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."
A sizeable team handling many of Portugal's high-profile financial transactions. It acts on behalf of lenders and borrowers, and recent mandates include recapitalisations, liability management exercises, securitisations and structured finance matters. Applies a multifaceted approach to insurance work, utilising M&A and banking lawyers.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The team's main strengths are its client focus and high execution standards. I would rely on VdA for any complex or sensitive matter."
"One of the most visible firms in banking and finance."
Work highlights:
Advised the Portuguese Ministry of Finance on the EUR6 billion recapitalisation of the Portuguese banking sector.
Assisted Hefesto STC with the EUR73 million securitisation of several non-performing loans.
Notable practitioners:
Founding partner Vasco Vieira de Almeida is widely recognised as a point of reference in the Portuguese banking and finance market.
Clients describe Pedro Cassiano Santos as "amazing: probably the number-one structured finance lawyer in Portugal." "His weakness is that he can't be everywhere at the same time!" remarks another client. Clients praise Paula Gomes Freire as "a commercially minded lawyer who provides sophisticated solutions." She counts Banco Santander and Banco Espírito Santo among her clients.
Peers highlight Pedro Simões Coelho's expertise in investment funds and regulatory matters, saying: "He is great and very knowledgeable in these areas."
Significant clients: Banco Espírito Santo, Deutsche Bank, Citibank, Barclays Bank, Santander Totta.
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Noted for its expertise in international offerings, this prestigious team handles takeover bids, tender offers and bond issuances. It represents major Portuguese financial institutions and has of late represented issuers and banks in debt placements.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"A highly experienced team of deal makers. Their vast knowledge of the financial markets allows them to provide a high-quality service and to offer us the best solutions."
"VdA would always be my first choice. I know matters will always be in safe and capable hands with this firm."
Work highlights:
Assisted Brisa Concessão Rodoviára with a EUR225 million notes issue.
Advised Banco Espírito Santo on a EUR750 million bond issue.
Notable practitioners:
Clients describe Pedro Cassiano Santos as "no doubt one of the best finance lawyers in Portugal. His support goes far beyond the strictly legal aspects - he understands client needs and offers high-quality advice." He recently led Banco Espírito Santo's EUR750 million bond issue.
Paula Gomes Freire climbs the rankings thanks to glowing client feedback. "She is highly knowledgeable, capable, helpful, precise and efficient. A great pleasure to work with," remarks an interviewee.
Young managing associate Hugo Moredo Santos impresses sources with his expertise: "He is great, excellent, very solid. Versatile and measured."
According to clients, Orlando Vogler Guiné is "a promising lawyer, with extensive expertise in capital markets."
Significant clients: José de Mello Group, Investifino, Banco BPI, Banco Espírito Santo, Caixa Geral de Depósitos.
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Vast experience and strong track record in the banking, insurance, telecoms, energy and health sectors. Known for its multidisciplinary approach, the group has led high-profile privatisations and restructurings.
What's new? Jorge Bleck, formerly of Linklaters, is a significant new addition to the team. Cláudia da Cruz Almeida was promoted to partner.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The lawyers have a great understanding of our sector, not only in Portugal but also in the rest of the world."
"This team stood out to us for its dedication and timeliness."
Work highlights Advised Parpública Participações Públicas, SGPS, on the intended privatisation of TAP.
Assisted Crédit Agricole with the EUR225 million sale of a 50% stake in insurance group BES Vida.
Notable practitioners:
Jorge Bleck, formerly of Linklaters, joined the firm in September 2013. He is an expert in private equity and international joint ventures. According to peers, he is "one of the best M&A lawyers in Portugal."
Managing partner João Vieira de Almeida leads the team. He acts on behalf of a prestigious clientele which includes Stirling Square Capital Partners.
Practice co-head Paulo Olavo Cunha is a strong academic with extensive expertise in corporate matters.
Helena Vaz Pinto advises domestic and foreign clients on M&A, venture capital and finance matters.
According to clients, Claudia da Cruz Almeida is "excellent: hard-working, extremely organised and a strong negotiator."
Significant clients: Parpública, Crédit Agricole, Stirling Square, Da Vita, Stericycle.
