Fire and ice
The Big Question
Fire and ice
What is testing the resolve of law firm leaders in Latin America ? Talent retention , technology adoption , and adapting to rapid changes in the market top the agenda . Keeping focused on clearer targets will help law firms overcome obstacles
“ Our strategy for talent attraction and retention has not been altered or affected by circumstantial conditions that may be affecting the legal service market . Our goal is to hire the best students from the most prestigious laws schools in Chile , offering them the experience of being part of an international law firm with the possibility of exchange programs in the offices in Lima and Bogotá . As to retaining the talented associates , we consider that it is essential to maintain a collaborative environment with a close interaction between partners and associates ”.
Marcelo Armas Co-chair , Philippi , Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría Chile
“ It is an exciting time of change and renewal for Latin American law firms . Those able to overcome challenges will have clearer goals , a clear strategy to reach them and a vision for what they will be when they achieve them . In our case , we intend to be among the leading Latin American firms that combine the depth and breadth of experience found in larger , top-tier law firms . This means investing in client-facing innovations , listening to our clients and adapting the delivery of our services for improved efficiency and effectiveness .”
Mariano Batalla , Managing partner , Batalla Costa Rica
“ Our law firm will continue to focus on the consolidation of our integration project , strengthening our capabilities to provide first quality service to our clients . For PPU , being the firm of reference for clients expanding throughout the Pacific Alliance is and will be part of its essence .”
Martin Acero Co-chair , Philippi , Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría , Colombia
“ We strive to provide our clients with service beyond their expectations , and treat each client as if he were the only client the firm has . For the same reason , we update our technology platform on a regular basis to allow us to provide services in the most efficient way and at a reasonable cost . We permanently mentor and guide our young lawyers , and encourage them to keep growing professionally up to the high standards of Arias .”
Armando Arias Partner , Arias El Salvador
“ Key strategies to overcoming the challenges of talent acquisition and retention , increasing productivity and growing the firm are strong investments in training , technology , new facilities and marketing . Another fundamental piece of our approach lies in diversity initiatives , which are a long-term core focus of Veirano , as well as policies and behaviours that reinforce the trust we have in each other and our sense of belonging .”
Ricardo C . Veirano Managing partner , Veirano Advogados Brazil
10 • THE LATIN AMERICAN LAWYER • March 2018 www . thelatinamericanlawyer . com