Awards and Rankings | Rankings

Chambers Europe

"Rightly acknowledged at the top of the Portuguese market; with well-rounded advice, which is sophisticated without need of clarification."

What the team is known for
Leading law firm with an expansive bench and an impressive reputation, VdA has a solid client roster which includes major domestic and international banks and other financial institutions. The team advises on the full scope of transactional and regulatory matters, with outstanding expertise in debt restructurings and securitisation mandates. The firm handles applications to the Portuguese financial services regulator for the authorisation of new securitisation and venture capital companies. It also offers strong cross-border capabilities involving lusophone Africa.

Notable practitioners

Benedita Aires is skilled in advising lenders on real estate financing and refinancing mandates. She has further experience in handling debt refinancings.

"Benedita Aires is a very experienced and responsive professional with great knowledge of cutting-edge structures and deep understanding of local law issues."

"She provides us with a marvellous service."

Francisco Sá Carneiro specialises in retail finance-related transactions. He is also adept at handling refinancings.

Hugo Moredo Santos enters the rankings this year backed by positive market recognition and client support. He assists prominent domestic banks with a variety of financing matters including refinancing, acquisition finance and securitisation matters.

"He is very knowledgeable and a big facilitator of transactions."

"He has a very profound expertise and is pragmatic. It is very easy to deal with him."

"He is accessible and has good technical knowledge."

Paula Gomes Freire  is the managing partner at VdA. She is best recognised for her expert handling of securitisation matters.

Pedro Cassiano Santos leads VdA's banking practice and handles the full range of banking and finance matters. He is frequently seen advising prominent domestic and international clients on financial restructurings.

"It is great working with Pedro, he displays great knowledge and experience dealing with complex matters."

"He finds diverse solutions to the problems with a great overview of the matters."

Tiago Correia Moreira advises originator banks, issuers and investors on all transactional and regulatory matters arising in relation to securitisations.

"Tiago Correia Moreira has excellent commercial awareness."

"He is very good at explaining how Portuguese law works in a simple and understanding way, whilst being very patient with his clients."

  • Paula Gomes Freire - Eminent Practitioner
  • Pedro Cassiano Santos - Star Individual
  • Francisco Sá Carneiro - Band 2
  • Benedita Aires - Band 4
  • Hugo Moredo Santos - Band 4
  • Tiago Correia Moreira - Band 4

 
Strengths

"The team members are very receptive of the clients' ideas, and are pragmatic and assertive with their answers."

 

Work highlights

VdA assisted Alantra with the finance of real estate transactions in Portugal.

Tiago Correia Moreira is Partner at the Banking & Finance practice area.

Tiago has been involved in transactions across the banking and financial sectors, particularly in the acquisition and sale of non-performing loans and secured loans (including aeronautic financing), as well as all regulatory work pertaining to these sectors.

Tiago regularly assists clients in carrying out their activities in Portugal and abroad with domestic and foreign regulators.

Tiago is an active player in VdA’s Fintech team, advising on the financial component. He oversees matters relating to payment services, issuance of digital currency and the deployment of new technologies to the banking and financial sectors.

  • Tiago Correia Moreira - Band 3

 
Strengths

"He is very good at explaining how Portuguese law works in a simple and understanding way, whilst being very patient with his clients."

What the team is known for
VdA offers a highly regarded capital markets practice praised for its first-rate expertise in DCM. The team regularly assists international investment banks with their role as managers and underwriters of Portuguese bond issuances, including retail and green bonds. The lawyers also have extensive experience acting on the underwriter side of capital increases carried out by major Portuguese energy or construction companies. The law firm advises on securitisations, acting for an impressive list of originator banks, issuers and investors.


Notable practitioners

Hugo Moredo Santos plays a leading role in many of the firm's major equity and debt capital market mandates. He acts for international banks and Portuguese corporate issuers, including sports clubs.

"He is very knowledgeable of the capital markets issues and handles the most complex aspects of operations. He is very diligent and calm to solve all the problems that can arise."

"Hugo exhibits exceptional professionalism and a strong commitment to client service."

"He is an excellent professional who is attentive to the details."

José Pedro Fazenda Martins is experienced in equity capital markets and bond issuance matters. He also provides regulatory advice.

"He is very practical, has a good theoretical overview with a very big know-how and availability; he is an excellent professional."

Paula Gomes Freire is best known for her advice on securitisation transactions. She routinely advises originator banks on the STS-compliant securitisation of auto-loan portfolios.

