Cuatrecasas fields an ‘excellent team of lawyers‘ focused on high-end commercial, corporate and M&A mandates, ‘who are always available, quick to react, and creative in the solutions provided to complex issues‘. The practice acts for a predominantly international client base active in multiple regulated sectors – such as energy, infrastructure, TMT, healthcare, transport, and real estate – and is well placed to handle high-value M&A deals and private equity transactions, which often involve multi-jurisdictional components. Praised for her ‘pro-business approach that facilitates problem-solving,’ the ‘excellent‘ Mariana Norton Dos Reis stands out for her wealth of experience in cross-border M&A governed by Portuguese and Spanish law in the infrastructure, energy, retail and financial sectors. She manages a sizeable team that also features João Mattamouros Resende, who is qualified in Portugal, Brazil, New York, England and Wales, and ‘go-to lawyer‘ for international clients; and Francisco Santos Costa, who leads on transactions in the energy sector. The firm’s recent merger with SLCM | Serra Lopes, Cortes Martins & Associados, effective as of January 2023, bolstered its capabilities in the M&A space. The practice now counts with highly-regarded senior partner Luis Miguel Cortes Martins, Rafael Lucas Pires and Martim Anahory, all of whom are seasoned in domestic and cross-border M&A.
Commercial, corporate and M&A in Portugal
Cuatrecasas
Practice head(s):
Mariana Norton dos Reis
Other key lawyers:
João Mattamouros Resende; Francisco Santos Costa; Samantha Cyrne; João von Funcke; Luis Miguel Cortes Martins; Rafael Lucas Pires; Martim Anahory
Testimonials
‘Mariana Norton dos Reis is an excellent lawyer, very pragmatic and available.’
‘Cuatrecasas was very impressive in the way it approached every issue of the deal. Great knowledge of the risks, the opportunities and ways to resolve problems.’
‘It is a very commercial and pragmatic team, which helps in solving problems from a business/commercial point of view.’
‘Mariana Norton dos Reis is a lawyer with extensive experience in M&A and a pro-business approach that facilitates problem-solving.’
‘Cuatrecasas has an excellent team of lawyers, who are always available, quick to react, creative in the solutions provided to complex issues and always a pleasure to work with. They have excellent technical skills and industry knowledge, which makes them an essential part of our business and decision-making. They have truly managed to become trusted business partners on whom we rely heavily.’
‘João Mattamouros Resende is the partner who supervises all work conducted by Cuatrecasas for us. He has excellent technical skills, which combined with his vast experience, makes him our go-to lawyer for all our business in Portugal, from structuring to execution.’
‘João von Funcke is our trusted advisor and main point of contact at Cuatrecasas. He has excellent technical skills and is very creative in the solutions he proposes to our, mostly, complex and unusual issues and propositions. He is always available to brainstorm and discuss and very quick to react.’
Key clients
Bain Capital
Altri
Onex Renewables
Grupo Catalana Occidente
Infinitas Learning International B.V.
Cintra Infraestructuras
CS Wind
Bauer Media
FGI
Greenvolt
Acciona
Banco de Investimento Global (BIG)
Platinum Equity
EPTA Refrigeration
RealFevr (Fantasy Revolution)
CVC Capital Partners
Fusion Fuel
Atena Equtiy Partners
IskayPet Group
Amarenco
Ferrovial Serviços (currently named Pre-zero)
Growth Capital Partners
Exus Partners
Volaris Group
Taikai
KPS Capital Partners
Chocolates Valor / Vimaroja
TruVenturo
Zharta
Flight Training Europe SL
Heybridge Property Developments Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Onex Renewables on a €530m wind portfolio acquisition, comprising five wind farms from EDPR (EDP Renováveis).
- Advising Infinitas Learning on the acquisition of LeYa, an educational and general publishing group of companies present in the Portuguese and Mozambique markets.
- Assisting the US-based private equity firm Bain Capital in the acquisition of Inetum, the French software services provider, for $2.27bn.
Linklaters
Linklaters is regularly instructed by a sizeable roster of prestigious corporate clients in an array of high-end M&A transactions, both domestic and cross-border in nature. Benefitting from the firm’s global footprint, the practice continues to advise buyers, sellers, private equity funds, alternative investment providers and financial institutions in deals involving myriad sectors – namely real estate, insurance, infrastructure, energy, transport and IT- and multiple jurisdictions, with a focus on Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa, most notably Mozambique. Marcos De Sousa Monteiro, who specialises in cross-border M&A, privatisations, and reorganisations in Portugal and Lusophone Africa, spearheads the team, where Diogo Plantier Santos is a name to note for real estate transactions. Besides playing a prominent role in traditional corporate work, Mariana Serra Baptista, who was recently promoted to counsel, also assists clients with ESG-driven investments and restructurings.
Practice head(s):
Marcos de Sousa Monteiro
Other key lawyers:
Diogo Plantier Santos; Mariana Serra Baptista; Diogo Barros Pereira
Key clients
Farfetch UK Limited
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC
team.blue Italy S.p.A.
Vulcan Resources
Cerberus
Ageas Portugal
ALSO International Services GmbH
SIBS – SGPS, S.A.
Apax Partners LLP
TAP – Transportes Aéreos Portugueses, S.A.
Mirova
Work highlights
- Advised Farfetch on the acquisition of the Luxclusif Group.
- Advised Goldman Sachs on its €200m investment in a minority stake in Constructel Visabeira.
- Assisted Apax Partners in the sale of Unilabs.
Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados
‘Premium firm‘ Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados ‘provides first-rate services‘ to a stellar client base comprising domestic and multinational companies across key sectors such as energy, real estate, banking, pharmaceuticals, IT, agribusiness and media, among others. Fully dedicated to corporate and M&A matters, the department offers support during every stage of consequential transactions in the country and in Portuguese-speaking jurisdictions in Africa – including Angola, Mozambique and Cape Verde – through its network of law firms Morais Leitão Legal Circle. Specialised in private equity transactions, Tomás Vaz Pinto heads up the corporate and capital markets departments, while Ricardo Andrade Amaro, who is particularly active in mandates pertaining to the energy sector, takes the lead on big-ticket M&A deals. Advising on the intersection of private equity, M&A and capital markets, Eduardo Paulino ‘is very responsive and proactive‘. The ‘exceptional‘ Margarida Torres Gama, co-head of the insurance, reinsurance and pension funds cross-practice team, is recommended for high-value M&A in the insurance sector, as well as in the banking, food and retail spaces. Recently promoted Luís Roquette Geraldes focuses on high-growth companies, including from the worlds of tech and life sciences, and is the name to note for start-ups and venture capital investments. Carlos Osório de Castro is a reference in the Portuguese M&A market.
Practice head(s):
Tomás Vaz Pinto; Ricardo Andrade Amaro
Other key lawyers:
Carlos Osório de Castro; Eduardo Paulino; Luís Roquette Geraldes; Vítor Pereira das Neves; Magda Viçoso; Margarida Torres Gama; Isabel Carneiro Khalen; Marta Pereira Rosa
Testimonials
‘They have a strong knowledge of the insurance sector, offering an outstanding support in M&A transactions and distribution arrangements in this industry. They are sophisticated and balanced in negotiating contracts.’
‘Eduardo Paulino is excellent in his game. He is very responsive and proactive and deeply takes care of client’s interests.
‘Margarida Torres Gama is an exceptional lawyer. Very easy to work with and always calm and precise in conducting negotiations. There is always the clear impression that the client’s business is in good hands.’
‘Morais Leitão is probably the best law firm in Portugal.’
‘MLGT is a premium firm in Portugal which provides first-rate services to clients.’
‘Eduardo Paulino is a key member of the M&A team. He provides high-quality and efficient service together with his team.’
PLMJ
PLMJ routinely handles a significant volume of large-cap, and oftentimes innovative, M&A transactions on behalf of Portugal’s foremost companies and investors active in a variety of industries, including healthcare, IT, energy and infrastructure. Comprised of highly ‘proactive and client-focused‘ professionals, the team’s cross-sector focus ensures that it is also sought out by clients in the context of corporate restructurings and joint ventures. With almost three decades’ experience in this space, Diogo Perestrelo acts for energy, distribution, aviation, infrastructure and telecoms players in the gamut of M&A transactions and privatisations. He jointly manages the practice with Duarte Schmidt Lino, a reference for landmark M&A, private equity, and venture capital deals. Domestic and international companies also turn to Bárbara Godinho Correia and Filipe Avides Moreira (who is based in the Porto office) for advice on mergers, acquisitions and privatisations. ‘A dream partner for a General Counsel to engage with on a transaction‘, Teresa Madeira Afonso marries in-depth knowledge of restructuring and insolvencies with extensive experience in M&A and private equity deals within the agribusiness segment.
