The ‘outstanding’ team at VdA Vieira de Almeida is ‘dynamic and innovative when handling complex transactions’.
VdA's offering spans the full range of regulatory and transactional work pertaining to the banking and finance sector. The group brings together seasoned practitioners across capital markets, trusts and collective investment schemes, who handle matters in close collaboration with other firmwide practices, notably M&A and real estate. Besides its strong practice in NPLs, the department particularly excels in securitisation transactions, syndicated loans and cross-border financing matters. Pedro Cassiano Santos chairs the practice; he specialises in banking regulations and structured finance transactions. Other key individuals include Benedita Aires, whose experience covers real estate financing and the recapitalisation of Portuguese banks, and Hugo Moredo Santos, who provides ongoing regulatory advice to credit institutions in Portugal and African jurisdictions.
Key clients: Group Claude Berda/ Vanguard Properties, Mota-Engil Group, Citizenergy 2.0 Project, EFACEC Power Solutions, SGPS S.A., Morgan Stanley Bank, N.A. and Morgan Stanley Principal Funding, Inc., Banco Invest, S.A., White & Case LLP, Altamira Asset Management Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda., ABSA Bank Mozambique, Arrow Global Limited, Capital Management LLC, Hefesto STC, S.A. | Whitestar, Asset Solutions, S.A., Sierra European Retail Real Estate Assets Holdings B.V., JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A.; JP Morgan Limited, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A., Unión de Créditos Inmobiliarios Establecimiento Financiero de Crédito (UCI) – Sucursal em Portugal, Standard Bank Angola, S.A., Christofferson, Robb & Company, Sport Lisboa e Benfica – Futebol, SAD, C2 – Capital Partners, SCR, S.A., Citibank International PLC, BNP Paribas, Galp Energia, SGPS, S.A., Incus Capital Advisors, S.A.
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VdA's capital markets practice has secured a leading position in the Portuguese legal market through its involvement in numerous high-value and innovative transactions. Testament to its standing is the impressive track record in debt capital markets deals, in which the team is regularly instructed by underwriters, issuers and joint lead managers. Recent highlights saw the group advising on the first issuance of non-preferred senior debt in the Portuguese capital markets, which is likely to set the path for new issuances of this type of instrument. Key fields of expertise also include public offers, green bond issues, securitisation matters and takeovers. Practice head Pedro Cassiano Santos is a reference in debt capital markets, while José Pedro Fazenda Martins is the name to note for equity deals. Also noteworthy is Hugo Moredo Santos, who excels in public offerings and private placements of equity, debt and hybrid securities.
Key clientes: Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A., Banco Invest, S.A., Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A., Mota-Engil SGPS, S.A., Morgan Stanley & Co. International PLC, Crédit Agrícole, Beka Finance, Sociedad de Valores, S.A, Apollo Management International LLP, Novabase, Caixa Bank, S.A., Housers PFP
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VdA has one of the leading M&A, corporate and governance teams in the country. Testament to its standing in the market is its involvement in numerous landmark deals, ranging from share and asset transactions to privatisations and corporate reorganisations. The firm acts for multinational corporations, private equity firms, listed companies, domestic financial institutions and companies operating in a range of highly regulated sectors, with a particular focus on energy, telecoms, infrastructure and education. Jorge Bleck, whose notable areas of practice include private equity and joint ventures, leads on M&A mandates, while Paulo Olavo Cunha oversees the corporate and governance group. With a strong background in finance and energy law, Claudia Cruz Almeida participated in several of the big-ticket transactions recently handled by the firm. Other core team members include managing partner João Vieira de Almeida and private equity and venture capital specialist Helena Vaz Pinto. Sofia Bobone stands out for her impressive international experience. In firm-wide developments, in 2021 the firm joined SDG Ambition, the UN programme aimed at integrating the sustainable development goals into business management.
