This groundbreaking case was filed under Title III of the the 1996 Helms-Burton Act, which allows U.S. nationals who claim ownership of property confiscated by the Cuban government without compensation to sue companies who have profited or “trafficked” in that property. The lawsuit was brought by Mario Echevarría, one of the heirs of a Cuban family that claimed ownership of Cayo Coco, a small key off the northern coast of central Cuba, against Expedia Group, Inc., Hotels.com, and Orbitz.
Sylmarie played a key role during the trial, conducting two direct examinations and a cross examination. She also contributed to pre-trial preparations, managed demonstratives, and provided on-the-spot support. Trials like these, that are the first of their kind, are inherently challenging. Since this was the first-ever Helms-Burton case to go before a jury, it left the team without any precedent or established framework to guide them.
In reflecting on the trial, Sylmarie remarks: “I am grateful for the teamwork and camaraderie of my colleagues—through careful planning, delegating tasks based on our strengths, and efficient time management, we were able to charter a path to victory.”
Describing the experience as an “invaluable professional opportunity,” Sylmarie reflected on the trial’s significance, not just for her career, but for the broader Cuban-American community. “I am honored to have participated in this case,” she said, adding that she looks forward to continuing to advocate for others in similar circumstances. She also recognized the influence of her parents whose guidance and support shaped her journey, stating, “I know they are watching and cheering me on from above.”
Sylmarie earned her J.D. at FIU College of Law in 2014, where she was the first Business Manager for the FIU Law Review and also served as the Executive Managing Editor. She competed with both the Trial Advocacy and Moot Court teams, earning the 10th Best Oralist award in the international round of the Price Media Moot Court Competition at Oxford University. Reflecting on her education, she says, “Without a doubt, the education I received at FIU Law allowed me to hit the ground running after graduation.” She credits the Legal Skills and Values program for developing her ability to research and draft legal writing efficiently, with a focus on persuasiveness and attention to detail. She also attributes much of her success to the Trial and Appellate Advocacy programs, which taught her how to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences.