GYH Announces Strategic Partnership with Apolo & Cassinelli
WASHINGTON, D.C. — [March 16, 2026] — Grossman Young & Hammond (GYH), an internationally recognized immigration and international law firm, announced a new strategic partnership with Apolo & Cassinelli, a highly-reputable consortium of attorneys, business leaders, and diplomats from Ecuador. The alliance strengthens the ability of both organizations to support clients and corporations navigating complex cross-border immigration, human rights, criminal and corporate matters.
The partnership brings together GYH’s extensive experience representing individuals and corporations with Apolo & Cassinelli deep network of legal, diplomatic, and business leaders throughout Latin America and beyond. By combining resources and expertise, the organizations will deliver comprehensive and coordinated representation to clients facing increasingly complex international challenges.
Last week, both groups convened at Grossman Young & Hammond’s new office in Washington, D.C. to explore areas of collaboration and identify opportunities to expand their joint impact.
The Apolo & Cassinelli delegation included former Ecuador Ambassador and Minister of Foreign Affairs Luis Gallegos; Jorge Luis Gallegos, an international trade and diplomacy professional who previously served as Commercial Counselor at the Embassy of Ecuador in South Korea; and respected attorney Rafael Balda Santistevan, Partner, who specializes in corporate and financial regulation in Ecuador.
Grossman Young & Hammond’s leadership team was present to welcome the delegation. Partners Sandra Grossman, Becki Young, and Patrick Taurel represented the firm’s core leadership, bringing together deep experience in international law, corporate immigration, and complex litigation.
The firm’s government-side expertise was also represented by Senior Counsel Dave Wetmore, former Chief Appellate Immigration Judge for the Board of Immigration Appeals, and Jason Levy, who previously served as Senior Attorney with the Office of the General Counsel, Immigration Law Division at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Additional members of the GYH team in attendance included senior attorneys and professionals supporting the firm’s Latin American initiatives, including Adriana Robinson, Anne Rowley, Lauren Twist, and Juliana Carvajal-Yepes.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to advancing the rule of law on a global scale,” said Sandra Grossman, Managing Partner of GYH. “By working closely with the excellent team at Apolo & Cassinelli, we expand our ability to assist clients with immigration strategy, international legal advocacy, and human rights protections, while strengthening the networks that allow us to navigate cross-border legal and policy environments effectively.”
Through the collaboration, both organizations will benefit from expanded professional networks and enhanced engagement with policymakers and diplomatic communities. The partnership increases access to members of the United States Congress, national and foreign government officials, foreign service professionals, and other key stakeholders whose insights and relationships are essential to addressing complex international legal issues.
Leaders from Apolo & Cassinelli emphasized that the alliance will also enhance their ability to support clients confronting international human rights concerns and global legal disputes.
“Working with Grossman Young & Hammond allows us to connect our diplomatic and legal expertise with one of the leading immigration and international law practices in the United States,” said Apolo & Cassinelli Luis Gallegos, who formerly served as Ambassador to Ecuador with the UN, where he was a member of the Committee Against Torture. “Together, we are positioned to help individuals, businesses, and institutions navigate international legal systems while promoting the protection of fundamental rights and the rule of law.”
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About Apolo & Cassinelli
Apolo & Cassinelli are a consortium of attorneys, business leaders, and diplomats from Ecuador dedicated to advancing international cooperation, strengthening diplomatic engagement, and supporting clients in matters involving international law, commerce, and human rights.
About Grossman Young & Hammond
Grossman Young & Hammond is a globally recognized immigration and international law firm headquartered in Washington, D.C. The firm represents individuals, families, and organizations in a full spectrum of immigration matters, including litigation, consular processing, waivers, and humanitarian relief. With a steadfast commitment to justice, the firm is a trusted advocate for clients facing complex legal challenges in the U.S. and abroad.
