Spotlight on 10 Most Distinguished Labour & Employment Lawyers in Venezuela 2023

In an era where labour and employment legalities are becoming increasingly nuanced and complex, a distinguished group of lawyers is paving the way in Venezuela. Specialising in Labour & Employment, these industry stalwarts navigate their clients through the mires of individual claims, collective negotiations, closures of local operations, and employee terminations, with unmatched expertise and dedication. This write-up is a glimpse into some of the finest Labour & Employment lawyers in Venezuela today.

They have stood out in the field for their contribution to the industry, managing labour matters even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and their dedication to their clients. The following insights into the lives and careers of these professionals offer a glimpse into what has made them who they are today.

Whether they are assisting clients with labour matters related to ongoing global issues or dealing with individual claims and personnel reductions, these legal professionals have brought significant changes to the sphere of Labour & Employment in Venezuela. Here is a detailed overview of some of the most renowned practitioners in the field today.

Francisco Casanova

An active partner at Ponte Andrade & Casanova, Francisco Casanova is known for his adaptability and strength in helping clients handle labour matters, especially during the current pandemic. Praised by his clients, one reports: “Francisco Casanova is an excellent professional who offers a strong client service.”

Carlos A Felce

Carlos Felce, the leading voice at Baker McKenzie SC, brings immense labour and employment expertise to the table. His proficiency encompasses individual claims, collective negotiations and handling personnel reductions during local operations closures.

Cesar Uzcategui

At LANDAEZ Abogados – Consultores, Cesar Uzcategui, has made an impressive entry to the rankings this year. Being highly endorsed by the market, one interviewee comments: “Cesar Uzcategui has a very pragmatic vision and is a very good labour lawyer.”

Ignacio Andrade

Ignacio Andrade, who works at Ponte Andrade & Casanova frequently assists clients with auditing employment policies, managing social security mandates, and implementing health and safety policies. He is described as having an extensive understanding of the labour arena and offering excellent professional service.

Mariana Roso

Mariana Roso of Altum Abogados is well-versed in a variety of labour mandates. Her field includes labour due diligence for M&A transactions, terminations, and assistance with employment matters related to the pandemic. Her clients speak highly of her legal knowledge and practical resolution skills.

Pablo Benavente

Pablo Benavente, associated with MBA Legal, continues to be a recognised figure in the Venezuelan labour and employment arena.

Victorino Márquez Ferrer

Victorino Márquez Ferrer of D’Empaire is widely acknowledged for his experience in handling labour and employment aspects of closing local operations, employee transfers, personnel restructuring and terminations, along with compensation scheme policies.

César Carballo

Working at Colmenares Trivella Carballo Alvarez, partner César Carballo contributes significantly to legal practice whilst making an academic contribution too. Being highly recommended by peers, one mentions: “César Carballo is an excellent lawyer who has a strong academic profile and has written lots about labour law in Venezuela.”

Luis Alfredo Hernández Merlanti

Luis Alfredo Hernández Merlanti, associated with HEXA LEGAL, helps clients in dealing with labour disputes involving individual and collective claims, and both unionised and non-unionised employees. He is highly active in the Venezuelan labour and employment field.

Juan Carlos Pró-Rísquez

Partner Juan Carlos Pró-Rísquez at Dentons is highly renowned due to his unmatched expertise in labour and employment litigation. His role also includes advising on employee transfer and termination mandates.