Practice head(s):
Diogo Perestrelo; Duarte Schmidt Lino
Other key lawyers:
Luís Sáragga Leal; Bárbara Godinho Correia; Filipe Avides Moreira; Teresa Madeira Afonso
Testimonials
‘The PLMJ Commercial, Corporate and M&A teams were outstanding in our transaction during the course of 2021. They initiated an in-depth meeting to understand our business, industry and meet key people within our organisation (free of charge). This enabled positive engagement from the start, the building of trust and a real sign of dedication to understand our business. The team were excellent at communication, proactive with their support and never on ‘the back foot’. They were an extension of my team’s arm and drove us to a successful bid and implementation.’
‘Teresa Madeira Afonso was (and is) simply outstanding and a dream partner for a General Counsel to engage with on a transaction. Teresa’s style was very engaging, always putting me and my team at ease, providing reassurances and creative solutions to challenges we faced. Teresa managed her team incredibly well and resourced appropriately. She was always available whenever we needed…an ideal support.’
‘I have worked with PLMJ in various matters, and they have always met our expectations.’
‘They are very proactive and client-focused.’
‘In addition to the expertise and experience in this area of practice, PLMJ has excellent knowledge of our sector of activity, which allows it to positively identify the client’s problems, any associated risks, usually presenting solutions adjusted to the real needs of the company, which effectively adds value to the business.’
‘Duarte Schmidt and Teresa Madeira Afonso are recommended.’
Key clients
Davidson Kempner Capital Management
Building Materials Ventures
A.P. Møller Holding
Bank of America Europe
TAP Air Portugal
Ascendi Group
Minor Hotels
Galp
Pandora
Oxy Capital
Impresa
Explorer Investments
Work highlights
- Advising, together with Allen & Overy, Brookfield Business Partners on the acquisition of the Modulaire Group from TDR Capital.
- Advising A.P. Møller Holding on the purchase of Unilabs from funds advised by Apax Partners.
- Assisting the Northvolt group in the sale of 50% of the Portuguese subsidiary Aurora Lith to Galp and establishing a joint venture between the two groups with a view to develop lithium processing facilities and related activities in Portugal.
Uría Menéndez – Proença Carvalho
Highlighted for its ‘great technical and market knowledge, accompanied by great diplomacy in all interactions with the client‘, Uría Menéndez – Proença Carvalho offers broad corporate and transactional support to an impressive base of private equity firms and corporates across all of Portugal’s major industries. The team is well placed to handle innovative and high-value cross-border M&A deals, and has recently been particularly active in several buy-side transactions in the technology, real estate, energy and industrial sectors. Key individuals include managing partner Antonio Villacampa, who advises on multi-jurisdictional M&A and financings; corporate restructuring and private equity specialist Francisco Brito e Abreu, who is a point of contact for pharmaceutical clients; and Francisco Da Cunha Ferreira, who brings together expertise in corporate law, real estate and finance matters. The highly recommended Catarina Tavares Loureiro is noted for her skills in the negotiation of M&A transactions in highly regulated sectors and involving both private and listed companies, while Joana Torres Ereio maintains a broad practice focused on M&A, private equity and venture capital. Duarte Garin retired in December 2023.
Other key lawyers:
Antonio Villacampa; Francisco Brito e Abreu; Carlos Costa Andrade; Francisco da Cunha Ferreira; Catarina Tavares Loureiro; Joana Torres Ereio; Miguel Stokes; Miguel Rodrigues Leal
Testimonials
‘Great technical knowledge, and the projects are made up of multidisciplinary teams that truly complement each other. Total availability and monitoring of clients’ matters. Great knowledge of the business and of the most important variables, contributing very positively to finding alternative solutions and implementing them.’
‘Great technical and market knowledge, accompanied by great diplomacy in all interactions with the client. Full availability. It is worth mentioning the name of Catarina Tavares Loureiro.’
‘Very dedicated team, 100% commitment, great technical knowledge and always thinking about the best interests of the client.’
‘Catarina Tavares Loureiro is recommended.’
Key clients
GBL – Groupe Bruxelles Lambert
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board
DST Group
Altice
Vauban Infrastructure Partners
Azora European Hotel/Lodging, FCR, S.L.
EDF Renewables
Tishman Speyer
GlovoApp23
Bain Capital Credit
Oakley Ekobid S.L.U.
Fastfiber
Pré-Natal
Sonae Investment
Ferrovial Servicios, S.A.
BNP Paribas Real Estate
Work highlights
- Advising Groupe Bruxelles Lambert on the acquisition of a majority stake in Affidea from B-FLEXION.
- Assisting DST in its participation in the procedure launched by the Portuguese Government for the reprivatisation of shares representing 71.73% of the share capital and voting rights of Efacec Power Solutions, SGPS, S.A.
- Assisting GlovoApp23 in the acquisition of the Portuguese company Fonte Negócios Online, S.A., which owns the online platform Mercadão.
VdA
‘A firm of enormous quality‘, VdA fields an ‘outstanding‘ corporate and M&A practice, whose ‘depth of services‘ and ‘responsiveness‘ are widely praised by clients. The group is routinely engaged in blockbuster M&A deals in a variety of industries, having reported a recent uptick in transactional mandates within the telecoms, energy (including renewables), healthcare, infrastructure, and aviation sectors. Cláudia da Cruz Almeida, who is highly reputed in the fields of corporate acquisitions, disposals, reorganisations, privatisations and private equity, is now managing the corporate and M&A practice, replacing senior partner Jorge Bleck in the leadership seat in February 2022. The group was recently bolstered by the arrival of Maria da Conceição Cabaços, who joined the Porto office in October 2021 from PLMJ, and the highly regarded Francisco Sá Carneiro, who left Campos Ferreira, Sá Carneiro & Associados in January 2022, a law firm where he was one of the founding partners. Transactional and restructuring mandates feature heavily on Paulo Trindade Costa‘s workload, which is further populated by cross-border deals involving Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa. Acting for both sellers and buyers in private and public M&A, Helena Vaz Pinto stands out for her knowledge of the insurance sector, while Maria Cunha Matos, who is a qualified solicitor in England and Wales, and a registered foreign legal consultant in Brazil, is a name to note for cross-border matters. Recently promoted partner Sofia Bobone plays a prominent role in the practice, especially in the most innovative and high-profile deals handled by the firm. Former managing partner João Vieira de Almeida continues to supervise key M&A deals and joint ventures.
Practice head(s):
Cláudia da Cruz Almeida
Other key lawyers:
João Vieira de Almeida; Jorge Bleck; Paulo Trindade Costa; Francisco Sá Carneiro; Helena Vaz Pinto; Maria da Conceição Cabaços; Maria Cunha Matos; Sofia Bobone
Testimonials
‘I think the practice is outstanding and a good sign of that is how we always relie on VdA for our transactions in Portugal.’
‘Top notch in terms of technical expertise, availability and attitude during long projects which have been extremely demanding physically.’
‘Depth of services and team. Responsiveness in demanding timings.’
‘VdA is a firm of enormous quality. It provides excellent services and has a very good team.’
‘ I would like to highlight Maria Cunha Matos who is highly professional.’
‘Helena Vaz Pinto and Sofia Bobone stand out.’
Key clients
AMF
Aquinos Industry SGPS, S.A.
Brisa Auto-Estradas de Portugal, S.A.
Cellnex Telecom, S.A.
CLNX Portugal, S.A.
CVC
Grupo Media Capital SGPS, S.A.
Miya Water Holdings SA / Indaqua – Indústria e
Gestão de Águas, SA
Neptune Grafton I S.àrl
Nomura
Oi, S.A.
Petsenjoy – Serviços Veterinários, Lda.
PNI Portugal S.à.r.l
Portuguese State and Parpública – Participações Públicas
(SGPS), S.A.
Altice Portugal, S.A.
Semapa Next, S.A.
Smart Separations Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda.,
Sole shareholder of Pharsolution – Pharmaceutical
Consulting – Consultadoria, Unipessoal, Lda.
Visabeira Group
Vodafone
Work highlights
- Advised Grupo Visabeira on €200m in growth capital from Goldman Sachs Asset Management.
- Assisted Miya Water and its fully owned subsidiary Indaqua in the competitive bidding process leading to the acquisition by Indaqua of the entire share capital of Plainwater Serviços, SGPS, SA.
