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About Us

The Firm

Widely reputed team with a multidisciplinary approach, handling the full scope of banking and finance mandates. Frequently acts for lenders on acquisition finance and restructurings. Additional focus on regulatory matters as well as project financing issues. Strong cross-border capabilities with a focus on lusophone African matters. Active in the renewable energy, infrastructure and real estate sectors. Clients appreciate that "the lawyers are very dedicated and have a profound knowledge of the market." Interviewees value the team's very strong market presence and "excellent technical knowledge and attention to detail."

Full-service firm with an outstanding reputation in the capital markets sphere. Highly experienced in debt and equity mandates in addition to structured finance. Additionally handles bookbuilding offer mandates. Particularly active within the energy arena. Strong network of international and domestic clients, with experience advising on cross-border matters.  "They are well-prepared lawyers that know all the regulatory and legal frameworks related to this area," underlines a client who adds: "They are well aware of any developments in the market."

Outstanding practice noted for advising on sophisticated domestic and international matters. Active across the full range of competition matters including merger control cases, state aid issues, antitrust investigations and sector-related disputes before both the national and the European courts. Also noted for its experience in abuse of dominance cases. Offers support for clients in appeals to competition authorities and infringement procedures. Client roster comprises companies from diverse industries such as financial services, telecoms and retail, including both public and private entities.

First-rate team of corporate specialists advising on an array of mandates including high-value M&A transactions and joint ventures. Adept at handling multi-jurisdictional mandates, offering notable expertise in other lusophone jurisdictions thanks to international alliances. Draws on experts in tax and employment to provide comprehensive assistance to clients. Offers experience in deals across a wide range of industries, including real estate, life sciences, banking and energy. Clients praise the firm's team for its "availability, quick response to questions, objectivity and excellent technical knowledge." Another source praises the "very good performance: their advice was fully aligned with our objectives on the engagement."

 

 

Outstanding team maintaining a vanguard position by providing a broad employment service, which includes restructuring processes, collective terminations, employment litigations and collective bargaining agreements. Further advises on business transfers and disciplinary proceedings. Represents an array of clients, with strong presence in the banking, consumer goods and pharma industries. "They have a great in-depth analysis, which lets us make well thought out legal decisions," one client says. "Their services are very complete and at the same time easy for people with no knowledge of the laws to understand. They are very friendly and always available."

Exceptional practice that offers a wide scope of expertise across regulatory matters and transactions, with additional abilities in construction. Particularly prominent in the renewable energy sector, advising on solar, hydropower and offshore wind projects. Additionally advises on public tenders, acquisitions and corporate restructurings in the energy industry. Offers cross-border capability and international presence, with a recognised network of alliances in Angola, Macau and Mozambique, assisted by the firm's dedicated Africa and Asia teams. One client highlights: "The lawyers are all very consistent, have a good background and are all aligned, business-oriented and solution-focused."  Another satisfied interview praises the team's "high technical quality" and adds: "The lawyers also have profound knowledge in the area of energy, not only the regulatory aspects of the area, but they know the history of the sector."

Exceptional practice that offers a wide scope of expertise across regulatory matters and transactions, with additional abilities in construction. Particularly prominent in the renewable energy sector, advising on solar, hydropower and offshore wind projects. Additionally advises on public tenders, acquisitions and corporate restructurings in the energy industry. Offers cross-border capability and international presence, with a recognised network of alliances in Angola, Macau and Mozambique, assisted by the firm's dedicated Africa and Asia teams. One client highlights: "The lawyers are all very consistent, have a good background and are all aligned, business-oriented and solution-focused."  Another satisfied interview praises the team's "high technical quality" and adds: "The lawyers also have profound knowledge in the area of energy, not only the regulatory aspects of the area, but they know the history of the sector."