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One of the leading competition teams in the market, which stands out for its strong track record in the TMT, pharmaceutical and banking sectors. It advised the Portuguese government on the competition aspects of several privatisations, and on the recapitalisation of four major banks.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The lawyers dealt well with the matter and were extremely dedicated. They are great and we trust them."
"Very available and easy to contact."
What's new? Miguel Mendes Pereira was promoted to partner.
Work highlights:
Assisted Portugal Telecom with the appeal of a EUR66 million fine imposed by the EC for anti-competitive practices.
Advised the Portuguese government on the EUR7.3 billion recapitalisation of BCP, BPI, Caixa Geral de Depósitos and Banif under the EC's state aid regulations.
Notable practitioners:
Sources describe Nuno Ruiz as "definitely one of the best antitrust lawyers in Portugal." He is widely respected by peers and has vast experience in the telecommunications sector.
Miguel Mendes Pereira represents clients before the EU and Portuguese competition authorities. He is now a partner and peers recognise his increasing presence in the market: "He has been very active."
Significant clients: Portugal Telecom, Apifarma, Uniself, Lilly, Semapa.
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A mid-sized team with a wealth of experience in the banking and telecoms sectors. Also noted for its work in regulatory matters and its impressive corporate crime department.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"Outstanding: the lawyers understand our business and its many facets, which involve law from different countries. They're strategic and deliver."
"Excellent work. A creative team that finds new solutions."
What's new? Sofia Ribeiro Branco was promoted to partner.
Work highlights:
Advised Banco Comercial Português on a EUR26 million liability case against a debtor.
Represented Brisa in a EUR7.5 million damages claim relating to a landslide on one of its highways.
Notable practitioners:
Clients single out Frederico Gonçalves Pereira as "one of the best litigators in the market - a great strategist who goes straight to the point."
Miguel Pinto Cardoso earns warm client praise, with one interviewee affirming: "I really like him and I intend to continue working with him wherever he goes."
Peers say Sofia Ribeiro Branco "is great in corporate crime and will soon become an authority. She is very active and talented."
According to peers, Ana Falcão Afonso is "a great litigator. Fantastic and a delight to work with for sure."
Significant clients: BCP, Brisa, REN, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Portugal Telecom, Deutsche Bank.
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Dispute Resolution/Corporate Crime
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A full-service firm handling the employment aspects of M&A transactions, collective dismissals and labour litigation cases. Particular expertise in the pharmaceutical, banking and finance, and TMT sectors.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The team is focused, responsive and quick. It provides constructive and creative advice, including information we may not have thought of."
"The firm will alert us to any legal changes that might affect us, even before we ask."
What's new? New clients include Longa Vida and Parmalat.
Work highlights:
Advised DaVita on the employment aspects of its acquisition by Fresenius Medical Care.
Assisted Esegur with a corporate restructuring and subsequent collective dismissal.
Notable practitioners:
Tiago Piló "is committed to delivering good results to his clients, communicates well and gives practical advice." He advised Bristol-Myers Squibb on the collective dismissal of 40% of its workforce.
Significant clients: Clarins, Deutsche Bank, Esegur, Lilly, Novartis.
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Wide range of experience in renewable energies, fossil fuels and mining. In addition to advising clients in Portugal, it provides assistance in Brazil, Spain and African countries, including Mozambique.
Work highlights:
Assists REN with project finance, environmental matters, and the modification and renegotiation of public contracts.
Assisted Caixa - Banco de Investimento, Banco Comercial Português, Banco BPI and Santander with the renegotiation and amendment of several concession agreements.
Notable practitioners:
Vanda Cascão has widespread experience in transactional and regulatory issues in the oil and gas industries.
Clients praise Manuel Protasio's "excellent legal expertise, empathy with other parties and strong argumentation skills."
Significant clients: Turbogás, Tejo Energia, International Power, Euro-Yser.
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Exceptional expertise in patent litigation in the pharmaceutical industry, with further experience in trade marks and industrial design.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The lawyers were always available and assertive and really lived the project with us. They have a positive outlook and a client-oriented approach."
Notable practitioners:
António de Magalhães Cardoso is unanimously considered an authority in patents. Clients add: "He is a fantastic lawyer; very knowledgeable and fully dedicated to the client."
Managing associate António Andrade is increasingly active and acknowledged by other lawyers in the market.
Patricia Paias specialises in patent and trade mark litigation.
