Abreu Advogados > Lisbon, Portugal > Firm Profile
Abreu Advogados Offices
Av. Infante D. Henrique, 26
1149-096
Portugal
- Go to...
- Rankings
- Firm Profile
- Main Contacts
- Lawyer Profiles
- Client Testimonials
- International Capabilities
- Diversity
- Interviews
- Comparative Guides
Abreu Advogados > The Legal 500 Rankings
Portugal > Intellectual property Tier 1
Abreu Advogados fields a ‘very dynamic’ team, praised for its ‘consistent high quality service’ in the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious IP matters. With a diverse roster of domestic and international clients on its books, the ‘top-notch’ practice covers trade mark and patent prosecution, litigation, unfair competition, copyright protection and licensing matters, among other matters. The practice is jointly steered by three IP specialists: Manuel Durães Rocha, who works primarily in the areas of intellectual and industrial property in the health and pharmaceuticals sector; António Andrade, noted for his focus on pharmaceutical patent litigation and issues related to the health sector; and Ricardo Henriques, who advises clients on the gamut of IP matters, focusing particularly on the technology sector. César Bessa Monteiro, jr is recommended for his vast experience in matters related to innovation, inventions, brands, trade secrets, unfair competition, copyrights and design.Practice head(s):
Manuel Durães Rocha; António Andrade; Ricardo Henriques
Other key lawyers:
César Bessa Monteiro Jr.; Gonçalo Malheiro; Ana Panão
Testimonials
‘The Abreu team offers us enormous confidence in the work we entrust them with. We consider that their mastery of the subject, the experience of the professionals and above all their permanent updating and practical sense when advising us makes them unique.
‘The team is very dynamic and provides us with effective and direct solutions.’
‘Quality service; speed in resolving issues.’
‘Partner Manuel Durães Rocha is very helpful and agile in the solutions presented.’
‘Abreu is a top-notch firm in Portugal and also has great access to its international network. The firm stands out for its consistent high-quality service.’
‘I had the pleasure of working with Ricardo Henriques and Gonçalo Malheiro. Ricardo stands out from other lawyers as he is tech-savvy. Ricardo and Gonçalo are a great pleasure to work with, they work together as a reliable experienced team. They keep calm and focus on the case also in stressful circumstances such as high-stakes litigation.’
‘Gonçalo Malheiro is a seasoned litigator and is able to combine his outstanding knowledge of corporate law aspects with his outstanding expertise in IP. He is a keen negotiator and an experienced litigator.’
‘I approached António Andrade for his specialist knowledge in patent litigation. He was able to deliver the guidance I needed, and he did so in a timely and efficient way.’
Key clients
Antylia Scientific
Bausch Health Ireland Limited
Betty Blue Spa
Boehringer Ingelheim
Calvin Klein
Coca-Cola
Corinthia Hotels
Dell
Domingos Alves De Sousa’s Wines
Ebel
Eiffage
Elite
Festina Lotus
Fundacción Universitaria San Pablo – Ceu
Groupe Canal+
Hema Bv
Henessy
Hewlett Packard (Hp)
Ikea Group
Lidl & Companhia
Magnum Cap – Electrical Power Solutions, Lda
Novo Verde
Oracle
Pronovias
Sacoor Brothers
Salvor – Sociedade de Investimentos Hoteleiros, S.A.
Secil – Companhia Geral de Cal e Cimento
Sequoia
Sociedade Ponto Verde – Spv
Sunny CARS
Syler Gibraltar Limited
Toyotomi
Uefa
Vemedia BV
Womenwinwin
Work highlights
- Assisted Pestana Hotels and Salvor Hotel with a lawsuit brought by RTL.
- Assisting Valoren with trade mark registration in several jurisdictions.
- Assisting Brisa – Auto Estradas de Portugal with trade mark registration and protection issues, and negotiation of IP agreements with third parties.
Portugal > Tax Tier 1
Abreu Advogados is noted for its ability to combine ‘extreme technical knowledge’ with a ‘commercial approach'.The team is regularly instructed to advise on the tax aspects of significant transactions, and notably excels in green taxation - including renewable energy taxation - digital assets and blockchain technology taxation. Tax law has been central to the firm’s core since its inception, with founding partner Miguel Teixeira de Abreu specialising in international tax affairs. Alexandra Courela advises both national and international clients on a range of tax matters and co-leads the team with Nuno Da Cunha Barnabé. Barnabé is a key contact for high-net-worth (HNW) individuals, family offices, private banking and asset manager businesses in Portugal and Portuguese-speaking nations. Mariana Gouveia de Oliveira is a seasoned tax practitioner whose experience covers income tax, transfer pricing, indirect tax and cross-border mandates, the latter of which is a core area of activity for Maria Inês Assis. With extensive experience in both transactional and contentious tax matters, Maria Dulce Soares leads the Porto-based tax practice, where Susana Duarte is a name to note for corporate income tax and international matters.Practice head(s):
Alexandra Courela; Nuno da Cunha Barnabé
Other key lawyers:
Miguel Teixeira de Abreu; Maria Dulce Soares; Mariana Gouveia de Oliveira; Maria Inês Assis; Susana Duarte; Sara Soares; Joana Maldonado Reis
Testimonials
‘They are unique in that they provide fast replies and a broad range of knowledge.’
‘Alexandra Courela is exceptional. Fast replies, knowledgeable, and friendly.’
‘What I like about Abreu’s tax service is that it combines great technical capacity, with great quality of service and availability.’
‘The team works as a unique entity. Everyone is capable and delivers.’
‘I highlight the technical knowledge and availability of Joana Maldonado Reis and Nuno Barnabé.’
‘The team combines extreme technical knowledge, 24/7 availability, and a commercial approach. Their international perspective is unique.’
‘I tend to work with Nuno Cunha Barnabé. He is the star of the Portuguese tax and private clients industry. He is always available, technically excellent, commercially minded, and very clear. He is also an extremely nice person to work with.’
‘They are always very efficient, and straightforward in their feedback/advice. They are also fully knowledgeable of the tax issues and propose good ideas to solve challenging cases.’
Key clients
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Cepsa – Portuguesa Petróleos, S.A.
Chint Solar Portugal Projects B.V.
Copenhagen Offshore Partners
Idealista, S.A.U.
Imprensa Nacional Casa da Moeda (INCM)
Kinda Home
Marques Sgps, S.A.
Prio Group
Santa Casa Da Misericórdia De Lisboa
Statkraft
TOTAL
Work highlights
- Advising Copenhagen Offshore Partners on the structuring and financing of an offshore wind farm project (6 GW) to be implemented in Portugal.
- Advised Instituto Nacional Casa da Moeda on the development and implementation of NFT – Moeda Portuguesa.
Portugal > Banking and finance Tier 2
Well-regarded for its ability to marry a ‘strong commercial understanding of banking and financing matters’ with ‘practical solutions’, the team at Abreu Advogados covers a wide range of regulatory and transactional work, both on a domestic and international scale. Operating across a myriad of sectors and industries including real estate, energy, aviation, infrastructure and insurance, the practice advises on NPL restructuring and disposals, structured lending, as well as real estate and acquisition finance. The team is jointly steered by a capable trio: José Maria Corrêa De Sampaio, who boasts a proven track record in complex financing transactions in Portugal; Rodrigo Formigal, who is praised for his ‘practical and adaptable approach to matters’ and recommended for cross-border deals, debt restructuring and distressed assets transactions; and Diogo Pereira Duarte, who heads up the fintech-focused group and specialises in the regulatory framework applicable to banks and investment firms. Key contact Pedro Ferreira Malaquias handles all legal aspects related to retail and investment banking activity.Practice head(s):
José Maria Corrêa de Sampaio; Rodrigo Formigal; Diogo Pereira Duarte
Other key lawyers:
Pedro Ferreira Malaquias; André Modesto Pinheiro; Isabel Pinheiro Torres
Testimonials
‘The banking & finance practice at Abreu has several members which distinguish themselves by their capabilities, excellent legal background and track record.’
‘This team has a strong commercial understanding of banking and financing matters and practices which provides the required assurances to clients in negotiations.’
‘Abreu is generally known and acknowledged for its diversity and innovation policies, technology-integrated services and work-life balance of its lawyers and employees.’
‘Partner Rodrigo Formigal has an outstanding track record and background in banking and finance matters. His practical and adaptable approach to matters, jointly with his low-profile attitude make him an excellent negotiator.’
‘Associate André Modesto Pinheiro evidences all the qualities and capacities that will make him a perfect senior lawyer/ partner in the future. He is very keen on understanding the issues involved in commercial discussions and industry specific features, being able to think fast, outside of the box and tackle client’s concerns and undesired risks.’
‘Permanently available team, oriented towards practical solutions.’
‘Isabel Pinheiro Torres – availability and technical quality.’
‘Good knowledge of the market and key issues to tackle in comparison with other firms.’
Key clients
Banco de Negócios Internacional
Banco de Investimento Global (BiG)
Big Mozambique
Bitvavo
Caixa – Banco de Investimento
Caixa Geral de Depósitos
Dura Automotive
Efacec
Getir
HCB Mozambique
IKEA Group
ImpactMarket
Imprensa Nacional Casa da Moeda (INCM)
JJW Hotels & Resorts Group
Julius Baër Bank (Europe)
Mediobanca
Onetier Partners SCR
Osborne+Co
Ping An Bank
Santa Casa da Misericórdia
Sibs Forward Payment Solutions S.A.
