Former Puma Energy Regional Counsel for Latin America Returns to Estrella, LLC to Expand Corporate Practice

Press Release: Estrella LLC Announces Return of Special Counsel José Meléndez

Estrella, LLC is pleased to announce that José A. Meléndez Alfonzo has returned to the Firm and will lead efforts to accelerate the growth and expansion of the Firm’s corporate practice.

After serving as special counsel at the Firm from 2014 until 2017, Meléndez was asked to help a Firm client with creating an in-house legal department. What started as a 3–6-month project with a leading oil company in the region evolved into almost 5 years as Puma Energy’s Regional Counsel for Latin America. “This adventure allowed me the privilege to work with many excellent firms across the region while developing a strong in-house team and a better understanding of current business needs in the legal area,” said Meléndez.

Prior to becoming a lawyer, Meléndez worked through the managerial ranks of a global oil company in the LATAM region. Upon opening his own firm, he concentrated his corporate and notary practice in the small-medium business segment along with leading several M&A transactions in the local market. Through a strategic alliance with Estrella LLC, Meléndez provided many clients with his advice and guidance until his move for the In House Project in September 2017.

“We look forward to this new stage in his career with Estrella LLC providing our clients with his knowledge and experience to achieve their goals,” affirmed Alberto Estrella, the Firm’s Managing Member.