Highly respected insurance team harbouring strong capabilities in both transactional and contentious insurance matters, including M&A, restructuring, bancassurance and claims handling. Retained by insurers for its vast expertise in the implementation of new insurance and reinsurance products. Complementary strength in tax matters. Well placed to handle cross-border instructions, especially in lusophone jurisdictions such as Angola, Mozambique and Macau. Clients underline the team's "high technical competencies, dedication and ability to provide in-depth technical analysis." Interviewees also value the team's "deep knowledge" and project management skills, with one of them adding: "They are always on top on everything and focused on the files."

Notable team with significant activity tackling mandates such as patent litigation, trade mark applications and oppositions, and licensing. Adept at performing contract analysis and acts on settlement negotiations and IP arbitrations. Often retained by well-known clients active in the technology, life sciences, sports and telecommunications industries. According to one satisfied client, "excellent advice is always provided as well as a concerted effort to get to know and understand clients."  "The lawyers are very responsible, taking initiative and ownership for the projects of the client and managing all the details," another client adds.

Notable team with significant activity tackling mandates such as patent litigation, trade mark applications and oppositions, and licensing. Adept at performing contract analysis and acts on settlement negotiations and IP arbitrations. Often retained by well-known clients active in the technology, life sciences, sports and telecommunications industries. According to one satisfied client, "excellent advice is always provided as well as a concerted effort to get to know and understand clients."  "The lawyers are very responsible, taking initiative and ownership for the projects of the client and managing all the details," another client adds.

Renowned outfit with a sizeable team based in Porto, well equipped to advise international corporates, high-profile domestic clients and local businesses on an array of mandates. Houses a deep bench of tax specialists who provide extensive support, encompassing tax litigation and structurings. Robust corporate offering with further prowess in labour, competition and public law. Clients reveal that the lawyers are "very available, friendly and accessible." Other clients praise the team's "great in-depth analysis, which allows us to make well thought out legal decisions."

Experienced department able to provide comprehensive planning advice. Skilled in assisting with tourist ventures and residential development projects, and regularly sought after for its advice on urban regeneration operations, including related tax benefits. Able to advise on land use plans and offers additional expertise in licensing. Also offers support on joint ventures and purchases. Activity extends to representation in planning litigation. One client praises the team's "turnaround timings and thorough knowledge of planning legislation," adding: "They have been instrumental to our activity so far." Another interviewee highlights the team's "wide range of knowledge and experience."

Multidisciplinary firm covering a range of private equity transactions, including acquisitions and incorporations, with recognised abilities in venture capital operations. Offers noteworthy strength in complex cross-border mandates. Represents clients from a variety of sectors including technology, energy and healthcare. One client values the team's "clear explanations, wide experience and strong ethics," adding: "The team is very well organised, with wide experience on both national and international cases." "The team exceeds expectations in terms of performance, always having in consideration the best interest of its client," confirms another interviewee.

Market-leading firm for project finance matters, covering a variety of sectors including renewable energy, automotive and road infrastructure. Typically seen representing the lenders in both financing and refinancing matters, advising local or foreign banks. Offers significant experience in cross-border projects. Clients praise the team's ability to resolve issues, enthusing: "The team is very proactive in finding solutions."The lawyers make us feel secure and safe with their support," another client reveals.

Market-leading team of impressive lawyers covering the full range of public law mandates for private organisations and public bodies. Practice handles regulatory matters, public works contracts, public procurement and public tenders for clients in a range of industry sectors including banking, energy, transport and infrastructure. Offers support in matters relating to real estate contracts and planning legislation. Additional abilities in litigation and arbitration proceedings. One client lauds the team's "knowledge and ability to find solutions," while another remarks: "They are incredibly responsive, with quick turnaround times." Another interviewee highlights the team's "ability to innovate and knowledge of the business."

Experienced team that advises on the full gamut of real estate matters including acquisitions, joint ventures and property bids. Works with a wide range of clients from the banking, hospitality and construction sectors on due diligence, and SPA agreement negotiation and drafting. One client enthuses: "I was very satisfied with all interactions, as they always conducted thorough due diligence and always showed high availability for urgent matters, even during the lockdown period. They provided important support on complex negotiations, including support in the development of a road map with all the conditions precedent for the closing of the transaction." Another client notes: "They are well organised and offer specific knowledge of the subject areas."

