The Latin American Lawyer Women Awards 2025, the winners

The winners of the Latin American Lawyer Women Awards 2025, were announced during the gala ceremony held at the Tivoli Mofarrej Hotel in São Paulo, on 21st May 2025.

The Latin American Lawyer Women Awards recognised the excellence among the Latin American female professionals active in the in-house departments and private practices.

The winners are the following:

PRIVATE PRACTICES CATEGORIES

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

TozziniFreire Advogados

Widely recognized for their strategic mindset and sharp legal insight, this team consistently delivers tailored advice across complex matters. Their ability to blend legal precision with a deep understanding of business challenges positions them as trusted advisors to leading market players.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR

Isabel Lustosa – Ulhôa Canto, Rezende e Guerra Advogados

The lawyer is considered one of the most influential figures in the energy legal market, she has been handling complex matters showcasing deep technical knowledge and outstanding leadership skills.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ADMINISTRATIVE & ENVIRONMENTAL

Gustavo Binenbojm & Advogados Associados

The law firm’s team is recognized for its strong track record in handling complex administrative disputes and regulatory proceedings. The firm advises leading companies across key sectors such as transportation, telecommunications, and energy.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR ADMINISTRATIVE & ENVIRONMENTAL

Luiza Guerra – Sion Advogados

The professional is widely recognized for her deep expertise, particularly in advising both local and international clients on complex regulatory matters, environmental audits, and sanctioning proceedings.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ARBITRATION

Payet, Rey, Cauvi, Pérez Abogados

The law firm’s team is composed of talented professionals highly appreciated for their remarkable capability in handling disputes, advising prominent clients from various industries.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR ARBITRATION

Elsa Ortega  – Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez

Thanks for her remarkable track record and expertise in the practice, the professional is one of the most affirmed arbitrators in the Mexican legal market. She has represented clients from various industries obtaining remarkable outcomes.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BANKING & FINANCE

Bruchou & Funes de Rioja  

Over the years, the law firm’s team has strongly consolidated its position among the top tier advisors in the practice area. The professionals stand out for the excellent results obtained in complex matters such as securitizations and project finance operations.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR BANKING & FINANCE

Renata Cardoso –  Lefosse Advogados

The professional’s track record and reputation showcase a deep understanding of the financial sector at 360 degrees. During the last year she has provided support for a complex transaction with an important investor, facilitating the process, and ensuring the interests of the clients.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CORPORATE M&A

BMA Advogados     

The law firm has solidified its position as a leader in Brazil’s M&A sector, consistently delivering strategic counsel to both domestic and international clients across a wide array of industries. The firm’s multidisciplinary approach and deep understanding of complex regulatory environments enabled it to navigate high-stakes transactions effectively.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR CORPORATE M&A

Milana Martins – Cascione Advogados     

Thanks for the efficacy of her advice and straight forward thinking, the lawyer has gained the appreciation of key lawyers in the market. In the last months she has advising a top tier company in Brazil in the formation of a crucial joint venture.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CAPITAL MARKETS (DEBT & EQUITY)

Monteiro, Rusu, Cameirão e Bercht Advogados

This firm stands out for its strong track record in advising on complex capital markets transactions, offering strategic counsel to both corporate and financial sector clients. Its hands-on partner involvement ensures tailored, high-level advice, fostering long-term client relationships.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR CAPITAL MARKETS (DEBT & EQUITY)

Alexia Rosenthal – TCA Tanoira Cassagne

The professional is renowned for her strategic counsel on intricate debt and equity transactions. Her deep understanding of market dynamics and regulatory frameworks positions her as a trusted advisor to both domestic and international clients navigating Argentina’s evolving financial landscape.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR COMPETITION & ANTITRUST

Stocche Forbes Advogados

The firm firm’s team offers comprehensive expertise in competition law, assisting clients with regulatory investigations, merger control, and compliance matters. The professionals have handled antitrust litigation and advise major players across sectors such as technology, energy, and retail.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR COMPETITION & ANTITRUST

Cristianne Saccab Zarzur – Pinheiro Neto Advogados

The lawyer is a seasoned antitrust attorney with a distinguished career advising both domestic and international clients on complex competition matters. Her expertise encompasses merger control, anticompetitive conduct investigations, and the development of compliance programs.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ENERGY & INFRASTRUCTURE

Tauil & Chequer Advogados in association with Mayer Brown

The law firm has been involved in crucial energy and infrastructure projects. The professionals are known for their competitivity and punctuality, being able to face complicated challenges keeping a global perspective.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR ENERGY & INFRASTRUCTURE

