner Hipolito Herrera left the firm in 2010.

One client notes that Pellerano & Herrera benefits from a significant number of North American-trained lawyers who take local sensitivities into account when giving advice: “They help explain, guide and translate a transaction to make it successful.” One peer says the firm’s lawyers are, “very competent and good professionals”. Another notes succinctly, “They have their finger on the pulse.”

In one notable transaction, partner Luis Rafael Pellerano advised the Canadian-based Barrick Gold, the largest gold mining company in the world, on $1.04 billion in financing for the Pueblo Viejo gold mine. The firm also advised Barrick on a related special lease agreement with the government giving it mining rights. The Canadian company is the single largest foreign investor in the Dominican Republic’s history.

In a refinancing deal that closed in December 2010, Partner Marielle Garrigó advised Compañía de Electricidad de San Pedro de Macorís (CESPM), a subsidiary of the largest energy company in the country, Cogentirx, on its $150 million loan from the Interamerican Development Bank.

Leading lawyers
Norman de Castro
Marielle Garrigó
Luis Rafael Pellerano
Ricardo Pellerano

Financial & Corporate ― Tier 1

A key talent for a corporate counsel is the ability to negotiate with government administrators, and one client mentions partner Luis Pellerano as very capable before the Dominican authorities. “He was basically sitting with me every time I saw high government officials,” the client says.

Founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano is mentioned as “one of the best if not the best” corporate counsels in the republic, and is “active but nearing retirement”. Peers point to partner Marielle Garrigó as carrying out the firm’s transactional leadership.

Last year Garrigó and a team of Pellerano attorneys acted locally for Credit Suisse in recording a senior debt pledge on Terremark Worldwide’s BVI assets, part of a global debt restructuring totalling $420 million.

With Barrick’s mammoth $2.7 billion financing in place, the lawyers at Pellerano were recently active helping the mining company put in place the utilities needed to operate the Pueblo Viejo gold mine. In August 2009 Barrick acquired the 100MW Monte Rio power plant and two power barges, a process requiring the rare registration of a naval mortgage.

While one client says Pellerano was “well connected [and] knowledgeable about our needs”, another believed the firm’s reputation outsized its true capabilities. It’s a good service,” the client says, “but it’s a bigger name than the service they provide.”

Commentators mention the firm’s position in the market brings specialised work suited to the firm’s experience. “Because of their tradition with some large financial clients and also strong in litigation, they do some collections work,” notes one rival.

Leading lawyers
Marielle Garrigó
Juan Manuel Pellerano

Financial & Corporate ― Tier 1

As the Dominican government looks for new ways to develop the country’s infrastructure utilising overseas funding sources, foreign investors are seeking out representation with proven local expertise. Competitors acknowledge the firm’s “tradition of being involved in and recognised for their important deals”.

Clients regard the lawyers as “very good, very professional people” with unique knowledge of the local law and local interpretation of the law. This reputation earned the firm a role in the largest-ever foreign investment in the Dominican Republic, a deal worth $2.7 billion with the world’s largest gold mining company, Barrick Gold Corporation.

Other notable deals include several infrastructure projects with both local and international clients. Pellerano & Herrera advised on the purchase of power generation facilities for the Pueblo Viejo mine project, and also counseled Shell Oil Company on the sale of a 50% stake in an oil refinery to the Dominican government, and on the sale of its retail distribution network in the country.

Regional interest in the prospects for Dominican infrastructure investment saw a subsidiary of Colombian construction company Odinsa, Boulevard Turístico del Atlántico, take Pellerano & Herrera on as counsel for a financing deal to fund a new extension of the Northern Dominican Highway.

Clients agree that Pellerano & Herrera has the capacity to complete complex international financing deals very quickly, ensuring a smooth completion “when we have some requirements from international banks or lawyers”. The firm cemented its reputation for international expertise with two issuances of Dominican sovereign bonds on the NYSE and the Luxembourg Stock Exchange in the past year.