Pedro Cassiano Santos assists a range of high-profile international and domestic clients with the full range of capital market matters. His expertise covers securitisations and a variety of debt and equity capital market deals.

"Pedro Cassiano Santos is top-notch."

Orlando Vogler Guiné plays a key supporting role in many of the firm's debt and equity capital matters. He assists with green bond issuances, securitisation and derivatives transactions.

"Orlando is able to provide quick responses to our requests, with a great level of know-how in the matters."

"He has a high level of knowledge and dedication to each matter, leading to an excellent outcome in the most different projects."

  • Paula Gomes Freire - Eminent Practitioner
  • Hugo Moredo Santos - Band 1
  • Pedro Cassiano Santos - Band 1
  • José Pedro Fazenda Martins - Band 3
  • Orlando Vogler Guiné - Band 4

Strenghts

"VdA's team is very diligent and follows up on every step of the process."

"They display high seniority and knowledge of the local and international rules."


Work highlights

VdA assisted Unicre with the issuance of EUR23.5 million senior bonds listed in MARF.

What the team is known for
VdA maintains its position as one of the leading competition law firms in Portugal. The team stands out for its expertise in behavioural investigations, often in relation to horizontal agreements, and for assisting clients with appeals against Portuguese Competition Authority decisions. The team also has experience in merger clearance filings, including before the Angolan competition authorities, and state aid issues. It is a popular choice with clients from the financial services, sports, telecommunications and transportation sectors.


Notable practitioners

Cláudia Coutinho da Costa enters the rankings this year on the back of her work in merger control filings, as well as assisting clients with opposing merger clearances. She has additional experience in investigations into no-poach agreements and in challenges to fines.

"She is very strong and secure."

"In addition to having high technical competence in the area of competition, she is extremely committed and available."

"She is a very reliable lawyer, who always goes one step further and is a great antitrust lawyer."

Nuno Ruiz is highly regarded for his longstanding experience in competition law investigations and state aid issues.

"I would like to highlight Nuno Ruiz in this competition area for his in-depth knowledge and experience in these matters."

Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro frequently represents clients in behavioural investigations and in challenges to PCA decisions. He also advises on market inquiries and merger clearance mandates.

"Ricardo is probably the best competition lawyer we know."

"He has a strong knowledge of the law, is business-oriented, focuses on detail, and has a very good approach and relationship with the client, bringing solutions to our issues and always with the best interests of the client at heart."

"Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro is a phenomenal lawyer with a lot of expertise. He is driven to find solutions and is an outstanding lawyer in court."

"Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro has huge knowledge, is easy to work with, and focuses on results."

"He is fantastic and has a lot of experience in competition."

  • Nuno Ruiz - Band 1
  • Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro - Band 1
  • Cláudia Coutinho da Costa - Associates to Watch

Strengths
"The team is always on top of the themes, and trying to anticipate some subjects."

"I believe that VdA provides an excellent quality service in the matter in question. I would highlight the high-quality advice that maintains great proximity to the client."

"I would consider VdA to be the top performer."

Work highlights

VdA assisted Vodafone with the competition law compliance aspects of its acquisition of Cabonitel.

What the team is known for
VdA is a well-reputed outfit tackling complex and high-profile M&A transactions, as well as corporate governance and restructuring operations in the energy, telecommunications and manufacturing industries. The team leverages expertise in tax, capital markets and labour to offer comprehensive assistance to clients. Its clients often include financial groups, multinational entities and asset management companies. The law firm also boasts extensive international capabilities, particularly in Angola and Cabo Verde.


Notable practitioners

Cláudia Cruz Almeida frequently assists prominent domestic and international clients with a broad range of complex M&A. She also assists shareholders with reinvestment deals.

Francisco Sá Carneiro demonstrates longstanding expertise in corporate and M&A matters.

João Vieira de Almeida is an experienced lawyer in the corporate sphere, frequently acting on joint ventures and cross-border transactions.

Jorge Bleck provides expert advice on a variety of corporate matters, including restructuring and cross-border M&A deals. He also offers advice on shareholder mandates.

Paulo Trindade Costa joins the rankings this year following market recognition. He is experienced at handling variety of corporate and M&A matters. He also regularly advises on foreign investment in Angola.

Cristina Melo Miranda has notable experience in handling cross-border transactions. She is well-versed in share deals.

"She is a promising young lawyer who deals with complex issues simultaneously. She is solid in her knowledge and transmits trust to the client."