Significant clients: Novartis, Merck, AstraZeneca, Lundbeck.
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Covers the full spectrum of planning matters including land use regulation, licensing, environmental impact assessments and litigation. Praised for its creativity and service-oriented approach.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The lawyers put themselves at our service instead of saying 'no' right away. They are creative and react well to challenges."
"The most solid law firm I have worked with; I completely trust it. Sometimes I feel that other firms don't put themselves in our shoes - not VdA. The lawyers were completely dedicated to the project. I am very happy."
Work highlights:
Advised Auchan Portugal Hipermercados on the planning matters associated with the expansion of a shopping centre in Setúbal.
Assisted Discovery Fund with the acquisition of several tourist resorts, and related planning and licensing issues.
Notable practitioners:
Pedro Ferreirinha brings his real estate expertise to the team.
Significant clients: Azimar/Sana Hotels Group, Herdade do Barrocal, Discovery Fund, Oficina de Arquitectura/Sonae Turismo.
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A group of banking, M&A and corporate finance experts who handle private equity transactions across the energy, aviation and health sectors among others. Particular expertise in Brazil.
What's new? Jorge Bleck, formerly of Linklaters, joined the firm in September 2013.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"An excellent team. Dedicated, knowledgeable and fully committed to the project."
Work highlights: Advised Stirling Square Capital Partners on a EUR40 million investment in Omni Helicopters.
Notable practitioners:
Jorge Bleck is highly regarded for his expertise in private equity and M&A.
Helena Vaz Pinto earns praise for her M&A and private equity expertise.
Significant clients: Espírito Santo Ventures, Stirling Square Equity Partners, NewSight.
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Remains a compact team locally, but is fully integrated with its leading main office in Lisbon. Advises clients on a broad range of legal issues. Notable for its activity in banking, restructuring and distribution matters.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The lawyers are fast and easy to reach."
Work highlights:
Represented Amtrol-Alfa in the renegotiation of a EUR40 million supply contract with a state-owned gas distributor in Venezuela.
Advised Sakthi on the negotiation of a EUR50 million supply agreement.
Notable practitioners:
According to sources, Isabel Gião de Andrade "is technically strong, pragmatic and business-minded." She leads the Porto office and handles many of the firm's largest corporate mandates.
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Represents banks, private funds and major players from the transport and energy sectors. Particularly active in the restructuring of major transport, water and waste management projects. Noted for its business-minded approach and excellent client service.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The lawyers always keep track of matters and keep us updated. They establish a real partnership with the client and make an effort to show they care about our business."
"The partners maintain a close relationship with the client and are easy to reach."
"The lawyers are highly specialised and dedicated to the client. The team is well co-ordinated and everyone knows what is going on in the case."
Work highlights:
Advised CaixaBI, BCP, BPI and Santander on the renegotiation of several public concession agreements for water supply and sewage and waste collection and treatment.
Represented Brisa in the renegotiation of several road concession agreements with a total value of EUR3 billion.
Notable practitioners:
Interviewees say head of department Manuel Protásio "is nice to work with and extremely knowledgeable. He always gives constructive advice."
Vanda Cascão is a recognised name in the market. She specialises in infrastructure projects.
Clients describe Paulo de Barros Baptista as "extremely solid, knowledgeable and strategic. He understands client needs and has a global perspective of business."
Clients praise Ana Luís de Sousa: "She is dedicated, clever and a good negotiator."
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Large and highly active team, with clients from the TMT, infrastructure and healthcare sectors. Also advises clients from the private sector, including private companies and investors. Vastly experienced in concessions and PPP deals, public procurement and arbitration procedures.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The lawyers are highly specialised and extremely dedicated to the client; they keep the client updated and are great negotiators."
"There is good internal communication and all the lawyers are kept updated on cases."
Work highlights:
Advised ELOS - Ligações de Alta Velocidade on a high-speed railway project.
Represented BRISAL in an arbitration process against the Portuguese state concerning a road concession agreement signed in 2004.
Notable practitioners:
Senior partner Mário Esteves de Oliveira is vastly experienced and a highly regarded public law expert.
Clients praise market-leading figure Paulo Pinheiro: "He stands out for his excellent and creative work and solid technical expertise." An incredibly active presence at the firm, he recently advised the Portuguese government on privatising flagship air carrier TAP.
