"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
Longstanding leader with expansive bench strength and an impressive reputation. Solid client roster includes major domestic and international banks and other financial institutions. Advises on the full scope of transactional and regulatory matters, with outstanding expertise in restructuring and securitisation proceedings. Offers strong cross-border capabilities involving other lusophone countries, including Timor-Leste. Significant expertise in corporate and real estate financing matters. Additionally handles crowdfunding regulatory matters.
Notable practitioners
Benedita Aires regularly acts on real estate finance deals, NPL acquisitions and facility agreements. She represents international investors, retailers and banks.
Francisco Sá Carneiro specialises in M&A finance-related transactions. He regularly assists banks with large acquisitions of share capital.
Paula Gomes Freire is an expert at handling matters including acquisitions of NPL portfolios and derivatives. Interviewees emphasise her "solid knowledge of the market."
Pedro Cassiano Santos is praised for his ability to lead the firm's expansive banking and finance team while maintaining his outstanding market activity. His expertise covers the full range of banking and finance matters, including regulatory advice, negotiations regarding facility agreements, sales of assets and financial restructurings.
Tiago Correia Moreira frequently advises clients on the purchase of NPL portfolios and registration of crowdfunding platforms. He frequently represents clients from the banking and energy sectors.
Strengths
The department wins praise from reputable international clients for its "great professionals with good technical capabilities and capacity for negotiation." Interviewees further laud the team for its "rapid responses, market knowledge and client dedication."
Work highlights
Assisted Morgan Stanley with the financing of the acquisition of an NPL portfolio in Portugal.
What the team is known for
Highly regarded team praised for its first-rate expertise in debt capital markets. The team regularly assists international investment banks with their role as managers and underwriters of Portuguese bond issuances, including retail or green bonds. It has acted on the underwriter side of capital increases carried out by major Portuguese energy or construction companies. The law firm also 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.
José Pedro Fazenda Martins is experienced in equity capital markets and bond issuance matters. He also provides regulatory advice. Clients value his ability to "bring many important insights to a deal."
Paula Gomes Freire is best known for her advice on securitisation transactions. Standout mandates include her advice to originator banks on the STS-compliant securitisation of auto loans 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 equity capital market deals. Market commentators say that "he is very well known and respected."
Orlando Vogler Guiné plays a key supporting role in many of the firm's debt and equity capital matters. He is well known among market commentators as an important member of the team.
Work highlights
Assisted UNION DE CRÉDITOS INMOBILIÁRIOS with an EUR392 million securitisation of residential mortgage credits. The transaction met the requirements to be classified as an STS securitisation.
What the team is known for
VdA is a highly esteemed department active in a broad range of competition and EU law matters. The law firm has notable expertise in merger control, state aid, authority-led cartel and other antitrust investigations, as well as appeals. The team often advises clients on infringement cases involving collusion claims, and information exchange. It acts for an impressive client roster comprising domestic and international names with activity in the retail, telecoms and banking sectors.
Notable practitioners
Nuno Ruiz has a broad competition law practice with notable recent experience advising on state aid matters linked to COVID-19 recovery plans. In addition he advises clients on merger clearance filings, as well as investigations into allegations of anti-competitive behaviour and subsequent appeals against fines.
Head of department Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro s proficient in handling antitrust investigations and appeals against PCA decisions, as well as merger control matters. Clients describe him as a "very strong lawyer with a lot of expertise and knowledge of the law" and add that he is "a valuable business partner."
Strengths
A satisfied client praises the team's commercial awareness, noting that "the lawyers have a strong knowledge of the law but are also able to link this knowledge with their practical expertise regarding our activity."
Work highlights
Advised TDR Capital and I Squared Capital on a cross-border merger control filing for the acquisition of Aggreko.
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 real estate 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 on a broad range of complex M&A deals. One client enthuses: "She is one of the most dedicated lawyers I have worked with, she is hard-working and very well composed under pressure."