- Advised Cellnex Telecom, S.A. on the purchase of a newly incorporated subsidiary of PT Portugal, SGPS, S.A. holding a portfolio of towers and indoor solutions, from Altice Europe N.V
Abreu Advogados
The ‘reputed‘ Abreu Advogados maintains a broad offering in the area of corporate and M&A, and is noted for its ‘technical competence, total availability‘ and partner-level involvement in all matters. The team routinely undertakes complex transactional work, covering M&A and private equity deals across an array of industries – including real estate, banking, tech, life sciences, energy and natural resources- in Portugal, Mozambique and Angola. Corporate governance also features on the team’s workload, as do commercial and day-to-day corporate mandates. Ana Sofia Batista is singled out for her experience in private equity and M&A negotiations in Portugal and Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa. She oversees the team with José Maria Corrêa De Sampaio, a key contact for banking and insurance-related transactions, and Manuel Santos Vítor, whose expertise extends to corporate restructurings and governance issues. M&A involving real estate assets is a core area of activity for António Pina, while Teresa Anselmo Vaz is particularly sought out by clients from the life sciences and healthcare sectors in matters relating to commercial and corporate law. Rita Albuquerque joined from PLMJ in February 2024.
Practice head(s):
Ana Sofia Batista; José Maria Corrêa de Sampaio; Manuel Santos Vítor
Other key lawyers:
António Pina; César Bessa Monteiro Jr; Rui Peixoto Duarte; Teresa Anselmo Vaz; Marta Romano de Castro; Pedro Alves da Silva; Maria de Deus Botelho; Rita Albuquerque
Testimonials
‘Abreu has a close and competent team, with a good quality-value ratio.’
‘Law firm of excellence, with lawyers specialised in the different areas of Law, with enormous competences for any legal matter. It is worth noting the transparency, the attitude of all lawyers, the availability, speed and security they convey.’
‘Maria de Deus Botelho, a specialist in commercial and corporate law, advises us in large corporate transactions.’
‘We were advised by Abreu in an M&A process with considerable complexity and dimension. The services provided were of the highest quality. Among the numerous qualities of the team, technical competence, total availability and delivery, complete mastery of the transaction in all its nuances and details, and the transparency and reasonableness of the fee policy stand out.’
‘The most distinguished person in the team is Teresa Anselmo Vaz, with whom I have worked for many years, and who is an admirable professional at all levels. Combining her impressive technical expertise with total availability, quick response without neglecting any detail and an uncompromising commitment to the client, Teresa is a lawyer in whom it is impossible not to trust 100%.’
‘The high execution capacity and the permanent involvement of senior staff stand out.’
‘Well reputed law firm. Very responsive in all matters we have to deal with. Fees in line with the market.’
‘Antonio Pina has been my main point of contact at Abreus and he has directed me to his colleagues with the various advice i have needed. Antonio and his team have been quick to respond and give outstanding advice.’
Key clients
Banco Português de Fomento
Cary Group
Caixa Geral de Depósitos
Chint Solar
DCC Investors
De Heus
E.Leclerc Group
Efacec
Embraer Portugal, S.A.
Frey
JLL Group
Lidl & Companhia
Loomis
Sirplaste
Sublime Group
The Walt Disney Company
Total
Vortal
HCapital Partners – SCR, S.A.
Newpal – Investimentos, SGPS, S.A.
Open Spiral, SGPS, SA
Idealista, S.A.U.
Work highlights
- Advising Embraer on the transfer to the Spanish company Aernnova Aerospace, S.A.U., of its factories in Évora, operated by Embraer Portugal Estruturas Metálicas and Embraer Portugal Estruturas em Compósitos.
- Acted for Open Spiral in the signature of definitive agreements with Cyient Limited to acquire CELFINET – CONSULTORIA EM TELECOMUNICAÇÕES, S.A.
- Advised Newpal – Investimentos, SGPS, S.A. on the acquisition of 84% of the share capital of COPAM – COMPANHIA PORTUGUESA DE AMIDO, S.A.
CMS
CMS has a loyal following of multinationals and domestic companies from a variety of sectors, such as aviation, healthcare, energy, manufacturing and distribution, and also continues to attract new clients. Drawing on the firm’s wider global footprint, the team is ‘able to advise on transactions involving different jurisdictions‘, ranging from M&A to private equity deals, privatisations, reorganisations and strategic alliances. João Caldeira, a key point of contact for international clients seeking assistance in M&A, joint ventures and corporate finance, leads the team alongside Francisco Xavier de Almeida, whose areas of activity cover restructurings, distressed assets and NPL transactions, and Fernando Cruz Trinca, who focuses on commercial contracts and regulatory issues. Alberto Galhardo Simões is the Lisbon-based partner to note for cross-border deals involving Lusophone Africa, while Margarida Vila Franca is particularly seasoned in transactions taking place in the energy and natural resources segments. Tiago Valente de Oliveira was welcomed to the partnership in February 2023.
Practice head(s):
João Caldeira; Francisco Xavier de Almeida; Fernando Cruz Trinca
Other key lawyers:
Margarida Vila Franca; Alberto Galhardo Simões; Nuno Alves Mansilha; Tiago Valente de Oliveira
Testimonials
‘It is an international team able to advise on transactions involving different jurisdictions. They are fast and very efficient. CMS team stands out from other competitors in the industry in knowledge and involvement.’
‘Nuno Alves Mansilha and Francisco Xavier de Almeida have always been up to the task. CMS Portugal coordinated perfectly with CMS Spain, advising on M&A transactions and showing fantastic negotiation skills.’
Key clients
Swen Capital Partners SA
UBS Asset Management
Ventient
Amazon
Equistone Partners Europe
Lightsource BP
Magenwirth Technologies GmbH
Secil
SDCL- Sustainable Development Capital LLP
Aquila Capital
Crest Capital Partners
Vinci Energies, S.A.
VINCI Highways
Grupo Cardoso
Qover
Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Portugal
Keller Williams (Portugal)
Generis
Satepor – Indústria De Travessas De Betão
Work highlights
- Assisted Vinci Highways in the exercise of its pre-emption right in the acquisition of a stake of 17.21% of the share capital of Lusoponte – Concessionária para a Travessia do Tejo.
- Advised Equistone on all Portuguese law issues related to the acquisition of a majority stake in Gardengate.
- Advised Crest II – Fundo de Capital de Risco on the acquisition of a majority stake in the share capital of a company in the bath furniture segment by a private equity fund.
DLA Piper ABBC
Standing out for the breadth of its expertise, DLA Piper ABBC is a popular choice for major players in the energy, real estate, TMT, transport and pharmaceutical sectors in significant M&A deals and non-transactional corporate matters. Private equity houses, fund managers and financial institutions engaged in cross-border transactions frequently turn to the team, whose ‘availability‘, ‘know-how‘ and understanding of the renewable energy market are highlighted by clients. The group is under the leadership of two partners: Nuno Azevedo Neves, go-to lawyer for many of the firm’s clients on matters involving M&A, privatisations and private equity, and João Costa Quinta, who is noted for his wealth of experience in acting for private equity firms and funds. Nuno Castelo Branco is recommended for his ‘deep understanding of transactions‘ in the PE and corporate spaces. Gonçalo Castro Ribeiro is no longer at the firm.
Practice head(s):
Nuno Azevedo Neves; João Costa Quinta
Other key lawyers:
Nuno Castelo Branco; Rita Costa Carvalho
Testimonials
‘DLA has in Lisbon a Team that fully understands the renewables energy market in Portugal and that provides very good solutions to close deals in this space. The Team is agile and provides quick responses to clients’ requests.’
‘Nuno Azevedo Neves and Nuno Castelo Branco are recommended.’
‘DLA Portugal is a law firm fully committed and devoted to their clients and the transactions in which they are working.’
‘Nuno Azevedo Neves has complete control over the transaction and he is able to provide different solutions for one scenario.’
‘Nuno Castelo Branco has a deep understanding of transactions and is able to focus on the specificities of each deal.’
‘I highlight the availability and know-how of the team, as well as the pragmatism in the solutions provided.’
‘I would like to highlight João Costa Quinta for his deep knowledge of our business and the market.’
Garrigues Portugal
With a strong bench of corporate and M&A specialists split between Lisbon and Porto, Garrigues Portugal has considerable experience in transactions involving clients of all sizes, from publicly traded companies to start-ups. Showcasing ‘relevant experience in international transactions‘, the group ‘provides an excellent service in the area of corporate and commercial law‘, regularly acting for leading multinational and Portuguese clients from the insurance, IT, industrial, agribusiness and private equity sectors. Focused on private equity deals, Mário Lino Dias is particularly active in the insurance and renewable energy segments. Advising on the intersection of M&A, capital markets and finance, Diogo Leónidas Rocha is another name to note for big-ticket transactions, especially those taking place in the telecoms and financial services sectors. Domestic and cross-border transactional work, as well as general corporate law issues are key specialisms for both Susana Pimenta De Sousa and Marta Da Graça Rodrigues. The ‘exceptional‘ Tomás Pessanha steers the Porto-based team in domestic and cross-border M&A, private equity and venture capital deals. In the same office, principal associate Manuel Liberal Jerónimo specialises in corporate law, commercial contracts and business transactions.
