Chambers Europe

What the team is known for
Long-standing leader with expansive bench strength and impressive reputation. Advises on the full scope of transactional and regulatory matters with outstanding expertise in debt restructuring and recapitalisation, in addition to securitisation proceedings. Offering strong cross-border capabilities, the firm continues to strengthen its international reach with recent hires experienced in matters involving lusophone and francophone jurisdictions. 

Strengths 
Sources note the firm's availability and dedication: "It was a real challenge and the team worked very well to get everything done and were very flexible." 

Work highlights 
Continued to advise the Portuguese Ministry of Finance on bank recapitalisation deals. Advice included the sale of Banif and its assets and liabilities to Santander.
Continued to advise Bank of Portugal following the application of the resolution measure to Banco Espírito Santo and subsequent matters arising from this process.

Significant clients
Barclays Bank, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Citibank, Deutsche Bank, RBS.

Notable practitioners  
Head of the banking and finance practice Pedro Cassiano Santos displays expertise in asset and structured finance as well as securitisations and he is a key member of the team for regulatory matters. Sources enthuse: "He is a very experienced lawyer" with another adding: "He is one of the most recognised in the market for debt."
Paula Gomes Freire (Band  is identified for her knowledge of asset and structured finance. She is active on debt and equity issuances and securitisation matters. One source notes: "She is solid from a technical point of view."
Managing associate Benedita Aires is a valued member of the team, acknowledged for her presence in securitisations and structured finance.

• Paula Gomes Freire - Band 2
• Pedro Cassiano Santos - Star Individual
• Benedita Aires - Associte to Watch

What the team is known for
Highly regarded team praised for its first-rate expertise in debt capital markets with a growing presence in equity capital markets. Regularly handles a wide range of transactional and regulatory matters including the issuance of covered bonds, share placement and launching of public offers. In addition the practice covers corporate governance matters.

Strengths
Sources emphasise the team's presence in the market: "It is clearly a leader in the area and is often first choice if the transactions are novel or particularly complex."
Another source appreciates: "They always add value for their clients."

Work highlights
Advised the joint bookrunners on a EUR750 million subordinated bond issuance by EDP.
Assisted S.L. Benfica with its EUR45 million bond issuance, due 2018 and its public offer, advising on the listing and admission to trading on Euronext Lisbon.

Significant clients
Deutsche Bank, J.P. Morgan, Banco BPI, Brisa Concessão, Futebol Clube do Porto.

Notable practitioners
Head of banking and finance Pedro Cassiano Santos is recognised as a leading practitioner. He is particularly well-regarded for his experience in debt transactions. He is acknowledged as "a leader in this practice area with a large experience and focus on national and international issuance of debt and equity securities, privatisation, listings and de-listings and corporate restructurings of listed companies."
Paula Gomes Freire regularly handles securitisation work. She is considered to be well-versed in regulatory issues and is regarded as "a fantastic lawyer" by sources. Her roster of work encompasses asset-backed finance and other banking and finance matters.
Hugo Moredo Santos is distinguished as "a great lawyer, very good technically" and "an excellent and brilliant partner." He is noted for his work in structured finance deals and securitisation in addition to public offerings.
José Pedro Fazenda Martins leads the capital markets practice and is respected by peers for his wealth of experience in capital markets transactions. He is identified for his proficiency in equity and equity-linked offerings as well as regulatory matters.
Orlando Vogler Guiné is credited as "a fantastic lawyer with very strong technical skills." He undertakes a breadth of work, being adept in securities issues and acquisitions.

• Hugo Moredo Santos - Band 2
• José Pedro Fazenda Martins - Band 3
• Paula Gomes Freire - Band 2
• Pedro Cassiano Santos - Band 1
• Orlando Vogler Guiné - Band 4

What the team is known for
Highly regarded outfit with a robust team. Adept at assisting with multi-jurisdictional corporate transactions, with M&A as an area of notable expertise. Experienced in energy, TMT, life sciences and financial services industries. Handles the full range of matters including corporate restructurings, venture capital transactions and corporate governance. Noted for its international reach, particularly in Angola, Mozambique and Timor-Leste.