Leading lawyers
Marielle Garrigó
Juan Pellerano

Market-leading established player

Pellerano & Herrera is the oldest name in this chapter with a thick client book of international names few of its rival can match. Over its more than six decades  in the market, Pellerano & Herrera has aggressively pursued policies aimed  at instilling an international outlook throughout the firm.

Local prestige with international outlook
Established: 1952
Total lawyers: 39
Partners: 7

The oldest firm in this chapter, Pellerano & Herrera has grown from its family roots to become a firm with a reputation for providing high quality legal services thanks to the wealth of internationally educated lawyers it employs. The firm’s business-minded service style and manpower across a broad range of practice areas see it feature on the country’s most significant transactions, and plans for further growth should ensure this remains the case.

 PEOPLE & PRACTICES
The firm has taken advantage of flourishing mining industry to build a strong practice group in that sector, led by Luis Pellerano, who wins praise from his US clients – one said he would not even consider hiring other Dominican counsel. Pellerano led the financing of a US$2.7 billion deal for Canadian miner Barrick Gold, demonstrating an ability to succeed in large-scale international project finance work. He also takes charge of aviation, where he regularly advises JetBlue Airways, as well as helming the environment department. Pellerano also oversees the labour and sports practices, which include a number of baseball teams in their client portfolio. Longstanding managing partner Ricardo Pellerano leads the banking and finance area alongside Marielle Garrigó. The pair helped toll road operator Boulevard Turístico del Atlántico obtain a US$150 million loan from development banks; a project that took two years to be completed and has been a major boost to Dominican infrastructure. Ricardo Pellerano also leads in insurance and reinsurance.

Juan Pellerano, also founder, is known for his litigation work and has a consulting role at the firm today, where he supports Luis Pellerano and Lucy Objio, who was promoted to partner at the beginning of 2012. The team’s knowledge has led one commercial litigation client to describe the firm as being “well connected and having real experience”. An uptick in M&A activity has ensured the area remains firmly on Pellerano & Herrera’s radar with plans for expansion on the horizon. The firm’s (and indeed the country’s) headline deal for last year  was undoubtedly its role advising Anheuser Busch InBev’s Brazilian unit AmBev, in its purchase of a controlling stake in Dominican brewer Cervecería Nacional Dominicana for US$1.2 billion. Luis Pellerano, Marielle Garrigó and Mariangela Pellerano led the work. Since February 2012 the M&A department has been overseen by Objio, who also works the maritime area. Adolfo Toca, who was made partner in the same round of promotions as Objio, leads the taxation area, while also contributing to telecoms, corporate and sports law advice. Mariangela Pellerano, promoted at the same time, leads a strong IP department and works in corporate, M&A, project finance and mining. The firm also boasts a capable tourism and real estate department.

CLIENTS
Demonstrating Pellerano & Herrera’s strength in mining is the fact that prominent miners such as Canada’s Barrick Gold and Australia’s Perilya are on the firm’s books. Around 70 per cent of clients are international, with Shell another notable name. The firm continues to advise French renewable energy company Bionersis, and has recently picked up solar power producer Sonnedix as a client. The International Finance Corporation is also a valued client, as are tourism company Rock Resorts, Brazilian brewer AmBev and airport manager Aerodom.

ALLIANACES & NETWORKS
Pellerano & Herrera is the Dominican member of the Club de Abogados network, alongside membership of Lex Mundi and the World Service Group.

PRO BONO
The firm has gained recognition for representing journalist Alicia Ortega in a case against a Dominican government official who was accused of violating her rights to freedom of the press, access to information, and freedom of expression and dissemination of thoughts. The charge related to threats to stop sponsorship and advertising on Ortega’s news programme. Lawyers at Pellerano & Herrera have also been actively involved in the Dignified Education Coalition’s campaign to see 4 per cent of GDP allocated to education. Other pro bono clients include the navy and The Nature Conservancy.  

