RAFAEL DE ASSIS HORN

Founding partner of the firm and a practicing lawyer since 1997, Rafael brings a unique and modern perspective to the legal field, enabling him to craft differentiated strategies for tackling complex challenges — particularly in sophisticated dispute resolution, corporate transactions, and contract negotiations. With extensive experience in multifaceted litigation and proceedings before Brazil’s Higher Courts, he is recognized by Chambers & Partners as one of the leading dispute resolution specialists in Southern Brazil. A true legal enthusiast, Rafael envisioned and structured the firm to operate as a full service powerhouse. His blend of legal acumen and administrative vision continues to inspire the entire team. He is also a black belt in judo — a former national runner-up and multiple-time state champion in his category. Currently, Rafael serves as a Federal Counselor at the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB), where he coordinates key strategic initiatives, including the General Coordination of Committees and Legal Departments, as well as the newly established Coordination of Strategic Projects — aimed at strengthening both the legal profession and regional chapters across the country.

• Specialist in international law and business, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina – UFSC (2004);
• Specialist in tax law, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina – UFSC (2001);
• Bachelor of Law, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina – UFSC (1997).

• Vice-President, Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil (2022-2025);
• President, Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil – Santa Catarina (2019-2021);
• President of the National Commission of Credit Cooperatives of the Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil (2013-2018);
• Director Treasurer, Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil – Santa Catarina (2016-2018);
• President, Administrative Council – Sicoob Advocacia (2013-2015);
• Financial Director, Sicoob Advocacia (2005-2013);
• Federal Board Member, Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil – Santa Catarina (2010-2013);
• Senior Judge, Tribunal Regional Eleitoral – TRE/SC (2009-2011);
• Director Secretary General, Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil – Santa Catarina (2007-2009);
• Senior Voting Member, Board of Trade of Santa Catarina – JUCESC (1999-2007);
• Legal Director, Câmara de Dirigentes Lojistas de São José, Santa Catarina (2005-2007);
• President of the Commission of Public Morality, Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil – Santa Catarina (2004-2006).

• Chambers & Partners – Eminent Practitioner – General Business Law: Santa Catarina (2021-2022);
• Chambers & Partners – Leading individual – Dispute Resolution: South – Brazil (2013-2021);
• Leaders League – Dispute Resolution: South (2022-2023);
• Leaders League – Corporate/Commercial: South (2022-2023);
• Leaders League – Civil & Commercial Litigation: Brazil (2018-20219).

English, French and Spanish.

Litigation and Arbitration; Contracts; Asset Management, Family and Estate Law; Corporate Law and M&A.

Real Estate and Civil Construction Business; Credit Unions and Financial Institutions; Industry; Infrastructure, Transportation and Logistics; Third Sector; Agribusiness; Tourism; Energy.