Banking & Finance

With its expertise across the full spectrum of banking and finance transactions, the department at DLA Piper is often mandated by key Spanish and foreign banks. Clients regularly seek advice on refinancings, debt restructuring and acquisition finance deals, especially those in the mid-cap sector. The team assists with syndicated loan facilities, having additional experience in high-value showcase mandates that entail the refinancing of major Spanish borrowers. The team complements its strong services with its further expertise in the financing of energy and infrastructure sector projects across Spain and Latin America. The Madrid-based department also offers UK law expertise.

Clients highlight DLA Piper's "very good expertise" before going on to highlight the firm's cross-border capabilities: "Thanks to their global presence they have support from expert colleagues around the major financial places."

"Their services are always very prompt, precise and accurate," comments a client, who also highlights the "seamless collaboration between the Madrid-based team of DLA and other offices."

Acted for Société Générale and a syndicate of lenders on their EUR800 million finance to CIE Automotive.

César Herrero enjoys praise from market observers, who see him as "one of the best lawyers in banking and he is on top of the new regulations." He handles complex debt restructuring, refinancing and acquisition finance mandates, boasting additional experience in project finance mandates, especially in the energy and infrastructure sectors. Clients laud: "He's very knowledgeable - second to none in that respect."

Managing partner Jesús Zapata is well respected in the Spanish banking and finance market due to his expertise in large emergency and project financings, where he acts for prestigious banks and investors. According to sources, Jesús Zapata is "really good at pinpointing any shortcomings that might arise."

Madrid-based Juan Gelabert advises lenders, including well-known banks and capital funds, on the financing of renewable energy projects in Spain. "He is hands-on, diligent, very approachable and easy to work with," applauds a client.

Nerea Cemlyn-Jones assists with banking and finance transactions across Spain, especially those governed by English law.