Solid insolvency practice group with notable expertise advising on restructuring processes, such as assisting with special revitalisation proceedings and voluntary liquidation. Experienced in representing clients in insolvency liability proceedings. Client roster features an array of domestic and international banking institutions, as well as the directors and shareholders of insolvent companies. Highlighting the team's international capabilities, one client reports: "The firm has the perfect ability to work in several cross-border transactions involving different jurisdictions." The department gains further recognition for its "technical knowledge, availability, speed and ability to integrate several teams."

One client affirms that "the quality of the services provided is outstanding," and further states: "The approach adopted was technically excellent but at the same time very practical." The team is further praised for its "availability to exchange info and know-how with other third parties and colleagues from other countries."

Well-established team with strong experience in privacy issues, as well as in the field of telecoms. Notable activity in helping major multinational clients formulate tailored GDPR programmes. Acts for an array of significant clients including those with activity in the finance, television and gambling arenas. Activity extends to assistance with transactional operations and competition law.

 

Outstanding maritime department with acclaimed cross-border capabilities. Remarkable expertise in issues associated with the International Shipping Registry of Madeira. Advises on different types of vessel agreements, maritime contracts, labour issues and shipping finance queries. Represents a broad range of international banks, transportation firms and financial institutions.

A market source says observes: "Their key strength is their knowledge of all the European tax systems and their capacity to frame solutions adapted to the specific needs." Another remarks: "Their size gives them exposure to many different cases, which gives them the experience to provide their clients with robust and effective solutions."

Lawyers

 

Vítor Pereira das Neves is best known for advising on both project and corporate financing. His expertise also covers finance transactions related to the energy sector.

Carlos Osório de Castro stands out for his longstanding experience in the market, with one source stating: "He is a great lawyer and a reference in the market." His expertise covers public offerings and takeover bids.

Eduardo Paulino rises in the rankings on the back of positive client feedback, with one highlighting his "very good technical knowledge of regulations and legal framework," adding: "He is able to provide solutions to specific operational issues in complex cases."He advises on a variety of capital market transactions, including share capital increases, tender offers, unsecured notes and debt issuances.

Carlos Botelho Moniz is known for his expertise in competition law. He is proficient in handling cases involving state aid.

Joaquim Vieira Peres is well versed in handling cartel and antitrust investigations, appeals and merger control issues.

Luís do Nascimento Ferreira 's experience includes handling merger control, state aid matters, and infringement and investigation procedures.

Eduardo Maia Cadete advises on merger control, state aid matters and private antitrust enforcements. He frequently assists clients in the telecoms and transport sectors.

Pedro de Gouveia e Melo is adept at handling merger control, compliance programmes, and infringement and investigation procedures.

Nuno Galvão Teles is a prominent figure in the corporate sphere. He boasts a strong track record in energy and natural resources transactions.

Carlos Osório de Castro dedicates his practice to sales of share capital and public tender offers. He often assists clients in the energy and hospitality industries.

Segismundo Pinto Basto is adept at handling buyouts, acquisitions and cross-border joint venture transactions. He frequently advises clients in the publishing, advertising and food and drinks industries.

Clients highlight Tomás Vaz Pinto 's ability to "evaluates all probabilities,analyse different routes for a case and offer diverse solutions." He acts for clients from the energy, banking and finance sectors, including venture capital funds.

Eduardo Paulino is known by interviewees to be an "excellent lawyer."He possesses broad experience in handling auction processes, the structuring of transactions and acquisitions of share capital.

Catarina Brito Ferreira specialises in energy-related transactions, frequently advising on acquisitions of share capital, divestments and due diligence. Clients describe her as "dedicated and very client-oriented."

Vítor Pereira das Neves is active in the corporate arena working on negotiations and documentations. He often advises clients from the retail sector.

