What we do
- Applications for permits, licenses and authorizations
- Defense in sanctioning and inspection proceedings
- Requests for reconsideration and hierarchical appeals
- Nullity claims, public service claims and State liability claims
- Public procurement: bids, challenges and contract performance
- Expropriations and temporary occupations
When to contact us
- A public body refused a permit or has not answered your application.
- Sanctioning proceedings were opened against you or a fine was imposed.
- You plan to bid in a tender or have a contract with the State.
- An administrative act affects your property or business.
Legal basis
- Organic Law on Administrative Procedures (LOPA, 1981)art. 94, reconsideration; art. 95, hierarchical appeal.
- Organic Law on Administrative Courts (LOJCA, 2010)art. 32, deadlines for nullity claims.
- Public Procurement Lawselection procedures and performance of State contracts.
Frequently asked questions
What are the deadlines to challenge an administrative act in Venezuela?
Under the LOPA, a request for reconsideration is filed within 15 business days of notification, and a hierarchical appeal within 15 business days of the reconsideration decision. A nullity claim before the courts generally lapses after 180 calendar days (LOJCA, art. 32).
What if the administration does not answer my application?
Unless a special rule applies, administrative silence is treated as a refusal for the purpose of appealing, so you can move to the next remedy or to the courts without waiting indefinitely. A claim for failure to act can also be brought when the body is required to act and does not.
Can a foreign company contract with the Venezuelan State?
Yes, by meeting the requirements of the Public Procurement Law and the terms of each procedure, including registration with the National Contractors Registry where applicable. In regulated sectors such as hydrocarbons, special rules also apply.