Despite its relatively recent history, Davi Tangerino Advogados has already become one of the main forces in the Brazilian white-collar crime and investigations legal market. Founded in 2018 by renowned criminal law experts, the outfit, which experienced a rebranding in February 2022 when former partner Salo De Carvalho left to establish his own firm, continues to attract new instructions from a strong corporate client base operating in a range of industries, including energy, technology, banking, infrastructure and life sciences. Singled out for its capabilities in acting for defendants and victims of crime, the firm has recently expanded its services on the litigation front with the opening of its office in Brasília, which strengthened its profile in proceedings before the superior courts. Founding partner Davi Tangerino combines ‘strategic thinking and technical knowledge in criminal law‘; he leads the team, which also includes the ‘excellent‘ André Filibe Kend Tanabe, and senior associate Patrícia Dannebrock Águedo. Lucas Albuquerque Aguiar, who previously worked as a law clerk to the president of the Brazilian Supreme Court and as chief of staff at the Ministry of Justice, is the name to note in Brasília.
White-collar crime and investigations in Brazil
Davi Tangerino Advogados
Practice head(s):
Davi Tangerino
Testimonials
‘Davi Tangerino Advogados is a firm that combines innovation with experience and solid knowledge in the area in which it operates. The office culture is one of collaboration and diversity. DTA has transformed the way support is provided in matters related to technology and law enforcement, and has accumulated intelligence in this sector that is hardly shared by its competitors.’
‘André Tanabe is one of the most committed professionals I have ever met. He spares no effort and deals with the various challenges of law with extreme elegance.’
‘Technical preparation well above the market average; concern and commitment to diversity and inclusion.’
‘Davi Tangerino is the one who best combines focus on client concerns, strategic thinking and technical knowledge in criminal law in Brazil.’
‘They are always available and aware of cases, providing good advice and always taking into consideration the client’s business model.’
‘Davi Tangerino and André Tanabe are excellent partners with a great reputation in the market.’
Key clients
Grupo Nós
Binance
Fretebras
Meta Platforms
American Tower do Brasil
Corning Comunicações Ópticas
Procter & Gamble
ATG Americas Trading Group
NR Sports (Neymar Jr.)
Faro Energy
Soyamill
Atvos
Work highlights
- Defending American Tower against claims that the client allegedly installed telecommunications towers without the proper licenses.
Iokoi Advogados
The ‘highly trained and qualified team‘ at white-collar crime boutique Iokoi Advogados offers representation and advice to clients across the entire spectrum of matters, including corporate and economic crime, and mandates involving fraud, bribery, embezzlement, tax evasion and money laundering. Combining ‘objective and precise legal solutions in the face of complex matters typical of highly regulated markets’, such as finance and energy, the team is especially well placed to handle criminal investigations, but is also frequently seen acting in internal fraud investigations, and complex cases, including appeals in the higher courts. Department head Pedro Ivo Gricoli Iokoi, whose ‘strong understanding of the corporate environment and business needs‘ is highlighted by clients, is seasoned in anti-fraud work and in the defence of C-suite executives and politicians. Other key individuals include Bruno Lambert de Almeida, Caio Cesar Tomioto Mendes and Ricardo Capelli, the latter of whom oversees the telecoms and payment methods team. Associate Maria Luiza Maluf Novaes, who regularly assists companies from the education, retail and services sectors, was recently promoted to coordinator of the team.
Practice head(s):
Pedro Ivo Gricoli Iokoi
Testimonials
‘Firm with highly qualified people, resulting in quality service. Collaborative attitude.’
‘Caio Cesar Tomioto Mendes, Bruno Lambert de Almeida and Pedro Ivo Gricoli Iokoi are highly qualified, proactive, and up-to-date with current trends and issues.’
‘The firm stands out for its agility in meeting clients’ criminal legal demands, maintaining high standards of quality, diligence and integrity in the conduct of services. In addition, it combines objective and precise legal solutions in the face of complex matters typical of highly regulated markets.’
‘Pedro Iokoi’s professional background allows him to present objective and simple legal solutions for complex issues in the area of corporate criminal law. Strong understanding of the corporate environment and business needs.’
‘The team is unique for having a lot of experience in the area of corporate criminal law and investigations arising from situations in the construction and infrastructure segment. Highly trained and qualified team.’
‘Pedro Iokoi: highly qualified professional. He is always willing and able to respond to requests.’
‘Highly specialised team that offers differentiated treatment to its clients.’
‘Highly qualified, flexible professionals and partners.’
Key clients
Shopee
SEB
Banco ABC
Coimex
DXC Technology
Royal Canin
Localiza
Procisa
Banco Rodobens
Sascar (Michelin)
Yduqs
Solar.BR – Coca-Cola
OLX
Mercado Livre
Hasbro
Banco Itaú Unibanco
Record TV
Braskem
Mars
SPFC
United Airlines
Camil
Bimbo
Even
Decolar
CVC
Telefônica | VIVO
Cielo
Rumo
Nestlé
Work highlights
- Assisting OLX in a police investigation into fraud involving post office shipping fees.
- Acting for Cielo in a police investigation into alleged theft by deception involving a restaurant located in the city of Paraopeba.
- Advising a rural union of the Bastos municipality (São Paulo) on a procedure that investigates corruption crimes involving farm owners.
