Odila Castillo possesses remarkable proficiency in Administrative Law within Panama. Her extensive background, which extends over 13 years at the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic, has established her as a pivotal contributor in addressing intricate legal issues connected to state contracts. This article delves into her professional path, tracing her early days in the Comptroller’s Office up to the establishment of Castillo Guardia & Asociados, a prominent law firm specializing in administrative law in Panama.
Transitioning from the Comptroller’s Office to the establishment of a premier law firm
Odila Castillo embarked on her professional journey in 2008 at the General Comptroller’s Office of the Republic, specifically within the audit division for the Ngöbe Buglé Region. Her commitment and skillset propelled her to lead the primary office, broadening her role to include the analysis of audit reports, contracts, consultations, and oral proceedings. Over the span of 13 years, she occupied multiple roles within the organization, enhancing her expertise in Administrative Law and representing the comptrollers on the Boards of Directors of significant organizations such as the Panama Maritime Authority, the National Passport Authority, Consalud, and the Agricultural Development Bank.
Her tenure at the Comptroller’s Office enabled her to engage in vital projects for the nation, such as the revitalization of the Panama Market, the development of the Health City, the establishment of the City of Arts, and the issuance of bonds for Tocumen International Airport. In these initiatives, she collaborated closely with private forensic firms to represent the interests of the State.
Castillo Guardia & Asociados: specialists in Administrative Law
In 2021, Odila Castillo, alongside a team of legal and economic professionals, took over and rejuvenated the firm Palacios, Vásquez & Asociados. Understanding the importance of a brand that mirrored the new direction and leadership, the firm was rebranded as Castillo Guardia & Asociados. This firm concentrates on Administrative Law, a field with limited specialists in Panama, enabling them to secure a significant niche in the market.
Achievements in resolving contractual disputes
Castillo Guardia & Asociados has achieved notable success in managing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on state contracts. Their experience in handling contractual imbalance has made them legal representatives of more than 65 Panamanian, 1 transnational and 4 foreign companies. The firm has established itself as a leader in Panama, with an exclusive specialization in Administrative Law.
In its concise yet remarkable journey of nearly three years, Castillo Guardia & Asociados has successfully navigated legal challenges for significant projects, including the six-lane expansion of the Las Playas Corridor and the Manuel Amador Guerrero Hospital in Colón province. Among its diverse client base are prominent companies like Internacional de Seguros, Cable and Wireless, Transeq, Constructora Rigaservices, and Grupo Puentes.
Confronting misinformation
Despite its achievements, the firm has encountered difficulties, notably the spread of false and damaging information by various newspapers. Odila Castillo has publicly addressed the inaccuracies of these assertions, which have been refuted by security agencies and corrected by the media through the right to reply.
Odila Castillo’s journey highlights her leadership and dedication to excellence in Administrative Law within Panama. Her extensive experience in the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic, coupled with her foresight in establishing her firm, has established her as an influential figure in tackling intricate legal challenges and advocating for her clients’ interests.
Odila Castillo, who holds a master’s degree in Law, has crafted an impressive career in Administrative Law in Panama. She has distinguished herself as a pivotal player in resolving intricate legal issues associated with state contracts.