Local prestige with international outlook
Established: 1952
Total lawyers: 39
Partners: 7

The oldest firm in this chapter, Pellerano & Herrera has grown from its family roots to become the Dominican Republic’s largest firm with a reputation for providing high quality legal services thanks to the wealth of internationally-educated lawyers it employs. The firm’s business-minded service style and manpower across a broad range of practice areas see it feature on the country’s most significant transactions, and plans for further growth should ensure these remains the case.

PEOPLE & PRACTICES
The firm has taken advantage of a flourishing mining industry to build a strong practice group in that sector, led by Luis Pellerano, who wins praise from US clients – one said he would not even consider hiring other Dominican counsel. Pellerano led the financing of a US$2.7 billion deal for Canadian miner Barrick Gold, demonstrating an ability to succeed in large-scale international project finance work. Longstanding managing partner Ricardo Pellerano leads the banking and finance area alongside Marielle Garrigó. The pair helped toll road operator Boulevard Turístico del Atlántico obtain a US$150 million loan from development banks; a project which took two years to be completed and has been a major boost to Dominican infrastructure. An uptick in M&A activity has ensured the area remains firmly on Pellerano & Herrera’s radar, with plans for expansions on the horizon. Since February 2012 the department has been overseen by Lucy Objio, who also works in the maritime area. Objío replaced Luis Rivas, who left the firm to start a new venture with Norman De Castro, who formerly headed up Pellerano & Herrera’s labor practice and sports work. Juan Pellerano, also a founder, is known for his litigation work and maintains a consulting role at the firm today. The team’s knowledge has led one commercial litigation client to describe the firm as being “well-connected and having real experience”.

New partner Adolfo Toca leads Pellerano & Herrera’s taxation area, while also working in telecoms, corporate, and sports law. Mariangela Pellerano joined the partnership this year, working in corporate, M&A, project finance and mining. The firm is also strong in IP, tourism and real estate.

CLIENTS
Demonstrating Pellerano & Herrera’s strength in mining is the fact that prominent miners such as Canada’s Barrick Gold and Australia’s Perilya are on the firm’s books. Around 70 per cent of clients are international, with Shell another notable name. The firm continues to advise French renewable energy company Bionersis, and has recently picked up solar power producer Sonnedix as a client. The International Finance Corporation is also a valued client, as are tourism company Rock Resorts and airport manager Aerodom.

ALLIANACES & NETWORKS
Pellerano & Herrera is the Dominican member of the Club de Abogados network, alongside membership of Lex Mundi and World Services Group.

PRO BONO
The firm has gained recognition for representing journalist Alicia Ortega in a case against a Dominican government official who was accused of violating her rights to freedom of the press, access to information, and freedom of expression and dissemination of thoughts. The charge related to threats to stop sponsorship and advertising on Ortega’s news programme. Lawyers at Pellerano & Herrera have also been actively involved in the Dignified Education Coalition’s campaign to see 4 per cent of GDP allocated to education. Other pro bono clients include the navy and The Nature Conservancy.

Traditional prestige with modern outlook
Established: 1952
Total lawyers: 39
Partners: 6

Pellerano & Herrera, the oldest firm in this list, continues to build on its already excellent reputation, further consolidating and strengthening practice areas and insisting on the highest quality of education for its associates. As well cultivating new talent, the firm prides itself on its creativity and the originality shown in closing deals, for which it draws lawyers from its various practice areas as needed. Clients appreciate the firm’s business minded approach, which sees lawyers frequently negotiating the country’s biggest deals.

PEOPLE & PRACTICES
Pellerano & Herrera has been particularly prominent in mining and financing of late, using a combination of skills in those sectors to represent Canadian miner Barrick Gold in renegotiating the leasing agreement for its US$2.7 billion Pueblo Viejo gold mining project – for which the firm won the 2010 Latin Lawyer Deal of the Year award in the project finance category. As the mine had been abandoned for years before Barrick arrived, and become an environmental hazard as a result, local communities and leading banks had to be convinced that reopening the mine would be a profitable venture in the long run. Partner Luis Pellerano, (the second generation of the family) led the financing leg of that deal. Known for his work in telecoms as well, he is lauded by his US clients, one of whom has said he would not even consider hiring other Dominican counsel.

