The ‘outstanding’ team at VdA Vieira de Almeida is ‘dynamic and innovative when handling complex transactions’.
The large banking and finance team at VDA offers a multidisciplinary approach to sector-related matters, benefiting from close collaboration with the firm's M&A, real estate and tax practices. The team is often retained to assist with the sale of portfolios of non-performing loans (NPLs) and other financing structures, acquisition finance, senior and subordinated debt issues and regulatory capital. Fielding a historical track record in bank recapitalisations and resolutions, the department is led by Pedro Cassiano Santos, whose expertise encompasses debt and regulatory issues. Paula Gomes Freire demonstrates wide-ranging knowledge on the placement of debt and equity instruments, while asset-backed transactions and aviation finance matters are some of Hugo Moredo Santos's areas of activity. Pedro Simões Coelho heads the firm's investment funds practice. Other key practitioners include recently promoted partners Benedita Aires, who specialises in the placement of debt instruments, structured financial products as well as classic financing matters, and Tiago Correia Moreira, whose areas of expertise also include fintech.
Testimonials
‘VdA has plenty of quality resources and lawyers to provide all-round excellent service in all areas of the law.’
‘They always have someone available to reach out.’
‘Orlando Voler Guiné and Benedita Lima Aires are outstanding lawyers with deep knowledge of banking and finance services and regulations.’
Key clients: Banco Santander Totta, Banco BNP Paribas Personal Finance,, S.A. (Cetelem), J.P. Morgan Securities,
J.P. Morgan Asset Management (UK), Deutsche Bank, Mota-Engil
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyer
Acting as an integrated component of the banking and finance team, the capital markets offering at VDA encompasses equity and debt matters in the primary and secondary markets. The team is adept at providing legal support in relation to public offers, green bond issuances, EMTN and covered bond programmes, debt tender offers and asset-backed securities. Pedro Cassiano Santos, who specialises in regulatory matters, structured finance and securitisations, leads on debt capital markets work, while equity matters are overseen by José Pedro Fazenda Martins. Paula Gomes Freire is regularly instructed in respect of asset-backed security issuances with NPLs. Other names to note include Hugo Moredo Santos, who advises on national and cross-border transactions, and recently promoted partner Benedita Aires, who focuses on the placement of debt, equity and hybrid instruments as well as structured financial products.
Testimonials
‘VdA works as a cohesive team. Lawyers make sure meet clients’ needs and goals are met. The team’s level of knowledge, competence and client care are second to none.’
‘VdA has a team of ambitious lawyers who are pragmatic and solutions-oriented. The core team always delivers outstanding work with a dedication that is unmatched in the local market.’
‘The multidisciplinary team has a deep knowledge of the local legal environment and is extremely experienced.’
‘Tiago Correia Moreira is a managing associate who delivers. He consistently produces high-quality work which surpasses what partners at competing firms are able to achieve.’
Key clientes: Banco BPI, Banco Santander Totta, Barclays Bank PLC, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Casais SGPS, SA, Deutsche Bank, EFACEC, Haitong Bank, José de Mello Saúde, JP Morgan Securities, Montepio Investimento, Natwest Markets, SIC – Sociedade Independente de Televisão, StormHarbour Securities, UBS Investment Bank
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyer
The M&A, corporate and governance team at VdA regularly acts on big-ticket deals and is particularly active in the infrastructure, education, energy and real estate sectors. With an increasingly relevant presence in the private equity sector, the law firm offers advice on the entire range of corporate and M&A matters, including acquisitions, mergers and joint ventures as well as corporate restructurings and privatisations. Practice head Jorge Bleck has extensive experience in cross-border deals, while co-leader Paulo Olavo Cunha is noted for his in-depth knowledge of corporate law. Managing partner João Vieira de Almeida's areas of expertise encompass joint ventures and private equity. Other names to note include Claudia Cruz Almeida, who often advises on corporate acquisitions and disposals, privatisations and complex reorganisations, and Helena Vaz Pinto, who has an extensive track record in private equity and venture capital deals.
Testimonials
‘I found a high level of quality, expertise and dedication. The team was cohesive in the different areas involved in the transaction.’
‘The technical quality, the cohesion of the team and the ability to collaborate to find solutions to benefit the efficient progress of the transaction are some of VdA’s strengths.’
‘VdA fields a very responsive and commercially driven team.’
‘Strongly skilled team which has the ability to structure complex transactions. Lawyers are very knowledgeable, result-oriented, and good problem solvers with a strong “business” approach.’