  • João Vieira de Almeida - Senior Statespeople
  • Jorge Bleck - Senior Statespeople
  • Cláudia da Cruz Almeida - Band 2
  • Francisco Sá Carneiro - Band 3
  • Paulo Trindade Costa - Band 5
  • Cristina Melo Miranda - Associates to Watch

Strengths

"The lawyers quickly understand clients' needs and provide helpful advice."

"VdA's team is always very well coordinated and easy to work with under pressure, with tight deadlines and complex issues."

Work highlights

VdA advised Cellnex on the EUR70 million acquisition of 100% of Hivory's share capital.

What the team is known for
VdA has a sizeable and multidisciplinary practice with the capacity to handle varied commercial disputes, including international arbitration. The team advises on debt recovery proceedings, corporate disputes and claims arising from the termination of distribution agreements. It has further experience in the enforcement of arbitral awards in Portugal. The lawyers provide support across Portuguese-speaking jurisdictions including Angola, Mozambique and São Tomé and Príncipe, assisting with diverse matters ranging from environmental claims to investor-state arbitration. The team also offers impressive expertise in white-collar crime, advising clients on corruption, tax fraud and money laundering mandates.

Notable practitioners

Carla Gonçalves Borges often advises on commercial disputes arising for clients in the financial services sector. She has proven experience in litigation and arbitration proceedings.

Frederico Gonçalves Pereira has a strong track record of handling disputes within the banking, telecommunications, transportation and pharmaceutical sectors. His extensive recent case load includes commercial litigations, enforcement proceedings and class actions.

Miguel Pinto Cardoso has standout experience in complex cross-border arbitrations, including ICC commercial arbitration and investment treaty cases brought against African states. He acts for construction companies and for clients operating in the banking and energy sectors.

  • Frederico Gonçalves Pereira - Band 1
  • Miguel Pinto Cardoso - Band 1
  • Carla Gonçalves Borges - Band 4

What the team is known for
VdA handles a wide range of employment matters, assisting clients with collective redundancy procedures and the labour ramifications of corporate transactions. The law firm's further strengths include restructuring and issues around pension funds, as well as contract terminations and lay-offs. It also represents companies in contentious cases around unfair dismissals and disciplinary proceedings. VdA is notably active in the energy sector.


Notable practitioners

Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão is highly regarded for his longstanding activity in the employment area. He has considerable experience in handling employment disputes as well as employment restructurings.

"Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão is an excellent lawyer."

Tiago Piló is experienced dealing with lay-offs and collective redundancy procedures as well as employment law support on M&A transactions. He is also well placed to assist with TUPE proceedings.

"Tiago has wide expertise and can advise, deliver and communicate with a high quality and clarity."

Américo Oliveira Fragoso focuses his practice on restructuring and employment advice on transactional matters. He offers further advice on collective redundancies, pension funds and employment-related disputes.

"Américo is a very well-seasoned lawyer with a deep knowledge of legal details. He is always available and transmits confidence in his solutions."

  • Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão - Senior Statespeople
  • Tiago Piló - Band 4
  • Américo Oliveira Fragoso - Up and coming

Strengths

VdA has a very diverse team with different levels of seniority and expertise and with the right back-up to be always available."

"I highlight the team's ability to overcome challenges, with a focus on the customer."

Employment client, Europe

Work highlights

VdA acted for Menzies Aviation on all employment matters relating to the acquisition of a majority stake in Groundforce.

What the team is known for
VdA has a well-established practice with strong international capabilities and noted oil and gas expertise. The firm has further experience handling renewable energy projects, with a particular focus on solar, biomass and wind. It offers a comprehensive service, with strengths in regulatory work, M&A and corporate structuring mandates as well as project finance. Key clients include energy providers, government entities and major banks in Lusophone Africa, particularly in Angola and Mozambique.


Notable practitioners

Ana Luís de Sousa advances in the rankings following market support. She assists with a variety of energy-related issues including joint ventures, project finance and development, as well as acquisitions.

"Her input and thoughts are always appreciated due to her deep knowledge of the energy sector and her strategic view."

"Ana is our main contact for matters. She has led on all challenges, avoiding conflicts. I like that she very rapidly understands the questions we put forward, is extremely knowledgeable of the laws and is assertive in what she proposes."

"She has both the ability to deal with complex issues and the ability to deliver, giving us a lot of confidence in her opinions and recommendations."

Vanda Cascão stands out for her wide-ranging expertise in energy projects. She regularly advises on project finance arrangements, and further assists with joint ventures and regulatory matters. She also has experience advising on mandates in Angola and Cape Verde.