Starz Real Estate
Time Out Group
TotalEnergies
Uphold
Utrust
Yildirim Group
Work highlights
- Advised the French Development Agency on a financing for Hidroelétrica de Cahora Bassa S.A., the Mozambican company that operates the hydroelectric power plant of the Cahora Bassa Dam.
- Advised Ping An Bank Co Ltd on the preparation and execution of a security agreement to secure a financing extended to Fosun International Limited, a Chinese multinational conglomerate holding company.
- Advised INCM throughout the development and implementation of NFT – Moeda Portuguesa, a pioneer project on currency digitalisation.
Portugal > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2
With expertise spanning the real estate, banking, tech, life sciences, energy and natural resources sectors, Abreu Advogados draws considerable praise from clients, who turn to the team for its ‘commercial and pragmatic’ approach in a range of corporate transactions. The practice possesses strong capabilities in cross-border mandates, notable in Mozambique and Angola. With over two decades’ experience in this space, Ana Sofia Batista acts for a variety of national and international clients in private equity deals. She leads the practice alongside José Maria Corrêa De Sampaio, noted for his ability to ‘quickly understand the client’s intended objectives’, and Manuel Santos Vítor who, in addition to M&A transactions, excels in corporate governance and reorganisations.Practice head(s):
Ana Sofia Batista; José Maria Corrêa de Sampaio; Manuel Santos Vítor
Other key lawyers:
César Bessa Monteiro Jr; Hugo Teixeira; Rui Peixoto Duarte; Cláudia Santos Malaquias; Rita Albuquerque
Testimonials
‘The lawyers of this practice are extremely responsive, hands-on and available to adapt to client’s aims and intended results. They have a profound expertise in all matters of corporate and M&A law as applied to the energy industry.’
‘Rui Peixoto Duarte: pragmatic approach and fluent in French, which was an asset in a recent cross-border transaction.’
‘César Bessa Monteiro Jr is a lawyer who presents practical, efficient and outside the box solutions. His professional ethics, the solidity of his knowledge and the quality of the solutions he presents are differentiating factors in the market.’
‘We have been working with this M&A team for many years. They always demonstrate great technical competence, client attention and always clarify any doubts, anticipating problems.’
‘The practice has a high reputation in the market. They produce high quality work and take a commercial and pragmatic approach when dealing with their clients.’
‘José Maria Corrêa de Sampaio has excellent availability and extensive experience in M&A. Ability to quickly understand the client’s intended objectives in the negotiation process and adjust documentation accordingly.’
‘Manuel Santos Vítor is extremely dedicated and always available.’
Key clients
Banco Português de Fomento
Catana Group
Cary Group
Caixa Geral de Depósitos
CEPSA
Chint Solar Portugal Projects B.V.
DCC Investors
De Heus
E.Leclerc Group
Efacec
Embraer Portugal, S.A.
HCapital Partners – SCR, S.A.
Idealista, S.A.U.
JJW Hotels & Resorts Group
JLL Group
Lidl & Companhia
Loomis
Mutares
Newpal – Investimentos, SGPS, S.A.
Oettinger Davidoff AG
Open Spiral, SGPS, SAr
Sirplaste
Sublime Group
Symington Family Estates
Transcom
Vortal
Work highlights
- Advising Mutares on the acquisition of EFACEC.
- Advised Transcom on its acquisition of Timeframe.
- Assisted the state owned Portuguese financial institution with the sale of its controlling stake in Banco Comercial Atlântico (BCA).
Portugal > Dispute resolution Tier 2
The ‘hands-on, pragmatic and very proficient’ dispute resolution team at Abreu Advogados represents clients in civil and commercial matters before judicial courts and arbitral tribunals. Working in tandem with its offices in Lisbon, Porto and Funchal, the practice provides nationwide coverage, and fields strong credentials in international arbitration proceedings. With over 20 years’ experience, seasoned mediator and arbitrator Alexandra Nascimento Correia leads the team alongside Guilherme Santos Silva, who handles civil, commercial and transportation disputes, with a focus on domestic and cross-border proceedings. Teresa Anselmo Vaz‘s sector-specific expertise spans the healthcare, life sciences and pharmaceutical industries, while Teresa Brito da Silva is active in commercial and corporate litigation. Gonçalo Malheiro‘s strong litigation practice covers criminal litigation and contractual disputes. Focusing on Portuguese-speaking countries, André Pereira da Fonseca is experienced in cross-border arbitration and litigation.Practice head(s):
Alexandra Nascimento Correia; Guilherme Santos Silva
Other key lawyers:
Teresa Anselmo Vaz; Teresa Brito da Silva; Gonçalo Malheiro; André Pereira da Fonseca; Mariana Duarte; Paulo Amaral Basílio
Testimonials
‘Hands-on, pragmatic and very proficient, not only in Portuguese courts and arbitration but also in proceedings involving Angola, Mozambique and São Tomé e Príncipe. Gonçalo Malheiro is very responsive, calm and a good strategist.’
‘Very good quality work. Teresa Anselmo Vaz, Alexandra Nascimento Correia and Gonçalo Malheiro are recommended.’
‘I have an excellent opinion concerning the professionalism of the lawyers of Abreu. Teresa Anselmo Vaz is an outstanding commercial lawyer with a solid academic background.’
‘The timely responses, in-depth knowledge and, above all, the understanding of the strategy to be used are the characteristics that stood out.’
‘The person I know best is Alexandra Nascimento Correia, with whom I have worked regularly. I consider Alexandra to be an excellent litigation lawyer, very well prepared and with attention to detail.’
‘I would like to highlight André Pereira: provided a quick and professional service in a respectful and friendly environment.’
‘A true international firm. Very cohesive team and impeccable communication. André Pereira da Fonseca has been my primary contact on several matters. Extremely knowledgeable and professional, yet always displays personal concern and has my best interest in mind when dealing with matters. I have recommended him to several colleagues who have conveyed the same sentiment about André to me.’
‘Excellent client contact. In-depth knowledge of the topics. For me, and having worked with several companies in the last decade, this is the best firm in Portugal. Gonçalo Malheiro: excellent knowledge of arbitration procedures.’
Key clients
Airbnb
Andritz
Caixa Central De Crédito Agrícola Mútuo
Federação Portuguesa De Futebol
Galp
Gasmocam, Mad, S.A.
Salvor – Sociedade de Investimentos Hoteleiros, S.A.
Sonagi
Synlab Group – Europe’s Leading Provider Of Laboratory Diagnostic Services
U.E.M. – Unidade De Estruturas Metálicas, S.A.
Work highlights
- Successfully defended Salvor – Sociedade de Investimentos Hoteleiros, S.A. in a dispute with RTL Television related with the legality of the claim of collection of copyrights and broadcasting royalties by RTL because of the distribution of TV broadcasting through the hotel rooms.
- Assisting Andritz with contractual and insolvency disputes against a major construction company related to the construction of several dams.
- Advising Lisboa Gás on a judicial dispute against the owners of properties located in the historical area of Lisbon that exploded due to a gas leak.
Portugal > Employment Tier 2
Abreu Advogados handles both contentious and non-contentious employment matters for clients across the healthcare, pharmaceutical, automotive, retail, and TMT industries. The department, which is under the joint leadership of Carmo Sousa Machado and Patrícia Perestrelo, ‘offers a high-quality, client-oriented service‘ in this space, covering M&A due diligence, restructurings, hiring and termination procedures (individual and collective) as well as labour disputes and disciplinary proceedings. Sofia Silva Sousa concentrates her practice on labour regulation and human resources issues, and is often called upon by clients in mandates involving working conditions, remuneration, and termination of employment. Madalena Caldeira left the firm in January 2024.Practice head(s):
Carmo Sousa Machado; Patrícia Perestrelo
Other key lawyers:
Sofia Silva e Sousa; Diogo Orvalho; Marta de Oliveira Pinto Trindade; Simão de Sant’Ana; Bárbara de Sousa Basto
Testimonials
‘The ease of contact with Abreu and its lawyers is noteworthy.’
‘Simão de Sant’Ana has solid technical knowledge, problem-solving skills and availability.’
‘Abreu Advogados offers a high-quality, client-oriented service, demonstrating a constant commitment to meeting the client’s needs effectively and efficiently. The team of lawyers is made up of highly experienced and dedicated professionals.’
‘Bárbara de Sousa Basto stands out for her very transparent communication and sense of duty to inform about the progress of each process. Her team demonstrates a strong commitment to professional ethics and social responsibility, making a constant effort to make a difference in society.’
‘The multidisciplinary, competent and attentive team has members with high legal knowledge and humanity.’
‘Sofia Silva e Sousa is friendly and an excellent professional. Luís Gonçalves da Silva demonstrates vast knowledge and experience.’
Key clients
Aernnova
Ausy
Axa S.A.
Alstom Portugal
Auchan
BC Group
Boiron
Cascais Próxima – Gestão de Mobilidade, Espaços Urbanos e Energias, E.M. – S.A
Catana Group
Colt Technology Services
Corinthia Hotels
CTT – Correios De Portugal
De Heus
Dura Automotive
Expeditors International Of Washington, Inc.
GLOBALVIA
Groupe SEB Ibérica
Hidden Hearing Portugal
Iberdrola Group
Imperial Produtos Alimentares
IKEA Group
Isdin Portugal
JJW Hotels & Resorts Group
Laboratoires Arkopharma
Michael Kors
Microsoft
Newrest International Group
OGMA – INDÚSTRIA AERONÁUTICA DE PORTUGAL, S.A.
