Country of Origin: Ecuador and United States
Year of J.D./LL.M.: 2016
Law School(s) attended: University of Miami School of Law (J.D/LL.M. in International Arbitration–cum laude)
Language(s): English and Spanish
Current Position: Associate, International Arbitration, Allen & Overy LLP, Washington, DC
Relevant past position(s): Associate, International Arbitration, Arnold & Porter LLP, Washington, DC; Associate, International Arbitration, White & Case LLP, Washington, DC; Law Clerk, Astigarraga Davis, Miami, FL.
Awards, Honors, Publications: Future Leader in Arbitration, Who’s Who Legal 2022; Ones to Watch, Best Lawyers 2021, 2022, CALI Award, Presentation of Evidence in International Arbitration, HNBA National Law Student Organization of the Year 2015 (received on behalf of the Hispanic Law Student Association as President of the organization)
What Are Your Current Position, Title, and Day-to-Day Tasks?
I am currently a sixth-year international arbitration associate at Allen & Overy in Washington, DC. Allen & Overy LLP is an international law firm with offices in over 30 countries and a member of the United Kingdom’s Magic Circle of leading law firms. It is widely recognized as one of the top law firms in international arbitration. My day-to-day tasks have grown over the last few months, as I have become a more senior member of the team of associates. In the last year, my tasks range from being responsible for managing cases and teams, strategizing, client management, and drafting pleadings and other substantive memoranda and correspondence. My days usually also consist of taking calls with the team, witnesses, experts, and clients. Besides my obligations to our existing clients, I also assist the team in thought leadership and building new strategic relationships.
How did your LL.M. studies help you build a successful career in the field?
I owe so much of my early success to the International Arbitration LL.M. program. From the practical skills courses in the program to the networking opportunities, everything offered by the LL.M. program played a role in helping me get to where I am today. In the LL.M. program, students can learn from global leaders in International Arbitration, find mentors, and build long-lasting relationships. I can trace almost all my opportunities back to the LL.M. Program.
What was the most impactful experience during your studies at Miami Law?
I cannot limit it to one, so I will say I had three “most impactful” experiences and be brief. First, is the International Moot Court Program, led by Paula Arias. Paula is a fierce competitor and leader who brings the best out of her students. Second, the international negotiations course with Professor Jonathan C. Hamilton of White & Case LLP. It was that course and professor that made me realize this was what I wanted to do and led to my first position out of law school. I am forever grateful for that opportunity and experience. Finally, the International Arbitration Practicum Program. The practicum program gave me the opportunity to hone my skills with two renowned and relentless practitioners, José Astigarraga of Reed Smith and Harout Samra of DLA Piper. They are now great mentors and friends.
What advice would you give an incoming LL.M. student for how to make the most of their LL.M.?
I will skip the obvious (i.e., get good grades and take advantage of the opportunities) and say be always kind and mindful of your actions. You are building your reputation in the field from the moment you step on campus. In the LL.M. program, you are surrounded not only by faculty who are titans of industry but also by your classmates. They are your classmates today, but tomorrow they might be a colleague, boss, arbitrator, or judge.
How has the graduate experience impacted your current work?
The Miami Law community has no boundaries. The connections with friends, mentors, and faculty I met during my time at Miami Law have led to almost every opportunity I have had.
Other Comments?
This seems like a good time to give a shout-out to the program’s leadership. Thank you for everything you do for the students. Sandra Friedrich has done an outstanding job leading the program.
Read more about Miami Law's White & Case International Arbitration LL.M.