Strengths
"Their strongest points include negotiation and problem solving. They were an invaluable asset when it came to planning and getting through problems that arose. We knew that we would always have someone to answer our questions and to give us a solution."
"A very commercial firm that always makes an effort with client relationships."

Work highlights
Advised Apollo Global Management on the EUR62.4 million acquisition of AdvanceCare from United Health Group.
Assisted Grupo Arié with the acquisition of Barreiros Faria Group, owner of Perfumes & Companhia.

Significant clients
Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings (CKI), State Grid Corporation of China, Brisa, Johnson & Johnson, First State Investments.

Notable practitioners
Managing partner João Vieira de Almeida is widely recognised as a "very experienced lawyer" and is appreciated for his "focus, openness and understanding of strategic views." He frequently advises on international transactions involving Brazil. He is highly experienced in joint venture operations and M&A.
Head of M&A and corporate finance Jorge Bleck is highly reputed in the area of corporate finance and for complex M&A mandates. One source declares: "He can solve all kinds of difficult legal problems in an easy way."
Cláudia Cruz Almeida is recognised among sources for her approach as "a very commercial lawyer, particularly good during negotiation" and for her "pragmatic and easy-going" nature. She is skilled in M&A, acquisition finance and corporate finance matters. Other sources commend her as "meticulous, positive" and "result-oriented with a clear assessment of the risks."
Head of the corporate and governance practice group Paulo Olavo Cunha is recognised for his academic skill. One source describes him as "a negotiator that is respected by all parties, who knows when to be tough or to reach consensus. A lawyer that combines his academic knowledge as a professor of law with a long-standing practice."
Helena Vaz Pinto maintains her reputation in the market as a key member of the team, frequently assisting banking and finance institutions. She is active in acquisitions and venture capital transactions.

• Cláudia Cruz Almeida - Band 4
• Helena Vaz Pinto - Band 4
• João Vieira de Almeida - Eminent Practionier
• Jorge M Bleck - Band 1
• Paulo Olavo Cunha - Band 4

What the team is known for
Highly reputed for its strength and depth of skill across all competition matters. Highlighted for knowledge of such sectors as banking and financial services, energy, TMT and life sciences. Notable expertise in EU state aid rules, merger control and PCA investigations.

Strengths
Interviewees consider the team to be experienced and "very business-oriented."

Work highlights
Assisted DIA Group and Intermarché with the creation and incorporation of CINDIA as a joint platform for negotiations with suppliers.
Advised CKI and Power Assets Holdings on its acquisition of Iberwind including the merger control proceedings before the PCA.

Significant clients
Bank of Portugal, Novartis, Ageas Group, Körber, Yildirim Group.

Notable practitioners
Head of the competition and EU law practice, Nuno Ruiz is acknowledged to be an expert in the field and "the model of an excellent competition lawyer." He is noted to offer "expertise in antitrust matters" providing "solid technical expertise.“
Sources admire that Miguel Mendes Pereira has a "very practical approach and that he helps to find solutions that are business-oriented and innovative." He frequently handles merger control cases and represents clients in antitrust matters before the EU General Court. He offers additional experience in the media sector.
(...) Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro offers expertise in abuse of dominance cases, merger control and private enforcement. Sources highlight his activity in the telecommunications sector and his "strong technical analysis." One interviewee credits him as "very competent and dedicated. He offers a good level of knowledge."

• Nuno Ruiz - Band 1
• Miguel Mendes Pereira - Band 2
• Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro - Band 3

What the team is known for
Sizeable and multidisciplinary practice covering the full range of civil and commercial disputes, domestic and international arbitration and white-collar crime. Also offers a highly specialised service in patent litigation and is active in insolvency litigation. Provides expertise across Portuguese-speaking jurisdictions including Angola and Cabo Verde.

Strengths
Sources appreciate the team's dedicated approach: "All the team are very accurate in the answers they provide us with. We can always expect the same level of professionalism, proactivity and understanding with the entire team."
One source highlights: "One of their greatest points is that they are client-oriented. They are wise and creative in the search for legal solutions for their client's needs."