Key clientes: José de Mello Capital, S.A., Ageas Portugal; ENGIE, Cellnex Telecom, S.A., Novabase SGPS, S.A., First State Investments, Finerge Group, Toyota Motor Europe, Sonagi SGPS, S.A., GHO Capital Partners LLP, Stericycle, Inc., Mapfre Group, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A., Plainwater, SGPS, S.A., Porsche Holdings GmbH, ETEX S.A., Certares Management LLC, Stirling Square Capital Partners Second Fund (Advisers) LLP
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VdA maintains its leading position in the market, showcasing longstanding expertise in privacy, data protection and cybersecurity matters. The sizeable department stands out for its wide-ranging sectoral knowledge, leading advice to key players from the banking, pharmaceutical, insurance, retail and energy sectors in Portugal and abroad. The firm's capabilities not only cover data protection impact assessments, but also include assistance in the context of M&A and technology transactions with data protection implications, as well as risk management in relation to cyber attacks and data breaches. As a response to the increasing number of cyber incidents, the firm developed a new product, Cybersecurity Tools, to help clients establish clear strategies, capable of preventing and reacting to attacks. Furthermore, practitioners excel in domestic and cross-border implementation of projects involving AI, blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) issues. Practice head Magda Cocco, who is an established authority in the field, receives key support from Inês Antas de Barros and Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves, who 'stand out for their technical skills and availability'.
Testimonials
‘The technical knowledge and expertise of the Privacy & Data Protection team is outstanding. One can always be sure to be provided with the best practices as the team dominates the arena. With extensive expertise in the privacy and data protection fields and proven experience in the implementation of new legal frameworks, VdA has managed to consistently meet and sometimes exceed clients’ expectations.’
‘The VdA team stands out for its very practical approach. The team fully understands the business and therefore can anticipate potential problems related to privacy in the healthcare sector, which translates into a proactive approach, instead of a reactive response. This type of counselling saves time and money, and also helps to promote awareness within the organization.’
‘What absolutely provides a unique characteristic to this team is the experience they have. VdA has been working in data privacy and data protection for 15+ years and that shows. They are not only executors but they know how regulators handle and have handled subjects in the past. The team is used to innovative solutions and thinking which leads to better solutions in a time frame that is adequate.’
‘Practice head Magda Cocco is an extraordinary lawyer with a tremendous ability to understand clients.’
‘Very strong know-how is the main characteristic of this practice. They have a very strong positive and business attitude, trying to find the best possible business solution within the constraints of the law ’
‘Their knowledge is a very important asset. They can run with the ball when needed, letting the client stay back for a more strategic, negotiating position. I appreciate this in the team.’
‘VdA is extremely competent, with solid knowledge in laws, namely in data privacy and data protection laws and regulations. The team is reliable and responsible, and always meets deadlines. Transparency is key.’
‘The team is business-driven and always up to date with the most recent legislation, cases, recommendations (not only on local jurisdiction but in relation to a pan-European market). Lawyers are extremely professional and provide swift responses.’
Key clientes: AGEAS Group, Altice Group, APS – Associação Portuguesa de Seguradores, Brisa Group, CTT Group, EDP Group, European Space Agency (ESA), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, Fundação Bancária “La Caixa”, Generg Group, HPA Saúde Group, IQVIA, José de Mello Group, José de Mello Saúde (CUF), Lusíadas Saúde, Luz Saúde, MantaOperations Unipessoal, Lda., Sport Lisboa e Benfica Group (SLB), Transportes Aéreos Portugueses, S.A. (TAP), VIA Outlets Portugal, Wizink Bank, S.A., Sonae Sierra S.A., World Economy Forum, World Bank
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Some of the most prominent companies in the Portuguese market and international clients operating in a wide range of sectors, particularly banking, energy and telecoms, seek VdA's assistance in the full array of dispute resolution matters. On the litigation front, the team is adept at handling corporate, commercial and insurance disputes, while also showcasing strength in cases involving class actions and contractual conflicts. Anticipating the new economic cycle that is likely to emerge in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, the firm has launched a new practice area devoted to restructuring and insolvency matters. Arbitration is another core area of activity for the team, which often advises on cross-border issues involving Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa. António de Magalhães Cardoso, Frederico Gonçalves Pereira and Miguel Pinto Cardoso, who all field strong credentials in commercial litigation and arbitration, jointly lead the department. Carla Gonçalves Borges is also part of the core team.
Testimonials
‘Lawyers with formidable legal knowledge, very good academic training and extensive experience in court.’
‘Extreme diligence, outstanding detail perception, as well as legal and technical understanding of the issues at hand.’
‘Individually sound and competent, permanently reassure one’s natural doubts on the ongoing procedures of every circumstance. Very proficient, albeit managing to always keep a required friendly atmosphere in the relationship with clients.’
‘VdA fields a highly specialised team with a willingness to know and understand clients.’
‘Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is a great strategist, capable of advising across a range of highly complex legal matters, who stands out for his extensive experience in complicated arbitration and litigation cases.’