The firm is still involved in the environmental meditation component of the Pueblo Viejo deal, where partner Luis Rivas, head of the firm’s litigation and dispute practice since Hipólito Herrera V retired in 2010, handles a large chunk of the workload. Founding partner Juan Pellerano is also known and respected for his litigation skills, though he no longer works full-time at the firm.

Managing partner Ricardo Pellerano (Luis’ brother) oversees banking, finance and securities work alongside Marielle Garrigó, who helped toll road operator Boulevard Turístico del Atlántico obtain a US$150 million loan from a group of development banks. Both Garrigó and French-educated partner Norman De Castro Campbell are noted for their corporate work, with the latter being described as “a very solid partner and our go-to guy there”, by one US lawyer.

The firm is also strong in IP, tourism and real estate work.

PRO BONO
Pellerano & Herrera currently represents investigative journalist Alicia Ortega in a motion for legal protection of civil rights against a Dominican government official for violation of her right to freedom of the press, right to information and freedom of expression and dissemination of thoughts, the first such case in the country. The firm also provides pro bono services to microfinance non-profit organisations the Grameen Foundation and Kiva, as well as to US rural investment fund Root Capital.

CLIENTS
Barrick Gold in one of the most important clients for Pellerano & Herrera, whose client list is largely dominated by international business. The firm has advised the International Finance Corporation, French-based renewable energy company Bionersis and local cocoa producer Biocafcao. Other clients include the Rock Resorts, airport operator Aerodom and the Dominican-Colombian construction consortium Autopistas del Nordeste.

ALLIANCES & NETWORKS
The firm is the Dominican member of three of the region’s most high profile and prestigious networks: Lex Mundi, the Bomchil group and the Club de Abogados. It is also member of the World Services Group.

Market-leading corporate dominance
Established: 1952
Total Lawyers: 36
Partners: 6

Pellerano & Herrera is the oldest firm listed here, and although it has seen some contraction this year in the associate ranks, its long-standing reputation ensures it continues to dominate in several key practice areas, priding itself on its creative and original approach to deal structuring. The firm places high importance on the experience of its team, and requires that associates wishing to develop a corporate practice have a foreign Masters degree. Pellerano & Herrera is also noted for its wealth of international connections.

PEOPLE & PRACTICES
Founding Partner Juan Pellerano is a respected litigator, although he no longer works full-time at the firm, meaning Hipólito Herrera now leads on that work and also has a strong presence in the field. Ricardo Pellerano (Juan’s son) is the firm’s current managing partner and leads the financial services practice team. With his brother Luis, he is also head of the foreign investment department, while Norman de Castro Campbell and Marielle Garrigó are also prominent in the firm’s corporate and commercial work. Luis Pellerano has other strings to his bow – mining, energy and telecoms are particular strengths – and is praised by US clients, one of whom says he would not even consider hiring other Dominican counsel. French-educated Castro is described by one US lawyer as “a very solid partner and our go-to guy there”. Senior counsel Juana Barceló is a highly rated younger member of the firm, working on financing transactions. Beyond corporate, the firm places a strong emphasis on its IP, real estate and tourism groups.

CLIENTS
The firm’s client list is dominated by foreign businesses, notably including Barrick Gold Corporation, co-owner of the US$2.7 billion Pueblo Viejo mining project, considered to be the largest ever foreign investment in the country. Other clients include Rock Resorts, airport operator Aerodom (the firm helped US private equity fund Advert acquire the company in 2008), and Dominican-Colombian construction consortium Autopistas del Nordeste.

PRO BONO
Pellerano & Herrera has provided pro bono support to microfinance non-profit organisations the Grameen Foundation and Kiva in their dealings with Dominican intermediaries, and to Root Capital, a US investment fund for rural development.

ALLIANCES & NETWORKS
The firm is Dominican member of three of the region’s most high-profile and prestigious networks: Lex Mundi, the Bomchil group and the Club de Abogados. It is also a member of the World Services Group.