Work highlights
Advised Elos - Ligações de Alta Velocidade on an arbitration against the Portuguese state concerning the withdrawal of the concession of the high-speed rail project for the Lisbon–Poceirão route.
Continues to act for Portugal Telecom on a lawsuit filed by NOS for alleged damages caused by abuse of dominance.

Significant clients
Banco Comercial Português, Galp Energia, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Novartis, AstraZeneca.

Notable practitioners
Litigation and arbitration co-head Miguel Pinto Cardoso has an excellent reputation among sources who note his experience and describe him as "extremely confident in handling matters." He is highly skilled in commercial litigation. One source credits him as "the best lawyer I've ever seen acting in court."
Department co-head Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is acknowledged for his experience in disputes, particularly in restructuring and insolvency and commercial litigation. One source says: "Technically he's just perfect, he knows everything about litigation proceedings."
Sofia Ribeiro Branco is a key member of the team for criminal, regulatory and misdemeanour litigation. Her practice includes compliance and private enforcement matters. She receives excellent commentary from clients who note her "knowledge and accessibility." Another source states: "I like her capacity to really look around in support of our defence, in a very detailed way. She tries to deeply understand the business so defends from the customer's view. A high talent."

• Frederico Gonçalves Pereira - Band 2
• Miguel Pinto Cardoso - Band 1
• Sofia Ribeiro Branco - Band 4

Dispute Resolution - Corporate Crime

• Sofia Ribeiro Branco - Band 3

What the team is known for
Handles a wide range of employment matters and able to assist clients with day-to-day advisory work and collective bargaining agreements. Advises key clients from the insurance, pharmaceutical, transport and IT sectors. Further strengths include restructurings, transfers of undertakings and contract termination with additional support in compliance.

Strengths
Sources appreciate that the team is "very focused on the customer approach." One client confirms: "They were very helpful, always reachable and provided real guidance."
Further interviewees emphasise the "experience and reputation" of the team, said to provide "valuable support."

Work highlights
Advised Ferrostaal on the closure of its Portuguese operations and arising employment issues, including on a collective dismissal procedure.
Assisted Johnson & Johnson with a collective dismissal procedure as part of a restructuring process of the group.

Significant clients
Novartis, Esegur, Avis, Bombardier, Lilly.

Notable practitioners
Managing associate Tiago Piló leads the employment and benefits practice at the firm. He is admired for being "very solid and experienced" and "very proactive, with accurate and valuable on-time support." His broad employment practice encompasses advice on restructurings, contract negotiations, collective dismissals and collective bargaining processes.

• Tiago Piló - Band 3

What the team is known for
Expanding team with reinforced international capabilities and oil and gas expertise. Offers a comprehensive service, skilled in project development, public procurement as well as licensing and compliance issues. Assists major clients including energy providers and mining companies. Works across both lusophone and francophone Africa.

Strengths
Clients appreciate the firm's international capabilities, as sources say they offer "significant strength and local knowledge in Portuguese speaking countries."
One interviewee highlights the team's "strong analytical skills and understanding of sector regulations as well as availability in terms of recommendations and timely delivery.“

Work highlights
Advised REN - Redes Energéticas Nacionais on the EUR80 million financed by EIB in support of its multi-component investment programme which includes renewable energy connections and the reinforcement and upgrade of the electricity transmission network in Portugal.
Assisted CKI Holdings and Power Assets Holdings with the acquisition of Iberwind.

Significant clients
Tejo Energia, Turbogás, Lusovento, WinPower, GDF SUEZ.

Notable practitioners
Oil and gas expert Rui Amendoeira is well regarded in the market for his knowledge of projects and transactions across Africa. He is described as "very business orientated" and highlighted by sources for his "extensive understanding of Angolan local law."
Vanda Cascão leads the energy and natural resources group and plays a key role in the projects practice. She focuses on project development and finance in the sector, covering power projects and renewables sources. Interviewees praise her experience in energy matters, for which she is considered "very competent."
Well known projects practitioner Manuel Protásio specialises in project financings, investments and acquisitions. Sources acknowledge his expertise in corporate and finance matters.