"Vanda Cascão is competent, knowledgeable and has good response capacity. She adapts well to matters and is flexible."

  • Vanda Cascão - Band 1
  • Ana Luís de Sousa - Band 3

Strengths
"All the matters we give VdA are handled seriously and with efficacy."

"The VdA team shows an excellent ability to identify risks, advise on risk mitigation scenarios, monitor documentation very closely throughout the negotiation process and meet delivery deadlines."

"The team demonstrated a deep knowledge and experience of regulatory issues."

Work highlights

VdA acted as legal counsel for Greenvolt on its share capital increase by the issuance of new shares.

What the team is known for
VdA has a well-established practice with strong international capabilities and noted oil and gas expertise. The firm has further experience handling renewable energy projects, with a particular focus on solar, biomass and wind. It offers a comprehensive service, with strengths in regulatory work, M&A and corporate structuring mandates as well as project finance. Key clients include energy providers, government entities and major banks in Lusophone Africa, particularly in Angola and Mozambique.

 

Notable practitioners

João Afonso Fialho has notable cross-border experience relating to mandates in Lusophone Africa and Timor-Leste. He is well versed in oil and gas topics, including project restructurings and an array of contractual and regulatory work.

"João Afonso Fialho possesses a strong strategic focus and is a good negotiator. He is very knowledgeable in the Angolan jurisdiction."

Vanda Cascão stands out for her wide-ranging expertise in energy projects. She regularly advises on project finance arrangements, and further assists with joint ventures and regulatory matters. She also has experience advising on mandates in Angola and Cape Verde.

"Vanda Cascão is competent, knowledgeable and has good response capacity. She adapts well to matters and is flexible."

  • João Afonso Fialho - Spotlight 
  • Vanda Cascão - Spotlight 

Strengths

"All the matters we give VdA are handled seriously and with efficacy."

"The team demonstrated a deep knowledge and experience of regulatory issues."

Work Highlights

VdA acted as legal counsel for Greenvolt on its share capital increase by the issuance of new shares.

What the team is known for
VdA houses a top-tier insurance department spanning work in sale and purchase agreements, transactions, disputes, and regulatory and compliance advice. The practice has further capabilities in bancassurance and assurfinance products. With offices in Lisbon, Porto, and a suite of African offices including Mozambique and Angola, the group has consolidated experience in cross-border mandates extending to both European and African jurisdictions.


Notable practitioners

Head of department Helena Vaz Pinto is most active on regulatory insurance mandates, such as the review of policies and compliance with the Insurance Distribution Directive. She is well placed to assist clients from the healthcare sector, as well as both domestic and international insurers.

"Helena Vaz Pinto has good experience. She is knowledgeable."

"She provides reliable legal counsel for insurance-related transactions."

  • Helena Vaz Pinto - Band 1

Strengths
"VdA has very good and detailed knowledge of the law, especially with regard to new and complex matters."

"VdA has one of the best M&A insurance practices in Portugal."

"The firm is user-friendly, international and commercial."

Work highlights
VdA advised the Portuguese Insurance Association on a variety of matters, including regulatory, competition and privacy issues.

What the team is known for
VdA has a market-leading IP practice group with notable experience in patent infringement proceedings, including disputes around supplementary protection certificates and the marketing of generic products. The team also advises on trade mark enforcement proceedings and the negotiation of settlement agreements. The law firm's experience includes work with key players in the pharmaceutical and telecommunications sectors, as well as in the technologies industry.

Notable practitioners

António de Magalhães Cardoso is a popular choice with clients from the pharmaceutical sector for advice on the enforcement of patent rights and on disputes around the prevention of marketing for generic products.

"António de Magalhães Cardoso is one of the pre-eminent practitioners in Portugal."

"He is a very well-known and respected practitioner."

Marta Alves Vieira is recognised for her work in patent litigation, including advising on SPC matters and disputes around the marketing of generic products. She frequently represents pharmaceutical companies.

"Marta Alves Vieira gets involved when things need to be done."

"Marta is a good courtroom lawyer. She delivers good quality documents, knows the IP system extremely well and is very helpful."

"She is very good at what she does."

Sara Nazaré is well regarded for her work in patent enforcement, acting for clients from the telecommunications and pharmaceutical sectors. She also regularly handles trade mark disputes.

"Sara Nazaré is very experienced and knows her stuff."

"Sara Nazaré is a bright lawyer with potential and plenty of talent."

"Sara Nazaré takes responsibility for cases."