2009 DEVELOPMENTS
Highlights for the year included helping Barrick Gold renegotiate its mining contract with the Dominican government, assisting Autopistas del Nordeste on a US$149 million financing for the Boulevard Turístico del Atlántico toll road, and representing Rock Resorts in its agreement to operate the Balcones del Atlántico resort on the north-eastern Samaná peninsula. Pellerano & Herrera closed its Santiago office in 2009 after its main client in that region relocated to Santo Domingo.

Market leading corporate dominance
Established: 1952
Total lawyer: 47
Partners: 7

Market leader Pellerano & Herrera is the oldest firm listed here, and dominates in several key practice areas, priding itself on its creative and original approach to deal structuring. The firm places high importance on the experience of its team, and requires that associates wishing to develop a corporate practice have a foreign Masters degree. Consequently, over a third of the firm’s lawyers hold such qualification. Pellerano is also noted for the wealth of its international connections.

PEOPLE & PRACTICES
As well as its financial and corporate work, the firm places a strong emphasis on its IP, and real estate and tourism practice group. Founding partner Juan Pellerano is a respected litigator, with Hipólito Herrera also a strong presence in that area.

Ricardo Pellerano (Juan’s son) is the firm’s current managing partner and leads the financial services practice team. With his brother Luis, he is also head of the foreign investments department, while Norman de Castro Campbell and Marielle Garrigó are also prominent in the firm’s corporate and commercial work. Luis Pellerano has other strings to his bow – mining, energy and telecoms are particular strengths – and is praised by US clients to the point that one says he wouldn’t consider hiring another Dominican counsel. French-educated Castro is described by one US lawyer as “a very solid partner and our go-to guy there”. Senior counsel Juana Barceló is a highly rated younger member of the firm, working on financing transactions. In a changing financial climate, Pellerano & Herrera expects to build its litigation and mining practice areas in the coming years. Growth in these areas comes on the back of recent growth in its frontline corporate and financial practices, although some clients have raised the question of whether its more corporate outlook has permitted the firm to maintain the same service style as in its days as a smaller firm.

CLIENTS
Pellerano’s client list is dominated by foreign businesses, which, over the years, have included Canadian mining company Placer Dome, the Royal Bank of Trinidad and Tobago, and an energy consortium comprising India’s DS Constructions and Israel Corporation.

ALLIANCES & NETWORKS
The firm is Dominican member of three of the region’s most high-profile and prestigious networks, Lex Mundi, the Bomchil group and the Club de Abogados. It is also a member of the World Services Group.

2008 DEVELOPMENTS
Luis Pellerano led the firm’s counsel to US-based private equity firm Advent, in its acquisition of Aerodom, which operates airports in the Dominican Republic. In September, junior partner Maria Batista took the lead in advising US security systems company Diebold in its joint venture distributing and selling ATMs and security equipment across Central America and the Caribbean.

Dominant market leaders
Established: 1952
Total lawyers: 42
Partners: 7

The oldest and largest firm in this list, Pellerano & Herrera’s strength across a number of key areas makes it a point of reference in the marketplace. It also has excellent international links through a number of high-profile networks.

PEOPLE & PRACTICES
Litigator Juan Pellerano, founding partner of the firm, is respected and senior figure in the country’s legal profession as a whole. His son Ricardo is the managing partner of the firm and head of the financial services department; he and his brother Luis, also head of the foreign investment department, are broadly credited with modernizing the firm into the agile corporate machine it is today. For example, they have invested significantly in technology, and require that associates who wish to develop a corporate practice have a foreign Masters degree (to date, a third of associates have this qualification). As the point man for foreign clients, Luis Pellerano received a number of clients’ recommendations (one US lawyer says “I have had excellent experience over the years with him”, so much so he has never felt the need to engage other Dominican counsel); mining, energy and telecoms are particular strengths. The US-educated Marielle Garrigó is recommended, particularly for project finance work.