• Manuel Protásio - Band 3
• Vanda Cascão - Band 2
  

Rui Amendoeira - Band 1

What the team is known for
Well equipped to handle an array of matters in the corporate field, combined with a depth of resources. Frequently advises on M&A, corporate finance and restructurings. Often assists clients within the IT, transport and distribution industries. Further support with public law and employment issues

Strengths
Clients appreciate their "capacity to give an answer quickly and very pragmatically to a question. They are very business-oriented, really proactive and creative in their approach."
Further sources consider the team to be very knowledgeable and identify "the availability of the lawyers to address our questions and points." 

Work highlights 
Advised Efacec Power Solutions on the restructuring of its supply and distribution agreements.
Advised Sakthi Portugal on the implementation of its investments, including the creation of a centre for innovation and technology.

Significant clients
Câmara Municipal de Gaia, Efacec Handling Solutions, Amtrol-Alfa, ESEGUR - Empresa de Segurança, Veniam.

Notable practitioners  
Isabel Gião de Andrade leads the Porto office and has broad experience in the corporate arena. Clients say: "She has extremely comprehensive knowledge and is quite assertive." She is active on M&A and restructurings. Further interviewees identify her "very strong knowledge in corporate law and proactive solutions proposed."
Senior associate Inês Ribera is a key member of the team, appreciated by clients for her "availability, fast answers and advice provided." She regularly provides support on M&A, restructuring and commercial contracts. Further sources note her approach as "very effective in proposing solutions to various issues."

• Isabel Gião de Andrade - Band 3
• Inês Ribera - Associate to Watch
  

What the team is known for
Noted firm in the market, well regarded for work on complex M&A deals in the insurance arena. Able to draw on its leading corporate/M&A practice when advising clients on insurance transactions. Adept at assisting with regulatory matters and insurance litigation. A growing team that advises on insurance and reinsurance products.

Strengths
Interviewees appreciate the ease with which the team identifies the clients' needs: "They are very responsive, the advice is spot on and they are very commercial in providing practical solutions."
Further sources confirm: "It is a full service company with extensive expertise."

Work highlights
Advised new client Ageas on its EUR195.8 million acquisition of AXA's insurance operations in Portugal.
Assisted Towers Watson with regulatory filings following the merger between Towers Watson and Willis.

Significant clients
MAPFRE, Apollo Global Management, Tranquilidade, SEB Life International, Foyer International.

Notable practitioners
Helena Vaz Pinto enters the rankings following impressive feedback. She is well known for her expertise in corporate and M&A matters within the insurance sector. She advised the Portuguese Insurer Association on the impact of Solvency II. One source recognises that "she has a lot of experience with recent insurance transactions, which was key to understanding the sector."

• Helena Vaz Pinto - Band 3
  

What the team is known for
Market-leading practice with a specialist focus on complex patent, trade mark and copyright litigation. Particularly well regarded for acting on behalf of major pharmaceutical companies. Also handles licensing processes and management of IP rights. Strongly recommended for handling patent litigation for its Portuguese and international clientele.

Strengths 
Clients particularly appreciate the team's pragmatism and speed of response. Sources add: "They are outstanding litigators as well, with decades of experience." 
Other clients remark: "The firm helped us on several patent litigations involving medicines. The work was complex and involved scientific issues and numerous experts. We find them acutely aware of the local market and of court procedures.“

Work highlights 
Advised Merck Sharp and Dohme on enforcement of patent rights in mandatory arbitration actions and assisted with IP rights licensing and settlement agreements.
Assisted Société des Produits Nestlé with patent and trade mark enforcement.

Significant clients 
AstraZeneca, Novartis, Boehringer Ingelheim, Shionogi, Daiichi Sankyo.