Mattos Filho
Bringing together strong litigation capabilities, international experience and a multidisciplinary approach, Mattos Filho provides legal support to major companies and high-profile individuals in the full array of white-collar crime and investigations matters. Besides its strength in federal investigations, the ‘extremely competent, dedicated and available‘ group is also skilled in cases involving environmental crimes, tax evasion, bankruptcy and securities fraud, including appeals and proceedings before the higher courts. Flávia Leardini, a ‘go-to‘ for corporate and economic crime, is proficient in non-contentious issues and litigation involving tax evasion, corruption and money laundering. The highly regarded Paula Moreira Indalecio has over 20 years’ experience in criminal law, with a special emphasis on the technology and security spaces. Rogério Taffarello is often engaged by individuals and corporations in criminal investigations and litigation involving corporate crimes. Senior associate Philippe Nascimento joined from Dias Carvalho Filho E Furrier Advogados in May 2022.
Testimonials
‘Outstanding capability of professionals allows a 360 strategic analysis of complex issues.’
‘Mattos Filho’s team was able to think strategically and provide valuable advice.’
‘Flávia Guimarães Leardini is a technical, accessible and calm lawyer, our go-to lawyer to deal with criminal practice situations.’
‘The team is extremely competent, dedicated and available. Moreover, an extremely positive point is the creativity to create theses that, although daring, do not present excessive risks and bring positive results.’
‘Paula Moreira Indalecio is recommended.’
Cavalcanti Sion Advogados
Rated by clients as ‘one of the best criminal law firms in the country‘, Cavalcanti Sion Advogados acts for domestic and foreign players – including financial institutions, individuals and corporates from the construction, infrastructure, healthcare, technology, oil and gas, services and agribusiness sectors – in complex investigations and litigation, including proceedings before the superior courts. Dora Cavalcanti, whose experience in this space spans over two decades, is regularly retained to act in white-collar crime and money laundering cases, corruption scandals and cross-border investigations. She jointly heads up the team with the ‘diligent, competent, quick and efficient‘ Paula Sion, who is counsel of choice for major companies in a variety of criminal matters, ranging from corporate and bankruptcy crime to internal investigations. Luiza Moreira Peregrino Ferreira, who has previously worked as a judge at the state court of Santa Catarina, excels in appeals before the higher courts. Gabriel Holtz and Raquel Lima Scalcon, who joined from Scalcon Novaes Advogados in 2022, stand out at the associate level.
Practice head(s):
Dora Cavalcanti; Paula Sion
Testimonials
‘I have personally known Dora Cavalcanti and Paula Sion for over 15 years. This is one of the best criminal law firms in the country.’
‘Paula Sion is diligent, competent, quick and efficient. Everything was handled masterfully.’
Key clients
Minerva Foods
Odebrecht/Novonor
Triunfo Participações e Investimento
Grupo Nilton Lins
Claudio Figueiredo Costa Advocacia Criminal
Claudio Figueiredo Costa Advocacia Criminal possesses ‘in-depth legal knowledge‘ of criminal law and a ‘great ability to understand the cases and situations that arise‘ in the context of complex white-collar crime cases and investigations. Companies from an array of industries, including energy, financial services and construction, as well as high-profile individuals turn to the team for advice on matters involving corruption, money laundering, embezzlement and bid rigging; environmental crime is another area of activity for the group, which is based in Rio de Janeiro. At the helm of the practice, Cláudio Figueiredo Costa has led on several emblematic criminal cases, acting on behalf of heavyweights from the oil and gas, infrastructure, logistics and services sectors. Raphael Gaudio offers key support in high-stakes criminal cases.
Practice head(s):
Cláudio Figueiredo Costa
Testimonials
‘Firm with strong performance in the criminal area. Excellent interaction with clients and a very constructive and credible performance with public agents. In-depth legal knowledge and great ability to understand the cases and situations that arise, in order to provide the best possible advice. The team conveys a lot of security to the client.’
‘I’d highlight the attention, technical capacity and agility of the partners in relation to the case.’
‘Claudio Figueiredo Costa – technical capacity, attention, and security.’
Mudrovitsch Advogados
A ‘reference‘ in the white-collar crime market in Brazil, Mudrovitsch Advogados ‘uniquely combines risk analysis with business viability‘ to assist corporate and private clients on risk assessment, preventive measures and criminal proceedings. Financial and tax crimes feature heavily in the diverse caseload managed by the group, which is also active in cases involving money laundering, bribery and corruption, with a particular focus on the construction, energy and agribusiness segments. Showcasing a strong geographical footprint across the country, the firm has offices in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, and also has a solid presence in Brasília, Mato Grosso and Rondônia. Rodrigo De Bittencourt Mudrovitsch stands out for his track record in litigation before the superior courts. The ‘extremely competent‘ Felipe Fernandes De Carvalho is one of the main points of contact for criminal law trials and appeals at the higher courts, while Ivan Candido Da Silva De Franco is highlighted for his ‘high technical knowledge‘ of environmental and tax crimes. Gustavo Teixeira Gonet Branco coordinates the Rio de Janeiro-based team.
Practice head(s):
Rodrigo de Bittencourt Mudrovitsch; Felipe Fernandes de Carvalho; Ivan Candido da Silva de Franco; Gustavo Teixeira Gonet Branco
Testimonials
‘Prompt service from the team, always available, friendly and capable. Quality and speed in strategies/legal defences evaluating all scenarios. They accompany and guide the client from start to finish.’
‘Felipe Fernandes de Carvalho is one of the best legal professionals in the market. He defends his theses in a clear and objective way.’
‘Super fast response time. Very attentive to the needs and peculiarities of the client. The firm uniquely combines risk analysis with business viability.’