CLIENTS
Foreign clients make up about 60 per cent of the firm’s revenue, in tourism, real estate, mining, banking, energy and telecoms. Notable clients over recent years have included Canadian mining company Placer Dome and the Royal Bank of Trinidad and Tobago.

OFFICES
The firm recently opened an office in Higuey, to serve the Bávaro and Punta Cana area, to add to its existing Santiago office.

ALLIANCES & NETWORKS
Pellerano & Herrera has a plethora of international links as the Dominican member of three of the region’s most high-profile and prestigious networks, Lex Mundi, the Bomchil group, and the Club de Abogados, as well as the broad World Services Group.

Within Corporate and finance, Pellerano & Herrera is a first tier firm:

Pellerano & Herrera’s client portfolio includes Jet Blue Airways, Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Avon Products, and Smurfit Kappa Latin America, among other high profile corporations across the energy, mining, telecommunications, tourism and real estate sectors. Department head Luis Rafael Pellerano displays ‘excellent knowledge of the market and brings years of experience into all his dealings’. He recently acted as local counsel to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, as underwriters, on the purchase of a promissory note issued by the Dominican State in favour of Banco de Reservas to secure a $500m bond issuance. In other highlights, Pellerano and Mariángela Pellerano assisted Citibank on a $260m syndicated loan granted to Dominican Power Partners. Ricardo Pellerano is another name to note.

Within Dispute resolution, Pellerano & Herrera is a first tier firm:

Pellerano & Herrera’s dispute resolution practice is co-led by of counsel Vitelio Mejía Ortiz and Lucy Objío. The team (which includes founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano), works for a blue-chip client base including Abbott Laboratories, Universal Sweets, Jet Blue Airways, and Avon Products. The team recently represented Wartsila Dominicana in a $1.8m lawsuit filed by Colegio Dominicano de Ingenieros, Arquitectos y Agrimensores. Expanding its presence in the sports sector, the practice also recently acted as counsel to the Pittsburgh Pirates and the New York Mets in labour lawsuits filed by former players.

Within Real Estate and tourism, Pellerano & Herrera is a second tier firm:

Offering a full-spectrum real estate practice, Pellerano & Herrera primarily provides clients with assistance on purchasing, leasing, renting, and planning real estate projects. Department head Luis Rafael Pellerano is acting as counsel to RC24 Foundation in relation to the construction of a school, including advice on the acquisition of the real estate property, zoning permits, and associated tax matters. Other clients include Amhsa Marina Hotels and Resorts, VFS Dominicana, Jet Blue Airways Corporation, and Grupo Vidanta. Luis Pellerano, Mariángela Pellerano, and Ricardo Pellerano are also recommended.

Within Corporate and finance, Pellerano & Herrera is a first tier firm:

At Pellerano & Herrera, ‘superstar’ practice head Luis Rafael Pellerano is supported by the ‘extremely competent’ Marielle Garrigó and Mariangela Pellerano. A key strength is the firm’s ability to work on different sides of one transaction simultaneously and, recently, it has been active in the financial services and tourism sectors, advising buyers and sellers on transactions, counselling borrowers, lenders and underwriters on financing matters and carrying out due diligence. Among recent highlight instructions, it assisted JetBlue Airways with expanding its operation through the launch of new flight routes, and acting for Citigroup Global Markets and Deutsche Bank Securities as underwriters in a $1bn sovereign bond offering by the state. Patricia Báez is ‘efficient and responsive’, senior counsel Urania Paulino does ‘a great job on aviation matters and has excellent relationships with various regulators’.

Within Dispute resolution, Pellerano & Herrera is a second tier firm:

Labour cases, shareholder disputes, real estate and tax litigation, and consumer rights issues have all been active areas for Pellerano & Herrera lately. The firm gained several new clients from the pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors, and foreign-based investors account for a sizeable share of its largely international client base. Practice co-heads Juan Manuel Pellerano and Lucy Objío recently won a case for Aerodom in a precedent-setting administrative and constitutional matter against the District of La Caleta after it tried to impose new fees and taxes on the airport. In addition, the firm represents JetBlue Airways in all lawsuits filed in the Dominican Republic. Aviation expert Vitelio Mejía Ortiz joined as of counsel in March 2014 from Mejía, Armenteros & Abreu.

