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Lex-Falcon Awardees New YORK CITY 2024
The Lex-Falcon Global Awards are prestigious honors presented by LexTalk World Conference to recognize excellence and innovation in the legal industry. These awards celebrate outstanding achievements across various categories, including individuals, organizations, and initiatives that have made significant contributions to the legal profession. Whether it’s groundbreaking legal research, impactful advocacy, or innovative legal tech solutions, the Lex-Falcon Global Awards highlight the best and brightest in the legal field.
Inspiring Individuals
Murilo Cruz Garcia, More than 20 years acting as head of Legal & Compliance Departments in large multinational companies, responsible for the management of diversified transactions in Brazil, Latin America, the United States and Europe. Highly experienced in M&A, corporate law, contracts, regulatory, tax and litigation. LLM in International Corporate & Commercial Law from King’s College London, LLM in Corporate Law from Insper; Certificate of Compliance from Fordham Law School - New York;
MBA in Business Management from FAAP; postgraduate degree in Commercial Law and Law degree from FMU.
Murilo Cruz Garcia
Antonio Grillo Neto is a passionate attorney dedicated to building a more just and sustainable future. With an LLM (with honors) from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law (2012) and a JD from Paulista University (1998), he specializes in International Law, Global Governance, and Environmental Law, focusing on Human Rights and Business. As a former leader of the anti-corruption task force within the C-20/G-20, Antonio has a proven track record in developing effective policies. Beyond his professional pursuits, he enjoys spending time with family, practicing jiu-jitsu and fencing, and exploring literature and music.
Antonio Grillo Neto
Fernando Watanabe is a distinguished tax professional with extensive expertise in judicial and administrative tax litigation. With a Bachelor’s in Law from the University of São Paulo (USP) and an LL.M. in Taxation from Georgetown University, he has honed his skills in corporate tax counseling and business structuring, serving both local and international clients. Nominated as Indirect Tax Rising Star at the ITR Americas Tax Awards 2024, Fernando has also gained valuable international experience with Ernst & Young (EY)’s National Office in Washington, DC. His specialization in tax law, combined with his cross-border insights, makes him a key contributor to the evolving landscape of tax law.
Fernando Watanabe
Rajkumar Varier, founder of RKV Law, is a prominent independent lawyer with over two decades of expertise in telecom, media, and entertainment law. Known for his strategic litigation and regulatory insights, he represents major clients before key industry bodies like NBDA, IBDF, and DNPA, influencing regulatory frameworks. As a consultant with ABP Networks, he leads regulatory and public policy initiatives, shaping responses to critical legislation. His advisory role extends to gaming companies, including Zupee, drawing on his deep knowledge of digital and media regulations. Rajkumar’s career includes influential roles at Airtel, Samsung, Disney Star, and DEN Networks, where his strategic legal expertise has established him as a respected figure in India’s legal and regulatory landscape.
Rajkumar Varier
Luis R. Vera Morales, a trailblazer in Mexican environmental and energy law, is the founding partner of V&A. He earned his law degree from Escuela Libre de Derecho and a post-graduate certificate in Economic and Corporate Law from Universidad Pan-American. As a Fulbright and Ford MacArthur Scholar, he completed an LL.M. cum laude in Environmental and Energy Law at Tulane University. In 2010, he obtained a PhD in Environment and Sustainable Development from IPN. A prominent advisor and expert witness in international and domestic cases, Dr. Vera has led pivotal projects, including Mexico’s first refinery in 40 years and sections of the Mayan Train. He advises clients globally, specializing in infrastructure, biotechnology, and environmental policies.
Luis R. Vera Morales
Stewart M. Young serves as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah, with a focus on complex criminal matters. He previously completed a detail with the Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section in Amman, Jordan, and served in the DOJ’s Criminal Division on Joint Task Force Vulcan, which targets MS-13 leadership. Young specializes in cases involving financial fraud—particularly criminal tax and identity theft—as well as large-scale gang cases and cartel-related narcotics investigations involving wiretaps. His academic background includes degrees from Stanford Law School, Princeton University, and Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan. Young’s experience spans domestic and international legal issues, and he brings a strong expertise in handling high stakes criminal investigations.
Stewart M. Young
An experienced lawyer with over 20 years in legal practice, specializing in Tax Law (FGV, IBET), Negotiation and Dispute Resolution (University of Michigan), International Arbitration (Washington College of Law), and Compliance (LEC-Legal, Ethics, and Compliance). Currently serving as General Counsel and M&A Executive at a major Brazilian retail company, with previous executive roles across Industry, Construction, and Services sectors. Internationally, has held General Counsel roles in the U.S. and Central America. Recognized by Latin Finance and Latin Lawyer in 2011-2012 for leading significant financing and restructuring projects, and honored as a top legal executive in Brazil and internationally from 2021-2024. Active member of the IDV Tax Committee and Global Lawyers Organization (GLO).
Rodrigo Santos
Sumit Attri is a seasoned litigator with over 20 years of experience, specializing in Litigation and Arbitration. He is an Advocate on Record (AOR) at the Supreme Court of India and a Partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, one of India’s leading law firms. Sumit represents global corporates, government entities, and public sector undertakings in a wide range of legal matters, including constitutional law, corporate disputes, insolvency, and white-collar crimes. He regularly appears before the Supreme Court, High Courts, and tribunals across India. In addition to his practice, Sumit is a visiting faculty, judges moot courts, and provides career guidance to law students. He is a member of the SCBA and SCAORA, with degrees in Law and Labour Welfare.
Sumit Attri
Leading Individuals
Claudio Martinez Santistevan, a lawyer with extensive experience in labor law, corporate governance, and public policy. Over the past decade, I have advised multinational companies on complex legal matters, including corporate restructuring, compliance with labor reforms, and large-scale negotiations with unions and government officials. I hold a master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Chicago and have pursued postgraduate studies in Constitutional Law. My passion lies in bridging legal frameworks with public policy to create meaningful change. In addition to my legal practice, I have taught labor law and actively mentor future professionals, fostering growth and leadership in the next generation.
Claudio Martinez Santistevan
Roberto Sacasa, a bilingual Mexican lawyer with a Master’s in Business and Corporate Law, has over 12 years of experience in corporate law, securities, real estate, and commercial law. He has successfully closed numerous mergers, acquisitions, syndicated loans, and stock market operations. Currently the Legal Manager at Bio Pappel Scribe, the largest subsidiary of Bio Pappel, Roberto leads the legal team of one of Latin America's top printing and writing paper companies.
Roberto Sacasa Padilla
Raju Pathan, with over 16 years of legal experience across IT, pharmaceuticals, and outsourcing, I specialize in global legal counsel, contract management, regulatory compliance, and litigation support. I have successfully navigated complex legal landscapes, working with organizations of all sizes, from startups to multinationals. My expertise spans corporate and commercial law, labor law, and international contracts. I’ve led highstakes negotiations, optimized legal risk management, and enhanced operational efficiency. Additionally, I have cultivated strong relationships with senior management, external law firms, and key stakeholders, ensuring effective legal operations. Committed to continuous professional growth, I deliver tailored solutions to support business objectives while ensuring compliance with local and international laws.
Raju Pathan
Vanessa Ivonne Nieto Rodríguez, founder of Nieto Rodríguez Abogados, S.C., has a distinguished career in corporate law, antitrust, and civil litigation. With experience at the federal judiciary and roles with the Ministry of Economy, Stellantis, and Blindajes Secur* Glass, she specializes in bails and insurance litigation at SOFIMEX. Vanessa has international training from the University of Salamanca and Georgetown University and is currently pursuing a master’s in corporate law at Universidad del Valle de México.
Vanessa Ivonne Nieto Rodríguez
Lex Corp, based in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, is a leading law firm with over 12 years of experience, specializing in civil, commercial, real estate, arbitration, family, and economic offenses. With a team of 10 professionals, the firm focuses on strategic litigation and cost-effective solutions. Committed to client satisfaction, Lex Corp offers personalized legal strategies across various practice areas, including corporate law, debt recovery, and family law, ensuring high-quality, tailored services.
Lex Corp
Guadalupe Castro, a distinguished lawyer specializing in intellectual property, innovation, and entrepreneurship, has advanced training from The Hague Academy of International Law and WIPO’s Academy. A legal tech pioneer, she streamlines legal processes in IP, labor law, and technology transfer. Committed to democratizing legal access, Guadalupe empowers entrepreneurs, mentors startups, and collaborates with organizations supporting emerging technologies, advancing inclusivity in IP law and making legal services more accessible.
Guadalupe Castro
Erika R. Raynal Caraveo, a partner at SAC Abogados with 28 years of experience, specializes in intellectual property strategy, corporate law, and compliance. Known for her pioneering work in Legal Tech, Erika has driven technology-led innovations to streamline legal processes and empower clients. Committed to ethical compliance and client success, she leads a collaborative team, advancing SAC Abogados and the broader legal field while modernizing legal practice with integrity and excellence.
Erika R Raynal Caraveo
Liliana Núñez, VP of Legal at SESAJAL and Of Counsel at NGA Legal in Mexico, is an expert in mergers, acquisitions, and corporate law with an LL.M. from NYU. She specializes in international corporate transactions across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Africa, driving compliance and legal process improvements. A dedicated academic, Liliana teaches and publishes on foreign direct investment in Mexico, showcasing her commitment to advancing legal practices in manufacturing and international markets.