The "fantastic" Francisco Sá Carneiro demonstrates longstanding expertise in corporate and M&A matters. Clients describe him as "a knowledgeable lawyer with great client-handling skills."
João Vieira de Almeida is an experienced lawyer in the corporate sphere, frequently acting on joint ventures and cross-border transactions.
Top lawyer Jorge Bleck is described as a true market reference by an interviewee who says that "clients fully trust his judgement due to his extensive experience." He provides expert advice on a variety of corporate matters including joint venture establishments and cross-border M&A deals.
Inês Gomes Ferreira assists prominent domestic clients with M&A deals and corporate governance topics. She is recognised for her ability to handle complex transactions.
Cristina Melo Miranda is "very engaged and fast," according to respondents. She has notable experience in handling cross-border transactions.
Strengths
One client values VdA's holistic approach, noting: "The lawyers are very good technically and also have strong alliances with international clients, regulators and key market players." An interviewee further states: "VdA boasts an impressive team with deep knowledge in different sectors. The members are highly skilled and have strong experience."
Work highlights
Assisted China Communications Construction with its acquisition of shares in Mota-Engil.
What the team is known for
Sizeable and multidisciplinary practice with the capacity to handle varied commercial disputes, including international arbitration. Advises on debt recovery actions, commercial claims against former distributors and litigation arising in the course of M&A transactions. Has experience in the enforcement of arbitral awards in Portugal. Provides 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. Offers impressive expertise in white-collar crime cases involving corruption, tax fraud and money laundering. Client list includes banks and companies active in the telecommunications, construction and insurance sectors.
Notable practitioners
Carla Gonçalves Borges is recognised among market commentators as a key partner within VdA's disputes practice. She often advises on commercial disputes arising for clients in the financial services sector. She has proven experience in litigation and arbitration mandates.
Frederico Gonçalves Pereira has a strong track record of handling disputes within the banking, telecommunications, transportation and pharmaceutical sectors. "Frederico is a strategist and is always five steps ahead. He understands the issues very quickly and anticipates the various scenarios," enthuses a client, adding: "His knowledge of the law and his court experience are outstanding."
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. He draws praise for his rigorous approach and for his strategic nous.
Filipe Rocha Vieira earns praise from market commentators and clients for his contributions to relevant litigation and arbitration matters. He acts for clients from the transportation, energy and banking sectors on varied disputes.
Dispute Resolution – Corporate Crime
Notable practitioners
João Medeiros specialises in the management of corporate crime cases, including those relating to embezzlement, abuse of power and fraud. He defends football clubs, infrastructure concessionaires and the executives of energy companies in high-profile proceedings. Clients appreciate his personal dedication to cases.
Sofia Ribeiro Branco stands out for her work on complex corporate crime matters ranging from corruption and fraud cases to cyber crime investigations. She frequently assists clients from the energy, sports and healthcare sectors.
Strengths
"The firm's services are of the utmost quality," enthuses one client. "The team has extremely solid legal knowledge and court experience," says another interviewee, going on to explain: "The lawyers anticipate the various scenarios arising from our litigation and know how to present the case clearly and effectively."
Work highlights
Represented the Portuguese branch of Hoffmann-La Roche in litigation following the termination of a distribution agreement with BSK Medical.
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 restructurings 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 long-standing activity in the employment area. He has considerable experience in handling employment disputes.
Tiago Piló is praised by one client for his "excellent service level." His remit stretches from lay-offs and collective redundancy procedures to employment law support on M&A transactions.
Américo Oliveira Fragoso focuses his practice on restructurings and employment advice on transactional matters. He offers further advice on collective redundancies, pension funds and employment-related disputes. One enthusiastic client comments: "Américo Oliveira Fragoso has a deep knowledge of the legal context but also of the trends in different business sectors, which allows him to give in-depth advice."
Tiago Azevedo advises on restructuring proceedings and collective redundancies, as well as assisting with the employment aspects of acquisitions, including the transfer of employees.
Strengths
One satisfied client comments that the firm "provides juridical assistance in an accessible language."
