Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados provides ‘an outstanding level of service’. In one highlight, Carlos Botelho Moniz led advice to EDP on a state aid investigation launched by the European Commission (EC) concerning a €759m payment for the extension of the energy company’s right to use public water resources for electricity generation. The 11-strong group, which is headed by Joaquim Vieira Peres, includes managing associates Inês Gouveia and the ‘business-oriented’ Pedro de Gouveia e Melo. Luís do Nascimento Ferreira was promoted to partner in May 2017.

Seasoned partner Carlos Botelho Moniz is widely respected in the market for his lengthy career in the practice area. He acts for clients at both domestic and European level, and is regularly instructed on issues concerning mergers, state aid or cartel allegations. Interviewees highlight him as "very experienced and knowledgeable in the sector," in addition to referring to him as "a pioneer in competition law."

Head of department Joaquim Vieira Peres is described as a "highly pragmatic lawyer who knows how to identify the relevant issues and liabilities in a case." His varied practice includes assistance with merger filings, investigations by the Portuguese authorities and cartel allegations. A client confirms: "He is a top expert."

Inês Gouveia supports clients in a broad range of competition mandates, advising on contentious and non-contentious matters, including compliance projects and representation before the Portuguese Competition Authority.

Luís do Nascimento Ferreira is highly praised by clients who describe him as "tireless, always available and well prepared." He has a comprehensive practice in European law and competition matters, encompassing merger control cases, restrictive practices and state aid.

An active practitioner in competition law, Joaquim Vieira Peres is "very well known in this area of law, and is always on top of what's happening." Advising on both national and international mandates, he has led several high-profile matters for the Sonae Group, including acting for Sonae Indústria on a merger filing before the European Commission, concerning the acquisition of joint control over Tafisa by both the client and the Chile-based Arauco Group.