Lívia Medeiros Amorim – Veirano Advogados

Thanks to various achievements in the sector, the professional is recognized as one of the leaders in the energy practice. She took part in some of the most important oil & gas operations deals, proving her technical skills and legal acumen.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR INSURANCE

TozziniFreire Advogados

This law firm has developed a robust insurance practice. Its multidisciplinary approach enables it to address complex issues, including Insurtech and data protection, ensuring clients receive tailored and effective legal solutions.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR INSURANCE

Francisca Román – PSLG Peralta Sandoval Llaneza Gutiérrez

The lawyer is recognized for her extensive experience in insurance litigation, particularly in handling complex recovery actions and regulatory investigations. Her academic involvement and leadership in professional associations further underscore her expertise and commitment to the field.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR IP&TMT

Cervieri Monsuárez

Widely recognized for its strength in intellectual property, the law firm is particularly adept at handling sophisticated anti-counterfeiting matters, as well as trademark and copyright disputes for clients from sectors such as retail, automotive, pharmaceuticals, fashion, and entertainment.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR IP&TMT

Maria Cecilia Romoleroux – CorralRosales

With over 25 years of experience, the professional is a distinguished leader in intellectual property. She provides strategic counsel to major international clients across various industries, her meticulous approach and innovative solutions have solidified her reputation as a trusted advisor.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LABOUR

KLA ADVOGADOS

The law firm’s team has provided comprehensive employment advisory to clients across various sectors such as IT, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. The professionals are recognized for handling individual and collective labor claims, as well as administrative proceedings.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR LABOUR

Carolina Porras – Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría 

The lawyer is esteemed for her expertise in individual and collective labor law, social security, and immigration matters. She leads a dynamic team known for its solution-oriented approach and excellent client service.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LITIGATION

Zonenschein Advogados

The law firm is recognized for its robust litigation practice, handling complex disputes across various industries. Their team is known for strategic legal solutions and a client-centric approach, ensuring effective representation in contentious matters.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR LITIGATION

Ana Maria Damasceno de Carvalho Faria – William Freire Advogados Associados

The lawyer is acknowledged for her proficiency in dispute resolution, particularly in the mining sector. Her leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion within the legal profession is also noteworthy.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PHARMA, HEALTHCARE & LIFE SCIENCES

Gouldart Penteado

The professionals have demonstrated strong capabilities in the pharmaceutical, healthcare, and life sciences sectors, offering comprehensive legal services. Their multidisciplinary team provides strategic advice on regulatory compliance, transactions, and litigation.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR PHARMA, HEALTHCARE & LIFE SCIENCES

Angela Fan Chi Kung – Pinheiro Neto Advogados

The lawyer is recognized for her extensive experience in the sector. She advises clients on both contentious and non-contentious issues, including administrative proceedings, contributing significantly in achieving the clients’ interests.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR REAL ESTATE

Stocche Forbes Advogados

The law firm’s team offers legal support in real estate transactions, including acquisitions, development, and financing of urban and rural properties. Their team is noted for its expertise in property regularization and structuring of complex projects.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR REAL ESTATE

Claudia Lucena – Miranda & Amado

Claudia Lucena is esteemed for her in-depth knowledge of real estate law, advising on significant and intricate deals. Her strategic insights and attention to detail have earned her recognition in the field.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR TAX

Tauil & Chequer Advogados in association with Mayer Brown

The law firm’s team is composed of highly skilled professionals able to handle complex tax matters, including advisory, litigation, and customs issues. Their strong presence in administrative and judicial courts, coupled with expertise in cross-border taxation, positions them as leaders in the field.

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR TAX

Juliana Porchat de Assis – FAS Advogados in cooperation with CMS

The lawyer leads the tax planning and international operations area, bringing extensive experience in M&A and corporate reorganizations. Her leadership in global tax restructuring projects for multinational companies underscores her prominence in the field.

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WHITE COLLAR CRIME

Caro & Asociados

The firm is recognized for its expertise in white-collar crime, providing robust defense and compliance strategies. Their team adeptly handles complex investigations and regulatory matters, ensuring comprehensive legal support for clients.

LAWYER OF THE YEAR WHITE COLLAR CRIME

Tatiana Martins – Davis Polk & Wardwell 

The lawyer brings deep experience in criminal and regulatory enforcement. She represents clients in high-profile white-collar defense cases and conducts internal investigations across various jurisdictions.