Randstad
Restflight
Samvardhana Motherson Peguform Automotive Portugal
Sindicato Nacional Do Pessoal De Voo Da Aviação Civil – SNPVAC
Sporting Clube De Portugal/Sporting Clube De Portugal Futebol SAD
Staples
Synlab
Tata Consulting Services
TESLA
Tomtom Sales B.V.
Transcom
Lusíadas Group
Zadig & Voltaire
5ca
Portugal > Energy and natural resources Tier 2
Abreu Advogados draws considerable praise from clients, who turn to the team for its ‘strong commercial understanding’ and ‘practical approach’ on the full spectrum of energy and natural resources matters. Esteemed as trusted advisers to major companies, investors and financial institutions, the ‘exceptional’ team is singled out for its cross-border capabilities. José Eduardo Martins, co-head of the public and environmental practice, regularly assists large industrial and commercial companies in all matters regarding their public law needs, from licensing to public procurement and litigation. Energy and natural resources co-head Manuel de Andrade Neves has a wealth of experience in the environment, water and energy sectors, while Manuel Santos Vítor is frequently engaged by clients in the renewables, oil and gas, and natural resources sectors. Recently promoted partner Tiago Corrêa do Amaral handles all stages related to the implementation of energy projects, from wind farms to hydroelectric plants. Bruno Azevedo Rodrigues is a name to note for project development and finance matters in the energy and natural resources sector.Practice head(s):
José Eduardo Martins; Manuel de Andrade Neves; Manuel Santos Vítor; Tiago Corrêa do Amaral
Other key lawyers:
Bruno Azevedo Rodrigues; João Lupi; Rui Ferreira de Almeida
Testimonials
‘The advice we received was timely, spot-on and very practical.’
‘Manuel Santos Vítor has experience, a very practical approach and is always available.’
‘The energy and natural resources team at Abreu is composed of members of different practices with different backgrounds which stand out for their capacities and diversified expertise, all with an excellent legal background and track record.’
‘I recently had the privilege of using the services of the exceptional law firm Abreu Advogados, which truly stands out in the Portuguese legal landscape.’
‘The hallmark of this law firm is, unquestionably, its unwavering commitment to excellence in legal service. The team has experience that covers a wide range of areas of law and stands out for delivering personalised advice that precisely meets the unique needs of each client. The attention to detail, thoroughness and strategic thinking demonstrated is truly exceptional.’
‘Extraordinary availability and assertiveness in solving problems. Creative and efficient approach based on strong technical knowledge and great rigour in execution.’
‘Very in-depth knowledge of the way the market is organised and how it works.’
‘This team has a strong commercial understanding of the structuring of projects and their operational and legal risks which provides the required assurances to clients in project development, negotiations and contracting. The multidisciplinary approach of this practice works very well as the members are capable of providing complex advice in a very integrated and coordinated manner.’
Key clients
APREN
Akuo
Aker Mainstream
Atberg
Aura Power
Auditerg
Allego )
Chint Solar Portugal Projects B.V.
Climaespaço
CJR Renewables
Copenhagen Offshore Partners
Disa
EDP Renováveis
Efacec
EHATB
Energy Efficiency Fund
Enfinity
Engie
Fusion Fuel
Greenvolt
Hidroerg
IberBlue Wind
Iberdrola Generación S.A.U
Iberdrola Renewables
Ikea Group
Island Renewables
Itafos
Ocean Winds
Prio Group
Quadrantis Capital
REN Trading
Repsol
RP Global
RWE
Saeta Yeld (Brookfield)
SBC Renewables
Simply Blue
Skyborn Renewables
SmartEnergy
TOTAL
TOTAL Energies
TVA Renováveis
Ventient Energy
Winpower
Work highlights
- Assisting Iberdrola with all its major projects in Portugal.
- Advising Copenhagen Offshore Partners on an offshore wind farm project (6 GW) to be implemented in Portugal.
- Acting for Itafos in relation to its phosphate mining project in Farim Guinea-Bissau.
Portugal > Fraud and white-collar crime Tier 2
The ‘excellent’ criminal, sanctions and compliance team at Abreu Advogados is well versed in a range of matters, serving as a trusted adviser to companies, individuals and government bodies in money laundering, cybercrime corruption, and tax fraud cases. The team is jointly led by Francisco Patrício, Pedro Barosa and Ana Rita Duarte de Campos. Patrício also leads the dispute resolution practice at the firm and is noted for his expertise on insolvency and corporate restructuring, while Barosa is a key port of call for clients seeking assistance in economic and financial crimes. Campos regularly represents defendants in some of the most complex cases in the country. The team was bolstered by a number of recent hires: Ana Grosso Alves, a criminal, compliance and litigation specialist, joined from Gómez-Acebo & Pombo in December 2022, while Paulo de Sá e Cunha, who enjoys a strong reputation in the market, arrived in April 2023 from Cuatrecasas.Practice head(s):
Francisco Patrício; Pedro Barosa; Ana Rita Duarte Campos
Other key lawyers:
Paulo de Sá e Cunha; Ana Grosso Alves; José Maria Formosinho Sanchez; Cátia Muchacho; Vasco Sousa Vieira
Testimonials
‘The Abreu team managed, with remarkable speed, to understand the specificities of our economic group and provide appropriate responses to our needs.’
‘Ana Rita Campos and Vasco Sousa Vieira have provided quick and technically correct responses to our needs, and have also provided very competent monitoring of the various ongoing processes.’
‘I have been collaborating with Cátia Muchacho for many years on many cases. Cátia has always been available and clear in explaining the critical points of each case and the strategies on how to win.’
‘I highlight the lawyer Ana Rita Duarte Campos, especially for her intelligence and work capacity.’
‘Excellent growing team!’
‘As I was a foreigner operating in a criminal matter in Portugal without knowledge of the legal system or without knowledge of the Portuguese language, Pedro Barosa was fluent in my language, understood what was important to me and gave excellent guidance to me leading up to the court case and in court.’
‘Pedro Barosa is a highly skilled criminal lawyer. He is a diligent lawyer who remained utterly focused throughout the process.’
‘The team does a great job of making the Portuguese legal system accessible to non-Portuguese clients.’
Key clients
Federação Portuguesa de Futebol
Work highlights
- Assisting the Portuguese Football Federation with the criminal proceedings against Rui Pinto, the alleged whistleblower and creator of “Football Leaks”, charged for 90 cybercrimes and extortion attempts.
Portugal > Porto: Leading commercial firms Tier 2
Described as the ‘most well-prepared firm in Porto’, Abreu Advogados draws considerable praise from clients, who turn to the team for its ‘strong experience in corporate law’. Operating with a significant presence in Porto, the team is notably active in the real estate, life sciences and manufacturing sectors, focusing on core practice areas such as tax, corporate, employment, dispute resolution and banking. Maria Dulce Soares oversees the firm’s tax group, showcasing particular strength in contentious matters. Arbitration expert Paulo de Tarso Domingues is also skilled in litigation proceedings and corporate and commercial law mandates, while Rui Peixoto Duarte is singled out for his expertise in real estate and corporate law. Maria Santa Martha focuses on large-scale real estate deals, and José Carlos Vasconcelos is adept at negotiating complex commercial contracts. Corporate and M&A expert Maria de Deus Botelho is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Maria Dulce Soares; Paulo de Tarso Domingues; Rui Peixoto Duarte
Other key lawyers:
Pedro Pessanha; Maria de Santa Martha; José Carlos Vasconcelos; Maria de Deus Botelho; Ana Manuela Barbosa; Diogo Pessanha; Susana Duarte; Rui Cardinal Carvalho
Testimonials
‘Rui Peixoto Duarte is noted for his pragmatic approach and fluency in French, which was an asset in a recent cross-border transaction.’
‘The team is professional, transparent and knowledgeable.’
‘Strong experience in corporate law and ability to capture client needs and expectations.’
‘Rui Peixoto Duarte possesses the ability to interpret client needs and expectations.’
‘The general level of service is excellent, as they have a team that demonstrates good knowledge and in-depth understanding of the legal framework.’
‘We have worked mainly with Paulo Tarso Domingues and Rui Cardinal Carvalho. They are all experts in their practice, with in-depth knowledge of the general legal framework, ensuring that all issues are handled professionally and efficiently. ’
‘I recommend José Carlos Vasconcelos, who is an excellent lawyer, especially in the area of commercial and company law.’
‘For us, Abreu is the most well-prepared firm in Porto and even with the presence of other players, there is no other option for us.’
Key clients
Abacate Ab
Cary Group
Cepsa
E.Leclerc
Genibet Biopharmaceuticals Sa
Grupo Alberto Oculista
Humble Group
Msg Coffee House Limited
Noble Faces, S.A.
Ribaltcelebration, Lda – Azul Project
Symington Family Estates
TOTAL
Work highlights
- Advised Noble Faces on the setting up of a joint venture between two Israeli investors, in order to acquire 5 plots of land plus another land to be divided in 2 additional plots from an insolvent estate, to develop a real estate project in Vila Nova de Gaia.
- Advised Symington Family Estates on the purchase of Casa de Rodas.
- Advised Ribaltcelebration, Lda – Azul Project on the setting up of a joint venture for the Portuguese market with the purpose of developing a real estate project called Azul Project.
