Leĝa is one of Venezuela’s largest firms, and its ongoing consolidation of its partner and associate base is a testament to its desire to remain a force in the country through challenging times. Leĝa can trace back its roots to the corporate and commercial law division of a long-standing Venezuelan firm.
Leĝa has adapted well to Venezuela’s new political reality and is prepared to play the long game in its pursuit of success. Its founders rethought their firm’s ethos to bring it closer in line with what clients want. Greater practice-area specialisation is what this firm strives for, particularly in the few areas where there is potential for economic growth under the current circumstances in Venezuela.
Leĝa’s dominant market position is built upon solid foundations, offering clients an established full-service offering that few of its competitors can match. Standout practices include its administrative, labour and tax divisions, which have proven to bring in a steady workload owing to constant regulatory overhauls. Its corporate group is also strong and is well-positioned for when circumstances change, and international investment flows resume. The result is a firm with an unusually diversified revenue stream that can afford to retain talent. Associate secondments and flexible compensation packages help matters. Moreover, the partnership listens carefully to what each associate wants and tries to accommodate their wishes. There is opportunity for career progression, and the firm offers to fund master’s degrees in Venezuela for its associates, as well as providing financial assistance for studies in the US and elsewhere. A recent round of promotions added six partners, strengthening several areas including labour, M&A and tax.
Venezuela remains mired in an economic downturn, made worse by the effects of the covid-19 global pandemic and US and EU sanctions. With transactional work almost non-existent, Leĝa is busy advising clients on regulatory matters in the food and pharmaceutical sectors as well as handling labour and tax issues. Meanwhile, the firm has sought to make the best of new opportunities by targeting businesses from China and Russia. Its Russian desk means it can stay on the ball regarding Venezuela’s geopolitical realignment and the increasing presence of Russian energy companies in the country. China, another key ally of the current Venezuelan administration, has not been neglected either, Leĝa boasts an alliance with a leading Chinese law firm.
Partners Luis López Durán, Carlos Domínguez and Miguel Rivero lead the firm.
Alliances & networks
Leĝa is a member of the Employment Law Alliance, Cathay Group, Lex Mundi, Pacific Rim Advisory Council and World Services Group networks. In 2020, the firm became a part of Andersen Global.
Offices
The firm is headquartered in Caracas and has additional offices in Barquisimeto, Maracaibo and Valencia.