‘The firm is reliable, available and respects deadlines.’
‘Good attention to detail and strong experience in the African and Asian markets make VdA stand out.’
‘A special reference should be made to Helena Vaz Pinto, Maria Cunha Matos, Inês Gomes Ferreira and Maria Leonor Piconez.’
‘Paulo Trindade Costa provides high-quality and timely advice.’
‘Maria Cunha Matos is adept at understanding matters from a client perspective.’
Key clientes: MEO – Serviços de Comunicação e Multimédia, Porsche Holdings GmbH, Certares Management LLC, Carlsberg Breweries A/S, Banco Comercial Português, S.A., Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A., Novo Banco, S.A., ETE Group, Inspired Education Ltd. / Park International School, First State Investments, Finerge, Teixeira Duarte, ETEX Group, SOCER – Imobiliária, Avis Budget EMEA Ltd., Seguradoras Unidas, S.A.
Leading Lawyer
Recommended Lawyer
With extensive expertise in the privacy and data protection fields and proven experience in the implementation of related legal frameworks, VdA advises clients from a multitude of industries, including financial services, insurance, healthcare, pharmaceutical, retail, transport and energy, among others. Apart from assisting in GDPR compliance programmes, the department is also adept at advising on cross-border Internet of Things (IoT) projects, big data strategies, cybersecurity matters as well as new business models based on the processing of personal data. Practice head Magda Cocco's notable areas of practice include cross-border data transfer agreements, data breach procedures and the rollout of global whistleblowing hotlines. Inês Antas de Barros focuses on privacy and information security, while data protection compliance is an area of particular activity for Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves.
Testimonials
‘The department is up-to-date with the most recent regulations, recommendations and market demands, and is able to adapt to a friendly language while keeping up with high legal standards.‘
‘The team has proven to have a lot of knowledge in the subject of personal data.‘
‘Proactive team, which is able to provide practical and business focused inputs.‘
‘The team reveals a high level of commitment and expertise. The ways they demonstrate high maturity in soft-skills (communication, critical thinking, leadership and work ethic) and technical abilities (confronting and applying data protection with the business) creates a hybrid ability that differentiates them in the market.‘
‘The team includes Magda Cocco, Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves and Maria de Almeida Alves who are all recommended.‘
‘Both Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves and Maria de Almeida Alves stand out for their availability and sympathy in addition to their technical competence.‘
‘Both Maria Almeida Alves and Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves are dedicated and committed lawyers. Apart from their legal/technical skills, they are able to have a critical and pragmatic point of view on the ongoing matters.‘
Key clientes: AGEAS Group, APS – Associação Portuguesa de Seguradores, BMW Portugal, Brisa Group, CTT Group, EDP Group, European Space Agency (ESA), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, Generg Group, Genomed – Diagnósticos de Medicina Molecular, S.A., IDC Portugal, INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, José de Mello Group, José de Mello Saúde, Lusíadas Saúde, Luz Saúde, MEO Group, Sport Lisboa e Benfica Group (SLB), Transportes Aéreos Portugueses, S.A. (TAP), Via Outlets Portugal, Wizink Bank, S.A., Seguradoras Unidas Group, Sonae Sierra
Leading Individuals
Rising Stars
Recommended Lawyer
VDA has a solid track record in civil and commercial litigation, offering representation to clients in relation to a wide range of matters, such as corporate, insurance and banking disputes, class actions, professional negligence, as well as disputes regarding distribution and agency agreements, construction and public turnkey contracts. The firm has recently increased its share of international work, having strengthened its service offering in contentious matters linked to Portuguese-speaking countries and Francophone Africa, and has also bolstered its expertise in international arbitration. Frederico Gonçalves Pereira, who stands out for his extensive experience in restructuring and insolvency litigation, leads the practice group alongside Miguel Pinto Cardoso, whose key areas of activity include arbitration and cross-border disputes in the energy, construction and telecoms sectors.