‘Carla Borges’ assertiveness and communication skills are second to none.’
‘The main differentiating factor is the personal nature of the firm’s partners and associates that come across as very friendly and humble. This personalised, dedicated style gives VdA an edge.’
‘Miguel Pinto Cardoso possesses great communication skills, deep knowledge of the law, strong writing ability and good judgement. He is able to explore different strategies and think outside the box to achieve the best outcome for clients.’
Key clients: Banco Comercial Português, S.A (BCP), Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A. (CGD), Brisa – Auto-Estradas de Portugal, S.A. (Brisa), Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A. (CGD), MEO, Roche – Sistemas de Diagnósticos, Sociedade Unipessoal, Lda., Banco Santander Totta, S.A., National Investment Bank, LLC (NIB), DEUTSCHE APOTHEKER-UND ÄRZTEBANK EG (APOBANK), José de Mello Saúde, S.A., Petróleos de Portugal, S.A. (Petrogal), DePuy International Limited, DePuy France SAS, Johnson&Johnson
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Showcasing strength across restructuring and collective bargaining issues, VdA's labour practice stands out for its international experience. This focus on cross-border employment mandates stems from chairman Rui Andrade's strong knowledge of African jurisdictions. In addition, the team acts for an ever-expanding Portuguese client roster, comprising names from an array of sectors such as insurance, transport, energy, tourism and automotive. Américo Oliveira Fragoso and Tiago Cochofel de Azevedo are seasoned in restructuring processes involving large numbers of employees, which is also a focal point for Tiago Piló.
Testimonials
‘The team is very strong because they have very good lawyers with significant knowledge. On top of that, they are extremely professional and always available when we need them.’
‘ Tiago Cochofel de Azevedo (Managing Associate) is our main point of contact. He is outstanding. His level of knowledge of employment law is very impressive . He is able to explain complex subjects in a simple and practical way, showing us the best solutions. He always complies with timelines.’
‘It is a seasoned team, whose knowledge of the market practices and deep understanding of employment law and the way it relates with such practices is notorious.’
‘What makes this practice unique is the availability, proximity to the client, and the ability to provide legal advice according to the client’s specificities.’
‘Américo Oliveira Fragoso definitively stands out in the market, given his permanent availability, deep knowledge of the market’s practices and solid knowledge of the employment legal system.’
‘VDA is characterised by great client service, proactivity and excellent technical preparation. It offers highly experienced resources that provide very solid solutions.’
‘Américo Oliveira Fragoso is always available and has a high level of expertise, and provides excellent advice when matters are complex.’
‘Américo Oliveira Fragoso has great technical knowledge and availability; he also stands out for his excellent communication and negotiation skills in difficult situations.’
Key clientes: AVIS Budget Group, Ambergol, ANPM, Arval, BESTSELLER, Cape Verdean Ministry of Finance / ELECTRA, Cellnex Telecom, Eberspacher, EIFFAGE, Elanco, Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company S.L. (ECCBC), HBD|Hostelworld, José de Mello Group | José de Mello Saúde, Korys, L3Harris Group, LEONI, Luís Simões, Luís Simões Logística Integrada, S.A., Lusomedicamenta, MAAP, Mitsubishi Fuso Trucks Europe, Monumental palace hotel, Morgan, Standley, MSD, Mundipharma, NAS, Porsche Holdings GmbH, Portugália, Roche Diagnósticos, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, SAD (SLB), STCP – Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto, S.A., Technip FMC, Uber, UNITEL
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Covering the entire spectrum of energy matters, VdA particularly excels in cross-border project development and financing involving Lusophone African countries. It fields a well-established oil and gas team, which is adept at assisting leading financial institutions and companies throughout all stages of the construction, financing and restructuring of projects, and in M&A transactions. Public and private sector clients in the mining sector also frequently instruct the team. The broad service offering further includes renewable energy advice, encompassing hydro, wind and solar power. Ana Luís de Sousa, whose areas of expertise include the structuring of greenfield projects and financing transactions, heads the team with João Afonso Fialho, who focuses on the oil and gas sector. Vanda Cascão is highly regarded in the power sector; Manuel Protásio is a name to note for project finance. José Miguel Oliveira - who made partner in 2021 - is another key contact.
Key clients: Total E&P Mozambique Area 1, Limitada, Morgan Stanley & Co. International plc, J.P. Morgan Securities plc, Banco Comercial Português, S.A., ENGIE SA |EDP Renewables, Redes Energéticas Nacionais, SGPS, S.A., Finerge, S.A., Chevron, TrustEnergy Group, MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, S.A., ALER, KT – Kinetics Technology, SPA – Angola, Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority (ANPM)
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VdA handles a steady flow of competition matters, demonstrating substantial experience in a diverse range of regulated industries, notably telecoms, insurance, transport and financial services. The team is often instructed in cases before the European commission and courts, and is well equipped to assist with competition litigation, state aid and merger control issues. Antitrust investigations and cartel cases are other strong points for the department, which is now led by Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro. Abuse of dominance matters and competition litigation are core areas of focus for the practice head, who receives key support from Nuno Ruiz. Also noted is Cláudia Coutinho da Costa, whose areas of expertise include merger control issues.
Testimonials
‘VdA’s EU and Competition practice stands out for its strong technical competence applied to different industries and practical experience from its involvement in the largest cases in Portugal.’
‘Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro’s strong experience, technical competence and qualities like thoughtfulness, common sense and strategic vision provide a sense of security that is not common in most law firms.’
‘Strong knowledge of the law, capacity to give practical advice that links to the business needs. Always available, with plenty of expertise regarding the matter to be handled, they give a lot of confidence when a decision needs to be made upon their advice.’
‘Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro and Marta Flores da Silva are recommended.’
‘I must mention the fact that we have worked together for many years and we have faced challenges and processes together. I highlight Ricardo Junqueiro and Nuno Ruiz.’
Key clientes: Portugese State (Parpública), Zurich Insurance PLC – Sucursal Portugal, José de Mello Group, MEO – Serviços de Comunicação e Multimédia, Banco Comercial Português, SATA Airlines, Mapfre Seguros Gerais, S.A., Somafel – Engenharia e Obras Ferroviárias, S.A., Vodafone Portugal – Comunicações Pessoais, S.A., Toyota, Brisa – Auto-Estradas de Portugal, S.A., Ageas Portugal Holding, SGPS, S.A, José de Mello – Residências e Serviços, SGPS, S.A.
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With a strong track record in high-profile criminal cases involving multiple jurisdictions, VdA is well equipped to assist clients in money-laundering investigations, as well as matters pertaining to fraud, embezzlement, forgery and bribery. Of particular note, the team has been extremely busy handling significant proceedings involving the football industry. The white-collar crime practice, which is part of the firm-wide dispute resolution group, is further prepared to assist clients with the increasing exposure to cybercrime as well as compliance issues. With almost three decades of experience in this field, co-head João Medeiros is well known for handling some of the most sensitive criminal cases in the country. Fellow co-leader Sofia Ribeiro Branco focuses on corporate crime and regulatory misdemeanour cases. Bruno Melo Alves is another practitioner to note for criminal litigation.
Key clientes: EDP Group, Redes Energéticas Nacionais (REN), Doyen Sports Investment (DSI), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, Sport Lisboa e Benfica — Futebol, S.A.D., Suez II Water Technologies & Solutions Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda., Marítimo da Madeira Futebol – SAD
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VdA significantly expanded its offering with the hire of Filipa Cotta as head of the restructuring and insolvency team in August 2020. Cotta has a background in dispute resolution and 12 years of experience in insolvency and restructuring, with particular strength in cross-border insolvencies and liquidations for major clients in the finance sector. The team advises on the gamut of matters in this area, including in the negotiation of distressed asset transactions. Dispute resolution practice head Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is the key contact for litigation and Claudia Cruz Almeida adds strength in the banking and corporate areas. Senior advisor Teresa Pitôrra also receives praise.
Testimonials
‘They are very well prepared; real specialists on insolvency law.’
‘An outstanding team that navigates through complex situations in a very enthusiastic and practical manner.’
‘Cláudia Cruz Almeida and Teresa Pitôrra stand out as a great team combining complementary capabilities that enabled to navigate through a very complex project. I would like to highlight Cláudia and Teresa’s full availability, engagement, commitment and resilience further to their outstanding technical capabilities.’
‘The team leader led with an outstanding performance a very difficult, special and unusual process of a long existing debt between my company and our major client. It was the right choice, the fact that the team was always focused and tackled in advance on every move of the negotiation to unequivocally protect us in this conflict.’
‘Filipa Cotta’s leadership skills have contributed significantly to the outcome of this demanding process. Filipa’s knowledge about the specificity of this process, different legal environments combined with her excellent negotiating skills led all of us into the very positive outcome of this conflict.’
‘VdA has a particularly important characteristic when compared to other law firms: a true team spirit, sometimes even savage in pursuing the common objective. And the more demanding the challenge, the greater the delivery.’
‘Filipa Cotta represented us in a complex Portuguese banking matter. Her knowledge in the field is excellent and she was extremely easy to work with.’
‘A strong team with talent at all levels of the practice.’
Key clientes: Caixa Gestão de Ativos, S.A. (“CGA”) and the Insolvent Estate of Fundo de Investiment, Imobiliário Fechado Promovest, Banco Comercial Português, S.A. (“BCP”), Banco de Portugal, Porsche Holding GmbH, Rio Forte Investments SA, Euroamerican Finance, SA, Espírito Santo International, Banif Finance Limited, Atena Equity Partners, Maló Clinic S.A., Prado Cartolinas da Lousã
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VdA has unparalleled experience in acting for leading pharmaceutical companies in patent litigation before judicial and arbitral courts. Furthermore, the team has bolstered its service offering in the field of trade mark, design and unfair competition litigation. Department head António de Magalhães Cardoso has an impressive track record in representing originator pharmaceutical companies in disputes concerning generic medicine regulatory approvals. This is also an area of expertise for Sara Nazaré, who has handled several revocation proceedings. Managing associate Marta Alves Vieira focuses on patents and trade mark enforcement.
Testimonials
‘The VdA team is impressively responsive, has an excellent understanding of the law and the ability to view the advice given on the law in Portugal as part of a broader international strategy. This international mindset combined with their technical excellence has led us to choose VdA as our primary go-to firm for patent litigation in Portugal.’
‘VdA has a strong team of Portuguese IP litigators. They have a lot of experience in managing the many foibles of Portuguese patent litigation.’
‘The team is knowledgeable of local law, but has shown proficiency in European law as well.’
‘Marta Alves Vieira and Sara Nazaré have impressed us by their professionalism and dedication. We have found the Portuguese aspects of our litigation projects to be in very safe hands with them.’
‘Sara Nazaré is one of the best patent litigators in Europe. Even though she is a managing associate, she has more experience of high importance patent litigation than most other lawyers in Europe. Sara is exceptional. She has a boundless knowledge of Portuguese patent law and procedure and she is able to predict developments. Sara is a tenacious advocate and firmly puts her clients points to the judge, even when she faces an uphill battle. Sara is also a firm but fair cross-examiner. Sara is very hard working and is always available for discussions. She is able to provide good and thoughtful advice on tricky issues at very short notice.’
‘VdA has a deep bench of excellent lawyers and is the pre-eminent IP litigation practice in Portugal. They completely outshine their peers and I am always glad to have them on side. ’
‘Sara and her team are extremely efficient and have always provided well reasoned, comprehensive advice to us and the client. This is not always easy given the nuances of the Portuguese IP system, but she has built tremendous trust through her work over the years.’
‘Highly sought after team for any IP litigation in Portugal, particularly well known for acting for major life sciences innovator clients.’
Key clients: AdvanceCare, AstraZeneca, Bayer, BIAL, Boehringer, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Diadora, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, MEO – Serviços de Comunicação e Multimédia, S.A., Merck Sharp and Dohme, Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Mundipharma, Novartis AG, UCB Pharma, Vanguard Properties
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The IT and automotive sectors were particularly rich sources of work in 2020 for the Porto office of VdA, whose work is co-ordinated by Isabel Gião Andrade, an expert in cross-border commercial activities. The team is praised for its 'thorough and thoughtful counsel' and from a deep pool of non-partner lawyers, managing associate Benedita Gonçalves stands out for her labour law advice, working on a number of restructurings and collective dismissals in 2020. Her fellow managing associate Inês Ribera is also a key contact and coordinates the corporate and governance team.
Testimonials
‘VdA professionals are very experienced and responsive. Throughout the firm, they have experience in most of the subjects, and arrive to a good proposal within a short period of time.’
‘Their knowledge is of the best level I’ve seen, and their team covers a very wide range of topics. Their communication is superbly clear, focused, and pragmatic. They can indeed fit in our shoes and communicate the legal details in a way that we can easily grasp them.’
‘The capacity to deal with the client; showing empathy, politeness, and concern in solving their problems. The ability to express and defend arguments in the processes the team deals with, showing specialized knowledge, not only related to juridical matters but also to the reality of the markets that may be involved in the processes.’