  • António de Magalhães Cardoso - Senior Statespeople
  • Marta Alves Vieira - Band 3
  • Sara Nazaré – Star Associates

Strengths

""VdA is the law firm that everybody thinks of first when doing work in the life sciences space."

"There is excellent breadth and depth of expertise across the team. The lawyers are knowledgeable, responsive and able to deal with all queries in the matter."

"VdA has very good reputation and for a good reason: it is very effective at its job."

Work highlights
VdA assisted Bristol-Myers Squibb with the enforcement of patent rights in arbitration actions and judicial proceedings, as well as the negotiation of settlement agreements.

What the team is known for
VdA has a market-leading IP practice group with notable experience in patent infringement proceedings, including disputes around supplementary protection certificates and the marketing of generic products. The team also advises on trade mark enforcement proceedings and the negotiation of settlement agreements. The law firm's experience includes work with key players in the pharmaceutical and telecommunications sectors, as well as in the technologies industry.

Notable practitioners

Paulo Pinheiro regularly advises prominent multinationals, including pharmaceutical companies, on commercial disputes. He also represents clients in litigation and provides regulatory guidance.

"Paulo Pinheiro is a very experienced lawyer in this area."

Francisca Paulouro is recognised for her regulatory work in the life sciences sector. She also assists clients from the pharmaceutical industry with commercial agreements and pricing matters.

"Francisca Paulouro is a very strong lawyer with a very high level of expertise in the pharmaceutical sector."

"Francisca understands the regulatory aspects well and provides good advice to clients that is very spot-on and thorough."

  • Francisca Paulouro - Spotlight 
  • Paulo Pinheiro - Spotlight 

Strengths

"VdA is the law firm that everybody thinks of first when doing work in the life sciences space."

"The team's advice is always focused and provided promptly."

Life Sciences client, Europe

Work highlights

VdA assisted Bristol-Myers Squibb with the enforcement of patent rights in arbitration actions and judicial proceedings, as well as the negotiation of settlement agreements.

What the team is known for
VdA boasts a highly-experienced tax team with considerable experience in tax structuring matters. The employment law team has the capacity to handle collective changes to working conditions, collective redundancies and litigation relating to individual dismissals. The firm's corporate lawyers have experience in significant restructuring processes, while individuals focusing on public law matters advise on disputes over construction contracts.


Notable practitioners

João Velez de Lima is one of the key members of the firm's tax team advising clients with ongoing tax management and aspects of M&A mandates. He also assists with tax audits and corporate restructurings.

"João Velez de Lima is a great tax adviser, with very high technical skills and a really good attitude."

Isabel Gião de Andrade is a focused corporate law practitioner. She advises on corporate restructurings and transactions, including significant cross-border mandates that entail the sale of some business lines and the intra-group transfer of others. She also has experience in the negotiation of supply and distribution contracts.

"Isabel Gião de Andrade's commitment to make an impact, both to the client and society, is admirable."

Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão has considerable experience in temporary redundancies and collective dismissals made as part of corporate restructuring processes.

Miguel Reis' move to join the team at VdA provides a significant boost to the firm's tax law capabilities. He provides advice on complex tax assessments and audits.

Benedita Fernandes Gonçalves provides employment law support in relation to corporate transactions. She also handles standalone mandates relating to the implementation of collective redundancies and the introduction of new flexible working policies as well as contentious mandates related to labour accidents and termination of contracts.

"Benedita Fernandes Gonçalves is a labour expert who is very responsive and client-oriented."

João Soares Franco assists public companies with varied advisory and litigation mandates relating to their provision of services in Porto. He also acts for construction companies on disputes with government authorities in relation to varied projects.

"João Soares Franco is an incredible professional who offers maximum dedication and a level of knowledge well above average."

  • Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão: Senior Statespeople (Employment)
  • Miguel C. Reis: Band 1 (Tax)
  • Isabel Gião de Andrade: Band 2 (Corporate)
  • Benedita Fernandes Gonçalves: Band 3 (Employment)
  • João Soares Franco: Band 3 (Public Law)
  • João Velez de Lima: Band 3 (Tax)

Strengths

"VdA demonstrates a high degree of knowledge and mastery of complex issues. Its multidisciplinary teams allow for an in-depth knowledge of the topics analysed."

"VdA has a superb ability to understand the needs and concerns of each side and translate that into legal terms."

