Pilar Colomés and Rafael Gil set up GNCI Law

Rafael Gil Nievas and Pilar Colomés Iess, formerly ‘of counsel’ and ‘counsel’ at Eversheds Sutherland, have established GNCI Law, a boutique firm specializing in dispute resolution and complex litigation, in response to Madrid’s burgeoning role as a hub for international arbitration. The new Madrid-based firm focuses on international disputes, leveraging the extensive expertise and experience of its founding partners in this domain.

Rafael Gil Nievas, with an illustrious career spanning 25 years, has led numerous investment and commercial arbitrations, achieving significant victories, including landmark cases such as Green Power and CSP Equity-Abengoa v. Spain within the EU, setting unprecedented precedents in international arbitration. His credentials include roles as Director of Legal Services at Cepsa, General Counsel at Iberdrola for the Americas, and pivotal involvement in shaping key arbitration and litigation regulations globally.

Pilar Colomés Iess, a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience, brings a wealth of expertise in international law, having represented corporations, states, and investors in complex commercial and investment arbitrations across multiple jurisdictions, including the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague and Kirkland & Ellis LLP in New York. Her track record includes successfully defending Spain in early solar energy investment arbitrations.

The establishment of GNCI Law underscores Madrid’s increasing appeal for international arbitration, with Gil Nievas and Colomés Iess poised to provide specialized and personalized legal services, leveraging their boutique model to navigate complex international disputes and deliver tailored representation to clients efficiently. This move reflects a broader trend towards more agile and focused legal practices in response to evolving demands within the global arbitration landscape.