Testimonials
‘VdA fields a highly specialised team with in-depth knowledge of the Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa. There is a willingness getting to know and understand clients’ business in order to reach efficient solutions aligned with clients’ needs.‘
‘This team seeks to learn the specifics of the case, including technical aspects which would normally be outside their set of skills, such as finance modelling or engineering details.‘
‘Individuals are committed and analyse all aspects exhaustively.‘
‘VdA are user-friendly and proactive when it comes to the management of Portuguese litigation. They are a very capable and safe pair of hands who we have confidence in using and recommend to clients.‘
‘Rui Andrade is a great strategist, technically versatile and capable of advising across a range of highly complex legal matters.‘
‘Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is a tactical thinker and provides good oversight over his team on complicated matters. Ana Lickfold Novaes e Silva is very responsive. Joana Neves has an impressive knowledge of the detail of long-running, fact-heavy cases.‘
‘Sofia Ribeiro Branco is a remarkable young lawyer. Clearly one of the best of her generation.’
Key clients: Grupo José de Mello, Caixa Geral de Depósitos Group, Doyen Sports Investment Limited, MEO, National Investment Bank, LLC, Galp Energia Group, The Navigator Company, Trust Energy Group, Caixagest, BCP Group, Deutsche Bank Group, Chevron, Brisa Auto-Estradas de Portugal, Oi, Roche, DePuy International Ltd, Apobank, Barclays Bank PLC, Arie Group, Scania
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
VDA has wide-ranging experience in employment matters, advising on class actions, collective dismissals and collective bargaining agreements. The department is particularly active acting for clients in the insurance industry, but lawyers also offer labour law assistance to high-profile players from several sectors on a day-to-day basis. Rui Andrade - who is noted for his knowledge of labour matters in African jurisdictions - leads the practice, which is also adept at advising on transfer of employees, redundancies, benefits and litigation. Américo Oliveira Fragoso is experienced across all areas of labour and social security law, while Tiago Cochofel de Azevedo focuses on restructuring processes. Corporate labour is one of Tiago Piló’s specialisms.
Testimonials
‘Highly experienced lawyers.‘
‘Rui Andrade is highly professional and experienced. He has comprehensive knowledge of the Oil & Gas industry and he tries to understand the clients and their needs, and propose different and alternative solutions.‘
‘Deep knowledge of employment legislation and litigation proceedings in several jurisdictions.‘
‘The firm has a high degree of specialisation and a deep knowledge of local realities in Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa. Lawyers find solutions that are effectively targeted to the clients’ needs.‘
‘VdA is a law firm that brings together a wide range of legal practices. It is a clear advantage that they can analyse a legal issue from a variety of perspectives in an integrated manner.‘
‘Rui Andrade is an excellent strategist, technically very solid and versatile, capable of designing solutions in various areas of law with a high level of sophistication. Very persuasive and with an enormous ability to simplify seemingly complex situations.‘
‘Bruno Melo Alves is a very consistent, competent and efficient lawyer.‘
‘Américo Oliveira Fragoso constantly seeks to understand the organisational reality, and stands out for advising and looking for solutions that mitigate risk.‘
Key clientes: Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company S.L. (ECCBC), TechnipFMC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Portugal, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Deutsche Bank, Ageas, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, SAD (SLB), Porsche Holdings GmbH, Lusowimdu, Worthington Industries, Diplomatic Representation of Angola, Mitsubishi Fuso Trucks Europe,
Lusomedicamenta, Socer Imobiliária e Investimentos, S.A., Svitzer Portugal (Portuguese company of Svitzer International Group), Insolvency Estate of SRUCP
Recommended Lawyers
Rising Stars
Leading players in the mining, natural resources, natural gas, wind and solar energy sectors seek VdA's legal support in relation to their operations in Portugal and cross-border projects. The firm has developed a solid global reach, which now encompasses Portuguese-speaking and Lusophone Africa as well as Timor-Leste, and has the ability to advise on all stages of investment, finance, construction, as well as refinancing and restructuring of projects. Head of department Manuel Protásio specialises in project finance, and has particular experience in the energy, mining and water sectors. Vanda Cascão is active in cross-border projects and financing, and Ana Luís de Sousa focuses on the development of energy projects. Leading the oil and gas practice is João Afonso Fialho, while Matthieu Le Roux oversees the OHADA jurisdictions practice.