General Business Law clients
Europe

What the team is known for
VdA's highly respected M&A lawyers are often instructed on transactions that have a significant asset management angle. The firm assists funds and their portfolio companies with add-on acquisitions of Portuguese infrastructure concessionaires or manufacturing companies. It acts for institutional investors on the divestment of shares. The firm also handles venture capital deals, including direct subscriptions of funding rounds and secondary investments into foreign funds.


Notable practitioners

Jorge Bleck has an established reputation among market commentators as a market-leading M&A lawyer with proven experience in asset management deals. He offers high-level, strategic input on some of the firm's key transactions.

Helena Vaz Pinto's experience in financial services sector M&A transactions spans insurance sector and private equity deals. She is also well-versed in growth capital transactions.

  • Jorge Bleck - Senior Statespeople
  • Helena Vaz Pinto - Band 4

Strenghts

"They have a strong commitment to meeting deadlines."

"VdA's team is technically very strong, very driven and always on top of the complex legal issues at stake."

Private Equity client
Europe

Work highlights

VdA advised C2 Capital Partners on its equity investments in one of Aquaterra group's companies.

What the team is known for
VdA's first-class department is active in the energy and infrastructure sectors. The law firm is experienced in the corporate and financial aspects of various road concessions, renewables, waste and water projects. It also boasts further expertise in the healthcare sector. The team benefits from a strong domestic-side practice as well as strengths in international work owing to an extensive network of offices across lusophone Africa, including in Mozambique. The lawyers advise an impressive roster of clients including major financial institutions as well as Portuguese construction companies.

Notable practitioners

Ana Luís de Sousa demonstrates solid knowledge of renewable energy projects, including those regarding wind, hydro and solar energy. She has experience in both national as well as cross-border mandates.

"She understands very rapidly the questions we put forward and is extremely knowledgeable of the laws."

"She is assertive in what she proposes and gives all the confidences and trust to her clients. She can handle challenging situations."

"She has a very constructive approach."

Manuel Protásio boasts a longstanding reputation and outstanding market knowledge. He represents banks and international companies in a variety of energy and infrastructure-related mandates.

"Manuel Protásio is a very available and enthusiastic professional."

Paulo de Barros Baptista stands out for his extensive knowledge of significant road infrastructure projects. He has additional experience in project financings and sub-concession agreements.

Teresa Empis Falcão is proficient at handling both financing and refinancing for projects arising in the renewables and infrastructure sectors. She frequently represents eminent energy players and financial institutions, often advising on international deals.

  • Manuel Protásio - Eminent Practitioner
  • Teresa Empis Falcão - Band 2
  • Ana Luís de Sousa - Band 3
  • Paulo de Barros Baptista - Band 3

Strenghts

"The team at VdA have high knowledge and a great capacity to adapt to the concrete reality of the processes."

"They offer excellent responsiveness."

Projects Client, Europe

Work highlights

VdA acted for Finerge on a public tender regarding a floating solar power project in Portugal.

What the team is known for
VdA has a stellar reputation in the public law market with the ability to provide a deep bench of recognised individuals that are active in matters concerning Portugal and other lusophone jurisdictions. The team advises on concessions and public procurement, as well as privatisation processes. Possesses a solid presence in the banking, telecommunications, infrastructure and transport sectors. Regularly handles public law arbitration and also represents clients in litigation mandates. Clients include key public organisations and companies, as well as domestic and multinational private entities.


Notable practitioners

Ana Marta Castro is a respected lawyer who frequently assists clients with restructurings and privatisation mandates. She also advises on administrative disputes and public procurement.

Paulo Pinheiro provides expert advice to clients on public restructurings, public procurements and privatisations. He also acts on administrative disputes and arbitration proceedings.

Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira has a wealth of experience handling arbitration proceedings in relation to concession agreements and administrative litigation cases, as well as providing advice on environmental regulation and public tenders.

  • Paulo Pinheiro - Band 1
  • Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira - Band 1
  • Ana Marta Castro -Band 4


Strengths

"VdA is excellent and its lawyers are always very helpful and available."

Public Law client, Europe

Work highlights
VdA assisted CTT with matters relating to a postal service concession agreement with the Portuguese stat

What the team is known for
A well-reputed domestic outfit, VdA holds extensive experience in large real estate acquisitions and sale and purchase agreements. The law firm often advises on mandates involving hotel, residential and office buildings, and is regularly instructed by international developers or funds.

Notable practitioners

Miguel Marques dos Santos has an outstanding reputation in the market due to his ability to advise on complex real estate acquisitions and project developments. He assists a prominent list of asset managers and real estate funds.

"I have never seen such an efficient lawyer as Miguel."