Portugal > Projects and project finance Tier 2
Standing out for its 'acute and detailed knowledge of the market', Abreu Advogados plays a key role in national and international projects in the energy, natural resources, oil and gas, and transport sectors. Bringing together expertise in public law and financing matters, the firm is equipped to advise on project finance and the establishment of joint ventures and other co-development agreements, as well as related regulatory issues and litigation. Co-head Mafalda Teixeira de Abreu primarily handles public procurement, investment contracts and administrative litigation, while Manuel Santos Vítor has an impressive track record in projects in the renewables, oil and gas, and natural resources sectors. 'The team was recently reinforced with experienced members' who joined from TELLES in November 2o22, including Bruno Azevedo Rodrigues, who 'reveals, with his advice, decades of accumulated experience in high CapEx sectors', namely energy and natural resource sectors, and senior associate João Lupi.Practice head(s):
Mafalda Teixeira de Abreu; Bruno Azevedo Rodrigues
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team was recently reinforced with experienced members, especially in the energy sector and PPPs. Coordinating the extensive resources of Abreu Advogados in general in the provision of integrated services, the projects & structured finance team stands out for its acute and detailed knowledge of the market and businesses in which its clients operate.’
‘Bruno Azevedo Rodrigues reveals with his advice decades of accumulated experience in high CapEx sectors. João Lupi is a senior associate of extraordinary development and intellectual flexibility; his experience in structuring and financing projects is notable and commendable.’
Key clients
Alsa/National Express
Chint Solar Portugal Projects B.V.
Clinica Sagrada Esperança
Copenhagen Offshore Partners
Embraer Group
Hcb Mozambique
Iberdrola Group
Iberdrola Renewables
Idc – Industrial Development Corporation Of South Africa
Itafos
Patentes Talgo SL
Portucel Mozambique
TOTAL
Work highlights
- Assists Iberdrola Generación in all its major projects in Portugal.
- Advised the French Development Agency on a financing to Hidroelétrica de Cahora Bassa S.A., the Mozambican company that operates the hydroelectric power plant of the Cahora Bassa Dam.
- Assisted Alsa/Nexcontinental with several public tenders related to road transport public services.
Portugal > Real estate and construction Tier 2
Abreu Advogados leverages its ‘in-depth knowledge’ of the real estate sector to guide developers, financial entities and high-net-worth international private investors in transactions within Portugal. Working regularly with international retailers, developers, family offices, and institutional investors, the 'exceptional and extremely competent' Tiago Mendonça de Castro is well versed in project development, real estate asset deals and portfolio transactions. He jointly leads the department with Patrícia Viana, who showcases considerable experience in real estate M&A, notably within the retail sector. Diogo Belard Correia, who was recently promoted to associated partner, is a key contact for developers seeking advice on all stages of investments in the real estate sector.Practice head(s):
Tiago Mendonça Castro; Patricia Viana
Other key lawyers:
Maria Santa Martha; Diogo Belard Correia; Sara Ferraz Mendonça
Testimonials
‘The lawyers of the large real estate and construction team all have an excellent legal background and track record. This team has a strong understanding of real estate matters and provides the required assurances to clients in structuring investments and negotiations.’
‘Tiago Mendonça de Castro is an expert in all matters of real estate with a strong track record and experience. Senior Associate Sara Ferraz Mendonça is a really capable real estate lawyer who provides solutions through a very practical approach.’
‘The team is notable for its availability, rigour, and quality in the services provided.’
‘The multifaceted team has very in-depth knowledge that complements each other. The lawyers are extremely dedicated.’
‘The team is able to understand the client’s problems, to put themselves in their shoes, and find legal and/or business solutions to overcome these problems.’
‘Maria Santa Martha is able to understand and propose solutions to the problem(s) that the client has, with enormous common sense and communication skills.’
‘Abreu stands out in the Portuguese real estate market, due to the in-depth knowledge that its lawyers have of the sector. The prestigious firm is knowledgeable, diligent and honest.’
‘Tiago Mendonça de Castro is exceptional and extremely competent.’
Key clients
Ageas
Cbre Gi
Chint Solar Portugal Projects B.V.
Dior
DO – Designer Outlet do Algarve, S.A
Frey
H&M
Henley & Partners
Iberdrola
Ikea Group
Imofundos
Ingka Centres
Interfundos
Lighthouse
Nhood
Noble Faces S.A
Odalys
Optylon Krea
Osborne+Co
Panattoni Spain Holding
Primark
Polo Ralph Lauren
Promiris
Ribaltcelebration, Lda – Azul Project
Time Out Market Porto
Urbania International
Work highlights
- Assisted Optylon Krea, an investment management and real estate development company, with the €20m purchase of the Zara store building in downtown Lisbon from the German fund Deka Immobilien.
- Advised IKEA on the installation of 10 new stores and the implementation of real estate energy projects.
- Advised Promiris Group, associated with the Louis Vuitton inheritors, on the potential €65m purchase of the “Rivart Project”.
Portugal > Transport Tier 2
Clients in the aviation, maritime, and wider transport industries routinely turn to Abreu Advogados for assistance in a wide range of matters, from corporate and financing transactions, to trade and environmental issues. The ‘prompt and capable’ team is co-led by dispute resolution specialist Guilherme Santos Silva, Pedro Alves Da Silva, and Nuno Luís Sapateiro. Alves da Silva’s strength lies in M&A, corporate law, and commercial contracts, while Luís Sapateiro possesses over 15 years' experience of acting for insurance companies and airlines aviation in major domestic and international transactions.Practice head(s):
Guilherme Santos Silva; Pedro Alves da Silva; Nuno Luís Sapateiro
Other key lawyers:
Manuel de Andrade Neves; Manuel Santos Vitor
Testimonials
‘The team is committed to understanding the client’s needs and concerns.’
‘Guilherme Santos Silva delivered promptly, gave good advice, and had good local knowledge and familiarity with the market.’
‘The team is very prompt and capable in responding to requests.’
‘Nuno Luís Sapateiro is knowledgeable of the aviation industry, aware of operators’ constraints and focused on the final result.’
Key clients
Alsa/NEXCONTINENTAL
Aviation Capital Group
Embraer Portugal., S.A.
Expeditors Portugal Transitários, Lda. (Expeditors Washington Inc)
Loomis
National Union Of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel
Nordic Aviation Leasing Nine Pte Ltd
Ogma – Indústria Aeronáutica De Portugal, S.A.
Patentes Talgo Slu
Prio Group
Tokyo Gas
Yildirim Group
Portugal > Data privacy and data protection Tier 3
Praised for its ‘high technical knowledge’, the data privacy and protection team at Abreu Advogados is a popular destination for household name companies seeking assistance with cross-border data transfers, GDPR compliance, audits and privacy policies. Under the leadership of Ricardo Henriques, the practice excels at assisting clients across the TMT, insurance, healthcare, life sciences and retail sectors. Henriques is noted for his focus on technology, advising on matters such as software licensing, compliance projects regarding emerging technologies and issues related to e-commerce, including data protection-related matters. Senior associate José Maria Alves Pereira has extensive experience in mandates concerning GDPR compliance.Practice head(s):
Ricardo Henriques
Other key lawyers:
Simão de Sant’Ana; José Maria Alves Pereira
Testimonials
‘The Abreu team offers us enormous confidence in the work we entrust them with. We consider that their mastery of the subject, the experience of the professionals and above all their permanent updating and practical sense when advising us makes them unique.’
‘The team at Abreu Advogados is always reliable and provides excellent support in IT matters, including the protection of personal data.’
‘Ricardo Henriques is always available to provide practical advice to clients. His knowledge and understanding of the client’s needs in the Portuguese market make him a great partner to work with.’
‘The team is absolutely dedicated to the client.’
‘Quality team, with high technical knowledge of the subject of privacy and personal data protection. It distinguishes itself from others due to its concern for understanding the client’s reality, which is very relevant for the type of service it provides. The team is always available and manages priorities based on the client’s needs.’
‘I recommend Ricardo Henriques for his technical knowledge and team management skills.’
‘I highlight partner Ricardo Henriques and associate José Maria Alves Pereira, both for their total availability and specialised knowledge in the area of data protection and innovative technologies.’
‘Abreu Advogados has a well-established privacy and data protection practice. They are my go-to law firm in Portugal for these matters.’
Key clients
Acciona
Bial
Casio
Coca-Cola
Colt Technology Services
CooperVision
Daimler
Enterprise
Essity
Federal Express (Fedex)
Fresenius SE & Co Kgaa
Genpact (Pnmsoft)
Globalvia
Ikea Group
Lidl & Companhia
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
Netflix
Porsche
Primark
Robert Bosch GmbH
Sap
Sitel
Thea Laboratoires
Veolia
Visa
Vodafone
Work highlights
- Assisting Porsche with several projects related to its online business and connected car services.
- Advising Primark on a data protection project related to communication tools for employees.
- Assisting LIDL with data protection and cybersecurity matters.
Portugal > EU and competition Tier 3
Commended for its ‘technical knowledge’ and ‘dedicated and attentive’ approach, Abreu Advogados is a popular destination for clients across the sports, consumer goods, energy and healthcare sectors seeking advice and representation in merger control, abuse of dominance position proceedings, cartel cases and EU law matters. The practice is jointly steered by a capable duo: Armando Martins Ferreira, a key contact for digital economy, retail and distribution clients, is noted for his expertise in the full gamut of competition matters; and Inês Sequeira Mendes, a relationship partner for some of the firm's most prominent healthcare, life sciences and pharmaceuticals clients. Companies operating in the TMT sector routinely turn to Ricardo Henriques for advice on merger control and antitrust proceedings.Practice head(s):
Armando Martins Ferreira; Inês Sequeira Mendes
Other key lawyers:
Ricardo Henriques; Sónia Gemas Donário; Alexandra Jardim
Testimonials
‘Speed and quality in the opinions issued. Specialists in different areas that allow interaction in interdepartmental topics.’
‘Technical knowledge; cordiality; availability to respond to client needs.’
‘The follow-up and involvement in the matter was fantastic – extreme empathy and interest.’
‘We recommend Sónia Gemas Donário for her technical competence and involvement in all aspects. In our specific case, the connection and empathy with which she worked with us, both from a technical and personal point of view, was extraordinary.’
‘Abreu Advogados provides a great service to the client, and has a dedicated and attentive team. When analysing the market, we chose to turn to Abreu Advogados for the attention they showed to the specific case and the promotion of follow-up meetings.’
‘We recommend Sónia Gemas Donário for the empathy and availability shown, but also for the enormous technical quality she demonstrated throughout the entire process.’
‘The professional quality of the people we have worked with, the speed of resolving the requested issues and their effectiveness, the readiness and friendliness with which they assist us, all of this makes the difference.’
‘It is worth highlighting the rigour with which the products were delivered for discussion. It should also be noted that the collaboration developed with the project team always allowed issues that arose to be resolved promptly.’
Key clients
Alsa/National Express
APIFVET
Carmonti
Cbre Global Investors
Compañia De Servicios De Bebidas Refrescantes, S.L.
Continental
Daimler
EDA – Empresa de Distribuição Alimentar, Lda
Embraer
FREY
Fromageries Bel Portugal
Globalvia
Grupo Bel
Igas
LIDL & CIA
MISUMI / DAYTON PROGRESS
National Union Of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel
Newpal
Prio Group
Resitejo / Rstj
SERVILUSA
Sport Lisboa E Benfica
Staples
STERICYCLE, Inc. / Ambimed – Gestão Ambiental, Lda.
Tokyo Gas
MUTARES
Work highlights
- Advising Mutares, an international private equity investor based in Germany, on the projected transaction involving the acquisition of EFACEC.
- Advised EDA – Empresa de Distribuição Alimentar on the merger control issues of the acquisition of Amaral & Filhos Distribuição, S.A.
- Advising LIDL on retail sector investigations launched by the Portuguese Competition Authority.
Portugal > Insolvency and restructuring Tier 3
Abreu Advogados demonstrates expertise in distressed M&A, corporate restructuring, insolvencies, creditor’s rights, and assets tracing, working in tandem with the firm’s financial, tax, commercial M&A, and labour law teams. Heading the practice, Francisco Patrício is proficient in pre-insolvency, insolvency-related deals, and distressed M&A, representing creditors, board members, and shareholders of insolvent companies. Gonçalo Delicado is routinely engaged in the negotiation and operational phases of corporate restructurings. Also part of the core team, Eduardo Peixoto Gomes specialises in contentious insolvency and restructuring proceedings, serving financial institutions, funds, and companies; he particularly excels in special revitalisation procedures.Practice head(s):
Francisco Patrício
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The firm is dedicated to its clients and provides a professional service.’
‘Francisco Patrício and Gonçalo Delicado have dedication, commitment, professionalism and knowledge of the best actions to take.’
‘They have a high level of technical knowledge and client attention. Eduardo Peixoto Gomes is fundamental to the Porto office.’
‘Eduardo Peixoto Gomes and Francisco Patrício manage to establish a relationship of trust and proximity with the client, making them feel well represented. They are people with a high human spirit, availability, and generosity.’
‘Gonçalo Delicado has in-depth knowledge of corporate matters and insolvencies.’
‘Competence, responsiveness, attention to detail and availability for the client are their strengths.’
Key clients
Parvalorem S.A. (Consulting Services)
Organismo Coletivo de Investimento Imobiliário Imonegócios
Work highlights
- Assists Parvalorem with insolvency proceedings and special revitalisation processes.
- Providing day-by-day assistance to Imonegócios, a state-owned fund that invests in a diversified set of assets in the real estate market.
Portugal > Public law Tier 3
Abreu Advogados excels in guiding clients through the nuances of infrastructure projects, public tenders, concessions, and PPPs, ensuring regulatory compliance. José Eduardo Martins, co-head of the public law practice, is esteemed for his expertise in environmental and industrial licensing, carbon emissions trading management, and public procurement in the water and waste management segments. Fellow co-leader Manuel de Andrade Neves handles public procurement, particularly in cutting-edge sectors like telecoms, defence, and healthcare, as well as traditional fields such as environmental management, water, and energy.Practice head(s):
José Eduardo Martins; Manuel Andrade Neves
Other key lawyers:
Mafalda Teixeira de Abreu; Tiago Corrêa do Amaral; Ana Simões Ferreira; Raquel Barroso
Testimonials
‘Abreu Advogados has been extremely effective and efficient, with high standards of professionalism.’
‘The service provided was remarkable. The team showed an unusual ability to understand the practical issues in question, and solutions were usually found in a short time and always creative.’
‘In the area of public procurement, Ana Simões Ferreira has always shown herself to be creative, rigorous, available, and speedy.’
‘The team demonstrates specific technical knowledge in the environment area.’
‘José Eduardo Martins and Raquel Barroso stand out for their very practical approach to subjects, without neglecting the theoretical aspects.’
‘Raquel Barroso brings professionalism, humility, and simplicity. Raquel is easy to work with.’
‘Abreu Advogados stands out for its technical excellence, commitment to the client, and focus on innovation. Its team of highly specialised lawyers provide high-quality services, adapted to the individual needs of each client. ’
‘José Eduardo Martins stands out for his vast experience and knowledge in the area of environmental law. He has in-depth analytical capabilities, strategic vision and the ability to provide creative and effective legal solutions to clients.’
Key clients
Ae Energy
Alsa/National Express
Associação de Municípios da Região do Planalto Beirão
Apera – Associação Portuguesa de Empresas de Resíduos e Ambiente
Chint Solar Portugal Projects B.V.
Cintra Portugal / Euroscut Açores
Copenhagen Offshore Partners
Efrican Foundation
Embraer Portugal S.A.
Erp
Globalvia
Group Air Liquide
Grupo Aquaterra
Iberdrola Generación
MEC Consulting Associates, S.A.
Musami
Novo Verde
Ordem dos Médicos Dentistas
Patentes Talgo
Patriram
Recivalongo – Gestão de Resíduos, Lda.
Ren Trading
Resilei – Tratamento de Resíduos Industriais, S.A.
SECIL – Companhia Geral de Cal e Cimento S.A.
Sisav
The Navigator Company
TOTAL
Work highlights
- Assisted Iberdrola Generación with its major projects in Portugal, including three large dam projects in Tâmega for 1.200MW.
- Advised Copenhagen Offshore Partners on its offshore wind-farm project (6 GW) in Portugal.
- Assisted ALSA / Nex Continental with two public tenders launched by the Área Metropolitana de Lisboa and the Área Metropolitana do Porto.
Portugal > TMT Tier 3
The ‘exceptional’ team at Abreu Advogados fields an impressive track record in on complex TMT matters, earning praise as ‘one of the most reliable law firms in Portugal.‘ Leveraging the firm’s accomplished IP team, the practice provides regular counsel to clients engaged in the media, advertising, marketing, IT, telecoms and e-commerce sectors. The ‘extraordinary’ Ricardo Henriques leads the team and focuses on the technology sector, specialising in matters such as software licensing, compliance projects regarding emerging technologies and issues related to e-commerce. Martim Menezes is noted for his expertise in litigation matters, regularly advising international clients in the media sector. José Maria Alves Pereira brings together experience in e-commerce, advertising, media, and IT matters, covering compliance issues, software agreements, M&A transactions and data protection.Practice head(s):
Ricardo Henriques
Other key lawyers:
Martim Menezes; César Bessa Monteiro Jr; José Maria Alves Pereira
Testimonials
‘ The Abreu team instills immense confidence in the tasks we assign to them. Their expertise, professional experience, and commitment to staying current, combined with their practical guidance, makes them truly exceptional.’
‘TMT changes a lot and is very dynamic which requires quick advisers to give you effective and direct solutions – Abreu meets this requirement very well.’
‘I highlight partner Ricardo Henriques and associate José Maria Alves Pereira for their availability and specialised knowledge in this area of activity.’
‘Abreu Advogados has an excellent team of high-quality lawyers. They have extensive knowledge of advertising law and are very dedicated to their practice.’
‘Ricardo Henriques and José Maria Alves Pereira are dedicated and friendly lawyers. They are very knowledgeable and their advice is thorough, clear and easily applicable.’
‘Abreu Advogados is one of the most reliable law firms in Portugal. Their lawyers are always to the point and possess a great legal and industry knowledge.’
‘Ricardo Henriques is an extraordinary good lawyer in IT/data protection and technology in general.’
Key clients
Bial
Coopervision
Coviran
Cubic Telecom Limited
Edge Network Services Limited
Gfi Informatique
Gofundme
Google/Youtube
Hanes
Hitachi
Homeserve
Imprensa Nacional Casa da Moeda (INCM)
La Liga
Natixis
Netflix
Oracle
Radically Digital Limited
Richemont International Ltd
Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Lisboa
Snapchat
Tencent
The Walt Disney Company
Work highlights
- Advised INCM throughout the development and implementation of NFT – Moeda Portuguesa.