Testimonials
‘VdA law firm has great experience in the area of natural resources and energy law. The law firm provides quality advice in restricted time frames.‘
‘João Afonso Fialho is extremely competent.‘
‘Knowledge of the sector, strong commercial awareness and dynamism in finding solutions.‘
‘Ana Luís de Sousa provides comprehensive advice.‘
Key clients: EIB, Trust Energy Group (JV Engie and Marubeni), Chevron, Lusoamoreiras – Sociedade Imobiliária, S.A. |A4F – Algafuel, S.A., Sakthi Portugal, S.A., Grow, ALER, KT – KINETICS TECHNOLOGY, SPA – Angola, First State Investemets, New Finerge
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
VdA handles a breadth of complex issues concerning national and EU competition law, as well EU law in general. The team is adept in competition litigation cases as well as M&A transactions requiring merger control advice; other core areas of strength include abuse of dominance matters, state aid issues and cartel cases. Domestic and international clients from a variety of sectors, including telecoms, insurance, food and beverage, banking, ports and energy, instruct the team on a regular basis. Nuno Ruiz heads the practice group. Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro has a strong track record in abuse of dominance cases at the national level, and merger control matters are among Cláudia Coutinho da Costa's areas of strength. Miguel Mendes Pereira left the firm in 2020 to join DLA Piper ABBC.
Testimonials
‘The team includes Nuno Ruiz and Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro, with whom I’ve come to work in several occasions and across different industries over the years.‘
‘A very strong and professional competition compliance team – one of the best in Portugal.‘
‘I appreciate working with a team that is multidisciplinary and especially agile.‘
‘Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro does not crack under pressure; he is the perfect fit to assist in-house teams (local and international) manage processes and matters which entail competition work. He is respected by peers and authorities, and manages a team quite effectively.‘
‘I would like to highlight Nuno Ruiz, who has a deep knowledge and experience in Competition and EU law, as well as Cláudia Coutinho, whose technical competence is noteworthy.’
Key clientes: TAP, CTT, Zurich, PT Portugal / MEO, Vodafone, Banco de Portugal, Millennium BCP, Somafel, Parpública, Brisa
Leading Lawyers
Recommended Lawyers
The investigations and white-collar practice at VdA is recognised for its wide-ranging experience in regulatory and criminal investigations across a variety of sectors, including financial services, banking, postal, telecoms, energy and insurance, among others. The team has been active in high-profile criminal and multi-jurisdictional matters, namely in the football industry, and cases related to money laundering. The broad service offering further covers fields such as corruption, market manipulation, insider trading, tax evasion, fraud, embezzlement, bribery and forgery. The department was recently strengthened by the arrival of the well-regarded João Medeiros, who previously headed the criminal and compliance practice at PLMJ. Medeiros brings a wealth of experience in criminall procedural law and is now co-heading the department alongside Sofia Ribeiro Branco.
Key clientes: REN, Vasco de Mello, Doyen Sports Investment (DSI), António Castro Henriques, Cristóvão Norte
Work highlights
Assisting REN in an ongoing criminal investigation, with extensive media coverage, focused on legislative processes and administrative procedures, as well as government decisions, concerning the national electricity sector.
Assists António Antunes (also known as Tony Carreira, one of the most famous Portuguese singers) and Francisco Landum (also known as Ricardo Landum) in their defence against an indictment issued by the Public Prosecution Office accusing them of perpetrating 22 and 19 crimes of music plagiarism, respectively.
Acted for Vasco de Mello (BRISA and José de Mello’s director), who was accused of alleged insider trading related to the purchase of CIMPOR’s shares in 2012.
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
VdA's multi-disciplinary practice houses 'lawyers who understand the client's business' and excels at challenging insolvency and restructuring mandates, often involving cross-border issues. The team has a strong following in the financial services sector and also services a considerable roster of domestic and international companies. Contentious work is a key strength of the practice, where Frederico Gonçalves Pereira, who is a 'strong disputes lawyer', is ably supported by 'very able' senior advisor Teresa Pitôrra. In a significant move, experienced restructuring and insolvency partner Filipa Cotta joined in 2020.
Testimonials
‘Teresa Pitôrra is an agile, practical and excellent lawyer.‘
‘The team has lawyers who understand the client’s business.’
‘Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is a strong disputes lawyer.’
‘Teresa Pitôrra is very able.’
Key clientes: Oi S.A. and its subsidiaries including Portugal Telecom International Finance B.V., Barclays Bank Plc, Morgan Stanley, Carval Investors, Fir Tree Partners, Värde, Wingspan Investments, Citibank London, Massa Insolvente do Fundo de Investimento Imobiliário Fechado Promovest, Fundger – Sociedade Gestora de Fundos de Investimento Imobiliário, S.A., Banco Comercial Português, S.A. (BCP), Banco de Portugal, Porsche Holding GmbH
Leading Individuals
Next generation partners
Rising Stars
Recommended Lawyers
VdA excels in the full range of IP matters, notably patents, trade marks, design and unfair competition litigation. Acting for pharmaceutical companies in complex patent litigation cases and mandatory arbitration proceedings is a key strength of the team, which is also adept at assisting domestic and international clients with IP enforcement strategies in Portugal. Head of department António de Magalhães Cardoso is noted as one of the go-to lawyers for originator companies in patent litigation pertaining to the pharmaceutical sector. António Andrade left to join Abreu Advogados.