Within Intellectual property, Pellerano & Herrera is a third tier firm:

Pellerano & Herrera’s IP team handles all aspects of consensual and contentious issues regarding intellectual property, such as trade marks and trade names, patent registration, copyright, advice and enforcement of IP rights, as well as the purchase, sale, and licensing of IP rights. Contentious matters such as copyright piracy and industrial property counterfeiting are also covered. Lucy Objío is the key partner.

Within Real estate and tourism, Pellerano & Herrera is a second tier firm:

Pellerano & Herrera expertly handles due diligence, financing, and hospitality-related transactions for owners, developers and financial institutions, as well as local individuals and foreign high-net-worth individuals. Notewforthy assignments include advising Carnival Cruise Line on the development and construction of a $65m sea port in Puerto Plata, (handling finance, tax structure, Free Zone Park, development, and construction issues), and assisting Amhsa Marina with a $23m hotel sale to British investors. Key lawyers include team leader Luis Rafael Pellerano, Marielle Garrigó, Mariangela Pellerano, and Ricardo Pellerano.

Within Corporate and finance, Pellerano & Herrera is a first tier firm,

Having operated in the market for over 60 years, Pellerano & Herrera has long been established as one of the leading commercial law firms in the Dominican Republic. The firm remains one of the go-to firms for corporate finance work, and managing partner Ricardo Pellerano and Luis Rafael Pellerano are both seasoned veterans. Their experience is backed up by a strong core of younger partners, including Marielle Garrigo, Mariangela Pellerano, and tax expert Adolfo Toca. The firm has recently handled several major mandates, including advising AmBev on its acquisition of Cervecería Nacional Dominicana. Another highlight for the firm was advising Citigroup Global Markets and Deutsche Bank Securities, as underwriters, on the Dominican Republic’s $1bn sovereign bond offering, its largest to date. Other major clients include the IFC, which it advised on a $30m financing to the Dominican media company, Indomina Group.

Within Dispute resolution, Pellerano & Herrera is a second tier firm,

Pellerano & Herrera has a strong reputation for dispute resolution: founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano remains one of the most experienced litigators and constitutional experts in the country. Now of counsel at the firm, he is less active than previously, but continues to take on client-facing duties on an occasional basis; more importantly he remains on hand to offer strategic advice. Younger partner Lucy Obijo is now head of the disputes practice and is establishing a very good name for herself in the area. The firm covers all areas of dispute resolution, including international arbitration, as well as administrative, tax, commercial, labour, and IP litigations. Recent highlights include advising Xstrata on the preparation of a constitutional review seeking the reversal of a judgment ordering the suspension of mining operations at its $2bn Falconbridge copper mine.

Within Intellectual property, Pellerano & Herrera is a second tier firm,

Pellerano & Herrera has a good track record for IP work. The firm is particularly recommended for trade mark and brand protection, and has a strong client base in the luxury goods sector, where it acts for clients such as LVMH Moët Hennessy and Victor Hugo. Disputes partner Lucy Obijo is active in this area.

Within Real estate and tourism, Pellerano & Herrera is a first tier firm,

Luis Rafael Pellerano heads the highly active real estate and tourism practice at Pellerano & Herrera, where most of the firm’s lead partners take an active role in the sector, including managing partner Ricardo Pellerano and Marielle Garrigo. The firm’s experience goes beyond straightforward transactional advice, and recently it was involved in a number of the sector’s largest restructurings. One of the most high profile was the firm’s advice to Amhsa Marina on the $130m sale of its Grand Paradise Puerto Plata and Punta Cana resorts, which was required for the restructuring of $32m of debt. On the development side, the firm advised Carnival Cruise lines on the development of a $65m seaport in Puerto Plata, including free zones, shops, restaurants and a marina. The team provides contentious and non-contentious advice to a wide range of developers, lenders and investors, including the investment fund Barceló Crestline, as well as mining clients such as Barrick Gold.