Practice head(s):
Mário Lino Dias; Susana Pimenta de Sousa; Tomás Pessanha; Marta da Graça Rodrigues; Diogo Leónidas Rocha
Other key lawyers:
Manuel Liberal Jerónimo; Pedro Lemos Carvalho
Testimonials
‘Tomás Pessanha is an exceptional lawyer. In addition to in-depth legal knowledge, he understands the client’s needs, presenting solutions that respond to the intended objectives. He is also an excellent negotiator.’
‘Quality and availability of the team; Team coordination in multidisciplinary work; Transparency in the work developed and in communications with the client; Use of cutting-edge technological tools in the development of the work, facilitating communication between the parties involved;’
‘The team is divided into highly specialised legal areas and each of its members has in-depth and rigorous knowledge.’
‘I would particularly recommend Manuel Liberal Jerónimo for the excellence of the legal services provided, both in terms of the rigour of his knowledge, the quality of the written pieces and his availability and proximity to clients.’
‘Garrigues provides an excellent service in the area of corporate and commercial law and for that reason I turn to this firm and the excellent professionals who work here, whenever I need advice at this level.’
‘ Tomás Pessanha is one of the best and most thoughtful lawyers I know, combining strong technical competence with a set of attributes such as emotional intelligence, humility, insight and a conciliatory spirit that make his contributions in each process absolutely unparalleled. Along with Tomás Pessanha I have worked with Manuel Liberal Jerónimo, who has established himself as an excellent lawyer in this field.’
‘All lawyers from the team are very experienced and trustworthy. Responses to any queries are prompt and always straight to the point. Compared to law firms that we used before, with Garrigues it is quite easy to communicate – both at the time when we want to set-up the assignment (they understand our needs very well), as well as at the time of delivery.’
‘Relevant experience in international transactions.’
Key clients
Banco Santander
Delta Cafés
Crest Capital Partners
GNB Vida / Gama Life (Apax)
MCH Private Equity
Oxy Capital
Cleanwatts
Logalty
Novares
Quirónsalud
Toscafund
Wirtgen Invest Energy
Secil
Correios de Portugal (CTT)
SETOR ALARM EUROPE AB
Amorim Energia BV
Corticeira Amorim
Aernnova
SolarPack
Caler/RSR Singular Assets SOCIMI
Mercan Capital
Aegide Domitys
Opticalia
Hikma Pharmaceuticals
Nordex
Frezite Group
Inter-Risco
Samsung
Norauto
Volvo
Vifor Pharma
Vallis Capital Partners
Work highlights
- Assisted TagEnergy in its first investment round, raising €450m from investors Mirova and Omnes Capital, as well as its current shareholder Impala S.A.S.
- Advised Aernnova Aerospace on the acquisition of Embraer’s two manufacturing facilities located in Évora (Portugal).
- Advised Crest Capital Partners on the sale of the majority of its controlling shareholding interest in the Gardengate Group to Equistone Partners Europe.
SRS Legal
TMT and energy are core sectoral strengths for the corporate and M&A department at SRS Legal, whose presence in the top-end and mid-market space is reflected in the volume of high-value, cross-border deals the team advises on. ‘Distinguished by the quality of its partners and the ability to provide teams of motivated lawyers with high legal knowledge, and distinct interpersonal skills’, the group also fields strong capabilities in private equity and venture capital matters, where Gustavo Ordonhas Oliveira is a reference for several Portuguese and international investors. The firm has developed a specialised team focused on start-ups, which offers legal support to entrepeneurs, founders, venture capitalists and incubators on the full spectrum of transactional and corporate mandates; Solange Fernandes and Paulo Bandeira are names to note in this space. Octávio Castelo Paulo spearheads the corporate and M&A department, which also includes Nuno Miguel Prata, who excels in commercial matters and international deals with a particular focus on Africa; Maria Paula Milheirão, who is particularly skilled in M&A involving energy assets; and consultant Gabriela Rodrigues Martins.
Practice head(s):
Octávio Castelo Paulo
Other key lawyers:
Gabriela Rodrigues Martins; Gustavo Ordonhas Oliveira; Nuno Miguel Prata; Paulo Bandeira; Maria Paula Milheirão; Marco Silva Garrinhas; Solange Fernandes
Testimonials
‘SRS is a large, full-service law firm distinguished by the quality of its partners and the ability to provide teams of motivated lawyers with high legal knowledge, and distinct interpersonal skills.’
‘Gustavo Ordonhas Oliveira stands out for the way he frames complex corporate structuring processes where there are misaligned interests.’
‘Maria Paula Milheirão is unbeatable when it comes to client relationship, dedication and 360 degree solutions.’
Key clients
ActiveCap Capital Partners
Aksiom Partners LLC
Aman Computers Ltd.
Bask Defesa
BBDO Portugal (Omnicom Group)
Big Sur Ventures
Bizay / 360 imprimir
Cedrus Atlantica
Cellnex
Cleverly
Core Capital
Dekra Group
Dia Portugal
ECS Capital
Finançor
Grosvenor Investments
Group FHC
Grupo Amorim
Grupo Hermes
HUUB
Iberis Capital
Índico Capital Partners
J.P. Sá Couto
Join Capital
Knight Capital
Luxclusif
MML Capital
Nova Franquiger
Oxy Capital
Pathena
Parpública, SGPS, SA
Repsol
Respol – Resinas
Roboyo
Rubis Energia Portugal
Sumol+Compal
Volkswagen Autoeuropa
Work highlights
Gómez-Acebo & Pombo
Demonstrating proven experience in buy and sell-side deals, Gómez-Acebo & Pombo acts for domestic and international clients from a multitude of industries, including real estate, energy, life sciences and technology. On the non-transactional side, the practice possesses significant capabilities in commercial agreements, contracts and day-to-day corporate issues. Mafalda Barreto, managing partner of the Lisbon office, leads on M&A transactions involving highly regulated sectors; she is also retained by international corporations and investment funds in restructuring mandates. She oversees the group with Miguel de Avillez Pereira, who brings together experience in M&A, private equity and corporate restructurings, and is seasoned in corporate and commercial matters involving Angola and Mozambique. Senior associate Susana Morgado excels in transactions in the real estate segment.
Practice head(s):
Mafalda Barreto; Miguel de Avillez Pereira
Other key lawyers:
Susana Morgado; Luísa Carrilho da Graça
Testimonials
‘Mafalda Barreto and Luisa Carrilho da Graça stand out.’
Key clients
Tecnimont
Anticimex
DAK Americas
Kronos Group
Work highlights
- Advised DAK Americas on the negotiation of several petrochemicals supply agreements with Portuguese counterparts, including the taking of underlying guarantees and security.
- Advised Tecnimont regarding the contract with Repsol to provide engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for the addition of two new units to expand production of specialty chemicals at subsidiary Repsol Polímeros SA’s petrochemical complex northeast of Sines, Portugal.
- Assisted Anticimex in the integration process within its build up activity, including the merger of the various acquired entities.
RRP Advogados
‘Distinguished by the high level of legal knowledge of its team‘, RRP Advogados fields a young but experienced corporate and M&A group which is engaged in cross-border transactions, reorganisations and corporate law matters on behalf of a growing and diverse client base. Benefitting from its affiliation with the EY Law network, the team is a popular destination for private equity houses and international clients in all stages of business transactions. Jacinta Amorim Vieira, who was recently promoted to managing associate, focuses on multi-jurisdicitonal deals and privatisations. Former practice head Rodrigo Nogueira and Manuel Cordeiro Ferreira left the firm in December 2o23.
Other key lawyers:
Jacinta Amorim Vieira; Hélder Santos Correia; João Ornelas Camacho; Bárbara Botelho
Testimonials
‘RRP is a law firm that is distinguished by the high level of legal knowledge of its team and the structured way in which it organises the internal processes for the provision of legal services.’
‘Good communication and competent advice.’
‘Excellent professionals who are highly focused and committed. Total dedication to the client; excellent communication and follow-ups.’
Key clients
Arriva plc (Deutsche Bahn Group)
Generg (NovEnergia Group)
Miura Partners
Carrier Transicold
Waterland Private Equity SAS
B. Braun
Gigas Holding
Plenium Partners
Le Duff Industries
Legendre Group
Elecnor
TVH Parts
HIA – Hospital Internacional dos Açores
The Data Scientists (JTA)
Labatec Pharma
Tilman s.a.