António Pinto Leite is well recognised for his long track record in acting as both counsel and arbitrator.

Francisco Cortez is well-versed in handling banking and finance disputes as well as litigation proceedings arising in the telecommunications and financial services sectors. One source describes him as a "good lawyer and great coordinator."

Filipe Vaz Pinto dedicates his practice to energy and construction litigation as well as arbitration proceedings. Clients enthuse: "He is very bright, understands things quickly and is very considerate."

Rui Patrício is held in high regard for his support on the full spectrum of corporate crime matters, ranging from money laundering and corruption cases to tax fraud and bribery matters. One client enthuses: "He is a fantastic lawyer, very able and intelligent."

António Pinto Leite is well recognised for his long track record in acting as both counsel and arbitrator.

Luís Miguel Monteiro is an outstanding lawyer with vast experience advising on restructuring processes, collective bargaining agreements and human resources advice. He also represents clients in employment litigation proceedings.

Pedro Pardal Goulão offers support to clients on corporate restructurings, and lay-off and redundancy procedures. He additionally handles terminations and tax issues.

Helena Tapp Barroso is valued by one client for being "focused on solutions for the client,very proactive and a high performer." She assists with human resources restructurings, redundancy procedures and employment litigation proceedings.

 

Catarina Brito Ferreira is well versed in a number of corporate and M&A topics in the energy sector, with further expertise in regulatory matters."She is a working machine, very client-oriented, and her knowledge is excellent. She is very dedicated in responding to the client quickly," enthuses a client.

Vítor Pereira das Neves is best known for advising clients on project finance and acquisitions.

João Anacoreta Correia regularly represents clients in commercial and corporate disputes as well as arbitrations. He additionally advises on mergers and acquisitions.

Bernardo Maria Lobo Xavier has a broad practice that takes in matters such as acquisitions and sales. He further advises on contentious proceedings.

Carlos Osório de Castro is held in particularly high esteem by clients for being an "outstanding lawyer with profound knowledge and great capacity to address difficult issues."He dedicates his practice to advising on sales, acquisitions and litigation proceedings.

Clients are quick to point out that Jorge Simões Cortez has "profound business knowledge." He often advises clients on sales and restructuring processes.

Clients praise Eduardo Verde Pinho for his availability. He routinely assists with sales and litigation proceedings.

Joaquim Vieira Peres heads the firm's competition and EU law department. He advises on the full range of competition matters, including merger control procedures and cartel cases.

Paula Ponces Camanho maintains a strong profile in the employment practice area, advising on lay-off procedures and human resources policies. She also advises on employment-focused litigation mandates.

José Amorim Magalhães frequently advises clients on lay-off procedures and represents clients in litigation proceedings.

António Lobo Xavier receives widespread acclaim from clients for being "pragmatic, focused and always available," as well as for "dominating his expertise areas."He specialises in matters such as tax litigation proceedings and analysis of tax implications, with special expertise in the gaming sector.

António Pedro Braga receives praise from clients for "always looking to serve the client's interests and presenting out-of-the-box solutions." His workload encompasses contribution assessments, tax structurings and tax issues arising from acquisitions.

Vasco Stilwell d'Andrade is experienced in patent litigation and negotiation of IP licensing agreements. "He provides a customised and impeccable service," enthuses a client.

João Pereira Reis 's workload covers a wide range of planning mandates, including licensing and construction matters. He routinely advises renowned real estate investors, international construction firms and public authorities.

Rui Ribeiro Lima is capable of advising on real estate acquisitions, as well as licensing strategies and negotiations with local authorities. Clients describe him as "talented and client-focused, with a solid know-how on planning."

Tomás Vaz Pinto advises leading financial institutions investing in local private transportation companies. He is experienced in handling multi-jurisdictional transactions.

Ricardo Andrade Amaro assists clients with high-value disposals, as well as regulatory issues affecting private equity funds. Clients report that he "is very strong technically and values a long-term relationship with the client."