"He is a great adviser and one of the best in Portugal."

Pedro Corrêa d'Oliveira regularly assists property developers and investors with the acquisition and sale of real estate assets.

"He is a very talented and committed lawyer."

Pedro Ferreirinha maintains an impressive practice advising on both the financial and corporate aspects of real estate transactions. He often represents domestic property developers.

"Pedro Ferreirinha is a good strategist with a good ability to manage complex processes."

"He has great knowledge of the market."

Pedro Pereira Coutinho is proficient in assisting clients with the sale and acquisition of retail assets and also provides advice on notable projects in the tourism sector, as well as residential property. He frequently assists hotel chains and real estate investors.

"Pedro is very kind and he is an excellent communicator."

"He is a very solid lawyer who is very experienced."

"Pedro is very organised and calm. He is also direct and straightforward."

Lisa Ventura Lopes is experienced assisting on real estate transactions, including large portfolio acquisitions, as well as development projects.

"Lisa is very focused on the details and she has lots of experience."

"She is an extraordinary professional who is very solid and has great knowledge of real estate."

"I like working with Lisa, she is focused and proactive."

  • Miguel Marques dos Santos - Band 1
  • Pedro Ferreirinha - Band 2
  • Pedro Corrêa de Oliveira - Band 4
  • Pedro Pereira Coutinho - Band 4
  • Lisa Ventura Lopes - Associates To Watch

Strengths

"VdA looks for compromise. Its lawyers are constructive and straightforward when matters are difficult and they try to find a common ground."

"VdA demonstrates high knowledge in all aspects related to real estate and they have good strategic skills to overcome critical issues."

Real Estate client, Europe

Work highlights
VdA advised Vanguard Properties on the acquisition and development of a series of residential and hospitality properties including A Tower.

What the team is known for
VdA is a heavyweight full-service firm that regularly assists clients with an array of restructuring and insolvency issues, with expertise in advising both creditors and insolvent estates. It offers particular prowess assisting clients with debt recovery and the liquidation of assets, as well as with contentious proceedings, including cases of maladministration. The law firm has a notable experience in cases of a multi-jurisdictional nature, including cross-border corporate restructurings and distressed M&A processes.


Notable practitioners

Teresa Pitôrra advises clients on judicial liquidation, insolvency and restructuring procedures, including cross-border matters. She also assists with EU and Portuguese regulatory matters.

"Teresa Pitôrra is savvy, fair and extremely knowledgeable. She is always available and concerned with defending our interests."

"Teresa is an experienced lawyer."

Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is proficient at handling liquidation processes and insolvency proceedings. He also assists clients with litigation procedures.

  • Teresa Pitôrra - Band 3
  • Frederico Gonçalves Pereira Band 4


Strengths

"The firm has a strong depth of team with partners who are experienced in dealing with complex matters."

"They have good levels of communication and client service."

"The team is very dedicated and has a great ability to understand and unwind complex situations while preserving the client's interests."

Restructuring/Insolvency Client, Europe

VdA advised Brisal Auto-estradas do Litoral and Brisa Auto-estradas de Portugal, Portuguese motorway concessionaires, on Brisal's EUR224 million refinancing and debt restructuring.

What the team is known for
VdA is a renowned practice group advising on complex tax matters. The team's expertise includes assisting with the tax structuring of corporate, capital markets and real estate transactions. It is particularly experienced in handling the tax aspects of multi-jurisdictional project financing matters, often in the energy sector.


Notable practitioners

Francisco Cabral Matos moves up the rankings this year following his involvement in the firm's key deals. He regularly assists clients with the tax aspects of corporate transactions, as well as with corporate income tax matters.

"Francisco presents very strong technical knowledge."

"He is able to simplify legal issues, is very creative and client-oriented."

Joaquim Pedro Lampreia is recognised for advising clients on the tax aspects of securitisation transactions and acquisitions, as well as on corporate income tax matters.

"Joaquim is brilliant from a technical point of view and his greatest attribute is being able to respond to highly complex technical issues."

Miguel C. Reis regularly assists clients from the energy sector with tax matters such as restructurings and tax audits.

Tiago Marreiros Moreira is well positioned to advise clients on the introduction of new tax regimes, as well as the tax structuring of loans and real estate transactions.

Conceição Gamito leads the indirect tax team of the practice. She advises clients on the VAT and customs aspects of real estate transactions and cross-border energy projects.