Testimonials
‘VdA is an extremely experienced innovator pharmaceutical IP litigation firm.‘
‘Excellent experience in life sciences patent litigation. It is the go-to firm in Portugal for many pharma clients.‘
Leading Individuals
Rising Stars
Recommended Lawyers
The 'responsive and commercial' team at VdA is active across a range of corporate, M&A, tax, employment, public law, real estate, corporate crime, TMT, data privacy, regulatory and dispute resolution mandates. It stands out for its client base, which spans the TMT, automotive, transport and infrastructure sectors. Isabel Gião de Andrade leads the Oporto office.
Testimonials
‘Responsive and commercial.’
Key clientes: SAKTHI Portugal, S.A., Consoveyo, S.A., Worthington Industries, AMTROL-ALFA, Metalomecânica, S.A., CLdN, Efacec Power Solutions, S.A., Hostelworld, INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, CELBI – Celulose da Beira Industrial, S.A., CEiiA, Didimo, AGI, Watgrid
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
VdA excels in complex planning issues relating to domestic development projects and is experienced across related areas such as dispute resolution, environmental law, construction and regulation. The team is also adept at international planning work, particularly in Portuguese and French-speaking countries. The tourism, real estate, energy, infrastructure, logistics and agribusiness sectors are key focuses for the 'responsive' team, which is led by Raul Mota Cerveira.
Testimonials
‘We would recommend the firm for its high technical ability, availability, expertise and satisfactory results.‘
‘It is a multi-disciplinary team comprised of lawyers specialised in several fields who ensure an efficient and reliable service.‘
‘The lawyers we work with are experts in their specific areas and provide the client an efficient service and a good follow-up of the legal processes; they are always available to provide us any additional information we may need.‘
‘Raul Mota Cerveira is recommended.‘
‘We would recommend the firm for its high technical ability, availability, expertise and satisfactory results.‘
‘It is a multi-disciplinary team comprised of lawyers specialised in several fields who ensure an efficient and reliable service.‘
Key clientes: ALGAR, S.A, ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, SA, Auto-Estradas do Baixo Tejo (“AEBT”), Biocom, Cabivel, COFCAO, Edd’s Consultancy, EDP Renováveis, Fundbox / Quinta da Ombria, Governo Regional dos Açores, HBD, IFRRU – Instrumento Financeiro da Reabilitação e Revitalização Urbanas 2020, Instituto Superior de Economia e Gestão (ISEG), J. Cruz & M. Cruz, MEO, Municipality of Figueira da Foz, Neptune Charisma, Odebrech Ambiental, Stericycle Portugal, STP INVESTMENTS, Urbireal Construções Civis
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
The 'very personable team' at VdA is well placed to handle a range of instructions relating to complex projects and is particularly experienced in energy, transport and infrastructure-sector mandates. Aside from its experience in Portuguese projects, the team is also regularly instructed in projects across several African jurisdictions, including Mozambique and Angola. Clients include sponsors, awarding entities, construction companies, operators, lenders and international organisations. Manuel Protásio and Teresa Empis Falcão stand out for project finance work; Paulo de Barros Baptista leads on infrastructure projects; and Vanda Cascão and Ana Luís de Sousa are energy-sector specialists.
Testimonials
‘The team has extensive knowledge on commercial contracts pertaining to oil gas, including mining contracts and mining authorisation.‘
‘The quality of work delivered has attracted positive impressions.‘
Key clientes: European Investment Bank (EIB), Caixa Geral de Depósitos (CGD), Banco Comercial Português (BCP),
BPI, Brisa Group, Portos dos Açores, S.A., Trust Energy Group, REN Group, Marubeni Corporation, Efacec
Leading Individuals
Next Generation Partners
Recommended Lawyers
VdA has a particularly strong reputation among road concessionaires and public service licensees; its expertise covers the transport, water and sanitation, health, postal services and telecoms sectors, among others. The department not only undertakes traditional public law work but is also increasingly focusing on new issues with implications from a public law standpoint, notably within the banking, aerospace and defence sectors. Litigation and arbitration proceedings are other areas of strength for the team, which is under the joint leadership of Paulo Pinheiro and Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira. Pinheiro has substantial experience in administrative concessions as well as litigation and arbitration, which Esteves de Oliveira also counts among his areas of expertise. Recently promoted Ana Marta Castro focuses on public procurement and public contracts, while Catarina Pinto Correia advises on PPPs, European Funds and administrative litigation.