Luís Roquette Geraldes rises in the rankings due to excellent feedback from clients, who highlight his "coordination skills, multidisciplinary knowledge" and "ability to guide international clients to find a tailor-made legal solution in Portugal." He is well versed in both private equity and venture capital transactions.

Luís Branco is held in particularly high regard for being "very experienced and knowledgeable," as well as a "very good negotiator." He frequently advises on financing deals arising in the renewable energy sector.

Filipe Lowndes Marques is a "very experienced and secure lawyer when it comes to projects," sources state. He is an expert at handling project financing in the renewable energy and road infrastructure sectors.

Cláudia Castanheira dos Santos is known to be "clear in her explanations,"according to her clients. She focuses her work on project financing in the renewable energy and automotive sectors.

João Tiago Silveira has a track record of handling administrative procedures, as well as assisting clients with licensing, environmental law and regulatory mandates. His client roster includes government-owned companies and local authorities.

Clients value Nuno Peres Alves 's "knowledge of the sector, adaptability to customer needs and innovative approach." He is experienced handling administrative proceedings against public authorities.

Margarida Olazabal Cabral has an excellent standing in the market, frequently representing clients in administrative proceedings, as well as assisting with the creation of public-private partnerships. Clients praise her "high level of knowledge," and her "responsiveness, understanding of the matters and flexibility to accommodate."

Miguel Nogueira de Brito is noted for his knowledge of public law matters and ability to handle regulatory mandates. He handles regulatory issues in relation to concessions and public procurement proceedings, as well as representing clients in administrative disputes.

Pedro Costa Gonçalves is a respected figure in the Portuguese public law market for his experience as an arbitrator and his academic credentials. He frequently advises public sector clients on matters concerning contracts and concessions.

Filipa Arantes Pedroso offers support with real estate acquisitions and sales. She assists both domestic and international clients.

The solution-focused João Torroaes Valente stands out for his "strong business acumen and great negotiations skills." He is well versed in a range of real estate transactions including portfolio acquisitions and divestments as well as joint ventures, where he frequently represents both international real estate companies and banks.

Rita Ferreira Vicente often advises banks on acquisition financing and on sale bid processes of real estate properties.

Magda Fernandes enters the rankings after gathering extensive market recognition, with one client particularly praising her "availability and speed in response." She often advises on recovery of credit, special revitalisation proceedings and restructuring proceedings.

Nuno Gundar da Cruz moves up in the rankings after garnering impressive client feedback, with one stating: "Heis a great lawyer, he has a lot of knowledge about his matters and he really tries to understand the client." He focuses his work on special revitalisation processes and insolvency proceedings, including insolvency liability proceedings.

Francisco de Sousa da Câmara represents prominent clients from the financial and energy sectors in acquisitions as well as contentious matters.

António Lobo Xavier is adept at handling both contentious and non-contentious tax matters. Clients perceive him as "one of the most illustrious lawyers."

Bruno Santiago is praised for his "excellent litigation skills" and is adept at advising on both contentious and non-contentious matters. A client comments: "He is very efficient and understands perfectly what risks we were taking."

Tiago Félix da Costa has particular activity in the execution of GDPR compliance programmes on behalf of clients in the financial services sector.

Nuno Peres Alves regularly advises domestic telecoms clients on tender processes and framework agreements.

Claudia Santos Cruz regularly acts for international banks, maritime companies and port operators. She assists with regulatory, tax and vessel finance-related issues.

Francisco de Sousa da Câmara has a wealth of experience advising clients on tax matters. "He is a standout for private client. He knows international tax well," says a peer, while another remarks: "He is very knowledgeable and he also provides good attention to the client." An impressed client enthuses: "He was quick to understand our case and come up with solutions or advice to our problems. One of the characteristics we like about him is that he is very meticulous when it comes to trying to understand exactly what our issues are."

Bruno Santiago assists affluent clients with matters related to domestic and international tax planning. "He is a good tax lawyer who can handle private client issues too," says a source. Another remarks: "Apart from being knowledgeable, he provides excellent client service."