Work highlights
Assisted Finerge with employment-related advice following a M&A transaction and the company's reorganisation.
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 assists with a variety of energy-related issues including joint ventures, project finance and acquisitions.
Manuel Protásio provides expert advice on both renewable and non-renewable energy matters. He regularly assists clients with project financing and the negotiation of project permit agreements.
The "truly exceptional" 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. One impressed source lauds her "great in-depth knowledge" of the energy sector, "both at the legal level and in terms of market best practices."
Strengths
"They have an unparalleled level of preparation and attention to detail," an impressed source remarks. Other interviewees also value the firm's "360-degree view of the industry," adding: "They are perfectly familiar with the laws and regulations applicable to energy projects."
Work highlights
Represented the Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority in its negotiations with the Australian Government and Sunrise Joint Venture concerning development of the Sunrise offshore gas field.
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.
The "truly exceptional" 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. One impressed source lauds her "great in-depth knowledge" of the energy sector, "both at the legal level and in terms of market best practices."
Strengths
"They have an unparalleled level of preparation and attention to detail," an impressed source remarks. Other interviewees also value the firm's "360-degree view of the industry," adding: "They are perfectly familiar with the laws and regulations applicable to energy projects."
Work highlights
Represented the Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority in its negotiations with the Australian Government and Sunrise Joint Venture concerning development of the Sunrise offshore gas field.
What the team is known for
VdA has made a series of lateral hires to bolster the team based in Porto. The firm's local tax law capabilities have been greatly strengthened through the addition of new partners with considerable experience in tax structuring matters. The employment law team's capacity to handle collective changes to working conditions, collective redundancies and litigation relating to individual dismissals has been further boosted by the arrival of high-profile lawyer Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão. VdA'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 has joined VdA to become one of the key members of the firm's tax team. Sources say he "has a deep knowledge of Portuguese tax legislation and is service-oriented," adding: "He focuses on solving problems in an efficient manner."
Market commentators know Isabel Gião de Andrade as a focused corporate law practitioner. She advises on corporate restructurings, 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.
Sources say that Manuel Cavaleiro Brandão has "extensive knowledge of labour law, is very experienced and has great business acumen." He has considerable experience in temporary redundancies and collective dismissals made as part of corporate restructuring processes. He joined VdA as a partner in September 2021.
Miguel Reis 's move to join the team at VdA provides a significant boost to the firm's tax law capabilities. Interviewees note his "strong experience in tax litigation."
Benedita Fernandes Gonçalves provides employment law support in relation to corporate transactions. She also handles standalone mandates relating to the implementation of collective redundancies or the introduction of new flexible working policies. She is identified by market commentators as a standout practitioner working in VdA's Porto office.
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.
Strengths
"They are focused on the client's needs and can adapt to answer any question," says one source.
Work highlights
Advised Worthington Industries on the restructuring of its Portuguese activities. The firm advised on the sale of Worthington Industries' water tanks division and the reorganisation of its gas cylinders business.
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 envelops consolidated experience in cross-border mandates extending to both European and African jurisdictions.
Notable practitioners
Clients highly value Helena Vaz Pinto for being "commercially aware and user-friendly for foreign clients." She is most active on regulatory insurance mandates, such as the review of policies and compliance with the Insurance Distribution Directive.
Strengths
"VdA lawyers have a strong knowledge of the law but are also able to link it with their practical expertise. They are able to provide us with solid information that adds value to our business with their insights," according to impressed clients.
Work highlights
Advised The Portuguese Association of Insurers on a range of insurance regulatory matters.
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 described by a client as being an "excellent lawyer, who is very seasoned and client-orientated." He 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.
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. A client praises her for being "persistent and a fighter."
Sara Nazaré is well regarded for her work in patent enforcement, acting for clients from the telecommunications and pharmaceutical sectors. One client says: "She gives an outstanding performance in her problem analysis, thanks to her critical, strategic and results-oriented thinking. She proposes out-of-the-box solutions, and is very clear in her speech and effective."