‘Benedita Gonçalves is a great support in our organization in terms of support of HR activities. One of the best professionals we worked with.‘
‘In our company we always have matters that need the intervention of different specialties. VdA has professionals that tackle different aspects of law (labour, business, corporate, tax) and can offer a unique service.’
‘Inês Ribera is always available to explain any concerns we might have regarding law application. If it’s not within her knowledge, she will delegate in another partner, but never leaving the matter. She will close it with us.‘
‘Benedita Gonçalves is not only an excellent lawyer but also a fantastic human being. In the support provided to our company regarding labor issues I am always confident and secure with the information I receive. She also leads her team in a way that there is always someone available and with the best fit to solve any issue that arises.‘
‘Diverse expertise within the team from corporate affairs to technology subjects. Very quick in response.’
Key clientes: WORTHINGTON Group, AAPICO Group, STCP – Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto, S.A., Grupo Casais, Adriparte, S.A., José Moreira Fernandes & Filhos, Lda., Alberto Couto Alves, S.A., Schmidt Light Metal Group, Lusomedicamenta – Sociedade Técnica Farmacéutica, S.A., Clutch Creator Inc., HBM Fibersensing S.A., SOS OXYGENE SAS, DAMAP GROUP, S.A., Didimo, S.A., Luís Simões Logística Integrada, S.A., Eberspächer Exhaust Technology Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda., Vodafone Portugal – Comunicações Pessoais, S.A., Hostelworld Services Portugal, Lda., CTT – Correios de Portugal, S.A., MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, S.A., CONDURIL – Engenharia, S.A., MAAP – MA Automotive Portugal, S.A.
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Urban development projects and related compliance, environmental impact matters and disputes are specialisms of the planning team at VdA. The practice also has a notable practice in African jurisdictions, being particularly active in São Tomé and Príncipe in 2020. Clients include key real estate and project developers in Portugal and Africa, as well as local authorities. Practice head Raul Mota Cerveira, Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira and Ana Marta Castro are the key contacts.
Testimonials
‘The VdA team is highly skilled, especially in Portuguese speaking countries with a 360 degree complete approach to each case.’
‘VDA’s team is unique, I believe that fast and quality legal opinions are the key capabilities.‘
‘Raul Mota Cerveira is a highly skilled lawyer with a very practical and pragmatic approach to the cases. Also important to mention his ability to be always connected and providing quick feedback to the customers.’
‘The team I work with at VdA is very knowledgeable, on juridical issues and business models/practicalities. Totally focused on client needs and expectations, they are always available, fulfilling deadlines, and being good listeners and open to others’ ideas.’
‘Willingness to help at very short notice – strong network of contacts in our remote area of operations in Africa. Friendly and engaging attitude.’
‘VdA has a committed team that will never leave you without a solution.’
‘The commitment, the domain of the subjects, and the quality of the delivered work.’
‘Raul Cerveira and his team guided me through the legal process in my property development project. The VdA team’s guidance in English was most helpful!!‘
Key clientes: IFRRU – Instrumento Financeiro da Reabilitação e Revitalização Urbanas 2020, Malazan Development, Foz do Tejo, EDP Renováveis, MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, S.A., HBD – São Tomé and Príncipe, ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, S.A., Maikara Lodge, Municipality of Figueira da Foz, STP INVESTMENTS, Fundbox / Quinta da Ombria, Ode
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VdA has cemented a leading position in the market through its work on the financing of major energy and infrastructure projects in Portugal and a number of African jurisdictions (Mozambique being particularly active recently). The sizeable team is led by Manuel Protásio, who specialises in project finance, acquisition and other structured financing, particularly in the energy, mining and water sectors. Ana Luís de Sousa is the head of the firm's energy and natural resources practice and is the go-to lawyer for that area; oil and gas practice head João Afonso Fialho adds further energy expertise. Teresa Empis Falcão and Paulo de Barros Baptista are also key members of the team, whose recent highlights include projects for key client Brisa. Vanda Cascão - who advises on projects in Portugal and across Africa - is another name to note.