Testimonials
‘Great legal intelligence and great local (Angola) knowledge.‘
‘What makes the VdA team unique is its permanent availability and responsiveness. Its informality, competence and rigour make them different from other law firms.‘
‘Catarina Pinto Correia and her team solve all problems, even the most complex, by finding effective solutions.‘
‘In addition to the evident technical know-how and the interaction between the different departments within the firm, the team stands out for its ability to adapt to clients’ needs.‘
‘There is a great involvement of partners in matters. The team adopts an interdisciplinary approach, collaborating with other practices of the firm when necessary, which is appreciated by clients. It is distinguished by its pragmatic approach to the issues under analysis.‘
‘Paulo Pinheiro has extensive experience and know-how, great insight and ability to understand clients’ needs and adapt to them. He is direct and pragmatic.‘
‘Paulo Pinheiro, André Gaspar Martins and Catarina Pinto Correia are extraordinary lawyers.‘
‘Raul da Mota Cerveira and João Afonso Fialho have impeccable manners and build a true partnership with clients.‘
Key clientes: Banco de Portugal, Portuguese Government (Ministry of Finance; Ministry of Defense; Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education; IFRRU – Instrumento Financeiro da Reabilitação e Revitalização Urbanas 2020), Brisa Group (motorways, PPP, concessions), Azores Regional Government, Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), idD – Plataforma das Indústrias de Defesa Nacionais, S.A., SDEA – Sociedade para o Desenvolvimento Empresarial dos Açores, MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, S.A. (Portugal Telecom / Altice Group), ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, S.A., CTT – Correios de Portugal, S.A.,
José de Mello Saúde, SA, Novartis, McKinsey & Company, Svitzer Portugal, S.A. (Maersk Group), Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A., PricewaterhouseCoopers & Associados – SROC, Lda., Equatorial Coca-Cola, NAV Portugal, E.P.E.,
Sport Lisboa e Benfica, AdP – Águas de Portugal, SGPS, S.A.
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
In addition to its work on big-ticket transactions, the real estate team at VDA is also adept at rendering day-to-day services to its regular clients. The team has specialised knowledge in all aspects of real estate matters, including financing, development and investments, notably office spaces, hospitality and retail property. Offering legal support throughout all stages of the development of projects, the practice group benefits from a strong international network, with close links to Africa. Head of department Pedro Ferreirinha is experienced in providing assistance to lenders and borrowers in the financing of real estate transactions and on the setting up of investment structures. Foreign investors and developers seek Miguel Marques dos Santos's advice in relation to the sale and lease of real estate property, as well as project management and construction supervision services agreements. Pedro Pereira Coutinho was promoted to the partnership in 2020.
Testimonials
‘Effectiveness, creative approach, accuracy and availability define VdA.‘
‘Pedro Pereira Coutinho is very experienced. He has a great commercial approach and strong legal knowledge.‘
‘Lisa Ventura Lopes is experienced in commercial transactions and construction legal agreements. She’s very rigorous, respects deadlines and has the capacity to find legal solutions to successfully close a transaction or an agreement.‘
‘Pedro Ferreirinha and his team are able to provide an accurate and updated opinion on all types of real estate matters. Lawyers have the ability to adjust and adapt both in technical and business terms to the client’s needs and requests.‘
Key clientes: Via Outlets/Meyer Bergman, Group Claude Berda (Vanguard Properties), Apollo, Westmont Hospitality, Groupe Castel, ECS, Prowinko, UPI, EMGI, AGEAS, BNP Paribas, Olissipo Investment Fund, Avenue (Perella Weinberg), Ocidental, Norfin, Orion, Boissée Finances, Paris Inn, Deka, Real Added Value PN – Fundo de Investimento Imobiliário Fechado, Marriott Hotels, Hotel Ritz, Discovery Land Company, Zetland Capital Partners, Marathon
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
Next Generation Lawyers
VdA's information, communication and technology practice has expanded its service offering to encompass new sectors from a TMT standpoint. The department is adept at advising across the entire array of sector-related matters in the aerospace, aviation, science and technology industries, defence matters, as well as media and entertainment. Work covers licensing procedures, regulatory and contractual issues, M&A, litigation and arbitration. Margarida Couto has led advice in several winning bids in the context of public tenders for the award of spectrum licences. Magda Cocco heads the aerospace group, assisting in the negotiation of contracts for satellite construction and in the drafting of space-related legislation. Fernando Resina da Silva stands out for his comprehensive understanding of tech matters.
Testimonials
‘The firm’s team is highly knowledgeable and extremely competent, and can provide expert analysis, and effective assistance, within a wholly satisfactory time-frame.‘
‘Solid knowledge of Portuguese TMT market.‘
‘The fact that VdA is one of the few, if not the only Portuguese firm, that dominates space law and many matters related to national defence.‘
‘The technical knowledge of the TMT team is outstanding. The client can always be sure to be provided with the best practices on this area of law.‘
‘The team has a deep understanding of the law that allows them to find creative solutions.‘
‘Excellent understanding of the IT market in Portugal.‘
‘The easy and very pleasant relationship that the team maintains with clients, and the permanent search for the solution that best suits our needs are noteworthy.‘
‘Lawyers are both competent and friendly, which allows for the development of an excellent working relationship.‘
‘Excellent knowledge of the postal and communications sector.‘
‘Magda Cocco is always available to the client and to brainstorm on new and innovative ways to deal with clients’ issues.‘
‘Magda Cocco is an outspoken expert in the telecommunications law market.‘
Key clientes: MEO – SERVIÇOS DE COMUNICAÇÕES E MULTIMÉDIA S.A. (most relevant telecommunication group in Portugal), Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education / Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology, FCT, Ellalink Irland Limited, Nintendo Ibérica, S.A., Fox Network Group, União Internacional das Telecomunicações – ITU, Alliance for Affordable Internet – A4AI, IBM Portugal, Timor Telecom (telecommunication group in the Asian-Pacific region), EDP – Energias de Portugal (most relevant electricity provider in Portugal and one of the major electricity groups in Europe), Unitel, CV TelecomGroup, Microsoft Portugal, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Brisa Group, CTT, SA, José de Mello Saúde, S.A., Grupo Novo Banco Sistemas de Informação (member of Novo Banco SA Group), Caixa Central de Crédito Agrícola, Deutsche Bank
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
The 'outstanding' tax team at VdA 'provides high-quality advice with a practical approach'. It is often engaged to advise on the tax aspects of complex, cross-border transactions, and fields expertise across the energy, financial services, real estate, insurance, transport, energy, infrastructure, healthcare and life sciences sectors. Private wealth management, tax controversy, corporate tax, VAT and other indirect tax matters are also key pillars of strength for the sizeable team. Tiago Marreiros Moreira is noted for his international tax expertise and leads the department, while tax litigator Joaquim Pedro Lampreia is 'someone who is always available and stands out for his value-added attitude'. Managing associate Francisco Cabral Matos is a 'fantastic lawyer' with 'excellent tax knowledge', and recently promoted senior advisor Conceição Gamito heads the indirect tax team. Managing associate Ricardo Seabra Moura is also recommended.
Testimonials
‘Tiago Marreiros Moreira is brilliant; he is 24/7 ready to assist you.‘
‘Francisco Cabral Matos is a solid and reliable professional, with a very kind and friendly manner.‘
‘Ricardo Seabra Moura is very friendly and a fantastic peer; it is nice to have him on a deal.‘
‘Conceição Gamito has impressive expertise in VAT, great knowledge and a pragmatic focus.‘
‘This is definitely the best team in Portugal; it covers all tax matters very efficiently and speaks the same language as us.‘
‘Joaquim Pedro Lampreia is a miracle worker, both in tax litigation and in tax planning; his complete mastery of litigation gives him a competitive edge on consultancy work.‘
‘An outstanding tax team.’
‘The team provides high-quality advice with a practical approach.’
‘Joaquim Pedro Lampreia is someone who is always available and stands out for his value-added attitude.’
‘Francisco Cabral Matos is a fantastic lawyer and has excellent tax knowledge.’