Strengths
The team at VdA is commended as being "very experienced, responsive and with a variety of expertise." An interviewee enthuses: "The firm is a pioneer to have people that focus completely on life sciences work." One commentator particularly highlights that the lawyers "are excellent in patent work."
Work highlights
Assisted AstraZeneca with the enforcement of patent rights and with 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 is described as "a pioneer" in the area of life sciences, and regularly assists prominent multinationals, including pharmaceutical companies. He represents clients in litigation and provides regulatory guidance.
Francisca Paulouro is recognised for her regulatory work in the life sciences sector. One client describes her as being "highly knowledgeable, solid and experienced" and enthuses that she is a "best-in-class regulatory lawyer."
Strengths
The team at VdA is commended as being "very experienced, responsive and with a variety of expertise." An interviewee enthuses: "The firm is a pioneer to have people that focus completely on life sciences work." One commentator particularly highlights that the lawyers "are excellent in patent work."
Work highlights
Assisted AstraZeneca with the enforcement of patent rights and with settlement agreements.
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 IT services 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
Helena Vaz Pinto's experience in financial services sector M&A transactions spans insurance sector and private equity deals. Interviewees praise her strong commercial skills.
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.
Work highlights
Advised José de Mello Capital on its agreement with Arcus Infrastructure Partners to each sell a 40.6% stake in Brisa. José de Mello Capital retained 17% of Brisa's share capital and was joined by new co-owners APG Asset Management, the National Pension Service of Korea and Swiss Life Asset Managers.
What the team is known for VdA's tax team provides wealth, succession and estate planning services. It also boasts a strong international tax network.
The firm "has good partners focusing on private wealth," states a source. Another source agrees, adding: "VdA is a one-stop shop for private clients in Portugal.“
Notable practitioners
Tiago Marreiros Moreira heads the tax department at VdA, with a primary focus on international tax planning. "Tiago is a hands-on senior international lawyer and deals with all matters with extreme care and attention," remarks one interviewee, while another adds: "Tiago is very well prepared technically speaking and also very responsive." A third source comments: "Tiago is one of the most sensible private client lawyers I have come across," adding: "He has a deep understanding of the needs of individuals relocating to Portugal."
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 a number of sectors such as energy and healthcare. 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.
Manuel Protásio boasts a long-standing reputation and outstanding market knowledge. He represents banks and international companies in a variety of energy and infrastructure-related mandates.
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 sector. She frequently represents eminent energy players and financial institutions, with sources noting her experience in international deals.
Vanda Cascão is frequently seen advising on the setting up of energy and water supply projects. She regularly assists with cross-border projects often involving lusophone Africa.
Work highlights
Assisted Finerge with all aspects related to the negotiation of its EUR150 million debt financing for the acquisition of two solar projects.
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 PPPs, 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. Clients say: "She is an expert in public procurement and is always available. She has a deep knowledge and takes a pragmatic approach, which leads to excellent results."
Paulo Pinheiro provides expert advice to clients on public restructurings, public procurements and privatisations. Market sources consider him to be "very experienced in pharmaceutical sector matters."
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. Clients say: "He is an expert in public procurement and has amazing experience."
Strengths
Clients describe VdA's lawyers as very skilled, with one noting: "They are very focused on client needs and adapt to answer every question and find solutions."
Work highlights
Represented Auto-Estradas do Baixo Tejo in an arbitration claim and in relation to the submission of a financial readjustment.
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. The team also provides additional assistance with corporate governance and M&A.
Notable practitioners
Miguel Marques dos Santos has an outstanding reputation in the market due to his ability to advise on complex real estate acquisitions, sales and project development. "He has an excellent ability to present and integrate legal issues to the investor's perspective," explains one source.
Up-and-coming lawyer Pedro Corrêa de Oliveira regularly assists property developers and investors with the acquisition and sale of real estate assets. Clients praise his "thoughtful and rigorous" legal practice, as well as his "comprehensive understanding of the licensing and planning framework."