Key clients
Propeg
Direcional Engenharia
Work highlights
- Assisted talk show host Donizete Arruda in an appeal after the client was convicted to seven years and two months in prison on counts of discrimination.
- Advises the Zulli group in actions brought to investigate the alleged practice of bankruptcy crimes by its partners.
- Advising a former Petrobras employee and project consultant in the oil and gas area on an appeal against his conviction for the alleged crime of money laundering in favour of former directors of Petrobras.
Tofic Simantob, Perez, José e Ortiz Advogados
Boutique criminal law firm Tofic Simantob, Perez, José e Ortiz Advogados is well positioned to advise household companies and individuals – including public officials, high-profile executives and businessmen – across the gamut of cases relating to white-collar and economic crime, including litigation and federal investigations. Offences relating to finance, tax, bid rigging, bankruptcy, antitrust, corruption and money laundering are core areas of focus for the team, which is also proficient in environmental crimes. The ‘distinguished‘ Fábio Tofic Simantob jointly leads the practice with Débora Perez Dias, a key contact for large companies, banks and associations; the ‘incredible and highly qualified‘ Mariana Tranchesi Ortiz; and João Henrique Imperia Martini, who has significant experience at the Public Defender’s Office of the State of São Paulo.
Practice head(s):
Fábio Tofic Simantob; Débora Perez Dias; Mariana Tranchesi Ortiz; João Henrique Imperia Martini
Testimonials
‘The team is exceptional in every way. Lawyers prepare the client with excellence and professionalism. They have a strong commitment to ethics and the highest standards of professional conduct.’
‘I highlight Fábio Tofic Simantob and Mariana Tranchesi Ortiz. Mariana is an incredible and highly qualified professional. Even in the most difficult moments, she is able to bring peace of mind to the client. She manages to translate thousands of pages of an extremely complex legal process into the reality of the client and outline the best defence strategy.’
‘The partners are references in the criminal area. Fabio Tofic is eloquent and very intelligent, a distinguished lawyer!’
David Rechulski, Advogados
David Rechulski, Advogados enjoys a ‘great reputation‘ in corporate crime matters, acting for domestic and international companies operating in a variety of industries, such as mining, telecoms, banking, insurance, construction, energy and infrastructure, among others. The team has notable strength in defending high-ranking executives in criminal investigations and litigation involving allegations of corporate fraud, corruption, bid rigging, cartels, and environmental and financial crimes. Leading the practice, David Rechulski, a specialist in criminal law and corporate crisis management, has assisted household names in highly sensitive criminal matters. Senior partner Ricardo Küpper Pagés, Valeska Pinto, whose notable areas of practice include criminal matters and compliance, and senior associate Juliana Makiyama are also part of the core team.
Practice head(s):
David Rechulski
Testimonials
‘Partners are very involved and provide personalised services. Great reputation.’
‘David Rechulski and Richard Pages stand out.’
Key clients
Vale
TIM
CAOA
HTB Engenharia e Construção
Andrade Gutierrez Engenharia
Mosaic Fertilizantes P&K
Demarest Advogados
One of the first full-service firms to create a dedicated white-collar crime group, Demarest Advogados has a wealth of experience in acting in the defence of companies and individuals in criminal investigations and sensitive cases, including financial, tax, cyber and environmental crimes, as well as matters involving corruption, bid rigging and money laundering. The highly recommended Fabyola En Rodrigues is retained by major companies and high-ranking executives seeking representation in criminal law cases, government investigations and enforcement proceedings. She leads the practice, which also includes Larissa Borges Guimarães, who specialises in anti-corruption, anti-bribery and compliance matters, and Aline de Oliveira Silva.
Practice head(s):
Fabyola En Rodrigues
Testimonials
‘The excellence in quality, the technical and practical approach, and the direct and constant contact with its partners certainly set the team apart.’
‘Fabyola en Rodrigues is recommended.’
‘Experienced, available and efficient professionals.’
Key clients
Andrade Gutierrez Engenharia
Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Consultores
Grupo Baumgart
Bacardi Martini do Brasil Indústria e Comércio
Zimmer Biomet
Yout
E-Frame Tecnologia e Negócios
Phibro Saúde Animal Internacional
E H Silva Oliveira
Mitsui & Co
Jaguar e Land Rover Brasil
ServCarter International
Sodexo do Brasil Comercial
Syngenta Seeds
Unimed Seguradora
Vale
Associación de Fútbol Argentino – AFA
Rede Internacional de Universidades Laureat
Akzo Nobel
Carlisle Fluid Technologies
Motorola Mobility Comércio de Produtos Eletrônicos
Work highlights
- Assisting Bacardi Martini do Brasil Indústria e Comércio in an investigation launched in 2014 regarding the possible involvement of companies from the beverage sector in a criminal organisation for tax evasion against the State Treasury of Santa Catarina.
- Defending the director of E-Frame Tecnologia e Negócios in an investigation named “Operation Sovrapprezzo”, an offshoot of the Car Wash Operation that investigates an alleged fraud scheme.
- Successfully defending the CEO of Agro Amazônia in a criminal lawsuit for the practice of fraud in the agribusiness sector.
KLA Advogados
Anti-corruption, money laundering, tax evasion, cyber, antitrust and environmental crimes are all areas of focus for the ‘highly qualified’ white-collar practice at KLA Advogados, which combines expertise in criminal matters with strong corporate law capabilities. Corporate clients from the construction, infrastructure, education, TMT and pharmaceuticals sectors regularly seek the team’s advice on highly sensitive matters, including instances before the superior courts. Filipe Magliarelli is a solid performer in major investigations of national and international significance and crimes against the financial system, capital markets and public administration. He receives key support from senior associate Juliane Mendonça.