Endutex
Lenovo
smart Europe GmbH
Montepio Group
Medway (MSC Group)
Abanca
Mitiska REIM
Ábaco Group
Avenue NRE Real Estate
Aralab
Cedrus Capital / Aretha Portugal Vision Fund
Gyrus Capital
Pedro Perdigão (CEO of Indaqua)
Plenium Partners
Work highlights
- Currently advising Abanca on the acquisition of EuroBic.
- Advised the Medway Group (the railway arm of the MSC Group) on its corporate reorganisation in Portugal.
- Currently advising Arriva plc (Deutsche Bahn Group) on the sale of TST – Transportes Sul do Tejo.
Sérvulo & Associados
Noted for being ‘technically impeccable‘, Sérvulo & Associados is well versed in high-value transactions, cross-border restructurings, corporate law and commercial agreements. The practice maintains a strong presence in the energy, IT, infrastructure and environmental sectors, and has reinforced its experience in the agribusiness space with the recent hire of Pedro Silveira Borges, who showcases further capabilities in M&A involving healthcare companies. He joined from SLCM | Serra Lopes, Cortes Martins & Associados in July 2021, together with Catarina Marques da Silva, who was previously at Caiado Guerreiro. With a proven track record of acting for Portuguese and international clients in business transactions and commercial contracts, including franchising and distribution agreements, department leader Sofia Carreiro is also routinely retained by venture capital funds.
Practice head(s):
Sofia Carreiro
Other key lawyers:
Pedro Silveira Borges; Catarina Marques da Silva; Mariana Teles
Testimonials
‘Multidisciplinary team, great expertise in M&A transactions, very client- and business-oriented.’
‘Lawyers are very professional, and have great availability to contact and liaise with urgent matters.’
‘Sérvulo is responsive and commercially oriented. The lawyers at Sérvulo are technically impeccable, very flexible and imaginative in finding solutions for the clients.’
Key clients
Atlantia Group / Autostrade Portugal S.r.L.
Nexar Inc
PON EUROPE B.V.
Cifial Group
Aquaterra Group
Glennmont Partners
BNZ
Work highlights
- Advised Autostrade Portugal S.r.L. on the negotiations, drafting and execution of the SPA in relation to the envisaged sale of shares representative of 17.21% in Lusoponte toll bridge concession company to Marubeni-backed infrastructure fund manager MM Capital Partners.
- Advised PON EUROPE B.V. on the sale of 60% of the share capital of the companies EUROMAIS-PEÇAS E PNEUS, LDA and a SPV (EPRE REAL ESTATE LDA) to QUIBUS HOLDING B.V.
- Advising Nexar in the acquisition of Veniam Unipessoal Lda., a Portuguese start-up company engaged in the development of intelligent networking software for the Internet of Moving Things.
TELLES
TELLES houses 'a fantastic team which finds very clever solutions and provides confidence’ to a diverse roster of clients, including players from the worlds of insurance, private equity, venture capital, construction, life sciences, telecoms, infrastructure and energy. Commercial, corporate and M&A transactions of all sizes feature on the busy workload managed by the team, which has been increasingly active in cross-border mandates. Founding partner Carlos Lucena possesses a wealth of experience in venture capital deals, foreign investments and corporate restructurings, and stands out for his track record in major M&A transactions taking place in the northern region of Portugal. He oversees the practice with Francisco Espregueira Mendes, who splits his time between Porto and Lisbon, and is a noteworthy practitioner in the venture capital and private equity spaces.
Practice head(s):
Carlos Lucena; Francisco Espregueira Mendes
Other key lawyers:
Diogo Damião; Delber Pinto Gomes
Testimonials
‘A fantastic team which finds very clever solutions and provides confidence.’
‘Carlos Lucena is an excellent lawyer who finds very good solutions, with a strong knowledge of law and a vision of the whole situation.’
‘Diogo Damião stands out in particular – although he is an associate, he demonstrates an enormous degree of attention to detail, legal knowledge and anticipation of problems.’
‘We highlight the competence and in-depth knowledge of the topics and the promptness in advising on the most diverse issues, evidencing extensive experience and confidence in the matters addressed.’
‘The entire team deserves the highest praise, but we have to highlight in particular Francisco Espregueira Mendes, who has been exceptional and unsurpassed at all times.’
‘Technical knowledge, availability, adaptability to specific business needs.’
Key clients
Insparya Group
Egis Group
Nors Group
Unilabs
Bilacon Iberia
Vallis Capital Partners
Inter-risco
Servilusa
Dekra
Project To Be
Grupo Cerealis
Pluris Investments, S.A.
Zeitreel (Grupo Sonae)
Fuste, S.A.
Vigent Group
Alten Groupe
Bbl Invest, S.A.
Orpea Group
Grupo Lionesa/Livraria Lello
Psa Group
Vintage Prime Sgps, S.A. (Grupo Luisa Amorim)
David Rosas
Transdev
Grupo Nelson Quintas
Triva Group, S.A.
Época Home Palace & Hotel Concept Group
FERREIRA BUILD POWER | GFH (Ferreira Construções, S.A.)
Metis Ii B.V.
Pluris Investments, S.A.
Ob Invest
Glatz Gmbh
Pradecon, S.A.
Efficity S.A.
Ferpinta, S.A.
Ena Okto Dyo Real Estate
Ltp Labs, S.A.
Grupo Autobeiro
Pharmalex Group
Wavecom
Teak Capital
Tangor Capital
Torrestir
Domes Resorts
Saviotti
Guest Ready Group
Red Bull
Jpm Group
Grupo Rnm
Fundação Casa Da Música
Raclac
Rubix Group
Körber Group
Kosan Crisplant (Makeen Energy Group)
Cavalum
Vortal
Páginas Amarelas
Grupo Primor
Vortal
Andrade Gutierrez / Zagope
Greenvolt
Work highlights
- Acting for TEAK CAPITAL and TANGOR CAPITAL in the purchase of the CEREALIS GROUP.
- Assisting WAVECOM in the sale of GOCONTACT to Broadvoice.
- Advising the PHARMALEX GROUP on its entry into the Portuguese market through the integration of PHARSOLUTION and respective subsidiaries.
Albuquerque & Almeida
The corporate, M&A and private equity team at Albuquerque & Almeida is highlighted by clients for its availability, ‘speed and agility in resolving issues‘. Private equity transactions, including domestic and cross-border deals, are at the core of the practice, which, besides PE firms and investment banks, acts for an array of corporate clients across the technology, manufacturing, and consumer goods sectors. Department co-head António Mendonça Raimundo specialises in M&A and contractual matters involving the life sciences, telecoms and insurance sectors, while fellow co-leader André Matias has a strong reputation in the private equity and venture capital spaces.
Practice head(s):
António Mendonça Raimundo; André Matias
Other key lawyers:
Igor Amarii; Miguel Almeida Simões
Testimonials
‘António Mendonça Raimundo is recommended.’
‘Agility, quick response and knowledge.’
‘André Matias de Almeida – experience and ability to advise clients.’
‘100% availability of the team at all times. Speed and agility in resolving issues. Friendly and professional treatment. Reasonable cost.’
‘António Mendonça is the partner in charge of the team. He is professional and always available.’
Key clients
Crest Capital Partners
Fantastic S.A.
Hitachi Energy
Fundo de Coinvestimento 200M
PepsiCo
Full Venue
Record Together LDA (PLEEZ)
ABB ASEA BROWN BOVERI
ANSWERBELIEVER
ZEISS
C2CAPITAL
ESTEE LAUDER
HAITONG
MASSIMO ZANETTI BEVERAGE GROUP
Under Armour Inc
Carrier
CISCO
Work highlights
- Advised Antin Infrastructure Partners in its investment in Power Dot SA , a leading European owner-operator of destination and en-route electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure with operations in Portugal, France, Belgium, Luxembourg Spain and Poland.
- Advised the private equity fund Crest Capital Partners on the acquisition of the companies Torneiras Roriz S.A. and W2007 Lda.
- Advised the startup FANTASTIC S.A. (previously named LADS AR) pn the seed investment round operation in the amount of €7.6m.
Caiado Guerreiro
The corporate and M&A team at Caiado Guerreiro is broad in scope, showcasing strength in M&A transactions on the buy and sell side, joint ventures, and day-to-day corporate law issues. With a strong following of domestic and international companies in the telecoms, energy, media and construction sectors, the team also offers assistance in regulatory and compliance matters. João Caiado Guerreiro and Ricardo Rodrigues Lopes, the latter of whom advises on corporate restructurings and business transactions, jointly coordinate the group.