- Advising La Liga, the First División National League Championship, on the possibility of dynamic content blocking in the Portuguese jurisdiction.
- Advising Colt Technology Services oon several regulatory matters (namely the implementation of SMS and Mobile/Nomadic Calls services in Portugal), and on litigation against Oporto municipality concerning the payment of fees.
Portugal > Capital markets Tier 4
Investment banks, real estate investment funds, venture capitalists, credit management clients and regulatory bodies frequently turn to Abreu Advogados for its ‘strong finance skills’. The practice adeptly assists clients with securitisation transactions, debt issuances, fund-related matters, OTC derivatives and regulatory issues. The 'responsive' Rodrigo Formigal and Diogo Pereira Duarte, the latter of whom is noted for his financial services regulatory expertise, jointly lead the practice. André Modesto Pinheiro offers support in capital increases and public tender offers.Practice head(s):
Rodrigo Formigal; Diogo Pereira Duarte
Other key lawyers:
Ana Sofia Batista; André Modesto Pinheiro; Isabel Pinheiro Torres
Testimonials
‘Quality and availability to respond in a short period of time’
‘Strong finance skills. Good connections with football clubs to assist with football finance work.’
‘Rodrigo Formigal is a safe pair of hands and is responsive.’
Key clients
Afifi Group
Banco de Investimento Global (BIG)
CA Indosuez Wealth (Europe)
Celulose Beira Industrial (CELBI)
Efacec Group
impactMarket
Osborne+Co
PRIO Group
Time Out Group
Work highlights
- Advising Time Out Group on the issuance of corporate bonds and provision of security on assets in Portugal to refinance the group’s debt and provide additional working capital to support the group’s further growth.
- Advising Osborne, a major Real Estate developer specialized in the office segment, in the context of the Campo Alegre building, former headquarters of the insurer Ageas in Porto.
- Assisted Banco de Investimento Global (BIG), as co-placement agent in the offer, on the public subscription offer and public exchange offers in the context of the issue by Mota-Engil, SGPS, S.A. of up to EUR 140 million notes, due in 2024.
Angola > Foreign firms Tier 2
The Angola practice of Abreu Advogados often handles M&A, finance, and tax matters across the oil and gas as well as infrastructures sectors. Guilherme Santos Silva, Manuel Santos Vítor, and João Bravo da Costa lead the practice, Santos Silva advises oil and gas and aviation clients on corporate matters and dispute resolution, while Santos Vítor stands out in the energy and mining sectors. Bravo da Costa brings expertise in energy M&A, international trade, and financial matters.Practice head(s):
Guilherme Santos Silva; Manuel Santos Vítor; João Bravo da Costa
Testimonials
‘The team provided helpful advice .’
‘They are versatile and have an in-depth knowledge of the country.’
‘Strengths include collaboration, availability, and commitment.’
‘Helpful, knowledgeable, speedy, and committed to customer satisfaction.’
Key clients
Clínica Sagrada Esperança, Lda (Health sector)
Fukur Group
Mediman
Work highlights
- Advised Sagrada Esperança Clinic in Luanda with financing from the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
- Advised Mediman on the potential agreement to be the official distributor of Siemens Medical Equipment in Angola after a long-term compliance process by Siemens.
- Advised Fukur on the development and operation of a supermarket chain in Luanda.
Mozambique > Foreign law firms Tier 2
Abreu Advogados excels in sectors such as energy, aviation, infrastructure, natural resources, and financial markets. The firm’s diverse experience includes advising on oil and gas logistics platform concessions and retail real estate projects, as well as providing litigation and debt collection support to major domestic banking clients. Ana Sofia Batista and José Maria Corrêa De Sampaio lead the team from Lisbon, alongside Zara Jamal, who manages local partner firm JLA ADVOGADOS in Maputo. Batista is adept at M&A negotiations, including private equity transactions, while Jamal specialises in project and energy financing, real estate, and banking. Manuel Santos Vítor handles M&A deals across the energy, natural resources, and leisure spaces, and Isabel Pinheiro Torres contributes banking and finance expertise.Practice head(s):
Ana Sofia Batista; José Maria Corrêa de Sampaio; Zara Jamal
Other key lawyers:
Manuel Santos Vítor; Diogo Pereira Duarte; Isabel Pinheiro Torres
Testimonials
‘The lawyers at Abreu Advogados and JLA Advogados are highly capable and masters in their fields of expertise. Together, Abreu and JLA have an outstanding capability to provide multi-disciplinary solutions.’
‘The core members of the Abreu and JLA team are Isabel Pinheiro Torres and Zara Jamal. They work seamlessly together from Portugal and Mozambique.’
Key clients
IDC – Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa
Limak Cimentos
Painhas Group
Portucel Mozambique
TOTAL
Work highlights
- Advised the French Development Agency on a financing operation for Hidroelétrica de Cahora Bassa S.A., the company operating the Cahora Bassa Dam hydroelectric power plant in Mozambique.
- Advised the senior creditors, including export credit agencies and the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), on the financing and development of the Area 1 LNG project in Mozambique.
- Advised Portucel Mozambique on establishing forestry plantations for industrial and commercial exploitation.
Abreu Advogados > Firm Profile
The firm: Abreu Advogados is a big four independent law firm with over 30 years of experience in the Portuguese market, navigating in tomorrow´s sectors and industries. As a full-service law firm, Abreu is recognized as the 11th fastest growing Portuguese firm by The Lawyer Euro 100, with 51% growth in 5 years.
With offices in Lisbon, Porto and Funchal, Abreu has provided highly effective solutions in areas such as corporate/M&A, tax, litigation and competition. The team holds a high degree of specialization in key industries for the Portuguese and African economies, such as energy and natural resources, real estate, banking, technology, life sciences, projects, tourism and hospitality.
Its clients consistently choose the firm to seize growth opportunities and to assist on increasingly complex international transactions whilst working with the most prestigious law firms in the world.
The firm´s successfully implemented strategy is to be disruptive and challenge the status quo. Considered a leading tech firm in the finance, fintech and TMT areas, its teams have analyzed the consequences not yet addressed of corporate models, such as cryptocurrency and blockchain.
Abreu Advogados is a member of several associations of international lawyers, such as Consulegis, AIJA, UIA, CIArb, ABA, amongst other, providing clients with the benefits of global service. Its international visibility has been strengthened through the relationship with Multilaw, which has allowed the firm to assist clients from various jurisdictions.
Abreu Advogados is committed to setting the future in progress.
ESG DNA: Powered by tomorrow’s challenges
Embracing sustainability is part of the DNA of Abreu Advogados. This is its identity and has led the firm to assume an active commitment towards its culture and people.
Since 2015, Abreu Advogados is the only law firm in Portugal certified B Corp and understands its practice as a force for good. Abreu Advogados aims to serve as an example in the construction of a law firm that values, supports and promotes best practices at a social, economic and environmental level.
By certifying its quality management system under the European ISO 9001 standards, the firm became the first law firm in Portugal to do so and to subsequently publish a sustainability report. Abreu Advogados is also the first (and still the only) Portuguese law firm to publish a sustainability report under the directives issued by the GRI (Global Reporting Initiative), to publish its accounts and to measure its carbon footprint.
Abreu Advogados is powered by tomorrow´s challenges and well positioned to advise its clients on ESG matters, advising companies from many different sectors, as well as public bodies and non-governmental organizations on all aspects related but not limited to environmental law, including environmental impact assessments, prior information procedures, and licensing and certification of economic activities, effluent management and waste management.
30 years of sustainable growth
For the past three decades, Abreu has led the way in creating long term partnerships with its clients and relied on diverse talent and expertise. Abreu’s core is deeply non-conformist and fearless when diving into what are now the most innovative sectors and industries.
Being recognized by the successful and sustainable regulatory solutions it presents, on different sectors and jurisdictions, Abreu Advogados aims at the continuity of its clients businesses – which have been its biggest champions.
Its strength? Truly challenging and winning business models. By embracing consistency and bold strategies, Abreu has paved the way for the next thirty years in the legal sector, as a leading law firm in the Portuguese market.