Practice head(s):
Filipe Magliarelli
Testimonials
‘Technical knowledge and service.’
‘Highly qualified team.’
‘Filipe Magliarelli combines his wide experience in the corporate criminal area to command corporate investigations with excellence. This marriage provides the client with the best of both worlds.’
‘Filipe has gone beyond what is necessary to provide; excellent service and communication.’
Pinheiro Neto Advogados
Pinheiro Neto Advogados houses a ‘technically impeccable team‘ made up of lawyers specialised in corporate criminal law, who are often engaged by high-profile executives and corporate entities in investigations and prosecutions brought by state and federal authorities throughout Brazil. With extensive experience in the defence of the full array of white-collar crime allegations, from insider trading to corruption, the group also showcases a successful track record in internal investigations. Mário Panseri Ferreira, who has over two decades’ experience in legal counselling and litigation, is a seasoned practitioner in matters involving fraud, anti-corruption issues and compliance. Counsel Lourival Lofrano Júnior focuses on tax, environmental and financial crimes, while Natalia Genina Lugero De Almeida ‘stands out for her analytical and risk assessment capabilities‘ in the context of internal and government investigations.
Testimonials
‘A technically impeccable team with the capacity to humanise and personalise services, which is something unique in the Brazilian market. The criminal law team at Pinheiro Neto Advogados is far ahead of its peers in this approach.’
‘Natalia Lugero stands out for her analytical and risk assessment capabilities.’
‘Expertise and technical quality of lawyers, in addition to attention and availability.’
‘I’d highlight Mário Panseri.’
Key clients
TUV SUD
Imerys
Pátria Investimentos
Work highlights
- Assisting Imerys in a case related to a fire incident at a mining plant in Barcarena, Pará, which allegedly affected the surrounding communities.
- Defending TÜV SÜD in a criminal lawsuit and two investigations initiated by the Federal Police involving the Brumadinho dam collapse.
Ráo & Lago Advogados
With extensive experience in litigation and consulting, Ráo & Lago Advogados provides a ‘high-quality service‘ to banks, brokerage houses, securities distributors and companies from a variety of industries, including construction, real estate and infrastructure, in relation to corporate crime matters. High-profile individuals also routinely turn to the practice for advice on cases that go beyond criminal investigations at the federal and state levels. Sônia Cochrane Ráo ‘possesses a long and distinguished career in criminal law‘, advising clients on corruption, money laundering, tax evasion, environmental and financial crimes. Natasha do Lago ‘stands out for her knowledge of the financial and capital markets‘, while Marina Chaves Alves particularly excels in cases involving financial, tax and money laundering offences. Tarsila Fonseca Tojal and Giovanna Silveira Tavolaro are noted at the associate level for their involvement in sensitive cases.
Practice head(s):
Sônia Cochrane Ráo; Natasha do Lago; Marina Chaves Alves
Testimonials
‘I have always been very well treated and the work performed is of indisputable quality.’
‘Sonia Ráo and Natasha do Lago are exceptional lawyers.’
‘High-quality service, differentiated by knowledge of financial and capital markets deals. Accurate technical defence in complex cases.’
Siqueira Castro – Advogados
Covering both consulting matters and complex corporate criminal litigation, Siqueira Castro – Advogados is well positioned to defend the interests of companies, senior executives and employees in sensitive proceedings at the administrative and judicial levels, including before the superior courts. Standing out for its broad geographical footprint across the country, the team provides support in the context of tax, financial and economic crimes, allegations of money laundering, big rigging and fraud, as well as environmental offences. The group is led by João Daniel Rassi, who specialises in mandates involving crimes against the financial, capital markets and tax systems. Victor Labate, Pedro Luis de Almeida Camargo, who often acts in litigation, including appeals and cases before the higher courts, and Beatriz Massetto Trevisan stand out at the associate level. Former practice co-head Renata Cestari Ferreira left the firm in August 2023.
Practice head(s):
João Daniel Rassi
Testimonials
‘The team provides personalised services and is prepared to deal with a wide range of topics, especially in matters related to corporate crime.’
‘João Daniel Rassi is recommended.’
Key clients
Construtora Camargo Corrêa
Dock Soluções em Meios de Pagamento
Telefônica Brasil
Temoinsa do Brasil
Jinny Software Latin America Imp. e Exp.
ACRY Construtora e Incorporadora
W. Faber Castell
Fedex Brasil Logística e Transporte
GL Eletro-Eletrônicas – Pial Legrand
Acumuladores Moura
Work highlights
- Advising Temoinsa Brasil on multiple cases being brought against its directors and other companies for allegedly defrauding public works bids related to the maintenance of São Paulo’s train and metro system, forming a cartel, and overcharging services prices.
- Assisting Construtora Camargo Corrêa, which is being investigated for the practice of arson that took place in the Cassia city.
- Drafted and filed a criminal investigation request before the Police Department of the City of São Gonçalo on behalf of Dock Soluções em Meios de Pagamento to investigate fraudulent financial transactions.
Cescon Barrieu
Founded in 2019, the compliance, white-collar and investigations group at Cescon Barrieu, which works closely with other firm-wide practices, regularly assists corporate clients in the identification of criminal risks and structuring of strategies in the context of capital markets, tax and environmental infractions. Typical instructions for the group, which is steered by Yuri Sahione, also include defending clients in allegations of white-collar crimes before state and federal courts.
