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Portrait ofLorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla

Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla

Partner

CMS Rodríguez-Azuero
Carrera 11 #77a-99
Edificio Revista Semana
Bogotá
Colombia
Languages Spanish, English, French

Lorenzo is a Partner for the Firm in the Technology, Media & Communications (TMC) and Antitrust, Competition & Trade practices and coheads the Dispute Resolution team. He has more than 21 years of experience advising national and international clients on matters of data protection and privacy, technology, Internet, fintech, e-commerce and telecommunications. Also, he has significant experience in regulation and arbitration.

Lorenzo is a recognized expert in telecommunications and Internet law and has advised on matters related to disruptive technologies, big data, artificial intelligence, fintech, cyber-security, start-ups and telecommunications regulatory issues. In terms of privacy and data protection, Lorenzo has advised national and foreign companies in the implementation of the Colombian data protection law and has significant academic experience in these matters.

Likewise, he has advised and represented in competition matters. He has been a professor at different universities in law and regulation of telecommunications, Internet, electronic commerce, data protection, arbitration and constitutional law.

Professional Experience

  • 2018-present – Partner, CMS Rodríguez-Azuero, Bogotá, Colombia
  • 2010-2018 – Director, Lorenzo Villegas Consultores y Abogados, Bogotá, Colombia
  • 2006-2010 – Chairman and Commissioner,
  • Regulatory Telecommunications Commission (CRT), Bogotá, Colombia
  • 2004-2006 – Associate, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, International Law and International Arbitration Group, Paris, France
  • 2001-2002 – Legal Advisor, Regulatory Telecommunications Commission (CRT), Bogotá, Colombia
  • 2000-2001 – Law clerk for Chief Justice Vladimiro Naranjo, Constitutional Court, Bogotá, Colombia
  • 2000 – Councilor, Administrative Town Council of Chapinero Bogotá, Colombia
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A client describes Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla as an "excellent, prestigious and knowledgeable lawyer," adding: "He is rigorous with the details and always available to provide clarity to clients." A different client is quick to praise him for his "professionalism, innovative solutions and strong analytical capabilities." He is widely recognised as an expert in data protection matters.

Chambers & Partners 2021

Memberships & Roles

  • Young Arbitrators Forum, Internacional Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
  • Grupo de Estudios en Internet, Comercio Electrónico, Telecomunicaciones e Informática – GECTI, Facultad de Derecho, Universidad de los Andes
  • Réseaux de Contrats Publics dans la Globalisation, MADP-Science Po
  • Asociación Iberoamericana de Estudios de Regulación, ASIER
  • Young International Arbitration Group (YIAG), London Court of International Arbitration – LCIA
  • Association de Droit Public de l´Économie, Universidad de París 2
  • International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) Young & International Association, American Arbitration Association – AAA
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Awards & Rankings

  • Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla, recognized in Chambers Latin America 2024, in the area of TMT (Band 1).
  • Recognition Legal 500 Latin America 2024, in the areas of TMT, Competition and Antitrust.
  • Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla, Recognition in Legal 500 Latin America 2024 as Leading Individual in the area of TMT (Tier 2).
  • Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla, Recognition in Legal 500 Latin America 2024 as Recommended Lawyer in the areas of TMT (Tier 2), Competition and Antitrust.
  • Area recognition: Latin Lawyer 250 2024, Telecoms and Media, Highly Recommended.
  • Leaders League 2024, recognition in the areas of Venture Capital as Excellent and Competition / Antitrust as Recommended.
  • Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla, Recognition in Global Competition Review 2023 as Recommended Lawyer.
  • Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla, recognized in Who’s Who Legal 2023, in Fintech & Blockchain.
  • Best Lawyers 2023, Information Technology Law (Lawyer of the year).
  • Best Lawyers 2023, Communications Law and Administrative Law.
  • Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla, Recognition in Lawyer Network Annual Awards as Internet Law Expert of the Year in Colombia – 2023
  • Leaders League 2023, recognition in the area of Data Protection (Leading).
  • Leaders League 2023, recognition in the area of Innovation, Technology & Telecoms (Excellent).
  • Leaders League 2023, recognition in the area of Media & Entertainment (Highly Recommended).
  • A client describes Lorenzo Villegas-Carrasquilla as an "excellent, prestigious and knowledgeable lawyer," adding: "He is rigorous with the details and always available to provide clarity to clients." A different client is quick to praise him for his "professionalism, innovative solutions and strong analytical capabilities." He is widely recognised as an expert in data protection matters. Chambers & Partners 2021.
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Publications

