Best Private Equity Lawyers in Chile

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Talca, Chile

English
Abogados Del Maule is a Chilean law firm with offices in Talca and Curicó that provides integrated legal services across corporate, family, civil, labor and insolvency matters. The firm combines deep regional knowledge with a multidisciplinary team to advise individuals and businesses through...
Mena y Guijón Abogados
Las Condes, Chile

English
Mena y Guijón Abogados is a Chilean law firm composed of professionals of first level with broad expertise in corporate and commercial matters, investments and regulated markets. The firm delivers integrated legal services to both national and foreign clients, addressing complex corporate...
EDN Abogados
Las Condes, Chile

Founded in 2016
16 people in their team
English
EDN Abogados is a Chilean law firm specializing in corporate and financial matters, providing strategic advisory to both local entities and international clients seeking to access Latin American markets. The practice focuses on investment funds, cross border transactions and complex corporate...

English
Estudio Jurídico EMPRESA ESCRITORIO is a Chilean law firm based in Las Condes, Santiago, that focuses on advising startups, small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs. The team is described on its site as a multidisciplinary group composed mainly of lawyers with experience in commercial law,...
SLF Abogados
Santiago, Chile

Founded in 2020
English
SLF Abogados operates as a Chilean law firm with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, focused on delivering fast and effective legal solutions for clients through experience and structured workflows. The firm emphasizes a technology-enabled approach to secure outcomes that align with the...

12 people in their team
English
Eelaw Medio Ambiente y Energía Asesorías Legales is a Chilean boutique law firm focused on environmental law and energy matters. Led by founder Paulina Riquelme Pallamar, the practice combines deep regulatory knowledge with practical industry insight to support clients in compliance, permitting,...

Founded in 1911
4 people in their team
English
Tapia Elorza y Compañía Abogados is a historic law firm based in Concepción, Chile, renowned for its prestige and the quality of its professionals. Founded in 1911, the firm carries a tradition of more than four generations of lawyers and serves clients across the country.The firm emphasizes a...
ABOGADO TRIBUTARIO LET Spa
Santiago, Chile

English
ABOGADO TRIBUTARIO LET SpA is a Chilean tax law firm that delivers specialized legal and tax advisory services to small and medium enterprises. The practice focuses on planning, compliance, and timely responses to tax obligations, providing practical guidance on deadlines, procedures and regulatory...

English
Bertrand-Galindo Barrueto Barroilhet is a Chilean full-service law firm delivering high quality legal advice across all areas of law. The firm structures its practice to add value to clients' businesses by offering integrated guidance on corporate, commercial and M&A matters, cross-border...
Aylwin Matta Abogados
Las Condes, Chile

Founded in 1974
14 people in their team
English
Aylwin Matta Abogados traces its origins to Aylwin Abogados, founded in 1974, and since 2023 operates as Aylwin Matta with a focus on regulated markets, natural resources and energy. The firm represents corporate and public sector clients in Chile, delivering technically rigorous advice in...
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About Private Equity Law in Chile

Private equity (PE) in Chile refers to investments made by individuals or firms directly into private companies or in publicly listed companies to delist them from stock exchanges. Over the past two decades, Chile has established a mature private equity market, supported by its stable economy, robust financial sector, and modern legal framework. Private equity plays a key role in funding startups, expanding existing businesses, and executing buyouts. The sector is regulated to promote transparency, protect investors, and encourage international and local participation in the capital markets.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Private equity transactions are complex and often involve intricate legal structures, regulatory compliance, and multi-party negotiations. Here are common situations where legal assistance becomes essential:

  • Drafting and negotiating investment agreements or shareholder agreements
  • Structuring the investment vehicle or fund formation
  • Ensuring compliance with Chilean regulations on foreign direct investment and capital controls
  • Conducting due diligence on target companies, including legal, tax, and labor assessments
  • Handling mergers, acquisitions, or exit strategies like IPOs or sale of shares
  • Resolving disputes between shareholders or stakeholders within a private equity deal
  • Navigating antitrust and competition law issues
  • Advising on tax implications of the investment

A specialized private equity lawyer ensures the process runs smoothly, risks are mitigated, and the interests of investors and companies are protected.

