El despacho

This team is traditionally strong in Cantabria and is increasing its profile in Madrid, where it is quickly establishing a reputation as a favourite with the administrative authorities. The six-member team recently advised the health department of La Rioja's regional government on the PPP project for the construction and development of an administrative building complex.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Emiliano Garayar is a favourite with administrative bodies and led the team assisting a subsidiary of the Institut Catala de Finances on the new legal framework for public infrastructure facilities.

This compact outfit is developing an enviable portfolio of clients. The department has a focus on the energy sector and also takes on contentious work. Recent highlights include representing a Spanish subsidiary of GDF SUEZ  in administrative proceedings before the Spanish Supreme Court, challenging a Royal Decree involving carbon-fired power plants. The team stands out for its "high-quality work, proactive approach and customer orientation," interviewees say.

This relatively compact but solid independent firm was established in Madrid in 2006, and is gaining ground in the Spanish market. The public law practice is comprised of five lawyers dedicated to administrative matters, with particular expertise in finance, energy and infrastructure. The group has clout in Santander, where it is advising CEP Cantabria on a project to build and manage one hospital and four health centres in the region. In the energy sector, the firm advises Endesa and its subsidiaries on various public law issues.