  • Author, "Regulation as proven fact in international investment arbitration", pending publication
  • Author, "Debates about the consent to the arbitration agreement by the State in international investment arbitration", Arbitral Law Treaty, Volume I, Editorial Ibañez Group, 2011
  • Author, "Investment protection agreements and the regulatory power of the State: an analysis of indirect expropriation and fair and equitable treatment", International Review of Arbitration no: 12, pgs. 57-104, January-June, 2010
  • Author, "The Law on ICT and the regulation of telecommunications: the Communications Regulation Commission", Comments to the Law on Information and Communication Technologies - ICT (Law 1341 of 2009), Universidad Externado De Colombia, 2010 .
  • Author, "Regulation and foreign investment: The Treaties of Reciprocal Promotion of Investments and the standard of Fair and Equitable Treatment", International Law, Colombian Journal of International Law, N ° 15, July-December 2009
  • Author, "Problems of modern contracting and consumer protection in information and communication technologies", Universitas, No. 117, July-December 2008
  • Author, "New Generation Networks, Cybersecurity and the Right of Telecommunications Users", Telecommunications Law, GECTI, Uniandes Editions - Editorial Témis, 2008
  • Author, "Market Economy and Telecommunications", Perspectiva Magazine, Institute of Political Science, edition No. 15, December 2007
  • Author, "Legal Notion of Regulation", 15 years of telecommunications regulation in Colombia, CRT, 2007
  • Author, "Reflections on the Consolidation of the Regulatory State", 15 years of telecommunications regulation in Colombia, CRT, 2007
  • Author, "Advances in telecommunications: analysis", La República, August 31, 2007
  • Author, "Security in telecommunications networks", Protection and Security, Colombian Security Council, year 53, No. 313, May-June 2007
  • Author, "The action of tutelary a new mechanism for review of arbitration awards in Colombia?", Revista de Arbitragem e Mediacao, No. 7, October-December 2005
  • Author, "Design and institutional performance of regulatory agencies", www.dussan.net, 2005
  • Author, "Regulation of public services: constitutional redefinition of the Colombian State", Constitutional law, critical perspectives, Legis, Bogotá, 2001
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Education

  • 2004 – Master in Economic Public Law (DESS), University of Paris 2 Pantheon Assas, Paris, France
  • 2003 – Master in Constitutional law – with honors (DSU), University of Paris 2 Pantheon Assas, Paris, France
  • 2002 – International training program in utilities regulation and strategies – focus in telecommunications, University of Florida and the World Bank, Gainesville, Florida
  • 2000 – Lawyer, University of Los Andes, Law School, Bogotá, Colombia
  • 2001 – B.A. Political Science, University of Los Andes, Political Science department, Bogotá, Colombia
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Feed