Liliana Núñez
Juliana Garcia, a Labor and Employment law specialist from Canoas, Brazil, has over a decade of experience. After graduating from Centro Universitário Ritter dos Reis and completing a postgraduate degree at UFRGS, she worked at Dell for ten years. In 2021, she joined Wildlife to lead global Labor and Employment, later transitioning to Cainiao in 2024. Passionate about diversity, she volunteers with Women in Law Mentoring Brazil and is pursuing an LLM in Business Law at CEU Law School.
Juliana Garcia
Karla Cecilia Ruiz García, an attorney with over 10 years of experience, is the CEO of Ormuz, a pioneering Mexican company transforming the legal industry. Combining her passion for technology and client service, Karla leads her team in driving social justice and innovation. Committed to continuous improvement, she constantly explores new strategies to achieve excellence, aiming to reshape the legal sector and create lasting, positive change through Ormuz’s mission.
Karla Cecilia Ruiz
Fernanda Rizzo Paes de Almeida Pagano Gonçalves, with a Law degree from PUC-SP and Accounting from FIPECAFI-SP, specializes in Tax Law and Tax Procedures. With over 18 years of experience, she advises on litigation and tax consultation, handling cases in administrative and judicial courts nationwide. Known for her strategic defense and expertise in civil procedure, Fernanda authors tax law articles and is a trusted media commentator on key tax precedents.
Fernanda Rizzo Paes de Almeida Pagano Gonçalves
Sergio Sánchez, founding partner of Millán, Ortiz, Dueñes, Sánchez de Pablo y Asociados in Mexico City, holds an LLM in International Dispute Resolution from Queen Mary University of London. Specializing in administrative law, he represents major clients in commercial and administrative litigation, including multinational banks and pharmaceutical companies. His firm, with over 30 lawyers, has raised over US$200 million and drives efficiency through LawTech innovations like case management tools and client bots.
Sergio Sánchez
Maristela Oliveira is a criminal lawyer with offices in Brasília, São Paulo, and New York, registered with OAB/DF and OAB/SP. She holds a graduate degree in Criminal Law and is a PhD student in Constitutional Law. A human rights advocate, she’s Director of ABA New York and active in various legal associations. Co-author of Empreendedoras da Lei Estados Unidos and Todas da Lei, she focuses on gender and justice. Maristela also serves as CEO of MO Brazilian Advisory.
Maristela Oliveira
S.K. Singhi & Partners LLP, led by Managing Partner Mr. S.K. Singhi, is a Kolkata-based law firm with offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and an associate office in Dubai. Known for ethical commitment and client focus, the firm handles complex commercial matters, including insolvency, international arbitration, and bilateral treaties, delivering tailored, tech-driven solutions with integrity and multi-sector expertise.
Surendra Kumar Singhi
Emerging Individuals
Renan Oliveira is a leading compliance expert in regulatory, antitrust, and financial services, holding a law degree from UnB and a master’s in commercial law from USP. Certified in AML (ACAMS) and compliance (LEC), he heads Compliance and MLRO at Binance Brazil, advancing compliance in the crypto sector. With previous roles at Stone, PicPay, Baker McKenzie, and CADE, he’s known for impactful leniency agreements and a commitment to regulatory integrity.
Renan Oliveira
Paola De La Torre is a Lawyer and Notary with expertise in business law and compliance, holding advanced degrees from ESADE, NYU, and IE Business School. With over nine years in ethics and anti-corruption, she leads E-COMPLIANCE Consulting, advising organizations in Guatemala and internationally. Founder of the World Compliance Association's Guatemala Chapter and director of a Compliance Master’s program, she’s a respected advocate for anti-corruption and transparency initiatives.
Paola De La Torre
Kritika Bedi is a dedicated U.S. business and family immigration attorney with an LL.M. from Penn State Law and an MBA from NMIMS. She combines legal and business expertise to offer customized solutions, guiding clients through complex immigration processes with compassion. Her work spans visa applications, family immigration, and employment matters, ensuring clients achieve their goals with confidence.
Kritika Bedi
Rising Indviduals
Patricia Martínez is a bilingual legal advisor with over 12 years of expertise in contract negotiation, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance. She has extensive experience in managing complex transactions, including green bonds and M&A, with a focus on process optimization for multinational clients. Patricia has supported leading organizations like Grupo Energía Bogotá and Credicorp Capital. Known for her innovative approach, she designs streamlined legal frameworks to mitigate risks and enhance efficiency, delivering results that support business growth.
Patricia Martínez
Rodrigo Ruiseñor specializes in administrative law, focusing on litigation and constitutional relief. He advises on intellectual property, health law, and anti-corruption, achieving recognized success for his clients.
Kevin Pavón, an expert in constitutional procedural and corporate law, has over a decade of experience in litigation, consultancy, and administrative procedures. With over 5,000 amparo cases, he is known for securing impactful results and advancing key legal precedents.
Ruiseñor Núñez y Asociados
LEGAL TECH
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