Main areas of practice:
- Agriculture
- Banking and finance
- Competition, regulatory and EU
- Corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Distribution and retail
- Employment
- Energy and natural resources
- Information technology
- Insolvency and restructuring
- Intellectual property
- Litigation and arbitration
- Media
- Public and environment
- Real estate
- Sports
- Tax
- TMT
- Transport and shipping
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Capital markets | Ana Sofia Batista | ||
Capital markets | José Maria Corrêa de Sampaio | ||
Corporate and M&A | Ana Sofia Batista | ||
Corporate and M&A | José Maria Corrêa de Sampaio | ||
Corporate and M&A | Manuel Santos Vítor | ||
Corporate and M&A | Maria de Deus Botelho | ||
Dispute resolution | Alexandra Nascimento Correia | ||
Dispute resolution | Francisco Patrício | ||
Dispute resolution | Guilherme Santos Silva | ||
Employment | Carmo Sousa Machado | ||
Employment | Patrícia Perestrelo | ||
Energy and environment | Manuel de Andrade Neves | ||
Energy and environment | José Eduardo Martins | ||
EU and competition | Armando Martins Ferreira | ||
EU and competition | Inês Sequeira Mendes | ||
Insolvency and restructuring | Francisco Patrício | ||
Criminal, Sanctions and Compliance | Pedro Barosa | ||
Criminal, Sanctions and Compliance | Ana Rita Duarte de Campos | ||
Criminal, Sanctions and Compliance | Francisco Patrício | ||
Intellectual property and IT law | Ricardo Henriques | ||
Intellectual property and IT law | António Andrade | ||
Intellectual property and IT law | Manuel Durães Rocha | ||
Public law | José Eduardo Martins | ||
Public law | Manuel de Andrade Neves | ||
Shipping and transport | Guilherme Santos Silva | ||
Shipping and transport | Francisco Patrício | ||
Tax | Alexandra Courela | ||
Tax | Nuno Cunha Barnabé | ||
Real estate | Rui Peixoto Duarte | ||
Real estate | Patrícia Viana | ||
Real estate | Tiago Mendonça de Castro | ||
Sport | Francisco Veiga Gomes | ||
Sport | Alexandre Miguel Mestre |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 200Languages
English French German Italian Portuguese SpanishMemberships
AEL AIJA Consulegis EVCA Eurocollectnet Gesica IAC IBA IFA INTA International Insolvency Institute ISDA Multilaw NYSBA UIAOther
Contact : Inês Sequeira Mendes (managing partner) Other offices : Portugal (Lisbon, Madeira, Oporto) Other offices : Angola Other offices : Brazil Other offices : Cabo Verde Other offices : China Other offices : Mozambique Other offices : France Other offices : Timor-Leste (joint office) Other offices : Guinea-BissauClient Testimonials
TESTIMONIAL: “thank you very much for your support during the last months! Many things were very new for us. Thanks to your support we were able to clarify many points!”
TESTIMONIAL: “You helped us providing an extraordinary support, showing the difference in quality and timely responses if compared to local legal advisors of the counterparty. You really made the difference and I wanted to thank you for
everything.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you again for jumping in on such a short notice and for the efforts you put into this.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you again for your terrific support; we would have been lost without you. You really were an important support for us and we appreciate it enormously.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you and Abreu Advogados for your excellent service throughout the whole process. Your attention-to-detail and thorough-ness was second-to-none and at every turn I felt confident with the information you were providing. At times you were far too efficient! It was a pleasure working with you. Please pass on my thanks to all your team who made this not only a speedy but highly transparent process.”
TESTIMONIAL: “We would like to extend an enormous thanks to you and your teams for all of your hard work, particularly those who have met some incredibly tight deadlines over the past two weeks. This project has been an opportunity for us to showcase our cross-border skills, the breadth and depth of our expertise, and most importantly our ability to collaborate.”
TESTIMONIAL: “The team is very pleased of this achievement over these last months. We would like to thank you very much for your hard work, your patience and your responsiveness in all circumstances. We very much appreciated your understanding and continuous support. It was a pleasure working with you.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you for your concerted effort(s). We are grateful for the pragmatic and focused approach taken by all involved to finally complete this transaction.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you very much for your support. (…) let me mention that we were impressed with your very fast response times during this process.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Lastly, I want to emphasise that your help on this case is high appreciated. It is totally new for us to conduct such a transaction in Portugal. Thank you very much for your help.”
TESTIMONIAL: “1) My sincere congratulations to each of you for this amazing achievement. It has been somehow a long way with some stones on the road but with a real team work and effort and with Abreu’s always professional and awesome advice and support we have finally made it. You made possible that we all end on the finish line.
2) Thank you and your team for the impeccable work done during the whole transaction. We really appreciate your commitment and efforts made. Really
much appreciated.”
TESTIMONIAL: “A great big thank you to you and your team. Resilience and endeavour now has new meaning.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Looking forward to working on future projects The assistance throughout this deal process, your expertise was extremely helpful and very much appreciated.”
TESTIMONIAL: “We received the good news that the court case regarding was successfully closed. This was, not in the last place, due to your professional skills and support. It was a true pleasure working with you on this case.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you very much for your detailed explanation and allow me to congratulate you for your efficiency, great responsibility and professionalism in performing your job.”
TESTIMONIAL: “We really appreciate your professionalism and immediate response to all our questions. Especially negotiating the shorter review term for us!”
TESTIMONIAL: “Let me thanks your continuous availability during the project and also to your whole teams. It has been a pleasure. Hoping to have future opportunities to work with you.”
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you for your excellent work and prompt turn-around time. I have really enjoyed working with you and have been impressed with your professionalism. I look forward to working with you further in the future.”
TESTIMONIAL: “You have done an excellent job with a great result.”
TESTIMONIAL: “We are very happy as well to have finally closed the deal, which would have not been possible without the very constructive, fair and efficient way you handle the transaction on your side, Looking forward continuing working with you in the future on these projects, and maybe other as well!”
TESTIMONIAL: “I’d like to thank the whole team and each one for the great performance on this transaction. I hope that we can handle many such transactions together in the future.”
International Capabilities
INTERNATIONAL
The world is changing: markets, mentalities, concerns and challenges are all changing, as well as the way we speak and what we want to hear. And different times call for different lawyers.
Abreu Advogados is the law firm for today’s society, working every day to ensure that for new industries, we create new ideas; for new pressures, we plan new solutions and for new challenges, we provide new answers.Abreu Advogados is a full service law firm that provides top legal support to clients, wherever they may be. Abreu International Legal Solutions created six desks formed by lawyers highly experienced in international law who work closely with renowned local partners in emerging economies, such as Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, China, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau and Timor-Leste. This allows the firm to provide a smoother experience in jurisdictions where legal risks would usually be higher.
Abreu Advogados is committed to setting the future in progress.
The clients
Abreu Advogados treats each case and client as unique, taking special care to understand the client’s needs. We work alongside them to find the best strategy to follow in order to meet the goals and expectations. The firm has a proven track record of leading complex transactions and representing diverse clients such as: the largest producer of renewable energy in the world; various international banks; international retail chains and Danish start-ups.
Abreu Advogados breaks down barriers and established models by opening discussions focusing on the different legal practices and skill sets on offer, so that together the team can deliver a complete and cohesive solution to its clients.
The team
Our multidisciplinary team breaks down barriers by developing its own international presence. The team, which is composed of highly experienced international business lawyers, works closely with renowned local partners
in emerging economies. This allows the firm to provide a smoother experience in jurisdictions where legal risks would usually be higher. Abreu Advogados is represented in the following emerging and developed economies:
- Angola
- Brazil
- Cape Verde
- China
- Mozambique
- Guinea-Bissau
- Timor-Leste
Abreu Advogados` network of international partnerships has also extended its specialised legal assistance in the following countries of the European Single Market:
- France
- Italy
- Spain
At Abreu Advogados, language is not a barrier. Our team speaks a range of languages including: Portuguese, English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Mandarin, Tetum.
The network
Abreu Advogados is a member of several associations of international lawyers, participating actively in their activities and ensuring that it can offer its clients the benefits of a worldwide service. The firm maintains strong ties with some of the largest international law firms and teams up with such firms in creating groups of lawyers to handle the largest transactions in the corporate, financial and other fields. Abreu Advogados is a member of the Multilaw international network and is also a member of the UIA – International Association of Lawyers.
Some international capabilities
- Assistance to a multinational telecommunications company in an international arbitration (USD 2.2 billion), teaming up with a multijurisdictional team of lawyers (UK, France, BVI, Netherlands, Portugal and Angola).
- Advising a French group in the aviation sector on the acquisition of companies within the sector.
- Advising a multinational car components producer in legal actions and tax arbitration related to transfer pricing policy, application of the arbitration convention for the elimination of double international taxation, payment of royalties, deductibility and the reporting of tax benefits, Stamp Duty and autonomous taxations.
- Advising a group of clinical laboratories on the acquisition of shares in companies and on the internal restructuring processes of the group.
- Assisting a multinational health sector group in its acquisition of companies within the sector, together with business expansion and restructuring.
- Advising an international real estate group on its acquisition of a leading company and property in Portugal.
- Representation in court of a multinational company in the hotel sector to obtain protection in Portugal for its brand, which enjoys worldwide prestige.
- Advising an international oil group on its acquisition of a competing company and petrol station and distribution network in Portugal.
- Advice on the financing of the largest natural gas project in Mozambique, also involving an analysis of possible tax contingencies.
- Assistance to a Chinese world leader of solar industry components in a matter related to a long-lasting supplier contract (USD 800 million) in insolvency and arbitration proceedings involving Portuguese, Swiss and Chinese jurisdictions.
- Advising an international bank on its acquisition of the retail bank business of a Portuguese affiliate of an international bank.
- Assistance to the UK branch of one of the biggest US Banks in collection proceedings of a loan (€ 370 million), the collateral of which lost value, applying for a court order against the effective beneficial owner of the SPV
debtor. - Advice to major companies in IT outsourcing agreements and other service agreements, including call centre agreements, information technology consulting, software licenses and maintenance agreements (SLA).
International Capabilities
As a full-service law firm, Abreu Advogados invests in multidisciplinary, borderless teams that tackle increasingly complex transactions, breaking down barriers and established models, presenting a business-oriented vision and cost-effective solutions, anticipating its clients’ needs.
Either from Portugal or internationally, clients consistently choose Abreu to deal with international transactions across Portuguese African speaking countries, particularly Angola (partnered with FBL Advogados) and Mozambique (partnered with JLA Advogados). Its teams hold a high degree of specialization in key industries for the Portuguese and African economies, such as Energy and Natural Resources, Real Estate, Banking, Technology, Life Sciences, Projects, Tourism and Hospitality, having dedicated key partners by sectors.