30/10/2024
2024 ITechLaw European Conference in Munich
CMS lawyers are pleased to be attending the ITechLaw European Conference 2024 held in Munich on 30 October - 1 November. Below you can find our top tips for those visiting Munich for the conference, helpfully provided by our Technology lawyers based in the Munich office:Munich (Germany) is the capital of Bavaria. It is a city strongly influenced by Bavarian traditions and rich in history and culture. Many people refer to Munich as the northernmost city in Italy. This is due to the mild summer climate, a touch of Mediterranean flair and the short geographical distance to Italy. Some Facts: Distances:From Munich to the Italian border = 180 Km (approx. 112 miles)From Munich to Hamburg = 770KM (approx. 480 miles)From Munich to Berlin (580 KM (approx. 360 miles)Pop­u­la­tion:1.589.706 inhabitants (2024). The third-largest city in Germany after Berlin and Ham­burgThe city's metropolitan region is home to about 6.2 million people and the third biggest metropolitan region by GDP in the European Uni­on­Re­com­men­ded:Art and Culture: Munich boasts world-class museums, galleries, and theaters. Visit the Alte Pinakothek for art lovers, the Deutsches Museum for science enthusiasts, and catch a performance at the Bavarian State Opera. Rich History: Munich is steeped in history, from its medieval origins to its role as the capital of Bavaria. Explore iconic landmarks like Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the historic city gates. Green Spaces: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in Munich's expansive green spaces. Relax in the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world, or explore the botanical wonders of the Botanical Garden. Transportation: Munich's efficient public transportation system makes it easy to navigate the city. Utilize the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses (the easiest way to buy tickets is via MVV app), or explore by bike along the city's extensive network of cycling paths. Day Trips: Take advantage of Munich's central location to explore nearby attractions. Embark on day trips to the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, the picturesque town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or the charming villages of the Bavarian Alps. English-friendly Destination: While German is the official language, English is widely spoken and understood in Munich. Visitors can easily communicate with locals and navigate the city without language barriers. Safety and Cleanliness: Munich is known for its safety and cleanliness. Enjoy peace of mind as you explore the city's streets, parks, and attractions. Beer Culture: Munich is synonymous with beer, particularly during Oktoberfest. Experience Bavarian beer culture at traditional beer gardens like Hofbräuhaus and Au­gustin­er-Keller. Bavarian Cuisine: Indulge in hearty Bavarian dishes such as weißwurst (white sausage), pretzels, schnitzel, and sauerkraut. Don't miss out on trying traditional Bavarian delicacies at local restaurants and beer gardens e.g. Hofbräuhaus. Not re­com­men­ded:Trav­el­ling without cash: Don’t forget cash (there are still many local markets and smaller establishments that don't accept credit cards in Munich). Late hour shopping: Don't expect 24/7 shopping (unlike most major cities, Munich has strict shopping hours, and the shops close at 8pm on weekdays). Ordering the wrong beer: Don’t order a “Pilsener (Pils)”, always order a “Helles”. Ordering Bavarian wines: Why order a wine from Franken (a famous wine region in Bavaria) if you can order a French or Italian wine? Or at least a decent wine from the Rheingau; Pflalz or Mosel. Feeding the pigeons: Feeding pigeons is not allowed in and around Munich. Walking on bike lanes: Munich is full of bikers and there are many bike lanes. Please be aware that there might be a lot of traffic on the bike lanes and watch out for speedy bikers when you are a pedestrian. At CMS, we are proud to have some of the leading global legal specialists in the technology, media and communications sector. Fuelled by huge customer demand for cutting-edge products and increased supply of pioneering services, the sectors of technology, media and communications are each undergoing unprecedented change. Innovation is key, and so tech and telecoms suppliers, and creators and distributors of media, need to protect their investments and maximise their commercial opportunities. At CMS, our global team of over 1000 specialist Technology, Media and Communications (TMC) lawyers has been exposed to virtually every risk and challenge you face. With our long-standing focus on advising players, users, regulators and financiers in the sector, we are best placed to deliver innovative solutions through our award-winning disputes, transactions, IP, commercial, data privacy and security, employment and tax practices. To find out more about our capabilities across TMC, please visit International TMC webpage.
08/05/2024
2024 World Technology Law Conference in Washington