Practice head(s):
Yuri Sahione
Key clients
FMD Asset Management
SG Comércio Exterior
Klingele Paper Nova Campina
Baldacci Pharma
Rose Mary Vargas de Mello
Associação Brasileira de Energia Eólica -ABEEólica
Work highlights
- Acted for SG Comércio Exterior in obtaining the judicial release of 13,000 WMT of manganese seized by the Federal Police prior to exportation.
- Represented Associação Brasileira de Energia Eólica – ABEEólica in litigation against tax consultants concerning wind power players in Brazil.
- Assisted FMD Asset Management in the implementation of a litigation strategy regarding criminal investigations into securities fraud.
Correa Gontijo Advogados
Focused on economic and white-collar crimes, criminal law boutique Correa Gontijo Advogados acts for companies, executives and individuals – including public officials – in sensitive matters, including federal and state police investigations. Administrative and judicial litigation are key areas of activity for the firm, which has a strong track record before the superior courts. Founding partner Conrado Almeida Correa Gontijo, ‘one of the leading exponents of Brazilian criminal law’, oversees the department, where Bruna Nunes is another name to note for corporate crime matters.
Practice head(s):
Conrado Almeida Corrêa Gontijo
Testimonials
‘The team listens carefully to our concerns, understanding the situation in order to be able to propose a compatible line of action.’
‘The firm combines high technical quality, fast and personalised service, and a good reputation before the criminal prosecution bodies.’
‘Conrado Almeida Corrêa Gontijo – academic excellence, experience and ability to engage in dialogue with the media in cases of great repercussion make him one of the leading exponents of Brazilian criminal law today.’
David Teixeira de Azevedo Advogados
Specialised white-collar and investigations boutique David Teixeira de Azevedo Advogados offers non-contentious and litigation advice to multinational companies operating in a broad range of industries, such as mining, banking, telecoms and pharmaceuticals, among others. Notable areas of practice include criminal issues involving tax evasion, fraud, money laundering, insider trading, corruption and environmental offences; the group is also singled out for its strong credentials in internal investigations. David Teixeira de Azevedo has a wealth of experience in high-stakes criminal cases spanning four decades. He jointly leads the practice with managing partner André Dias de Azevedo, Sandro Lívio Segnini and Reinaldo Staliano.
Practice head(s):
David Teixeira de Azevedo; André Dias de Azevedo; Sandro Lívio Segnini; Reinaldo Staliano
Testimonials
‘The office is exceptional, it is a premium boutique in the criminal sphere.’
‘André Azevedo and David Azevedo are excellent professionals and lead a highly qualified team.’
Key clients
Deloitte, Touche, Tohmatsu Auditores Independentes
Usiminas
Usiminas Mecânica
Gtech
Cosipa
Fiat
Allianz
AGF
Novartis
Merck
MSD
Nextel
Banco Panamericano
5G Capital
Global Access
EBF VAZ GROUP
MAT S/A
Petrobras Executive
Anima Centro Hospitalar
Auto Posto Raízes
Work highlights
- Acting for the Petrobrás general manager in a money laundering and corruption investigation held by the Federal Police of Brazil’s Curitiba branch.
- Hired to represent the Chief Legal Officer of Banco Panamericano in an investigation by the Federal Police into alleged accounting fraud.
- Retained by 5G Capital to conduct an investigation on the investment advisory firm responsible for managing most of the funds from the company and its partners.
Donati Buzanelli Advogados
With extensive experience in acting for high-profile individuals and companies from the worlds of banking, pharmaceuticals, construction, infrastructure, technology and retail, Donati Buzanelli Advogados is a solid performer in criminal investigations and litigation. Proceedings involving crimes against the environment, the public administration and the financial system are core focuses for the Brasília-based firm, which is also adept in investigations into alleged bid rigging and corruption. Conrado Donati, who brings together expertise in corporate crime and compliance, and Paulo Victor Buzanelli, who often defends domestic and international companies in criminal allegations, oversee the team. Also recommended, Barbara Lima specialises in criminal law.
Practice head(s):
Conrado Donati; Paulo Victor Buzanelli
Testimonials
‘The team has good legal knowledge in the area of corporate criminal law and investigations, providing quality advice to its clients.’
‘The team provides good service and works to achieve the results desired by clients.’
‘Special and personalised attention, systematic monitoring and feedback on the evolution of cases and definition of the legal strategy together with the client.’
Key clients
Banco Bradesco
Odebrecht
J&F Investimentos
Caixa Seguradora
Banco Fator
Ambev
Scotiabank Brasil
JBS Couros
Flora Produtos de Higiene e Limpeza
JBS
Figueiredo & Velloso Advogados
Rated for its ‘high level of legal expertise in the area of corporate criminal law and investigations‘, Brasília-based firm Figueiredo & Velloso Advogados provides advisory and litigation services to a diverse client roster comprised of Brazilian listed companies, multinationals, investments funds, fund managers and foreign investors. The ‘highly skilled‘ group, whose areas of expertise include matters involving corruption, fraud and bid rigging, is jointly led by a capable duo, Ticiano Figueiredo and Pedro Ivo Velloso, both of whom specialise in criminal law.
Practice head(s):
Ticiano Figueiredo; Pedro Ivo Velloso
Testimonials
‘The firm has a high level of legal expertise in the area of corporate criminal law and investigations, being able to provide effective and personalised solutions to the needs of its clients. There is transparency regarding information and legal processes, keeping the client informed about developments in the case, in addition to following high standards of ethics and professional conduct.’