Within Corporate and finance, Pellerano & Herrera is a first tier firm,

Pellerano & Herrera has been operating in the market since 1952, and few question its pedigree. Nevertheless, the firm’s market- leading corporate team took a knock in 2011, when partner Norman De Castro and Laura Feliz left the firm to establish DR&R Abogados y Consultores Fiscales. Despite these departures, the firm continues to be instructed on the largest deals the market has to offer. The undoubted highlight was advising Anheuser Busch-InBev’s Brazilian Subsidiary AmBev on it $1.2bn acquisition of a controlling stake in the Dominican Brewery Cervecería Nacional Dominicana, which owns the Presidente and Bohemia beer brands. The 51% stake was acquired from majority shareholder E Leon Jimenez, and Heineken which had a 9% shareholding. Marielle Garrigo, who worked on the deal alongside Luis Rafael Pellerano and the recently promoted Mariangela Pellerano, has an excellent reputation in the market. On the financing side where managing partner Ricardo Pellerano is highly active, another highlight saw the team advise Citibank and Deutsched Bank as underwriters of the Dominican government’s $250m bond issue. Other clients include Barrick Gold (reflecting the firm’s strong reputation in the mining and energy sectors), and the World Bank’s Inter-America Investment Corporation (IAIC). The firm recently promoted taxation expert Adolfo Toca to partner.

Within Dispute resolution, Pellerano & Herrera is a first tier firm,

Luis Rafael Pellerano and recently promoted Lucy Objio lead the first-class disputes practice at Pellerano & Herrera. The firm has expertise across the full range of disputes, including commercial litigation and international arbitrations, as well as white-collar crime, employment, IP, insurance, tax regulatory and constitutional issues. Highlights included successfully representing Barcelo & Co in a cutting edge, 14-year shareholder dispute that went the Supreme Court. The firm also represented the Dominican company Poker Run, and the Florida-head quartered Ocean Bank on the enforcement of a US judgment mandating the    seizure of $300m worth of Dominican assets From Venezuelan group that had defaulted on its loans. The firm also successfully defended the mining company Barrick Gold against 20 lawsuits collectively valued at $150m. While the firm will miss Luis Rivas, who left to form DR&D Abogados y Consultores Fiscales, retains an edge in the market and continues to benefit from the unrivalled experience of founding partner Juan Manuel Pellerano.

Within Intellectual property, Pellerano & Herrera is a second tier firm,

Pellerano & Herrera acts for a broad range of major brand names on their IP-related issues. This includes clients from the luxury goods sector such as Victor Hugo and LVMH Moet Hennessy, as well as a global soft drinks manufacturer. Recently it represented Cemex on the registration of its carbon footprint brands. The firm also acted for international advertising group publicist in trade mark registration annulment action against its local representative, which registered all the publicist brands under its own name. Mariangela Pellerano, who was recently promoted to partner, is a key contact.

Within Real estate and tourism, Pellerano & Herrera is a first tier firm,

Pellerano & Herrera is an undisputed market leader for real estate and tourism advice. The firm is invariably involved on some of the largest transactions and development projects on the country, and Ricardo Pellerano, Luis Rafael Pellerano and Marielle Garrigo are all very active on this front. On the transactional side, a major highlight was advising the Spanish-American investment fund Barcelo Crestline on its $100m acquisition of management agreements, property rights and vacation pre-sale contracts from the Apple Group and the Mullen family. The firm has also been advising the Portuguese company Visabeira on the creation of a consortium with the Dominican architectural and engineering firm Rodriguez Sandoval, which will refurbish the country’s largest baseball stadium, as well as build a museum and develop a five-star hotel, as part of the €100m project. The firm also represents numerous clients in Major League Baseball, and advised the Chicago Cubs on its acquisition of a 300,00sqm property for its new training camp.