Department profile
FerradaNehme

Environment

Latin America Guide 2026 : Chile


FerradaNehme

Rankings

About

Provided by FerradaNehme

FN is one of the most recognized law firms in environmental law in Chile and it focuses on the development and permitting of complex projects. Since its launch in 2008, we have developed an expert team, led by Patricio Leyton, specialized in environmental, natural resources, mining and energy mattersEach member brings a unique perspective to complex environmental assessment processes. Several of them have previously worked in public institutions in environmental assessments and in the application of administrative sanctions, as well as in private sector, advising well-known companies.

We work closely with our clients: large mining companies, electric and governmental companies, among others, in the development of preventive strategies of potential environmental conflicts, getting involved with authorities and communities, building bridges between them, promoting a virtuous cycle for development. We have developed a strong practice in Recycling Legislation and EPR. We advise clients from the beginning, during the construction and development of their operations. 

We have also developed an outstanding practice in environment litigation, participating in the most complex recent cases, with a great public significance. The main areas in which we advise are:

  • Environmental Permits
  • Project Development
  • Natural Resources
  • Environmental Impact Assessments and Statements
  • Maritime Concession
  • Negotiations with Communities
  • Environmental Litigation

Clients (11)

  • European Southern Observatory
  • Enel Green Power
  • Hewllett Packard
  • Barrick Gold Corporation
  • LG Electronics
  • CODELCO, Ventanas
  • Andes Iron
  • BHP
  • Norte Abierto SpA
  • Teck Resources
  • Apple

Industries (7)

  • Energy
  • Government
  • Mining & Metals
  • Technology, Hardware & Electronics
  • Telecommunications
  • Environment
  • Aquaculture

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Environment - Chile

Band 1

Band 1


What the Team is Known For

FerradaNehme houses a distinguished environment practice that commands a stellar reputation in Chile's environmental law field. Its Santiago-based team is frequently retained to assist clients with high-profile mining projects and permitting requests. The firm often advises on indigenous land rights, environmental impact reports and compliance policies, and is also adept at representing clients in sector-related litigation. FerradaNehme has an impressive client roster including key players from the mining, energy and water treatment sectors.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • FerradaNehme assisted Codelco on an environmental lawsuit filed before the Second Environmental Court by a fishermen’s union against the environmental authority and thirteen companies, including Codelco.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • FerradaNehme always brings innovative ideas when analysing new regulations, proposing interpretative and implementation alternatives. The team is well-versed in handling complex issues.

    Environment respondentLatin America
  • What distinguishes FerradaNehme in the Chilean market is the excellence of its delivered products and its unwavering commitment to clients.

    Environment respondentLatin America

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Patricio Leyton
    Band 1Patricio Leyton

    Patricio Leyton

    Acclaimed practitioner and head of department Patricio Leyton fields expertise in Chile's environment realm, and his significant work is praised by clients and peers alike. He is frequently instructed by Chilean and international clients to advise on environmental litigation, permitting and project development.
    • Patricio Leyton is the best environmental litigation lawyer in Chile.

      Environment respondentLatin America
    • Patricio Leyton is an excellent team leader, with the ability to take a high-level perspective and communicate effectively, especially in moments of tension.

      Environment respondentLatin America
  • Band 3Carola Salamanca
    Band 3Carola Salamanca

    Carola Salamanca

    Partner Carola Salamanca garners significant praise from observers for her key involvement in environmental matters in Chile.
    • Carola Salamanca is an excellent lawyer with a high level of efficiency in analysing very complex regulations. I really enjoy working with Carola.

      Environment respondentLatin America
  • Band 4Valeria Ruz
    Band 4Valeria Ruz

    Valeria Ruz

    Valeria Ruz enters the rankings this year after demonstrating an active and relevant practice in the environmental market in Chile.

    • Valeria Ruz is a very good lawyer. She is careful and tremendously deep in her technical analysis.

      Environment respondentLatin America
  • Associates to watchClaudio Tapia
    Associates to watchClaudio Tapia

    Claudio Tapia

    Associate-to-watch Claudio Tapia enters the rankings after attracting support for his environmental practice in Chile.

    • Claudio Tapia is as good lawyer with a very good knowledge of the market. We had a very good impression while working with him.

      Environment respondentLatin America

Ranked Individuals at FerradaNehme (4)

Chile

Members

Provided by FerradaNehme

What success is built on

Chambers is the leading data and intelligence partner for the legal sector.

Explore thought leadership