‘The team is highly skilled, experienced and able to provide up-to-date information in a timely manner. They work collaboratively, ethically and are committed to excellence, providing quality work with the aim of achieving the best results for clients.’
‘The firm is renowned for its efficiency, versatility and modernity, with excellent results in the legal and strategic fields.’
Key clients
JBS
Eldorado Brasil
Cia. Bozano
Crescera Investimentos
Precisa Comercialização de Medicamentos
XP Investimentos
G4F Soluções Corporativas
ATP Tecnologia e Produtos
Manaus Energia/Norte Brasil
Alsar Tecnologia em Rede
Hospital Care
Florêncio Filho & Camargo Aranha Advogados
Praised for its ‘technical quality, availability and commitment‘, Florêncio Filho & Camargo Aranha Advogados is adept at handling contentious and consulting matters concerning corporate and economic crime, fraud, bribery, tax evasion and money laundering. Individuals and companies from a variety of industries, most notably banking and education, seek the team’s guidance in the context of criminal investigations and claims, including proceedings and appeals before the higher courts. Criminal law expert Marco Aurélio Florêncio Filho, who acts on both the victim and defence sides, jointly leads the group with the ‘very knowledgeable‘ Rodrigo Aranha and João Paulo Orsini Martinelli, a key contact for corporate and private clients.
Practice head(s):
Marco Aurélio Florêncio Filho; Rodrigo Aranha; João Paulo Orsini Martinelli
Testimonials
‘Highly specialised firm with excellent structure and disruptive ideas. Extremely qualified professionals committed to the clients’ problems.’
‘Rodrigo and Marco are excellent professionals with a lot of technical knowledge.’
‘Technical quality, availability and commitment.’
Höfling Sociedade de Advogados
Höfling Sociedade de Advogados, which acts exclusively in criminal law matters and white-collar crime cases, offers support to clients – including multinational companies and high-ranking individuals – across Brazil. Covering advice on criminal litigation and investigations, the group is active in matters involving money laundering, as well as crimes against the environment, the financial system and the consumer. Rated for its ‘high technical capacity‘, the department is co-led by founding partner Clarissa de Faro Teixeira Höfling, who has over 20 years’ experience in this space, and the ‘outstanding‘ Pedro Beretta, a key contact for both corporate and private clients. Associate Gustavo Nascimento Gomes, who specialises in criminal law and procedure, is also noted.
Practice head(s):
Clarissa de Faro Teixeira Höfling; Pedro Beretta
Testimonials
‘High technical capacity.’
‘I recommend Clarissa and Pedro for the quality of service and availability.’
‘They are young people who work with excellence and dynamism. Always present in relevant cases and attentive to media positioning.’
Lefosse Advogados
Lefosse Advogados fields a specialised compliance, investigations and white-collar crime practice, launched in 2019, with ‘extensive experience in complex cases‘ and investigations concerning allegations of fraud, money laundering, tax evasion and environmental crime. The group demonstrates particularly strong capabilities in preventive matters and crisis management, and also excels in the negotiation of plea bargain agreements with the Brazilian authorities. Following her tenure on the Petrobras Integrity Board Committee, the ‘exceptional‘ Adriana Dantas, who has a wealth of experience in compliance and internal investigations, joined in August 2022 with a group of associates, as a result of the incorporation of her former firm Adriana Dantas Advogados. The team was further strengthened by the addition of corporate criminal law expert Marcelo Ribeiro in January 2023, who was previously at the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office; he is skilled in multi-jurisdictional investigations and proceedings related to corruption, money laundering, economic and tax crime. Juliana Daniel is especially active in government enforcement actions and internal investigations. Associates Astrid Lima Rocha and Marina Nicolosi are other names to note for compliance and white-collar crime mandates.
Practice head(s):
Adriana Dantas
Testimonials
‘The firm provides security to the client. The highly qualified team has extensive experience in complex cases, maintaining a relationship of transparency and trust. The team is very technically qualified.’
‘Adriana Dantas is an exceptional lawyer, with outstanding knowledge and important pragmatism. Develops partnership relationships with clients.’
‘Marcelo Ribeiro is a lawyer who manages to transcend purely technical action and strategically understand the necessary steps to protect the client.’
Key clients
Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento (BNDES)
Cruzada Maranata de Evangelização
Estre Ambiental
Banco Sofisa
Instituto Nacional de Processamento de Embalagens Vazias – InPEV
China Three Gorges Brasil Energia
Credit Suisse Brokerage Brazil
Mann+Hummel Brazil
Arcelor Mittal Brasil
Telefônica Brasil
Work highlights
- Advised Banco Sofisa on launching a criminal investigation against defendants that exploited a delay vulnerability in its systems to make multiple low-valued transfers with no balance in their accounts.
- Assisted Instituto Nacional de Processamento de Embalagens Vazias in the launching of a criminal investigation against multiple entities in different Brazilian states.
Machado Meyer Sendacz e Opice Advogados
Machado Meyer Sendacz e Opice Advogados is well placed to advise on compliance matters and litigation at both the judicial and administrative levels involving white-collar crime. On the non-contentious front, the team is regularly called upon by companies – most notably those operating in the oil and gas, banking, logistics, pharmaceutical and technology sectors – to provide legal opinions on criminal mandates, leniency agreements and internal corporate investigations, among other issues. Criminal investigations involving potential violations of anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, tax and environmental law are key areas of activity for the group, which is led by Juliana Sá de Miranda, a well-known compliance specialist with a strong white-collar crime background. Gabriela Estefania Paredes Arcentales, a key contact for clients from the automotive, banking, energy, construction and retail segments, ‘is committed to clients and has a strong knowledge of criminal banking’.