Notable practitioners
António de Magalhães Cardoso is noted as an expert in IP matters and commercial litigation and arbitration. He advises several clients in the pharmaceutical market. Peers agree that "he is a reference lawyer in the market."
Sources highlight António Andrade as "attentive to the case - a proven winner." He advises some of the most notable names in the pharmaceutical industry, often on litigation. 
Patrícia Paias is recommended by sources for her "good skills and knowledge." She handles patent, trade mark and design litigation cases, as well as the non-contentious aspects of IP rights.

• António de Magalhães Cardoso - Band 1
• António Andrade - Band 3
• Patrícia Paias - Star Associate 

What the team is known for
Prominent department with experience of investments across a broad range of industries and sectors, such as insurance, telecommunications and energy. Skilled in handling all manner of private equity matters, including those involving multiple jurisdictions. Also acts for venture capital clients on a regular basis.

Strengths
Clients highlight some of the firm's qualities: "Their main strengths are their reliability, professionalism and availability in peak times, when their input is of utmost importance."
Other sources remark: "It's a talented team, with good co-operation and creativity. They are proactive and fast as well.“

Work highlights
Advised Apollo Global Management on the acquisition of the insurance company Açoreana Seguros.
Advised KIC InnoEnergy on its initial investments in Portuguese start-up companies.

Significant clients
Advent International, Carlyle Group, Espírito Santo Ventures, Stirling Square Equity Partners.

Notable practitioners
Jorge Bleck is known for his M&A and corporate finance practices, whilst also handling joint ventures. He advises significant private equity funds operating in Iberia.
Helena Vaz Pinto is described as a "hands-on lawyer," with significant experience in corporate finance and privatisations.

• Helena Vaz Pinto - Band 2
• Jorge Bleck - Band 2

What the team is known for
First-class practice active in the energy, infrastructure and transport sectors. Experienced in road concessions, renewable energy and water projects. Preferred choice for domestic banking institutions as lenders on the renegotiation of concession agreements. Team offers expertise in a number of African jurisdictions and is involved in both international and domestic matters.

Strengths 
Sources identify the team as "one of the most experienced in this field in Portugal" and highlight it for its proactive approach.
Clients appreciate that "they are efficient and have a deep knowledge of the sector.“

Work highlights 
Advised the lenders, including Banco Comercial Português and CaixaBI, on the renegotiation of a EUR300 million road PPP.
Advised Grupo Andrade Gutierrez, together with joint venture partners Fleurette Group, on the concession agreement for the financing, operation and maintenance of the Kasumbalesa–Mokambo public road in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Significant clients
Brisa Group, Ferrostaal, Aquapor, Santander, Soares da Costa.

Notable practitioners  
Sources regard Manuel Protásio as "one of the stars" in the market, and he is noted for his experience. He advises on projects in the energy sector and provides support on project finance, acquisitions and structured finance.
Paulo de Barros Baptista is particularly active in project finance relating to the infrastructure and transport sectors. Sources note that "he's very committed in trying to reach solutions, he maintains clarity on issues and finds what is essential." Others affirm that he is "extremely competent and creative in the way he analyses problems," describing him as "a very good problem solver and good in negotiations.“
Vanda Cascão focuses on energy and natural resources matters. She is known for her experience in power projects and has experience of assisting with matters involving Angola, Cabo Verde and Mozambique. One interviewee avers: "She is dedicated and very analytical.“
Teresa Empis Falcão climbs the rankings following excellent feedback from clients, who consider her to be "a brilliant lawyer with a deep knowledge of PPP and finance contracts." She is well known for her expertise in infrastructure as well as energy projects. Another source notes: "She is very knowledgeable, experienced and clearly knows the market. She is a very commercial lawyer who combines the intellectual side with commercial solutions.“
Ana Luís de Sousa has a proven track record assisting with the development of projects within the energy and natural resources sector. She also advises on project finance and represents a range of clients, including sponsors.

• Manuel Protásio - Band 1
• Paulo de Barros Baptista - Band 2
• Teresa Empis Falcão - Band 3
• Vanda Cascão - Band 3
• Ana Luís de Sousa - Band 3
  

What the team is known for 
Stellar reputation in the public law market, able to provide a deep bench of recognised individuals. Well regarded for its advice on concessions and PPPs, as well as privatisation processes. Solid presence in the telecoms, healthcare, infrastructure and transport sectors. Regularly handles public law arbitration. Growing recognition for handling matters related to European Funds.