IN-HOUSE CATEGORIES

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR

Lídia Brito de Oliveira – CPFL Energia

The professional leads the team with strong organizational and analytical skills, overseeing the review and preparation of contracts across diverse areas, including supply, services, environmental and land matters, R&D, consulting, energy trading, regulatory issues, M&A projects, and energy auctions.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR AUTOMOTIVE & TRANSPORT

Evelyn D. Canalli – BMW Group Brasil

The professional is responsible for all legal, compliance, data privacy, and internal controls matters, guiding the team with a strong focus on innovation and efficiency. She fosters a proactive, solution-oriented approach to support the business.

IN HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR BANKING & FINANCE

Lucinéia Possar – Banco do Brasil

The professional brings deep expertise in banking law and is widely recognized in the industry, having earned a reputation for credibility and trust of the clients. She leads a team of lawyers managing a wide range of legal matters, including complex transactions and high-profile disputes.

IN HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR CONSTRUCTION, PROJECTS, INFRASTRUCTURE

Denise Vaz – Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobiliários

The professional offers extensive expertise in various legal matters and understands the value of broadening knowledge beyond specialized areas. She provides comprehensive support aligned with the company’s values and strategic goals, ensuring her legal insights drive the organization’s success.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR CONSUMER GOODS MANUFACTURING

Cynthia Bar – Kimberly Clark

A highly experienced professional with a proven track record, offering strong expertise in corporate law and compliance. A business-oriented lawyer, dedicated to delivering strategic legal solutions, driving success to the organization.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR E-COMMERCE & RETAIL

Renata Cassini – Dufry Group

With nearly two decades of experience in the legal field, the professional has a broad background in managing corporate legal departments, covering areas such as team organization, training, budgeting, and reporting. She is highly valued for her ability to think creatively and deliver strategic legal solutions.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR ENERGY

Ana Claudia Rebello – Enel Group

With over 20 years of experience in large corporations, this professional has a strategic vision focused on delivering results while upholding transparency, ethics, and compliance, driving sustainable growth and long-term success with the highest legal standards.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR FASHION, DESIGN, LUXURY

Naiara Soares – Calvin Klein

With over 15 years of experience at one of the leading fashion brands, the professional has advised on key corporate operations, consistently delivering high-quality service with a strong focus on the company’s interests.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR FOOD & BEVERAGE

Wendy Alcalá – Nestlé México    

The professional is an experienced executive serving as Vice President of Legal, Compliance, Public Affairs, and ESG. A longstanding adviser to the company, she oversees a broad range of matters, including mergers and acquisitions, compliance, and trade-related issues.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR INSURANCE

Glauce Carvalhal – CNseg

The professional is highly regarded for her strategic vision and regulatory expertise in the insurance sector. Her work has contributed to advancing best practices and fostering a stronger legal and compliance culture within the industry.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR MINING

Carolina Lobato – Anglo American

The professional brings strong expertise and leads a dedicated, innovative team that is instrumental in advancing the company’s mission to reimagine the future of mining. Through strategic legal support and close collaboration with business units, the team drives sustainable growth and supports transformative projects.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR PHARMA, HEALTHCARE & LIFE SCIENCES

Sandra Gebara Boni Hidalgo – L’Oréal

The professional has built her expertise in the legal departments of top companies. Over the past 12 months, she has led the in-house team through complex operations, demonstrating her technical skills and leadership.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR REAL ESTATE

Gabriella Sabrina Mattos Gaspar – JHSF

The professional leads the legal team for the company’s Real Estate Business Unit, specializing in Real Estate Law and supporting projects in Brazil and abroad. She focuses on innovation, risk management, and regulatory compliance, providing strategic legal guidance to drive business decisions.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR TMT

Fabiana Velasco – TIM Brasil

The professional is dedicated to the strategic management of the legal department, with a particular focus on optimizing legal operations. She actively drives initiatives aimed at increasing efficiency, streamlining processes, and elevating the overall performance of the department.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR TRAVEL & TOURISM

Isabella Vilhena – LATAM Airlines Brasil

The professional brings extensive expertise in aviation law and has demonstrated strong leadership in managing complex operations. She has significantly contributed to establishing the Legal team as a strategic partner in the industry’s fast-paced environment.

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

Fabiana Molina – Ultragaz

The professional stands out for her expertise in corporate law and a solid track record in strategic negotiations and legal dispute management, including provisioning and due diligence. In today’s fast-paced, complex business environment, she embodies the key qualities of an effective in-house legal leader: legal acumen, negotiation skills, clear communication, and versatility.