Practice head(s):
Juliana Sá de Miranda
Testimonials
‘The team knows the company’s business model and, therefore, is able to offer solutions and propose strategies that please shareholders.’
‘Juliana Sá de Miranda and Gabriela Paredes Arcentales – promptness, assistance in urgent situations, quick resolution of problems, extensive knowledge of the subjects.’
‘Gabriela Arcentales is committed to clients and has a strong knowledge of criminal banking.’
‘Gabriela Paredes Arcentales is always very attentive and helpful. Juliana Sa de Miranda is objective and didactic.’
‘Expertise in multiple areas of law, relationship of trust and great reputation in the market.’
Key clients
Itaúsa
Contabilizei
Telefônica
Ecorodovias
Caputo, Bastos & Serra Advogados
Bringing together expertise in investigations and claims involving allegations of environmental and financial crimes, fraud, money laundering, and bid rigging, Caputo, Bastos & Serra Advogados is a popular choice for companies and executives from the worlds of crypto, construction, energy and IT. Paula Lima Hyppolito Oliveira, who specialises in corporate criminal matters, is the main point of contact in the team.
Practice head(s):
Paula Lima Hyppolito Oliveira
Carlos Eduardo Machado Advogados
Criminal law boutique Carlos Eduardo Machado Advogados possesses ‘experienced and practical lawyers with relevant in-depth knowledge‘ of corporate crime matters, including investigations and litigation. Though primarily based in Rio de Janeiro, the group is active throughout the country, often representing high-profile clients in proceedings in Brasília, São Paulo, Curitiba and Recife. Carlos Eduardo Machado, Nastassja Chalub and Nastassja Chalub jointly oversee the practice.
Practice head(s):
Carlos Eduardo Machado; Nastassja Chalub; Rafael Duque Estrada
Testimonials
‘Fast service and availability.’
‘Carlos Eduardo Machado is super qualified.’
‘Experienced and practical lawyers with relevant in-depth knowledge and expertise.’
Carneiros Advogados
Singled out for its ‘great technical quality‘ and ‘extensive knowledge of the jurisprudence of higher courts‘, Brasília-based firm Carneiros Advogados showcases ‘in-depth knowledge of criminal law issues‘. The firm is well placed to advise on sensitive cases concerning corruption, money laundering and other criminal allegations, and has carved out a solid reputation in the market given its focus on matters before the appellate and superior courts. Rafael De Alencar Araripe Carneiro, who spearheads the practice, is noted for his ‘broad knowledge of the higher courts‘. Pedro Victor Porto Ferreira is also recommended for his experience in corporate crime matters.
Practice head(s):
Rafael De Alencar Araripe Carneiro
Testimonials
‘The team has great technical quality and deep knowledge of the higher courts, in addition to being always available and helpful.’
‘Rafael Carneiro has a lot of experience and involvement in higher courts, in addition to a lot of technical knowledge and assertiveness. The associates were also attentive and demonstrated technical quality.’
‘The service provided was very good, the team has extensive knowledge and experience. The ease of communication is also a positive thing. In addition, the lawyers are very familiar with the dynamics of the superior courts, which guarantees us greater security in the conduct of the process.’
Key clients
Oi S/A
Eldorado Brasil Celulose
Concessionária SPMAR
Bom Jesus Agropecuária
DMV Brasil Equipamentos
Grupo Belarmino
Emplavi Empreendimentos Imobiliários
Usina Xavantes
Grupo Santa – Rede de Hospitais
JF Pasqua Condutores Elétricos
CAZ Advogados
CAZ Advogados has a strong track record in representing companies – especially those operating in the crypto, financial services, real estate and retail sectors – and individuals in criminal cases throughout Brazil. Proceedings involving environmental crimes, corruption and money laundering issues feature in the firm’s portfolio, which also includes internal investigations and compliance matters. The ‘brilliant‘ Helena Regina Lobo da Costa focuses on allegations of environmental and economic crimes, while Daniel Zaclis has ‘unrivalled experience‘ in corporate internal investigations. Founding partner Marina Pinhão Coelho Araújo combines experience in corporate crime and compliance, and Daniel Gerstler is recommended for criminal litigation cases. Giovanna Bertolucci Nogueira and Gabriela Pizzol are key associates to note.
Practice head(s):
Helena Lobo da Costa; Marina Pinhão Coelho Araújo; Daniel Zaclis; Daniel Gerstler
Testimonials
‘CAZ Advogados is my reference firm (and Daniel Zaclis, my point of contact) for criminal law in the context of financial transactions and mergers and acquisitions. Its technical knowledge, pragmatism, objectivity, availability and clarity in advice set it apart from competitors.’
‘Daniel Zaclis is my great reference in the area.’
‘They manage to solve all our problems quickly, effectively and smoothly. Communication with them is clear and always pleasant, and we never have any surprises when billing. Of all the criminal law firms we’ve worked with to date, they are certainly in the top two.’
Key clients
Gucci do Brasil
Pag Seguro – Uol
Melhoramentos
Clariant
Rodobens Negócios Imobiliários
DXC Technology/CSC Computer Sciences
Terra Santa Agro
Camargo Correa Desenvolvimento Imobiliário
Netpark Estacionamentos
Cervejaria Malta
Biotest
SMC Automação do Brasil
Simpress
TestFy
Fibra Experts
We Work
RECAP (Sindicato do Com.varejista de derivados de Petróleo de Campinas e região)
Conenge-Sc Construções E Engenharia
Work highlights
- Defends Clariant and its directors in an investigation for alleged criminal fraud related to state taxes.