Key clientes: Total E&P Mozambique Area 1, Limitada, Banking syndicate by Unicredit S.p.A., Siemens Bank GmbH, Banco Comercial Português, S.A. (Millennium BCP), Novo Banco, S.A., Demir-Halk Bank (Nederland) N.V., DenizBank AG and the European Investment Bank, Brisa – Auto-Estradas de Portugal, S.A., AEBT – Auto-Estradas do Baixo Tejo, S.A., Redes Energéticas Nacionais, SGPS, S.A. (REN), Lusoamoreiras – Sociedade Imobiliária, S.A., A4F – Algafuel, S.A., Chevron, KT – Kinetics Technology, SPA – Angola, European Investment Bank, Banco BPI, S.A. (now CaixaBank, S.A.), Portos dos Açores, S.A., Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority (ANPM)
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Next Generation Partners
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VdA excels in the gamut of public law matters, particularly standing out for its impressive track record in administrative litigation and arbitration. The practice is equipped to advise private and public sector clients across a range of regulated industries, including banking, telecoms, defence, healthcare and energy, and is particularly popular among public concessionaires. Administrative concessions are among co-head Paulo Pinheiro's areas of expertise; he is also proficient in dispute resolution and privatisations. Other key individuals include fellow leader Ana Marta Castro, Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira and Catarina Pinto Correia, who all demonstrate experience in public procurement, concessions and administrative litigation. The team has further been developing its presence across Portuguese and French-speaking African countries as well as East Timor; Pinto Correia has been instrumental in this process.
Testimonials
What makes this practice unique is the response time and a solid legal answer to our main subjects. The fact that they can produce legal documents under pressure is outstanding. The team’s capability to combine solid knowledge of public law, European law, Banking Law and real estate is an advantage.’
‘The team demonstrates a high degree of technical competence and great availability and responsiveness. It assists with the implementation of the best solutions for each specific case.’
‘VdA’s administrative team has been supporting us very closely throughout 2020. The team has been proactive in proposing solutions, alternatives, discussing pros & cons, always providing clear and timely advice.’
‘Excellent service, high-quality of legal advice, accurate service, flexibility.’
‘Ana Marta Castro is very organised and she can meet strict deadlines while delivering a solid legal advice. Her international experience and her capability to manage complex legal issues are also recommended.’
‘VdA enjoys a strong reputation in public law. The team is highly knowledgeable, competent, experienced and has a deep understanding of the legal matters at stake that allows them to find creative solutions or to co-create them with the client. The practice lawyers are pragmatic and solutions-oriented.’
‘Paulo Pinheiro is a brilliant lawyer with an impressive and extensive experience of solving and handling complex legal matters. Catarina Pinto Correia is a smart lawyer who provides high-quality advice and demonstrates wide-ranging knowledge on public law matters.’
Key clients: Banco de Portugal, Brisa group, CTT – Correios de Portugal, S.A., Portuguese Government (Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education, Ministry of Defense, Defense Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Infrastructure and Housing), ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, S.A., MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, S.A., José de Mello Saúde Group, Ferrovial Agroman, SA, ELOS – Ligações de Alta Velocidade, S.A., BMS – Bristol-Myers Squibb, Vodafone Portugal – Comunicações Pessoais, S.A., Azores Regional Government and SATA SGPS, S.A., Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A., Sonae Group, Banco BPI, S.A., Banco Santander Totta, S.A, Société Générale, Caixa Banco
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VdA stands out for its wealth of experience in real estate development; in addition, the team has equal strength in real estate financing and investment. The practice group is led by Pedro Ferreirinha, who is skilled across the entire range of real estate matters, notably those involving sale and leaseback transactions, land use issues, financing and investment funds. His extensive experience in the field covers hotels, offices, residential and commercial projects, as well as cross-border deals taking place in Angola. Real estate and urban planning expert Miguel Marques dos Santos is also part of the core team. Pedro Pereira Coutinho excels in real estate projects pertaining to the hospitality and leisure sectors.
Testimonials
‘Pedro Pereira Coutinho and his team are our go-to choice in Portugal as they understand in depth the issues relating to Hospitality real estate and provide concise and relevant advice for each of our transactions. They are proactive and will raise, discuss and resolve issues taking into account our fundamental business needs.’
‘Pedro Pereira Coutinho is very good at discussing and resolving local legal issues with opposing local counsel so as to facilitate our transactional process. He is also very knowledgeable of many of the facets of our business, which is not always the case for the hospitality industry.’
Key clientes: Vanguard Properties, Ageas Portugal
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The sizeable tax team at VdA provides advice on the tax aspects of cross-border transactions in a wide range of sectors, particularly energy, finance, real estate, infrastructure, healthcare and life sciences. Tiago Marreiros Moreira is the practice head and focuses on international tax structuring of major transactions and investments in Portugal and other Portuguese speaking countries. The key name for tax litigation is Joaquim Pedro Lampreia, while Samuel Fernandes de Almeida and Matthieu Le Roux have expertise in tax in African jurisdictions. In 2019 the team integrated a group of accountancy and tax financial consultants to expand the scope of its services. Francisco Cabral Matos and Conceição Gamito are notable non-partner contacts.