Head of the VdAcademia training association, Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira impresses interviewees, who state: "He is extremely thorough and detail-oriented."
Peers highlight managing associate Ana Marta Castro's work, and clients are also impressed: "She is solid, knowledgeable and always available." She forms part of the practice's team supporting international projects.
Significant clients: Portugal Telecom, Portuguese government, Azores Regional Government, ANA, CTT - Correios de Portugal.
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Extensive experience in all manner of real estate matters including purchase and sale, investment structures and planning. Offers further support in environmental, tax and corporate issues, and provides cross-border services in lusophone Africa.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The lawyers offer fast conclusions and help us make decisions. They are also excellent in terms of business development and helped us find new opportunities in the market."
"I like to have this team on my side; it is very flexible and acquainted with the tax, business and legal realities in other countries."
Work highlights:
Acted on behalf of Merck Sharp & Dohme on the disposal of local industrial premises following its merger with Schering Plough.
Assisted Lilly Portugal with its office relocation to the Torres Colombo.
Notable practitioners:
Sources say Pedro Ferreirinha is "a good motivator; he never gives up and always finds a solution." He also handles planning and environmental law issues, and lectures in real estate law at the Lisbon School of Economics & Management.
Significant clients: Merck Sharp & Dohme, Aviva, EnergoPark, Parvalorem.
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This restructuring and insolvency team is integrated within the firm's litigation and arbitration department. It provides further expertise in banking and finance and M&A, and acts on behalf of creditors and debtors. Noted for its responsiveness and business-oriented approach.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The team is excellent, and its strongest feature is that it keeps the client's interests in mind at all times. The lawyers are permanently on our side and are very available."
What's new? New clients include Grupo Soares da Costa and CaixaBI.
Work highlights: Represented Parkalgar Hotéis in restructuring and insolvency proceedings.
Assisted Grupo Soares da Costa with its restructuring.
Notable practitioners:
Practice head Frederico Gonçalves Pereira enjoys a strong reputation among commentators.
Joana Domingues is praised by clients for being "outstanding in negotiations and technically exceptional."
Significant clients: Banco Comercial Português, Grupo Soares da Costa, JAC Products, Nanium.
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Handles a large range of tax matters on behalf of financial institution, construction, telecoms and pharmaceutical clients. Particularly active in restructurings, financial transactions and the internationalisation of domestic companies.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"We are very happy with the service. The lawyers approach matters from a global point of view and anticipate any developments."
Work highlights:
Advised José de Mello Investimentos on its bid over Brisa.
Advised DaVita on the tax aspects of its acquisition of several haemodialysis clinics in Portugal and Poland.
Notable practitioners:
Sources highlight Tiago Marreiros Moreira's strategic approach and deep knowledge of EU tax issues as distinguishing qualities.
Conceição Gamito earns praise for her expertise on VAT issues.
Joaquim Lampreia leads the tax litigation group. Clients say he is "pragmatic and efficient."
Significant clients: PT Group, Andrade Gutierrez Group, Deutsche Bank, Generg.
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An outstanding group of TMT experts advising operators, regulators and governments. Particularly active in the provision of regulatory assistance.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):
"The team has very strong negotiation skills, based on solid knowledge of our industry."
"The lawyers know a lot about our sector, including trends. They focus on rigour, quality and good customer relations."
Work highlights:
Advised long-standing client Portugal Telecom on the implementation of the universal service fund of electronic communications.
Assisted Caixa Central de Crédito Agrícola Mútuo with the outsourcing of its IT systems.
Notable practitioners:
Described as "one of the best," Margarida Couto has a well-established reputation in the market. "She has been working in TMT for years and has profound knowledge of the sector," adds another interviewee.
Fernando Resina da Silva "is very creative and comes up with solutions which don't just cover the legal side but also the business aspects." He took the lead advising Caixa Central de Crédito Agrícola Mútuo on its IT outsourcing project.
Magda Cocco is known for her work with clients in lusophone countries, such as Cabo Verde Telecom Group. "She is always focused on getting the best result and has an excellent capacity to negotiate," say sources.
Significant clients: Banco Espírito Santo, Cabo Verde Telecom Group, Nintendo Ibéria, Portugal Telecom Group, Timor Telecom.
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