Practice head(s):
João Caiado Guerreiro; Ricardo Rodrigues Lopes
Key clients
Olympus
Tendam Group
Takodana
Liqui.do
Eni as e Luce
Poke House
MGA New Park S, L.
Fábulas Celestiais Unipessoal
CDK Global Portugal
CCA Law Firm
Standing out for its expertise in technology-related transactions and venture capital mandates, CCA Law Firm‘s corporate and M&A practice brings together ‘available, responsive and great advisers‘. The firm’s corporate offering is especially concentrated on clients in the e-commerce, fintech, insurance, software and renewable energy sectors, where the team is adept at handling cross-border transactions, including share and asset deals, as well as private equity investments and fund-related matters. The broad scope of Domingos Cruz‘s expertise ensures that he is regularly engaged by a range of large companies, start-ups, and investment funds. He leads the practice with Sara Reis, who steers the team on complex mergers, acquisitions, corporate restructurings, and venture capital investments.
Practice head(s):
Domingos Cruz; Sara Reis
Other key lawyers:
Filipa Correia Henriques; Jaime Vieira da Silva
Testimonials
‘During our collaboration, CCA has excelled in delivering proper and timely advice.’
‘Working with Domingos Cruz was a very gratifying experience: intelligence, personal availability and commitment, as well as a kind nature and fluid communication; it was all there. Won’t hesitate going back to him whenever needed.’
‘Great availability, knowledge and experience, always trying to find practical and feasible solutions for the investments we make.’
‘Available, responsive and great advisers.’
‘Sara Reis is recommended.’
Key clients
Procter & Gamble
DanCake
Farfetch
Havas Group
AEGON Spain
TINSA
Sephora
LOGGI
Abarca
LOQR
Barkyn
Enfinity
Fattal Group
Issta Assets Ltd
Tayan Energy
Colep
Coverflex
Eattasty
Invillia
IGNAE Cosmetics
Shilling Capital
Gympass
Petro Rio
AuraRE
K-Flex
Rupeal
Taken Seat
Biocol Labs
Promptly
ILOVEME
Iberica Partners
YData
Mercadão
Sidefarma
Processware
IBM
Pleo – Gastos mais inteligentes para as empresas – Pleo
Eigen Technologies Ltd
Work highlights
- Assisted Solstic in the purchase of a €6m real estate asset.
- Assisted REDEVCO Portugal in the acquisition of a real estate property located in downtown Lisbon to be converted into a four-star hotel.
CTSU - Sociedade de Advogados, S.P., R.L., S.A.
‘Combining experience with innovation‘, CTSU - Sociedade de Advogados, S.P., R.L., S.A. ‘brings together a set of exceptional professionals‘ who receive plaudits for their ‘proximity, availability, and technical knowledge‘. Benefitting from its association with the Deloitte Legal network, the team works on numerous corporate transactions for a diverse, often international client roster. Besides being retained by sellers and buyers in investment mandates, the team is also routinely engaged in corporate reorganisations, commercial contracts and shareholder agreements. At the helm of the M&A department, managing partner Monica Moreira has advised on several reorganisations and privatisation procedures, most notably in the infrastructure and transport sectors. Sofia Carvalhosa oversees the corporate and commercial law group, showcasing strength in distribution, agency, franchise and image rights contracts.
Practice head(s):
Mónica Moreira; Sofia Carvalhosa
Other key lawyers:
Duarte Ribeiro Telles; Ana Cruz da Fonseca
Testimonials
‘We have been working with CTSU for over ten years in the most diverse areas, and the hallmark of quality, efficiency and focus on solutions is always constant. CTSU brings together a set of exceptional professionals, combining experience with innovation, and a holistic way of approaching problems. They are without a doubt our trusted advisers.’
‘Mónica Moreira is a lawyer of excellence, with an integrated view of matters and an extraordinary ability to point out solutions. Solid, experienced, intelligent, she gives confidence in the processes she participates in. Coordinates a fantastic, dynamic team with high quality professionals.’
‘Duarte Ribeiro Telles has an extraordinary ability to coordinate projects, with great rigour and quality. Competent, solid, available, excellent negotiator and always focused on the solution.’
‘Ana Cruz da Fonseca is certainly a rising star, with unique qualities in terms of competence, intelligence, professionalism and rigor.’
‘Proximity, availability, technical knowledge, security: these are the keywords to characterise the team.’
‘Sofia Carvalhosa- excellent professional, meticulous, safe and knowledgeable, unstoppable and always in a good mood, which also helps.’
Key clients
FCA Bank
Fundação Renato Albuquerque
Work highlights
- Advised FCA Bank on the acquisition of Sado Rent – Automoveis de Aluguer sem Condutor, S.A.
- Advised Mr. Renato de Albuquerque in setting up a private foundation for artistic and cultural purposes.
Eversheds Sutherland FCB
At Eversheds Sutherland FCB, the corporate and M&A practice is praised by clients for its 'high technical capacity' and knowledge. The firm has established a good presence in the Portuguese M&A market, with a keen focus on contractual and commercial agreements, divestitures, mergers, and acquisitions at the domestic and international levels. Rodrigo Almeida Dias, whose areas of activity also cover private equity, corporate finance, TMT and real estate, spearheads the practice with Pedro Guimaraes, who excels in cross-border M&A and corporate restructurings in the technology sector. Singled out for his experience in Spain-related matters, João Osório de Castro is a key contact for tech, energy and transport clients.
Practice head(s):
Rodrigo Almeida Dias; Pedro Guimarães
Other key lawyers:
João Osório de Castro; António Cid
Testimonials
‘Legal knowledge and benchmarking with other companies operating in our sector of activity.’
‘Rodrigo Almeida Dias is recommended for his practical sense of problem-solving associated with an in-depth knowledge of the legal system.’
‘High technical capacity; excellence in service; transparency and seriousness.’
‘High knowledge; availability; good response time; very competitive fees.’
‘Pedro Guimarães and João Osório de Castro possess deep knowledge of the subjects, great availability and good response times.’
Key clients
Kedrion
Senvion GmbH
Owens & Minor
Selina
Generali Real Estate
Eutelsat Communications SA
Checkpoint Systems
Campolide XXI
Laborea
Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial
Shareholders of Entreposto – Gestão e Participações (SGPS), S.A., mother company of Grupo Entreposto
Culligan
Las Vegas Sands
Beneteau
Voodoo
Bekinsa
Work highlights
- Advised Generali Real Estate on the acquisition of 100% of the shares of a Portuguese company owning Office Oriente, an office complex located in Expo, Lisbon.
- Assisted a Portuguese Family Office on the sale to Ageas Portugal Group of 100% of the shares of Campolide XXI, a company that owns Edifício Bloom (building located in Lisbon that was part of the Family Office’s investment portfolio).
- Advised Voodoo on the establishment of a joint-venture in which Voodoo will hold a majority stake for the setup of a hyper casual studio.
MACEDO VITORINO
Under the joint leadership of João Macedo Vitorino and Susana Vieira, MACEDO VITORINO‘s corporate and M&A practice is particularly active advising clients from the telecoms, energy, infrastructure and manufacturing industries on transactional matters, regulatory issues and commercial contracts. Cláudia Fernandes Martins, who brings together experience in commercial and distribution agreements, competition law and IP rights, João Silva, who frequently handles domestic and cross-border investments, and Lourenço Sousa Botelho are also part of the core team.
Practice head(s):
João Macedo Vitorino; Susana Vieira
Other key lawyers:
Cláudia Fernandes Martins; João Silva; Lourenço Botelho
Key clients
Solaria Energía y Médio Ambiente
Nordic Solar Management
Grupo Masmovil
Work highlights
- Advised Solaria Energia on the development and implementation of in excess of 30MWh PV solar projects in Portugal.
- Advised Nordic Solar in connection with the acquisition of a 48.5-MWp solar park in Portugal from AstroEnergy/Chint.
- Assisted Masmovil in the spin-off of ONITELECOM’s wholesale infrastructure activity and incorporation of AfterLinks – Infraestruturas de Comunicações, S.A.
Miranda & Associados
Miranda & Associados' corporate and commercial team handles a mix of acquisitions and disposals, mergers, joint ventures and spin-offs in a range of sectors, including energy, IT, real estate, infrastructure and life sciences. The team attracts recurrent instructions from companies, financial institutions and private equity houses in the structuring of cross-border M&A transactions, particularly those related to African jurisdictions. With over two decades of experience in corporate, commercial and M&A matters, managing partner Diogo Xavier Da Cunha is a strong performer in mandates involving energy and natural resources players. He jointly heads up the department with the 'very committed' Maria João Ribeiro Mata. Nuno Cabeçadas is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Diogo Xavier da Cunha; Maria João Ribeiro Mata
Other key lawyers:
Nuno Cabeçadas; Luís Leão Neves; Catarina Santinha
Testimonials
‘Top quality delivery, always available, never give up.’