Strengths 
Clients list some of the team's main qualities: "Vieira de Almeida has a very down-to-earth approach, being able to anticipate most of the needs and concerns of the client. They are focused on solutions and communicate in a very simple way. Also, being one of the biggest firms in Portugal and having lawyers with varied technical expertise allows them to provide services in a very global way." 
Other clients mention its multidisciplinary service as one of the firm's main strengths: "The most important qualities of the office are the close proximity to the customer, the technical quality of service and simultaneous access to all disciplines of law.“

Work highlights 
Advised Banco de Portugal on the incorporation of the new Novo Banco and the transfer of the majority of assets and liabilities from Banco Espírito Santo to Novo Banco.
Assisted MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, part of the Portugal Telecom Group, with the EC process for the attribution of European Funds to the Covilhã data centre project.
Significant clients Portuguese Government, Brisa Group, Azores Regional Government, Odebrecht Ambiental, ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal.

Notable practitioners
Senior partner Mário Esteves de Oliveira is considered a reference by peers and clients, who refer to him as "a master, an academic, perfect in administrative and procurement procedures."
Clients say public law expert Paulo Pinheiro is "good at generating solutions and capable of coming up with ideas to solve issues. He is also good in terms of understanding parties and creating the necessary arguments to win disputes."
Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira is noted for his involvement in administrative concessions and public procurement. He is also recognised for his academic career and his experience in international projects. Sources describe him as "very sharp and clever, with a practical view."
Ana Marta Castro focuses on public procurement, contracts and concessions, with notable expertise in the aviation
sector. Clients say: "She is very calm and always finds a good way to solve problems, giving comfort with her legal opinions."
André Proença remains a noted presence in several administrative litigation cases and arbitrations related to public contracts and regulatory matters.

• Mário Esteves de Oliveira - Senior Statesmen
• Paulo Pinheiro - Band 1
• Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira - Band 2
• Ana Marta Castro - Band 4
• André Proença - Associate to Watch
  

What the team is known for
Comprehensive real estate practice, experienced in assisting clients with real estate transactions and urban rehabilitation. Solid presence on the investment and divestment of commercial property, often assisting international players in the market. Prominent expertise in environmental issues, including licensing and compliance. Experience in sales and acquisitions encompasses all manner of properties. 

Strengths 
The team is described by clients as "perfectly professional, efficient and available.“

Work highlights 
Advised Deutsche Bank on the refinancing of an acquisition by Blackstone of a logistics and retail portfolio.
Advised Fundação Oriente on the sale of its headquarters in Lisbon to Pavilions Boutique Hotels.

Significant clients
Group Claude Berda, Aerium Finance, Kildare Partners, La Marrón International, Imopríncipe.

Notable practitioners 
Miguel Marques dos Santos has recently joined the firm and, according to sources, remains "a well known lawyer and one of the most active partners in the market." A standout name in the real estate field, impressed clients view him as "a huge asset - for us it is essential to have the confidence, the knowledge and the support of Miguel Marques dos Santos. We trust him a lot."
Practice head Pedro Ferreirinha is a renowned practitioner in the Portuguese real estate arena. He is noted by clients as an "excellent negotiator. His excellent reputation is a major contribution" when it comes to real estate transactions.
Pedro Pereira Coutinho is lauded by sources for his "fine negotiation skills.". He assists the team with real estate acquisitions and developments of residential, commercial and tourism projects. 

• Miguel Marques dos Santos - Band 1
• Pedro Ferreirinha - Band 2
• Pedro Pereira Coutinho - Associate to Watch

What the team is known for
Highly regarded outfit with considerable experience in debt restructuring and distressed M&A transactions, in domestic and international contexts. Active advising international clients on transactions concerning distressed assets, and on debt restructuring arrangements. In addition to expertise in dealing with banking clients, the team has extensive experience in several other industry sectors, including healthcare and insurance.

