Cillóniz & Valencia Abogados

The firm was co-founded in 2017 by partners Diego Cillóniz and Fernando Valencia. It focuses on Natural Resources, Environmental, and Energy Law, with additional strengths in Public, Corporate, and Civil Law.

Both partners bring over a decade of experience from top Peruvian firms, Miranda & Amado Abogados and Estudio Grau Abogados (now CMS Grau). They combine their roles as in-house counsel for multinational companies in the sector with their expertise as external advisors at leading firms—a combination that is rarely seen in specialized law firms.

The firm specializes in:

Mining

The Mining practicet focuses on serving junior mining investors, primarily Canadian and Australian companies listed on the TSX and ASX. The firm’s services cover all legal aspects of the mining exploration process, including:

- acquisition (M&A) and development of exploration projects

- corporate structuring and mining permits

- environmental and regulatory compliance

- contractual matters related to mining project development.

Environmental

The Environmental practice is renowned for its extensive experience and proactive approach to complex environmental matters, particularly within the natural resources sector. Specialized services include:

- compliance and enforcement proceedings

- environmental litigation

- environmental permits and approvals (including within protected areas and fragile ecosystems)

- environmental auditing and risk assessment for corporate transactions

- climate change guidance and sustainability initiatives

- stakeholder relations and management

- national heritage compliance, land use approvals, and water use and wastewater discharge agreements.

Power

The Power practice is distinguished by its full-service approach, led by Fernando Valencia, whose extensive experience includes roles at major energy companies such as Inkia Energy and Kallpa Generación. The team advises clients throughout the project lifecycle, especially in renewable energy, covering:

- feasibility studies, permitting, and regulatory compliance

- development and operation of solar and wind power plants

- management of power generation facilities and transmission lines.

Clients

The firm maintains a focused client roster of around 20 companies, optimizing costs and fostering long-term relationships. The firm portfolio includes both international corporations listed on major stock exchanges and prominent national companies with substantial investments in energy, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. This focused approach and commitment to client’s needs have ensured nearly a decade of uninterrupted relationships and steady growth.

Commitment to Diversity

In a traditionally male-dominated field, the firm prioritizes gender inclusivity by empowering female attorneys within the practice, enhancing the team's attention to detail and dedication to excellence.

Team

Patners: Diego Cillóniz and Fernando Valencia.

Associates: Jimena Noriega, Carmen Rubiños, Aritha Neyra and Sofía Castro.