‘Maria João Mata is very committed to the client.’
‘Competence, availability, quick and effective understanding of problems and their dimension. Nuno Cabeçadas and Maria João Mata stand out in the team.’
NGA Advogados
NGA Advogados is equipped to handle a range of corporate law and transactional matters, where it acts for clients operating in a multitude of sectors, most notably energy, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and IT. With a strong focus on day-to-day corporate matters and commercial contracts, the practice, which benefits from close relationships with law firms based in Spain, Germany and Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa, is also seasoned in corporate restructurings, joint ventures, M&A and privatisations. Leading the department, Luís Nobre Guedes marries experience in corporate transactions and associated disputes, while João Valbom Baptista is frequently sought out by clients in cross-border deals, including M&A and private equity investments.
Practice head(s):
Luís Nobre Guedes; João Valbom Baptista
Other key lawyers:
Francisco Caiado Ferreira
Testimonials
‘João Valbom Baptista: I would highlight his insight and ability to understand issues and their consequences very quickly. He is very available and passionately dedicated to the subjects. He is able to think beyond the law and discuss business topics in depth. That’s what sets him apart from the other lawyers we’ve worked with.’
‘Good knowledge of matters related to Commercial, Corporate and M&A Law.’
‘Luís Nobre Guedes and João Valbom are proactive and actively listen to the client’s needs, meeting the defined objectives from the first moment they intervene in the process.’
Key clients
Vi a Vis – Mediação de Seguros, Lda.
AON Group
Veolia Portugal
Dietsmann Group
ActualSales Group
Pharmis Biofarmacêutica
IMI Group
AREAMPLA, S.A.
NeuroHelvatia
Tecnimol, S.L.
SmartInject
Cerebro, SGPS, S.A.
Primofim
ThyssenKrupp
PRA-Raposo, Sá Miranda & Associados, Sociedade de Advogados RL
With a strong standing in both the Porto and Lisbon market, PRA-Raposo, Sá Miranda & Associados, Sociedade de Advogados RL provides legal support in the fields of corporate law, commercial agreements and contracts that is noted for being ‘extremely assertive, very well-founded, and effective‘. Besides handling non-transactional corporate and commercial matters, the practice also guides clients in the retail, energy, insurance, real estate, media and consumer goods sectors throughout all stages of M&A deals and corporate restructurings. Chairman Pedro Raposo manages ‘a team of professionals who stand out for their personalised service and willingness to resolve legal issues‘. Porto-based Pedro Sá garners praise for his ‘knowledge, support, and efficiency‘.
Practice head(s):
Pedro Raposo
Other key lawyers:
Pedro Sá; Leila Grácio
Testimonials
‘The legal support provided by PRA is extremely assertive, very well-founded, and effective.’
‘Pedro Raposo has developed around him a team of professionals who stand out for their personalised service and willingness to resolve legal issues.’
‘Pedro Raposo stands out for his high knowledge of the law, negotiation skills and high availability for his clients.’
‘Pedro Sá – knowledge, support, and efficiency.’
‘I would definitely highlight the readiness of its lawyers and the immediate response they provide to queries raised. Something that is appreciated when looking for legal services is that the lawyer puts himself in your shoes and treats the problems or operations as if they were his own, and this firm certainly achieves this.’
‘Pedro Sa and Leila Gracio are always available and committed to the work. The fact that they speak English and Spanish fluently is also a factor that helps considerably to facilitate the operations.’
‘They are knowledgeable, diligent and our true partners. I have the idea that they are at the forefront of implementing ESG criteria in Portugal.’
‘Pedro Sá: the lawyer I know best and who has given the Porto office a lot of attention.’
Key clients
IT Sector – Sistemas de Informação, S. A.
Aviludo, SGPS, S.A.
AR Telecom – Acessos e Redes de Telecomunicações, S.A.
UN1QNX
Work highlights
- Assisted Gardengate in the €80m secondary management buyout of the company, which was partly held by Crest Capital Partners, to private equity firm Equistone.
- Assisted Mr. Martino da Rocha, a majority shareholder in Marec Espaço Casa, with the €25m purchase of a 35% stake in the company from Explorer Investments.
- Advised Aviludo on the sale of the company to German multinational Metro AG, which owns the Makro brand.
Raposo Bernardo
Highlighted for its ‘professional skills, experience and efficiency‘, Raposo Bernardo is retained by a diverse mix of domestic and international clients, including investment banks, funds and corporates from an array of sectors. The firm, which is well placed to advise on non-transactional corporate law matters, has remained busy acting in M&A deals, business combinations, and corporate reorganisations. ‘Great leader‘ Nelson Raposo Bernardo possesses ‘enormous experience in business purchases and sales‘. Singled out for her ‘complete command of corporate and M&A transactions‘, Joana Andrade Correia is able to ‘anticipate possible difficulties in contract negotiations‘.
Practice head(s):
Nelson Raposo Bernardo; Joana Andrade Correia
Testimonials
‘In a sentence, Raposo Bernardo is unique because it exceeds expectations and takes care of the relationship with the client like no other firm. What ends up differentiating them is their professional skills, experience and efficiency. What sets them apart is the way they treat clients.’
‘Despite the enormous quality of the entire team, I would like to highlight the heads of the department, Nelson Raposo Bernardo and Joana Andrade Correia. Nelson’s qualities that I most value are his ability to relate legal topics, his endless legal knowledge, his ability to analyse any document very quickly and to react successfully to any unforeseen event.’
‘I emphasise the absolute rigour of analysis and responses, the speed in these responses, the focus on uncomplicated and finding solutions, the total availability, and the complete transparency in fees.’
‘Nelson Bernardo is a great leader, with an impressive charisma and an incredible vocation for the law.’
‘What makes this firm unique is, in my opinion, its attitude towards the legal profession and towards its clients. The high quality of the services provided is revealed in the rigour and in the very complete and appropriate way in which the work is carried out.’
‘Nelson is the best Portuguese lawyer to support a company’s capital transaction. He is an outstanding lawyer, with enormous experience in business purchases and sales.’
‘Joana Correia has a complete command of Corporate and M&A transactions, managing to anticipate possible difficulties in contract negotiations.’
‘The quality of service provided by Raposo Bernardo is the highest I know of in legal services. It is a law firm specialised in satisfying its clients.’
Work highlights
- Advising a client on a transaction involving an industrial company.
- Advising a client in 16 M&A transactions of companies.
- Advising a client on its acquisition of another company that created an Iberian leader in its sector.
Andersen
At Andersen, the corporate and M&A group is a solid choice for international and domestic companies operating in a wide range of sectors, with a particular focus on investment funds, real estate, infrastructure, healthcare and IT. Drawing on the firm’s wider global network, the team is often called upon by foreign corporates and private investors looking to invest in Portugal and Portuguese-speaking countries around the world. Luísa Curado, who stands out for her experience in transactions involving real estate assets, steers the group in due diligence processes, joint ventures, incorporations and corporate reorganisations. Mariana Abreu, who was previously legal and compliance director at BNI Europa Bank, joined the firm in January 2022; she is a key contact for banking, energy and infrastructure clients in the context of M&A and compliance mandates.
Practice head(s):
Luísa Curado; Mariana Abreu
Other key lawyers:
Emanuel Viveiros
Testimonials
‘I think that what distinguishes Andersen from the others, particularly Mariana Abreu, is the availability and commitment to better understand and serve the client, trying not only to respond to the client’s requests but also suggesting different alternatives.’
‘Mariana Abreu stands out for her availability and commitment. This, combined with the specialised knowledge and demonstrated effectiveness, allowed Andersen to respond to the needs of my company.’
‘Very client-oriented and close to the clients’ needs.’
APTS - Alves Pereira & Teixeira de Sousa, S.P., R.L.
Primarily focused on non-transactional corporate law matters, the commercial, corporate and M&A practice at APTS - Alves Pereira & Teixeira de Sousa, S.P., R.L. is called upon by a variety of companies across the media, IT, retail, telecoms and transport sectors. Under the leadership of José Alves Pereira, the team is also active in due diligence procedures in the context of M&A deals, incorporations and business transfers.
Practice head(s):
João Alves Pereira
Key clients
Amino Communications Limited
Checkpoint Systems
Esaote S.p.A.
G-Core Labs
KLOCKNER, S.A.
Mulberry Corp. Limited
Online Sports 2 0
Rentokil Initial
Rowenta
Sabadell Venture Capital
Work highlights
- Reviewing and revising the Rowenta’s online sales terms and conditions.
