Strategic legal counsel from initial investment to mine closure.
We guide investors through every stage of their mining projects in Chile, from market entry to full-scale operations. Establishing a successful mining enterprise requires more than just capital; it demands precise navigation of local regulations.
MCO Partners provides the critical information, strategic analysis, and seamless legal execution required to establish your presence. We act as your dedicated local partner, ensuring that your investment is secure, your corporate structure is optimized, and your operations remain fully compliant with the Chilean regulatory
Our comprehensive support covers the entire lifecycle of the mining asset, providing rigorous management of permits, contracts, and regulatory obligations. Our specialized services
Services
Foreign Investment and Market Entry
Step-by-step legal guidance, monitoring and drafting of contracts for foreign entities establishing mining operations in Chile.
Concessions and Title Searches
Execution of procedures for the establishment of mining concessions for exploration and exploitation, along with exhaustive due diligence processes and title studies.
Corporate Structuring
Incorporation and modification of companies, including Contractual Companies (SCM) and Legal Companies (SLM) in the mining sector, management and legal support at shareholder meetings.
Operational Rights and Contracts
Negotiation of mining contracts, purchase and sale, lease, options, processing of water rights before the General Directorate of Water and management of mining easements.
Assistance in processing permits
Before the administrative institutions, prior to the start of exploration and exploitation work
Mining Litigation and Expert Support
Legal representation in contentious mining trials and specialized support for mining judicial experts.
Life Cycle Closure and Compliance Law.
Ongoing support in operational obligations, including rigorous compliance with the Law on the Closure of Mining Operations in Chile.
Partners in Charge
Marta Cecilia Ortigosa
Founding Partner
Marta Cecilia Ortigosa founded Mco Partners in 2025.
With over 15 years of uninterrupted experience practicing law, she is a lawyer specializing in mining legislation, providing support in the implementation and monitoring of mining projects.
Cristobal Hurtado O.
Managing Partner
An architect from the Central University of Chile.
With continuous professional practice since 2012. Specializing in Urban Planning and Territorial Development, Cristóbal leads the technical integration within MCO Partners.
FAQ
How does MCO Partners ensure the safe entry of foreign capital into the Chilean mining market?
Law 20848 in Chile establishes the framework for foreign direct investment in Chile and creates the corresponding institutions. MCO Partners will guide you through the entire process.
Foreign direct investment is defined as the transfer to the country of foreign capital or assets owned or controlled by a foreign investor, in an amount equal to or greater than five million US dollars or its equivalent in other currencies.
Likewise, foreign direct investment will be considered to be that which, within the amounts referred to in the preceding paragraph, is transferred to the country and materializes through the acquisition of or participation in the equity of the company or in the capital of the company receiving the investment, incorporated in Chile in accordance with Chilean law, directly or indirectly, granting it control of at least 10% of the voting rights of the company's shares, or an equivalent percentage of participation in the share capital if it is not a corporation, or in the equity of the company in question.
How can I ensure that my operation maintains compliance throughout its lifespan?
Mco Partner will accompany you, guide you, and/or provide you with guidelines on the applicable regulations at each stage of the mine's life cycle, which must be followed until the "Mine Closure Certificate" is received in accordance with regulations.
What happens if a conflict arises over the mining ownership of my project?
Our team is trained in the legal defense of assets. We intervene swiftly to protect your rights and work closely with experts, providing technical and legal support in the ordinary courts to resolve disputes.
MCO Partners | Legal Advisors for Mining in Chile