Key clientes: AB Group / Vanguardeagle, Anadarko, Banco de Portugal, Brisal, Trustenergy Group, José de Mello Group (including Brisa Group), Deutsche Bank, CTT (national postal service), Generg Group, TAP, CKI, DEUTSCHE PFANDBRIEFBANK AG, Tranquilidade Seguros, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Wealins, Merck, Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics, Johnson & Johnson
Leading Individuals
Recommended Lawyers
Rising stars
Praised for its 'availability, efficiency and responsiveness', VdA houses a multi-disciplinary transport practice, which is 'very knowledgeable and very insightful'. The team, which leverages the firm's core strengths across banking, finance, energy, projects and public law, is regularly involved in logistics, mobility, road and rail projects and offers expertise across PPP and procurement matters. In the aviation sector, disputes and regulatory matters are key, as are finance, leasing and restructuring transactions. For shipping, the team is heavily engaged in oil and gas-related work, and offers expertise in dispute resolution, environmental matters, cargo claims, ship finance, and sale and purchase transactions. Paulo de Barros Baptista, who heads the transport team, is experienced in road-sector instructions and managing associate José Miguel Oliveira is active in oil, gas and shipping mandates. Teresa Empis Falcão is also a key member of the team.
Testimonials
‘I highlight the deep knowledge of the team, coupled with strict adherence to agreed deadlines. A firm that stands out for its excellent work.‘
‘In terms of qualities I highlight the knowledge of the team, the mastery of the subjects and the total availability.‘
‘Very knowledgeable and very insightful. Its ability to look at the deal as a whole gives me comfort that everything is being taken care of. It departs from its competitors because of its holistic approach.‘
‘I would highlight two partners, Paulo de Barros Baptista and Teresa Empis Falcão, based on their deep sector knowledge but, more importantly, for their capacity to work out creative solutions.‘
‘Availability, efficiency and responsiveness.‘
Key clients: AEBT – Auto-Estradas do Baixo Tejo, S.A.., ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, SA, Arkon PT (a subsidiary of ARKON Shipping GmbH & Co. KG Haren (Ems)), ASC Alster Ship Chartering GmbH & Co., Azores Regional Government, Banking syndicate composed of 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 Group, Certares Management LLC, ELOS – Ligações de Alta Velocidade, S.A., Haitong Bank, S.A, NAV Portugal, EPE, NHV Group, Portos dos Açores, S.A., Puma Energy Moçambique, Lda. (a subsidiary of Trafigura), SATA SGPS, S.A., Somafel – Engenharia e Obras Ferroviárias, S.A., STCP – Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto, S.A., Svitzer (Maersk Group), , TAP SGPS, S.A., TAP, S.A.
Leading Individuals
Rising Stars
Recommended Lawyers
Hall of Fame
VdA maintains a strong focus on Angola, where it receives a steady flow of work from longstanding clients, which include leading multinational companies active in diverse sectors. It has also recently attracted several new clients. In one highlight, the team advised Météo-France on the implementation of an ambitious modernisation project for Inamet, the Angolan National Meteorological Service. Practice head João Afonso Fialho and senior associate Ângela Viana are noted.
Practice head(s):
João Afonso Fialho
Testimonials
‘Comprehensive knowledge of the Angolan legislation from mineral legislation through to the complexities of the interface between Angolan legislation and other offshore jurisdictions.‘
Key clients: KT – Kinetics Technology, Météo-France, Webcor Group, Chimec SpA, Seadrill Group, ITM Mining, Group Castel, JV Sonadrill, Unitel, ITU, ARCTEL-CPLP,
Work highlights
Advised Météo-France on a modernisation project for Inamet.
Advising Webcor on the preliminary due diligence of a mining portfolio and farm-in of diversified mining concessions.
Advising Seadrill Group on its joint venture for the operation and management of four drillships within Angolan waters.
Recommended Lawyer
Leading Portuguese firm VdA works in partnership with Maputo-based firm Guilherme Daniel & Associados (GdA). Sector specialisms include energy, oil and gas, infrastructure, logistics and real estate. Magda Cocco leads the firm's information, communication and technology practice and advises on data protection, cybersecurity and space-related projects; Pedro Cassiano Santos heads the banking and finance practice; and Teresa Empis Falcão is a name to note for infrastructure and projects.
Practice head(s):
Teresa Empis Falcão
Testimonials
‘Very good knowledge of local market, laws and regulations.‘
‘Excellent turnaround time.‘
Key clients: Agility, Fundinvest, S.A, Modus Digital, Modus Global | Smax, Aujan, Friburge Angola
Work highlights
Advised Modus Digital on a digital platform for financial and non-financial payment services under the label Wari in Mozambique.
Advising Agility on Mozambique law matters and on the construction of a logistics park.
Advised Aujan on the sale of four office floors in the Rani Tower.
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