The team that led the corporate criminal law, compliance and real estate practices of CMS Rodríguez-Azuero announced the creation of Simhon, Vanegas & Calle, a new boutique firm that begins operations in Bogotá.
The transition was carried out by mutual agreement between the parties. The new firm will continue to support several ongoing processes and mandates, in accordance with applicable agreements, and will maintain a collaborative relationship with CMS Rodríguez-Azuero on matters that require it.
“The creation of Simhon, Vanegas & Calle reflects the natural evolution of our practices and the opportunity to offer our clients more specialized attention, with a team that already has a recognized track record in the market,” stated Jacques Simhon, managing partner of the firm. In corporate criminal law, the boutique structure allows the firm to handle complex matters, particularly in cases where conflicts of interest often limit legal representation. The practice also integrates technical experts and forensic psychologists, both for preparing expert reports and for supporting clients during legal proceedings.
“The boutique model gives us more leeway to take on cases that, in structures with a very broad client base, might be limited by conflicts of interest. That flexibility was key to the type of practice we want to build,” said Santiago Calle, partner at Simhon, Vanegas & Calle.
The firm will also strengthen its Transitional Justice practice, led by Ligia María Vargas, PhD in Law from the University of Salamanca and an attorney with experience in proceedings before the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, Justice and Peace, and the Office of the Attorney General. This practice will focus on supporting individuals, companies, and other special entities involved in matters stemming from the armed conflict in Colombia.
In real estate law, Simhon, Vanegas & Calle will continue to advise developers, landowners, real estate funds, contractors, and national and international companies at various stages of the project lifecycle, including due diligence processes, land acquisition, structuring of vehicles, financing, licensing, contracting, operation, and real estate consumer matters.
“From our real estate practice, we want to continue supporting our clients in strategic projects, with a comprehensive vision of the business and advice very close to the needs of each development,” commented Sara Vanegas, partner at Simhon, Vanegas & Calle.
With this launch, Simhon, Vanegas & Calle seeks to consolidate itself as a boutique firm specializing in corporate criminal law, compliance, real estate law and transitional justice, combining the experience of a team from a full-service firm with a structure focused on specialization and direct client support.