  • Joaquim Pedro Lampreia - Band 2
  • Tiago Marreiros Moreira - Band 2
  • Conceição Gamito - Band 4
  • Francisco Cabral Matos - Band 4
  • Miguel C. Reis - Band 4

Strengths
"VdA has an outstanding know-how and a great ability to solve complex matters."

"The firm provides high-quality tax services, is always available and has a solution-based approach."

Tax Client, Europe

Work highlights

VdA advised Iberdrola Group on the tax aspects of its renewable energy projects.

What the team is known for
VdA is a first-rate department handling data privacy and protection issues, with recognised prowess in telecoms mandates. The law firm provides a tailored service to clients who wish to assess possible GDPR risks to their businesses. The practice assists multinationals and domestic companies active in the energy, technology, public sector, and gaming industries. The lawyers regularly act on cross-border matters, notably in lusophone countries.

 
Notable practitioners

Fernando Resina da Silva has a longstanding expertise in the TMT market, including advising clients on complex regulatory mandates.

Magda Cocco assists with the full range of TMT services, including transactional, contentious and regulatory matters.

"I would say that Magda is the best TMT lawyer in Portugal. She is very senior and has an incredible executive approach. She is clearly the go-to person in complex matters."

"Magda Cocco has extensive experience, ease of communication and an ability to understand our needs."

Margarida Couto provides specialised advice on regulatory mandates working mainly with prominent domestic telecom companies.

Isabel Ornelas assists with a variety of telecom and mobile regulatory matters, with notable experience in data protection.

  • Fernando Resina da Silva - Senior Statespeople
  • Margarida Couto - Eminent Practitioners
  • Magda Cocco - Band 1
  • Isabel Ornelas - Associate to Watch

Strengths

"The team is very good and has a very good culture, especially regarding client relationships. The lawyers know that it is important to know the business of the clients, and that helps a lot. A partner is always involved in transactions so that gives us comfort as well."

"The VdA team is very focused on providing the best support to its customers and is always available to support us within our needs and deadlines."

"The team is extremely solid technically and always willing to help at any time."

TMT client, Europe

Work highlights
VdA assisted MEO with various regulatory and litigation procedures, as well as supporting the client in the preparatory phase of a 5G auction.

What the team is known for
VdA maintains an extensive market recognition for its work in the shipping arena, having particular prowess in cross-border mandates involving Angola. The team offers a diverse range of services for chartering companies, transportation and logistic companies, ports and banks in domestic and cross-border issues. It additionally handles dispute resolution matters such as cargo and vessel accidents, as well as regulatory issues, including for the transportation of oil and gas. VdA also assists clients with shipping finance mandates.

Notable practitioners

José Miguel Oliveira represents clients in disputes arising from cargo losses, vessel arrests, accidents and charterparty claims, further assisting with mortgage registrations. He is particularly active in mandates involving lusophone African countries.

"José Miguel's advice was correct, clear and reliable; I relied on it a lot."

  • José Miguel Oliveira - Band 3

 Strengths

"The team demonstrated great time management, speed and familiarity with circumstances around a local court. Simply put, the team was very reliable, more than we expected."

Transportation: Shipping client, Europe

What the team is known for

VdA houses a solid team of professionals who are well equipped to handle white-collar crime investigations into corrupt and fraudulent practices. The team attracts significant corporates and executives to further advise on money laundering, cybercrime, tax evasion and abuse of trust allegations. The practice frequently represents public bodies and clients from the sport, energy and construction sectors.

Notable Practitioners

Sofia Ribeiro Branco maintains a stand-out position in the rankings thanks to her involvement in sophisticated white-collar crime mandates, including corruption, cybercrime and money laundering. She is proficient in handling complex matters across the gamut of criminal proceedings, frequently representing high-profile clients in the energy, sport and telecommunications sectors.

"Sofia Ribeiro Branco is extremely dedicated, always available, has a deep knowledge of procedural matters and pays attention to detail."

"Sofia is very dedicated and concerned about the customer."

"We like to work with her a lot; she is very thorough in her analysis."

"Sofia Ribeiro Branco is one of the leading criminal lawyers in the country and is very well reputed and knowledgeable."

  • Sofia Ribeiro Branco - Band 1 

Strengths

"The law firm houses highly skilled and experienced lawyers, providing strategic advice for case management."

"VdA has very strong technical knowledge and strives to understand the most appropriate angles of analysis."

White-Collar Crime client, Europe

Work Highlights

  • VdA acted for Mário Ferreira and Pluris Investments on an investigation into alleged fraud in obtaining European subsidies by the European Public Prosecutor's Office.
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