Clients were impressed with the quality of this ten-lawyer team’s work. The group has considerable experience in the field and has rendered advice to the Portuguese government and municipalities regarding urban operations and the provision of innovative solutions. Clients/Work Highlights: The team advised the Portuguese government on the creation of a programme to relocate several ministries and public services. It assisted Sonae on real estate matters relating to shopping centres, land use and planning. Saip instructed the group on the planning and construction of a €620 million tourism real estate venture in the Alentejo. Other clients include: Lusotur; Metro Sul do Tejo; Parque Expo; Inditex; Junta de Turismo da Costa do Estoril; Vila Sol; Lusoponte and Casa Amiga.

Also recognised as a leading practice, Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados advised Sonae Sierra Group on various issues, namely shopping centres, land use planning and municipal taxes, and Vilamoura XX, a €350m urban development project in the Algarve. Partner João Pereira Reis led the firm’s advice in these transactions. The firm was also advising SAIP on the planning and construction of a €900m tourism real estate venture in the south of Portugal.

According to clients, Fernanda Matoso’s “systematic and patient approach is perfect for handling long, complicated matters.”

João Pereira Reis specialises in public and administrative law but also has expertise in real estate, zoning and environmental issues. One interviewee said: “He is great value in negotiations with the local authorities as he is extremely well connected.”