Pedro Ferreirinha retains an impressive practice advising on both the financial and corporate aspects of real estate transactions. He often represents property developers and financial advisers. Sources call him a "highly regarded" lawyer, praising his "very good negotiating skills."
Pedro Pereira Coutinho is proficient at assisting clients with the sale and acquisition of retail assets and also provides advice on notable projects in the tourism sector, as well as in residential property. Interviewees commend him for his "problem-solving attitude" and "great legal knowledge."
Strengths
One client hails VdA as "the most complete real estate advisory team in Portugal." Another praises the team's "deep understanding of nationwide market trends."
Work highlights
The firm advised Makro Portugal on the sale and leaseback of a retail and office complex located in Alfragide, a deal valued at EUR 40 million.
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
Filipa Cotta has experience in the acquisition of distressed companies and litigation proceedings within the insolvency realm. She further acts on matters relating to insolvency and the liquidation of assets, debt restructuring plans and debt recovery. Clients praise her "robust and commercial advice, even in the most challenging and complex situations."
Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is proficient at handling liquidation processes and insolvency proceedings. He also assists clients with litigation procedures.
Teresa Pitôrra advises clients on judicial liquidation, insolvency and restructuring procedures, including cross-border matters. She also assists with EU and Portuguese regulatory matters. One client praises her "deep and solid knowledge of the insolvency process" and adds: "Her enthusiasm and delivery mean she is able to present compromise solutions that are essential for the success of the project."
Strengths
One interviewee remarks: "VdA's team has always been very proactive and open to new mindsets, legal frameworks and innovative solutions," further praising the lawyers for their "depth of knowledge, availability and excellence."
Work highlights
Assisted Rio Forte Investments with its insolvency proceedings, including the liquidation of assets and contentious processes.
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 regularly assists clients with the tax aspects of corporate transactions, as well as with corporate income tax matters. A client reports that he is a "very responsive and attentive lawyer."
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. One client emphasises his impressive "consistency, strong tax skills and knowledge."
Miguel C. Reis regularly assists clients from the energy sector with tax matters. He joined the tax team at VdA in September 2021.
Samuel Fernandes de Almeida is recognised for his experience in tax assessment matters, as well as advising on the tax structuring of corporate transactions and energy sector projects. A client describes him as being a "strong lawyer with a lot of expertise and knowledge of the law."
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 telecommunications projects.
Strengths
A client underlines that the team has a "strong knowledge of the law" and is able to "link its legal knowledge to its practical expertise."
Work highlights
Assisted the Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority with the creation of a tax regime specific to petroleum activities as part of the Greater Sunrise Project.
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's longstanding expertise encompasses telecoms transactions, technology agreements and regulatory mandates.
Magda Cocco "has very strong experience in telecommunication sector, operators and regulators," enthuses a client and further notes: "She has in-depth knowledge of the sector and is confident dealing with any aspect." She assists with the full range of TMT services, with clients affirming: "Her experience and vision make her a reference in the market."
Margarida Couto provides specialised advice on regulatory mandates working mainly with prominent domestic telecom companies. Clients enthuse: "Margarida Couto is a highly experienced professional combining solid legal knowledge with strategic thinking."
Isabel Ornelas is described by a client as "very diligent, responsive and responsible."She assists with a variety of telecom and mobile regulatory matters, with notable experience in data protection.
Strengths
"VdA provides a very sophisticated and comprehensive analysis from all the relevant angles and areas of expertise," enthuses a client. Others say of the lawyers: "They seek an approach that complies with legal requirements, without ever losing focus on the business and the other technological and process constraints," and further describe them as "very experienced and very effective in their work."
Work highlights
Advised Tata Communication on its regulatory compliance and tax obligations before ANACOM.
What the team is known for
VdA joins this year's rankings following 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 advances in the rankings following his growing presence in the market. He 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.
Work highlights
Represented Alster Ship Chartering in a charterparty dispute pertaining to damages due to wrongful equipment handling.