- Represents Camargo Correa Desenvolvimento Imobiliário and one of its directors in a criminal environmental case.
- Defends the interests of one of Netpark Estacionamentos’ directors in a criminal action arising from an alleged cartel in the parking management services sector.
Felsberg Advogados
At Felsberg Advogados, the white-collar crime and corporate investigations practice regularly assists household names from an array of sectors in crisis management, risk assessments, investigative procedures and litigation at the judicial and administrative levels. The group is especially skilled at handling federal and internal investigations into allegations of corruption, fraud, money laundering and environmental crime. André Fonseca possesses a wealth of experience in criminal litigation and police investigations.
Practice head(s):
André Fonseca
Testimonials
‘My experience with Felsberg was very positive. Its representatives acted in an agile and integrated way, providing diagnosis, proposals and actions effectively.’
Gamil Foppel Advogados
Based in Salvador, criminal law boutique Gamil Foppel Advogados is seen with great regularity assisting high-profile individuals and companies in matters involving economic, business and tax crime. With considerable experience in criminal investigations and litigation in northeast Brazil, the firm is also developing its presence in Brasília and in the southeast of the country. White-collar criminal law specialists Gamil Föppel and Gisela Borges lead the department.
Practice head(s):
Gamil Föppel; Gisela Borges
Key clients
The Blue Health Group
Brazil 3 Business
Localiza
Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF)
SINDIMED
Neoenergia
Eletricity Company of the State of Bahia (COELBA)
MSC Crociere
Sasil
Unipar
Rahal, Carnelós e Vargas do Amaral Advogados
The ‘cohesive team‘ at Rahal, Carnelós e Vargas do Amaral Advogados is often retained by major companies, their senior executives and high-profile individuals – including public officials – in investigations and litigation involving matters of corruption, fraud and money laundering. Rated for its ‘deep legal knowledge and efficient procedural petitions‘, the group is under the joint leadership of a trio of seasoned practitioners: Flávia Rahal Bresser Pereira, who is recommended by clients for her longstanding experience in white-collar crime; Guilherme Ziliani Carnelós, who ‘has solid knowledge of corporate criminal law and investigations‘; and Camila Austregesilo Vargas do Amaral, who specialises in economic and European criminal law.
Practice head(s):
Flávia Rahal Bresser Pereira; Guilherme Ziliani Carnelós; Camila Austregesilo Vargas do Amaral
Testimonials
‘The service is exceptional! The team is highly qualified and provides a global service in the criminal area, but with a very personalised approach.’
‘The work of Flavia Rahal in particular is impeccable. She unites technical knowledge and a personal approach that I had never seen before.’
‘Deep legal knowledge and efficient procedural petitions. Absolute transparency in accountability and handling of processes. Cohesive team which stands out for its attention, dedication and kindness in dealing with clients.’
TozziniFreire Advogados
Led by Isadora Fingermann, the white-collar crime department at TozziniFreire Advogados is regularly engaged by major companies and executives in proceedings involving tax evasion and financial crimes. Covering both investigations and litigation, the team often works in collaboration with other practices – most notably antitrust, labour and environment – in crisis management. Key areas of growth for the group include tech-related mandates and investigations into allegations of cyber fraud. Commended by clients for her ‘technical knowledge, strategy and experience‘, Fingermann excels in the defense of criminal cases and interactions with prosecutors. Senior associate Carolina Franco has worked in several high-profile corporate criminal cases. Associate Nathalia Latorre maintains a broad practice acting for corporations and individuals in cases related to the full range of white-collar crime offences, from money laundering to bid rigging.
Practice head(s):
Isadora Fingermann
Testimonials
‘Professionals with excellent technical knowledge and practical attitude. Excellent reputation in the market. Exceptional client service.’
‘Isadora Fingermann stands out for her technical knowledge, strategy and experience.’
‘Flexible, well-structured and technically well-trained team.’
‘The entire staff has always been very professional and helpful.’
Trench Rossi Watanabe
Large Brazilian and international companies regularly seek Trench Rossi Watanabe‘s assistance in white-collar criminal law cases and investigations, including matters related to tax crimes, IP criminal violations and public procurement. The group is proficient in crisis management, and proceedings involving allegations of money laundering, fraud and corruption. João Augusto Gameiro, who is noted for his ‘deep knowledge of criminal matters‘, acts for corporations, shareholders and officers in the defence of criminal claims and police investigations. Focused on corporate crime, senior associate Tiago Caruso has advised companies on complex criminal cases and compliance.
Practice head(s):
João Augusto Gameiro
Testimonials
‘Absolutely competent team with good articulation in transversal themes, which go beyond pure criminal law. With a holistic assessment regarding the possible impacts that decisions may have in the criminal sphere or vice versa, they demonstrate security and expertise to help the client in the best possible way. In addition, the promptness and speed of response are unmatched and are above the market.’
‘João Gameiro conducts matters calmly and objectively, which facilitates the relationship with the client. In addition, it is worth mentioning as a rising star lawyer Tiago Caruso, who, in addition to excellent technical knowledge and experience in the area, has the resourcefulness to deal with complex situations.’
‘TRW serves me incredibly well in the criminal area. They have great professionals, with deep technical knowledge and easy social skills.’