This full-service firm is universally recognised for the strength of its tax practice, and continues to lead the field. With offices in Lisbon, Porto and Madeira, it is close to the country’s main business players and has become a byword for both quality and quantity. The team covers advisory and litigious tax matters. Recent highlights include providing counsel to Chevron in relation to its local subsidiaries and the structuring of its investments.

The shipping practice at this Portuguese powerhouse is spread across offices in Lisbon, Porto and Madeira. It primarily handles ship registration and assists banks with finance, as well as the management of shipping companies based in Madeira.

Shipping law is a key strength of Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados’ 19-strong transport law team. ‘Able to give precise advice on time and with an exceptional attention to detail’, the team is led by António Lobo Xavier in Oporto, and Francisco de Sousa da Câmara, who splits his time between Lisbon and Madeira. The team advises a range of international and domestic shipping companies on management and maintenance procedures, and on the registration of fleet vessels with the International Shipping Register of Madeira.

Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados’ Oporto team by size, reach and the scale of work it handles, has an edge over its competitors. Regarded as ‘the complete commercial team’, and replete with ‘strong experience and hands-on skills’, the group works seamlessly with counterparts in other offices on large finance and corporate deals. The ‘deeply knowledgeable’ Carlos Osório de Castro advised Banco Comercial Portugês on a €900m issue of subordinated debt and more widely handles a range of corporate and finance matters. Joaquim Vieira Peres is a prominent figure on competition matters and has advised on competition compliance programmes for several clients. António Lobo Xavier’s tax work marks him out as ‘an exemplary adviser’ and he counts Jerónimo Martins, Mota Engil and Sonaecom among his clients. Eduardo Verde Pinho also draws praise for his ‘intelligence and personal approach’, and in 2008 he advised Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Hílario Lima on the sale of share capital to SwissLab.

"Excellent" tax specialist Francisco de Sousa da Câmara leads the group in Lisbon and Madeira, and is held in high regard by commentators.

Also a leading figure in the market, Porto practice head António Lobo Xavier draws praise for his "profound expertise," deep understanding of the big picture and ability to deal with complex problems.

Funchal-based associate Cátia Henriques Fernandes is recommended for her shipping knowledge.