Testimonials
‘It’s a strong team that put into practice all the energy, know how and good relationship with the customer. I feel secure with all the cases VdA handle for me.‘
‘VdA has an exceptional team. They take their work very serious, which translates into the quality of their work.‘
‘This team gives me the comfort of feeling safe in the correct hands. The general feeling is that this law firm is on the top of their game and are always aware of the matters in hand.‘
‘Delivers results. Strong knowledge. Availability. Full commitment.‘
‘Perfect mastery of the subjects in dispute.‘
‘Joaquim Pedro Lampreia is the ultimate “problem solver”, with an in-depth knowledge of all tax matters and always looking for original and creative ways to solve problems and settle matters. He understands that “time is money”.’
‘The team is extremely business oriented. They cover all tax matters very efficiently and speak the same language as the company.‘
‘The partner who leads the team is an extremely professional person who creates empathy and transmits confidence in his work.‘
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VdA's information, communication and technology group has a breadth of expertise that ensures a steady flow of work from clients in the aerospace, aviation, postal and emerging technologies sectors, alongside the more traditional sectors of TMT. Three partners oversee the department's work: Margarida Couto is an expert in public procurement and has handled first-of-their-kind transactions in the telecoms sector; Fernando Resina da Silva is the key contact for technology matters; and Magda Cocco is a noted name in the country's aerospace sector, drafting legislation in that area. Lusophone Africa is an important focus for the practice, with a number of important recent projects in Cape Verde, Mozambique, Angola and São Tomé and Principe. Tiago Bessa was promoted to partner in 2021.
Key clientes: EllaLink, ITU (International Telecommunication Union), ARCTEL-CPLP (Associação de Reguladores de Comunicações e Telecomunicações da Comunidade dos Países de Língua Portuguesa), MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, A4Ai – Alliance for Affordable Internet | World Wide Web Foundation, CTT – Correios de Portugal, Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education, Cellnex, Thales Alenia Space, DSPA – Data Science Portuguese Association
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Legal advice to transport-sector clients is provided by the infrastructure and mobility department at VdA, which fields cross-practice expertise in finance, public law, competition and M&A. The team has broad capabilities in the development and financing of PPP projects in the rail, road, airport, port and logistics sectors, as well as public procurement, leasing and restructuring transactions. Its expertise in shipping matters covers advice on cargo recovery, pollution claims, ship arrests and sale and purchase deals; oil and gas-related work is another core area of activity. Paulo de Barros Baptista heads up the team, which also includes José Miguel Oliveira and Teresa Empis Falcão.
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A diverse client base that includes multinationals in a range of sectors instructs VdA on matters in Angola. Day-to-day regulatory advice to oil companies is a standout specialism of the team, which is also strong on mining, agriculture and banking. João Afonso Fialho heads the oil and gas practice group as well as focusing on mining and shipping and Paulo Trindade Costa leads on M&A, restructurings and corporate finance matters. Rui Andrade in labour law and Samuel Fernandes de Almeida in tax have also both been involved in recent highlights in the jurisdiction. In recent developments, José Miguel Oliveira was promoted to partner in 2021. Ângela Viana is a name to note at the non-partner level.
Key clients: KT – Kinetics Technology, SPA, Schlumberger, Meteo France International, TechnipFMC, BIOCOM, Odebrecht
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Portuguese-based VdA works in tandem with local firm GdA Advogados to serve a range of clients across the key industries in Mozambique, including oil and gas, energy, banking, real estate and infrastructure. Its Mozambique offering is spearheaded by a trio of lawyers: João Afonso Fialho has experience in oil and gas projects across Portuguese and French-speaking Africa; Teresa Empis Falcão specialises in national and international project finance and capital markets; and Tiago Marreiros Moreira is a key contact for tax and corporate advisory matters. Samuel Fernandes de Almeida and Vanda Cascão are also active members of the team, as is José Miguel Oliveira, who was promoted to partner in 2021.
Key clients: Total E&P Mozambique Area 1, Limitada, Agility, Friburge Angola, Portucel Moçambique Sociedade de Desenvolvimento Florestal e Industrial, Lda. (Portucel Moçambique)
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