Rodrigo Uria, the chairman of Slaughter and May Spanish best friend Uria Menendez, passed away this week (17 July).

Uria, who was the firm's managing partner from 1978 until 2005, died as the result of a heart attack while in Croatia. He was 66.

Uria oversaw the development of a practice that became widely regarded as one of the country's elite law firms. He also engaged in fee earning, working in the corporate practice.

He had a significant reputation in both legal and academic circles in Spain and held a number of other roles. These included being a member of the board of directors of Barclays Bank, chairman of the Royal Board of Trustees of the Prado Museum and chairman of the Professor Uria Foundation.

Uria Menendez founding partner Aurelio Menendez commented: "Rodrigo was a leader for us, but also a close friend who always knew when to say the appropriate words and when to give the right advice."

He added: "His characteristics, firmness, courage, and honesty, prevail and will always remain alive amongst us. His indelible memory and the affection we feel for him are his legacy."

For those wishing to pay tribute, click here to share your recollections of Rodrigo.