José Rafael Fernández Joins NOVIS in Costa Rica

We’ve added one of the most respected voices in Costa Rican refereeing to our team.

Novis Law Firm · July 2026

At NOVIS, we welcome José Rafael Fernández, a lawyer, arbitrator, and academic with more than three decades of experience in arbitration, infrastructure, and international law. His addition strengthens our Arbitration and Public Law practice in Costa Rica and throughout the Central American region.

José Rafael naturally embodies what defines us. He is a staunch believer in the rule of law and, at the same time, an academic who is passionate about scholarship and approachable to others. He has served as sole arbitrator, co-arbitrator, and chair of tribunals in more than 100 arbitration proceedings, and is listed by the leading arbitration centers in Costa Rica and international centers in Ibero-America.

His impact on the arbitration community extends beyond the courtroom: he served as president of the Costa Rican chapter of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and spearheaded the International Arbitration Congress in Costa Rica. He is a member of the Spanish Arbitration Club and, in the academic sphere, directs the law program at the Catholic University of Costa Rica, where he trains new generations in international law and arbitration.

With José Rafael, NOVIS reaffirms its path: that of a unique project that combines the highest standards of legal rigor with an approach that is accessible, strategic, and deeply committed to the rule of law. We enthusiastically welcome him.

Learn about our Arbitration and Public Law Practice

We support companies and institutions throughout Central America. Email us at info@novislegal.com