Headrick Rizik Alvarez & Fernández’s strong disputes and restructuring and insolvency abilities, combined with its banking and finance prowess, set it apart from the crowd. The size of its partnership also distinguishes the firm, being among the biggest in our Dominican Republic listing. The firm is well respected by clients and competitors alike – the former appreciate the cross-practice approach many of its teams take to ensure every client receives the very best tailored service, while the high-level partner involvement the firm offers is also indicative of its efforts to deviate from a traditional hierarchy. Its IP practice group – one of the largest at any Dominican firm – is another distinguishing factor.
Headrick is at the forefront of the country’s legislative developments; its lawyers have helped draft some key legislation shaping business in the country today. Unsurprisingly, then, its administrative law, intellectual property and regulatory affairs offerings are strong.
The firm’s transactional capabilities are also formidable: its corporate and M&A and banking and finance teams are eagerly sought after by international companies looking to establish themselves in the country – be that through mergers, acquisitions or investments. Recently, the firm has further bolstered its corporate and M&A offering, promoting two lawyers to partner in this area. Its project group, complemented by its real estate team, is also kept busy. Of late, Headrick has seen a boost in mandates from the real estate and tourism sectors, as well as an uptake in life sciences advice.
Client demand for competition, disputes and restructuring advice has also increased over the years. While the firm recently boosted its litigation group, it intends to grow in the other work areas, including tax.
Headrick boasts a largely homegrown partnership. The firm prides itself on its non-traditional structure, which differs from the conventional pyramid structure, having opted for the more hands-on approach that its sizeable group of partners can offer. Its large partnership stands out compared with similarly sized firms. Within the firm, a committee, rather than a single partner, oversees operations. Roberto Rizik chairs the committee, which also includes Sarah De León and Jaime Senior, two of the firm’s younger partners. Its partnership is 50% female, and the firm is committed to diversity and meritocracy.
Headrick’s lawyers are trusted by clients and praised for their prompt and thorough responses, always considering the risks and benefits in any transaction or dispute. Clients further applaud the firm’s professionalism and attention to detail, as well as their dedication to going the extra mile.
Pro bono work is also a key priority for the firm, which has recently seen a comprehensive integration of lawyers across the entire firm into its pro bono practice.
Alliances & networks
The firm is a member of TAGLaw and has an informal relationship with Spain’s Uría Menéndez.