CMS lawyers are pleased to be attending the ITechLaw World Technology Law Conference 2024 held in Washington on 8-10 May. Below you can find an overview of our attending partners, representing a large range of jurisdictions and practice areas. To arrange a meeting, please contact the individual lawyers directly. At CMS, we are proud to have some of the leading global legal specialists in the technology, media and communications sector. At CMS, our global team of over 1000 specialist Technology, Media and Communications (TMC) lawyers has been exposed to virtually every risk and challenge you face. With our long-standing focus on advising players, users, regulators and financiers in the sector, we are best placed to deliver innovative solutions through our award-winning disputes, transactions, IP, commercial, data privacy and security, employment and tax practices. To find out more about our capabilities across TMC, please visit International TMC webpage. For further information, please see our partners attending the congress in the gallery below and an overview of all our expertise areas.
09/04/2024
The Register of Excluded Numbers will be updated on April 10, 2024
On April 2, 2024, the Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) announced that it will update the Registry of Excluded Numbers (RNE) on April 10, 2024. The purpose of this update is to allow individuals...
09/04/2024
AI Act and its implications on the automotive industry
Join us for an exclusive webinar where we delve into the intricacies of the AI Act and its implications in the automotive industry. As AI continues to revolutionize the way vehicles are designed, manufactured, and operated, it's imperative for industry professionals to understand the regulatory landscape shaping its usage. Our webinar brings together a panel of distinguished experts, including legal luminaries, representatives from the European Commission, and experts from EU legislative bodies. They will provide invaluable insights, guidance, and interpretation on the AI Act's provisions, ensuring that participants gain a comprehensive understanding of its impact on automotive innovation and compliance.
26/02/2024
CMS at Mobile World Congress
CMS lawyers are pleased to be attending the Mobile World Congress held in Barcelona on 26 – 29 February.  Below you can find an overview of our attending partners, representing a large range of jurisdictions and practice areas. To arrange a meeting, please contact the individual lawyers directly. At CMS, we are proud to have some of the leading global legal specialists in the technology, media and communications sector. Fuelled by huge customer demand for cutting-edge products and increased supply of pioneering services, the sectors of technology, media and communications have each undergone unprecedented change. Innovation is key, and so tech and telecoms suppliers, and creators and distributors of media, need to protect their investments and maximise their commercial opportunities. Our global team of over 800 specialist Technology, Media and Communications (TMC) lawyers has been exposed to virtually every risk and challenge you face. With our long-standing focus on advising players, users, regulators and financiers in the sector we are best placed to deliver innovative solutions through our award-winning disputes, transactions, IP, commercial, data privacy and security, employment and tax practices. To find out more about CMS Technology, Media and Communications cap­ab­il­it­ies, vis­it our webpage belowLearn more about TMCFor further information, please see our partners attending the congress in the gallery below and an overview of all our expertise areas.
19/02/2024
Open banking in Colombia: One step ahead
The operation of open finance is becoming a reality in Colombia. This scheme allows entities under the surveillance of the Superintendency of Finance to share their client's financial information with...
07/02/2024
CMS Expert Guide to Crypto Regulation in Colombia
Disclaimer: This chapter was last updated on 5 September 2023 and does not reflect any subsequent developments. The information provided is intended for general informational purposes and should not be...
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29/12/2023
CMS Disputes Talk
Our CMS Disputes Talk podcast series is delving into the hottest trends in dispute resolution. Join us as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of legal conflicts, offering insightful discussions, expert...
04/12/2023
International arbitration law and rules in Colombia
Alternative dispute resolution, including arbitration, is the most effective way to overcome delays in ordinary justice in Colombia. Commercial arbitration is the preferred method to resolve disputes...
20/11/2023
Data protection and cybersecurity laws in Colombia
Data protection 1. Local data protection laws and scope Articles 15 and 20 of Colombia’s Constitution recognises the right to privacy and to data rectification as fundamental rights. Law Nº 1581...
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19/10/2023
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Investigations brought by the Superintendency of Industry and Commerce (the "SIC" or the "Authority"), arising from antitrust challenges, may be prematurely dismissed provided that the defendants offer...
18/09/2023
PUBLIC PROCUREMENT OF TECHNOLOGY IN COLOMBIA: THE NEW SCHEME OF THE DYNAMIC...
In recent years digital transformation has been one of the most relevant topics in government plans in Colombia and Latin America. The modernization of the State has been considered as one of the essential...