- Assisted in the incorporation of the Portuguese subsidiary KINESSO PORTUGAL, UNIPESSOAL LDA.
- Conducting several legal and HR due diligences on local companies and branch offices in connection with the investment by Sabadell in these targets through venture debt financing.
CCSL Advogados
Established in 2019, the ‘young, dynamic and proactive team‘ at CCSL Advogados continues to increase its M&A workload. Apart from handling deals in an array of sectors, including media and publishing, the group also provides legal support on non-transactional corporate law matters, venture capital investments, shareholder agreements and regulatory issues. Founding partner Mafalda Almeida Carvalho possesses ‘a strong business drive‘ and is actively involved in cross-border M&A and general corporate law matters. She oversees the practice, which was recently bolstered by the arrival of counsel Frederico Félix Alves from TELLES in December 2021; he specialises in M&A transactions, private equity deals and corporate finance.
Practice head(s):
Mafalda Almeida Carvalho
Other key lawyers:
Frederico Félix Alves
Testimonials
‘Young, dynamic and proactive team. Great problem-solving capabilities. Friendly culture and close collaboration with clients.’
‘Mafalda is a great partner, with a strong business drive and availability to help clients. She has significant experience in the industry and is very pragmatic in her approach focusing on what really matters.’
‘Mafalda was exceptional in coming up with solutions rather than getting fixated on a position.’
‘A young but very solid team with a close relationship with clients.’
‘I wanted to highlight Mafalda Almeida Carvalho for her proactivity and technical strength.’
‘Very efficient, fast and excellent knowledge of the subject.’
‘Mafalda Almeida Carvalho stands out for the empathic, professional and focused way in which she builds relationships with clients. The client feels that even a small job has its importance.’
‘Frederico Félix Alves is recommended.’
Work highlights
Costa Pinto
Boutique law firm Costa Pinto is well suited to handle the regulatory aspects of M&A, private equity deals, and corporate restructurings. On the non-transactional side, practitioners are proficient in the negotiation of commercial contracts, shareholder agreements and corporate governance issues. Managing partner José Costa Pinto, who often advises foreign clients on the establishment of subsidiaries and inbound investments, ‘is technically irreproachable‘ and recommended for his ‘solid knowledge‘ in the corporate and M&A space. At the associate level, Miguel Inácio Castro stands out for his involvement in commercial and business transactions. Senior associate Tiago Picão de Abreu, whose knowledge of agribusiness law is noteworthy, joined from Antas da Cunha ECIJA in January 2022.
Practice head(s):
José Costa Pinto
Other key lawyers:
Miguel Inácio Castro; Tiago Picão de Abreu; Rita Chambel
Testimonials
‘Costa Pinto has a corporate operations support approach and provides a prompt and strategic response to clients.’
‘José Costa Pinto is a lawyer who masters the legal tools, understands the client’s objectives and is committed to these goals.’
‘The work is performed directly by the respective partner and with little involvement of less experienced resources.’
‘José Costa Pinto is technically irreproachable and has several years of professional experience in international law firms.’
‘During the last few years, we have been working with Costa Pinto Advogados, particularly with José Costa Pinto. The rigour, quality, experience and availability demonstrated in all services provided should be highlighted and distinguished, as the main capabilities of the team. Another distinguishing factor is the ability to adapt to the needs of clients without neglecting at any time the quality of the work presented.’
‘Would recommend José Costa Pinto. Solid knowledge, excellent communication skills, ethics/integrity, rigour and ability to make decisions.’
‘Quick responses, in an unbureaucratic and agile structure.’
‘José Costa Pinto is extremely available and has excellent technical skills.’
J+Legal
Established in March 2021 by transactional tax expert Jaime Carvalho Esteves, and M&A specialists José Diogo Horta Osório and Jorge Brito Pereira, J+Legal offers legal assistance to a growing number of clients active in the financial, energy, telecoms, construction, insurance and agribusiness sectors. A name to note for energy companies, Horta Osório has a wealth of experience handling cross-border transactions with ties to Spain, and is prepared to advise private equity funds on acquisitions and exits. Brito Pereira also stands out for his track record in multi-jurisdictional deals, especially those involving Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa. The ‘client-oriented‘ practice is noted for its ‘focus on overcoming obstacles and problem-solving‘.
Practice head(s):
José Diogo Horta Osório; Jorge Brito Pereira
Other key lawyers:
Jaime Carvalho Esteves; Lourenço Côrte-Real; Rui Bello da Silva
Testimonials
‘I would highlight the quality of the entire team in general. They are very client-oriented and focused on solving problems. Proximity, quick response and excellent price/quality ratio are what distinguishes JLegal from other firms/lawyers I work with.’
‘Rui Bello da Silva – professionalism, responsiveness, proactivity.’
‘Jorge Brito Pereira – Technical knowledge, creativity/innovation and interpersonal skills (reliable, available and easy to work with).’
Key clients
SAPEC
Transportes Paulo Duarte
Barraqueiro group
IAP – Investments & Holdings
JP Sá Couto
On Rising
Deckskill
FIGB
Cordex SGPS
Blue Tagus
Nova Cimangola
Angola Cables
Hertz
Marinhave
Nutrinveste Group
Medinfar Group
Pentafar Group
Future Healthcare
Work highlights
- Acted for the four sellers in the sale of Genibet to Racipharm.
- Advised E.I.P.- Electriciade Industrial Portuguesa on the incorporation of E.I.P – Serviços and carve-out to Grupo Visabeira.
- Advised Transportes Paulo Duarte on the acquisition of 100% of the share capital of the Spanish company Cisternas Hurtrans and Tank Hurt.
MGRA SP RL
With offices in Lisbon, Faro and Spain, MGRA SP RL ‘has real depth of experience‘ in corporate law and governance issues. Helga Lopes Ribeiro ‘is a leader and expert in this field’; she coordinates the practice, which has notable strength in corporate reorganisations, commercial agreements, and joint ventures. Bruno Lobato is also part of the core corporate and M&A team.
Practice head(s):
Helga Lopes Ribeiro
Other key lawyers:
Bruno Lobato; Miguel Soares de Matos
Testimonials
‘The team has real depth of experience and is also able to respond to issues that arise due to changes in law. In summary, they are highly competent and dynamic, and they pay attention to the unique challenges of the clients.’
‘Helga Lopes Ribeiro stands out as a critical player for MGRA. She is a leader and expert in this field.’
Key clients
Hitachi Solutions
Ergomotion
Eze Castle Integration Portugal
Ray Allen, INC
RTS Atlantic
Grupo PLEXUS Tech SL
MobieTrain
KPK & Partners CO. INC.
Dahlman Industrial Group B.V. (“Royal Dahlman”)
Greenalia Group
Bulgaria Air
Pollet Water Group
TML, S.A.
CloudokiLX
Work highlights
- Advised Hitachi Solutions on a new business structure to be implemented in Portugal.
- Advised Ergomotion on the incorporation of a new entity in Portugal and relocation of EU operations.
- Advised Eze Castle Integration Portugal on the restructuring of its commercial and corporate operations following the acquisition of a Portuguese company.
pbbr - Sociedade de Advogados RL
pbbr - Sociedade de Advogados RL particularly stands out for its expertise in real estate-related transactions, but is also well positioned to handle M&A in the healthcare and IT spaces. Typical instructions include advising domestic and international clients on reorganisations and joint ventures. The department is jointly led by two practitioners: with over two decades of experience in corporate and M&A matters, Pedro Pinto is a reference for deals involving the real estate sector, where he assists investors, developers and financial institutions, while Alexandre Jardim has a strong focus on private equity transactions.
Practice head(s):
Pedro Pinto; Alexandre Jardim
Other key lawyers:
Gonçalo Mendes Martins; Marco Pereira Cardoso
Testimonials
‘I believe that its business/client-oriented approach and effective communication are the key strengths of pbbr.’
‘Quick response and willingness to help.’
Key clients
Bouygues Telecom
Nexity
ECS Capital
Stone Capital
Signal Capital Partners
RE Capital/ GMG – Geneva Management Group
Cushman & Wakefield
Kiabi (Groupe Mulliez)
Groupe Atenor
Estrela SGPS
Keys Asset Management
Avenue Real Estate
Rockstone Real Estate
MDSR Investments
Acacia Point
Serris Reim Asset Management
Prime Real Estate
Optimum Agriculture Advisors
Square View Asset Management
EQTY Capital
Luxoft
Heed Capital
Round Hill Capital
Work highlights
- Assisting Round Hill Capital in the acquisition of a major operator and developer of property built students’ accommodation.
- Advised Fontecruz on the sale of a company owning a building located in the prime area of Lisbon.