Corporate/Commercial

What the team is known for

Powerhouse firm with a highly reputed corporate practice group. Routinely instructed by notable local clients to advise on key mergers, acquisitions and divestments. Benefits from extensive experience structuring strategic foreign investments on behalf of asset management groups, dealing with investment agreements for shareholder buyouts. Highly knowledgeable of corporate reorganisations, including advising on tax-efficient structures. Offers additional capabilities in syndicated lending and debt restructuring, as well as handling securities transactions.

Strengths

"They are the best firm in the country and in the Caribbean," according to a market commentator. A client praises the team for their "strong legal knowledge," while also noting: "They offer a quick response time, useful answers and set up regular meetings, always following up on matters. They are also very available - I have never known them to not take my call, which is very positive."

Another client appreciates that "OMG has been able to develop a corporate culture that fosters a sense of belonging, so every time you work with an associate you feel like you are talking to the owner," adding: "That makes a huge difference. They provide a comprehensive business vision and respect the client's time."

Work highlights

Counselled Altice Dominicana on the sale of its tower business to Phoenix Tower International, in a transaction valued at approximately USD168 million.

Notable practitioners

Co-head of department Esperanza Cabral is "a spearhead at the firm," and "she is very knowledgeable, knows what she is doing and provides a high-quality service," according to a client. Cabral offers prowess structuring M&A transactions on behalf of corporate clients and institutional investors, as well as handling corporate reorganisations.

Johanna Soto Peña is recognised as an associate-to-watch for the first time after eliciting strong praise from interviewees. One interviewee reports that she stands out on the team, adding: "Johanna has a great attitude and her response times are excellent."

Eminent practitioner Leonel Melo Guerrero is "one of the most respected lawyers in the country," according to a client. A different source reports: "He offers excellent technical skill and one of the top commercial practices in the Dominican Republic." He possesses extensive experience managing transactions for notable investment funds, advising on the sale and disposal of equity stakes, as well as corporate reorganisations. Melo Guerrero is president of the firm and co-head of department.