Although Mexico is working to simplify its regulatory framework, as in any modern society many aspects of doing business are governed by a mixture of statutes, regulations, and official practice. Mexico has also been reducing the direct participation of government in business, leading to the privatization of many companies and operations previously government owned. Finally, as a result of better government practice, the requirements of free trade treaties, and privatization, bidding for government procurement, and public works projects has assumed increasing importance. Basham, Ringe y Correa offers services, not only in assisting clients in complying with administrative laws and regulations in these areas, whether federal, state or local, but also in defending clients against government decisions which infringe the rights guaranteed by law and Mexico’s Federal Constitution.

The practice group offers the following services in this area, among others, advising on:

• Government audits, demands, and penalties

• Expropriations and illegal occupation of property

• Licenses, concessions, and permits

• Administrative relief against government decisions

• Nullity actions related to state and federal laws

• Amparo proceedings against legislation

• Litigation before state and federal administrative tribunals

• Public  bidding,  invitations  to  bid,  and  direct  awarding  of  public  contracts,  state, federal, and international

• Complaints against irregularities in public acquisitions, public works, and awarding of public contracts

• Public servant liability