Strengths 
Market commentators acknowledge the firm's presence in the market and consistent fielding of teams of "very good lawyers." 

Work highlights
Assisted Fundger with matters regarding the insolvency plan for Golden Eagle Real Estate Investment Fund, which the client had previously managed, including the defence of a claim by the fund participants for invalidity of the fund constitution and financing contracts.
Advised Apollo on the acquisition of Tranquilidade from Novo Banco and represented its subsidiary Calm Eagle in all related litigation.
Significant clients Banco Comercial Português, Nanium, Barclays, BBVA, Morgan Stanley.

Notable practitioners  
Key practitioner Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is recognised for his litigation skills. He is highly recommended for contentious restructuring and insolvency matters.
Managing associate Joana Domingues is considered by sources to be "a very well prepared lawyer." She is active in all manner of restructuring matters and distressed transactions.

• Frederico Gonçalves Pereira - Band 1
• Joana Domingues - Associate to Watch

What the team is known for
Advises on complex transactional tax matters for a range of clients, notably from the pharmaceutical industry and major telecoms operators. Also offers clientele support from a dedicated financial tax team. Regularly handles international taxation, tax structuring and litigation, as well as indirect taxing.

Strengths
Clients admire the firm's structure: "They have a strategic approach and strong commitment to the client. Senior team members get involved in each matter, overlooking all impacts on business areas when analysing the problems and proposing the solutions."
Others clients say "their greatest point is that they are very client-oriented. They also have a diversified and practical team, with expertise in many areas. They are wise and creative in searching for legal solutions for their clients' needs."

Work highlights
Acted for Brisal and KBC Finance on a number of claims against the Portuguese State.

Significant clients
TAP, Portugal Telecom, Banco de Portugal, Trustenergy Group, Deutsche Bank.

Notable practitioners
Tiago Marreiros Moreira is renowned for his experience in international tax planning, as well as corporate taxation and transfer pricing. Clients admire him "for his expertise, reliability and confidence."
Conceição Gamito is recognised for her work handling significant disputes concerning Portuguese and EU VAT matters.
Samuel Fernandes de Almeida is a noted tax litigator and arbitrator in the Portuguese market. He frequently represents clients before judicial and arbitral courts.
Joaquim Pedro Lampreia was recently promoted to tax partner and is praised for his work as a tax litigator. Sources remark: "He understands quickly what the client needs.He is very thorough in his evaluations, efficient and creative finding solutions for his client's requests."

• Joaquim Pedro Lampreia - Band 4
• Tiago Marreiros Moreira - Band 2
• Samuel Fernandes de Almeida - Band 4
• Conceição Gamito - Band 3

What the team is known for
Market-leading TMT practice, highly regarded for its capabilities in data protection, privacy and regulatory issues. Also has notable experience with emerging technologies. Represents both domestic and international public authorities and companies.

Strengths
One interviewee states the team are "brilliant professionals, meeting the highest professional standards."
Another client notes: "We really felt they have strong and effective experience and are suited with the knowledge and the resources to tackle all sorts of items.“

Work highlights
Assisted MTTI with drafting new legislation and amending existing laws in order to implement a new access regime for electronic communications operators in Angola.
Advised Lisbon City Council on the launch of a crowdfunding platform for financing innovative ideas.

Significant clients
Nintendo, Crédito Agrícola, PT Pay, CTT, Timor Telecom.

Notable practitioners
Margarida Couto is highly regarded by peers and is praised as being "above all other lawyers in the market - she's brilliant and fully deserves distinction as a star." Her excellent reputation in telecoms and data protection is consistently recognised.
Magda Cocco is a well-known presence on the TMT market for her work in the privacy, data protection and cybersecurity areas, advising clients on an international level. One client describes her as an "extremely professional and great individual."
Fernando Resina da Silva is also reputed for his work in TMT. He recently wrote a guide in conjunction with Microsoft on the main legal issues facing companies, public authorities and individuals when using cloud services, such as data protection and IP rights.

• Fernando Resina - Band 1
• Magda Cocco - Band 1
• Margarida Couto - Star Individual