Local Laws Overview

Chile’s legal framework for private equity is shaped by multiple statutes, regulatory bodies, and international standards. Some key aspects include:

  • Funds Law: The Ley Única de Fondos (LUF) governs the creation and regulation of investment funds, managed by Administradoras Generales de Fondos (AGFs), which are highly relevant for private equity mechanisms.
  • Securities and Exchange Regulation: The Comisión para el Mercado Financiero (CMF) regulates public offerings, disclosure requirements, and investor protection rules.
  • Foreign Investment Regulations: Chile allows and encourages foreign investment, but certain reporting and registration requirements must be fulfilled, especially when capital is sourced from outside Chile.
  • Antitrust and Competition Laws: Major transactions may require notification to the Fiscalía Nacional Económica (FNE) to prevent anti-competitive practices.
  • Tax Considerations: Tax regimes for private equity investments and international treaties play a significant role in fund structuring and exit strategies.
  • Corporate Laws: The Chilean Corporations Law and related statutes govern company formations, shareholder rights, and board obligations.

Understanding these aspects is crucial for investors, fund managers, and companies seeking private equity capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is private equity and how does it work in Chile?

Private equity refers to investment in private companies or buyouts of public companies to make them private. In Chile, this is typically done through investment funds or direct acquisitions, supporting company growth or restructuring.

Can foreign investors participate in private equity in Chile?

Yes. Chile has a favorable environment for foreign investors in private equity, subject to certain registration and compliance requirements.

Are there specific regulations for private equity funds in Chile?

Yes. The Ley Única de Fondos (LUF) establishes rules for fund formation, governance, and investor protection. Funds must be managed by authorized entities called AGFs.

What taxes apply to private equity investments in Chile?

Taxes depend on the investor’s status and structure. Common taxes include income tax on returns, capital gains tax, and possible withholding taxes for foreign investors. Chile has tax treaties that can affect tax obligations.

What is due diligence in a private equity deal?

Due diligence is an investigation into a target company’s legal, financial, operational, and tax state to identify risks and validate the investment decision.

How is a private equity investment structured in Chile?

Investments can be structured through local corporations or investment funds managed by AGFs, depending on investor needs and regulatory considerations.

What protections do minority shareholders have?

Chilean law provides various protections, including information rights, exit mechanisms, and the right to challenge unfair decisions. These can be enhanced by tailored shareholder agreements.

Are there restrictions on sector or company types for private equity investment?

Generally, private equity investments are allowed in most sectors. However, some strategic industries such as defense or natural resources may be subject to additional regulations or approvals.

What happens in case of a dispute between partners or with the company?

Disputes are typically resolved through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration as outlined in contracts. Chilean courts are also available as a last resort.

How do I exit a private equity investment in Chile?

Common exit strategies include selling shares to third parties, initial public offerings, or buybacks. The exit process depends on investment agreements, market conditions, and regulatory compliance.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance, you may find the following resources helpful:

  • Comisión para el Mercado Financiero (CMF) - The main financial sector regulator for investment funds and securities
  • Fiscalía Nacional Económica (FNE) - The regulatory authority for antitrust matters
  • Banco Central de Chile - For information on currency exchange and capital flows
  • Asociación Chilena de Administradoras de Fondos de Inversión (ACAFI) - Industry group providing reports and updates on the private equity market
  • Legal and financial advisory firms in Chile with expertise in private equity and cross-border transactions

Next Steps

If you are considering involvement in private equity in Chile, whether as an investor, entrepreneur, or fund manager, taking the following steps is recommended:

  • Define your investment goals and assess potential risks and rewards
  • Consult a lawyer or law firm specializing in private equity and corporate law
  • Prepare documentation for due diligence and legal review
  • Work closely with legal and financial advisors to structure the investment in compliance with local laws
  • Stay updated on regulatory changes that may affect your investment or fund

Professional legal guidance is essential to protect your interests, navigate regulatory complexities, and ensure the success of your private equity activity in Chile.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Chile through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Private Equity, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.