Given the range of areas in which the lawyers are experts and the inherent innovation with which they deal, particularly the last year, the firm teams up with some of the largest international law firms that only work with the best Portuguese specialists, teaming up in major transactions.
In the international context, Abreu has assisted:
- The Senior Creditors – Export Credit Agencies and Africa Development Bank/AfDB on the financing and development of the Area 1 LNG project in Mozambique. The project, currently led by Total, and previously led by Anadarko, is located in the Golfinho-Atum field, within Area 1 of the Rovuma Basin offshore of the Republic of Mozambique.
- Navigator and Portucel on all related matters to ensure the implementation of the project.Portucel Mozambique is a company incorporated by the Navigator Company (former Portuguese group Portucel Soporcel) engaged in the biggest integrated forestry project for the production of wood for paper pulp and energy in Mozambique.
- Africatel Holding BV (“Africatel”), a Dutch holding controlled by the Brazilian Oi, SA, on the sale of Africatel’s Portuguese subsidiary PT Ventures SGPS, SA (“PTV”). At the date of its sale (completion on the beginning of 2020), PTV held, among other, 25 % of the share capital of Unitel SA (“Unitel” – the largest Telecom and the largest private company in Angola), 40 % of the share capital of Multitel Serviços de Telecomunicações Lda. (Angola) – the price of the sale was USD 1 billion.
- AEnergia on the implementation of an Angolan 750MW combined-cycle plant project, namely in what concerns draft of its contractual structural agreements and negotiations towards its financing with the several stakeholders involved. Framework of the project within the PPP and procurement Angolan laws, as well as financial aspects of State guarantees to be granted was also provided for due to Abreu Advogados´ assistance.
- The major state owned Portuguese financial institution in the sale of its controlling stake in Banco Comercial Atlântico (BCA), Cape Verde’s largest bank. Abreu is dealing with the organisation and implementation of the privatisation process in Portugal, considering that CGD is a public bank, all regulatory matters in Portugal and Cap Verde with Bank of Portugal and Bank of Cap Verde, organisation of the process of sale together with Banco Caixa BI, the CGD investment bank.
Diversity
At Abreu Advogados, we believe that our growth and affirmation as an innovating and enduring project need to be supported by humanistic policies, based on a culture of diversity, meritocracy and respect for well-being, in order to ensure the necessary conditions for all our people to feel appreciated and capable of reaching their full potential, for the good of all.
We acknowledge the value that diversity and multiculturalism brings to motivation, creativity and a sense of belonging and this affects the way we decide on the ideal composition for our teams.
We foster an inclusive work environment and encourage an attitude of respect and appreciation of differences, which contribute unequivocally to the ongoing growth and success of our firm.
We reject any discriminatory behaviour based on ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, family life, financial status, education, origins or social condition, genetic heritage, reduced work capacity, disability, chronic disease, nationality, ethnicity or race, place of origin, language, religion, political or ideological beliefs and trade union affiliation.
Commitments
In 2008, Abreu Advogados signed up to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact which are focused on the areas of human rights, employment practices, environmental protection and anti-corruption. It undertook a public commitment to incorporate these principles into its strategies, processes and operations and to implement specific measures to stamp out all types of discrimination and foster diversity and a culture of inclusion.
In 2022, within the context of the United Nations accelerator programme “Target Gender Equality”, we were the first law firm in Portugal to commit to the National Gender Equality Target promoted by the Global Compact Network Portugal, which challenges companies to have women in 40% of their decision-making positions by 2030.
Gender identity is one of the seventeen sustainable development goals (SDG 5) and the commitment we have undertaken derives from Target 5, which calls for equal representation, participation and leadership in organisations.
Areas of action
The diversity and inclusion policy informs the various aspects of our human resources processes and, therefore, sessions are held, measures implemented and benefits awarded with the goal of:
- encouraging diversity in recruitment and selection processes and fostering the employability of people with disabilities;
- ensuring equal opportunities in career advancement and professional development, pay, training and performance appraisals;
- protecting family life;
- fostering balance between work life and personal life;
- promoting gender equality;
- fostering an inclusive and non-discriminatory work environment.
Abreu´s commitment to equal opportunities has recently been recognized internationally. The FT Innovative Lawyers Europe 2021, one of the most important international awards for innovation in the legal sector, has nominated Abreu Advogados in the category of “Social justice and the Rule of Law” for its project developed in partnership with the blog “Dislexia Day by Day“, which has been contributing to an inclusive education for dyslexic children at school.
With an unprecedented higher percentage of women in our teams and in top management positions, Inês Sequeira Mendes became the second female managing partner at Abreu Advogados, following Carmo Sousa Machado in 2004 who was the first female managing partner elected in a Portuguese law firm.
Interviews
Inês Sequeira Mendes, Managing Partner
Abreu Advogados’ Managing Partner addresses the present and future challenges and how the firm has been helping its Clients overtake themWhat do you see as the main points that differentiate [law firm name] from your competitors?
Abreu Advogados is a big four independent law firm with over 30 years of experience in the Portuguese market, navigating in tomorrow´s sectors and industries. As a full-service law firm, Abreu is recognized as the 11th fastest growing Portuguese firm by The Lawyer Euro 100, with 51% growth in 5 years, unprecedented for a Portuguese law firm, as indicated by Inês Sequeira Mendes, Managing Partner.
Abreu has been consistent in reaffirming the values that are the solid foundation of the firm, and since 2015, Abreu is the only Law Firm in Portugal certified as B Corp, and as such. “Serving as an example in the construction of a culture that values, supporting and promoting best practices at a social, economic and environmental level”, explains Inês Sequeira Mendes.
In 2021, Inês Sequeira Mendes has succeeded Duarte de Athayde as managing partner of Abreu Advogados. During her mandate, Sequeira Mendes will continue the sustained growth strategy that Abreu has been developing nationally and internationally. The firm has continuously attracted strategic opportunities for all clients in key areas such as Corporate and M&A, Tax, Litigation and Competition.
Abreu invests in multidisciplinary, borderless teams that tackle increasingly complex transactions, breaking down barriers and established business models. Either from Portugal or internationally, clients consistently choose Abreu to deal with international transactions across Portuguese African speaking countries, particularly Angola and Mozambique. The teams hold a high degree of specialization in key industries for the Portuguese and African economies, such as Energy and Natural Resources, Real Estate, Banking, Technology, Life Sciences, Projects, Tourism and Hospitality, with dedicated key partners in different sectors.
Abreu is also recognized by our work with Private Clients. In July 2021, Chambers & Partners distinguished Abreu at a team and individual level in the Private Wealth Law category, becoming the only independent Portuguese Law Firm to accomplish such milestone.
“I believe that our culture of transparency is one of our main differentiators. Transparency in the way we interact with clients, in every aspect, such as costs, the team members involved in the matters, cybersecurity policies, etc., mainly because we are certified in ISO 9001, so we have to be 100% compliant”, says Inês Sequeira Mendes.
Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?
There are five practice areas and sectors that I would like to highlight as essential for the coming years: M&A, Restructuring & Insolvency, Tax and Technology & Cybersecurity.
After the first quarter of 2022 the market was hit by the unrest caused by the late February start of the Ukrainian war following the Russian invasion. The unrest consequently caused, the hike in energy prices, inflation and the fast growth of interest rates impacted the remaining quarters with a reduction in the number of M&A operations and a lower volume as to its value. Portuguese companies are indeed facing the unique chance to reposition their business operations and growth.
Over the next 2 years, M&A transaction should register higher volumes, although depending on specific factor, such as: Curbing the inflation curve, the interest rates, the energy price and concerns of security of supply and hopefully the much-sought end of the war in Ukraine.
Other relevant factors influencing M&A operations are expected to be pending and postponed operations due to Covid-19 that may now take place; venture capital investments; distressed assets sale; specific sectors which will benefit from the capital injection via the Recovery and Resilience Plan, such as technology, telecommunications and infrastructure; and structural reforms that may lead to an increase in Direct Foreign Investment.
Markets may be underestimating the impact of high interest rates on many leveraged borrowers, which aren’t immediately draining on cash flow but take a cumulative toll over several quarters. Restructuring activity typically involves significant changes to the organizational and financial structure of a company, often to address financial difficulties or improve competitiveness.
Some common forms of restructuring include mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, spin-offs, and debt restructuring. Despite some positive economic indicators, such as low unemployment rates and strong consumer spending, there are still many unknowns about the future of the global economy. This uncertainty could lead some companies to pursue restructuring to improve their financial stability and resilience. Many companies have taken on high levels of debt in recent years, and some may need to restructure to address their debt burden and improve their financial health.
Additionally, It is expected that 2023 will be the year that Portugal that will benefit significantly from the economic boost brought by the Recovery and Resilience Plan which did not have an actual material impact in 2022.
What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?
At Abreu, the client experience can be analyzed from the point of view of efficiency and speed at which our services are provided. Using an efficient CRM allows us to find the most targeted and strategic information so that our teams can assist their clients in anticipating obstacles or finding business opportunities. The more information we gather about the clients and their activity, the more personalized and engaging the client’s interactions become. This way we are able to find a basis for approaching our client’s needs whilst shrinking the non-billable hours by spending fewer resources on time-intensive administrative tasks.
An additional example is the speed with which we are able to deliver billing information requested by clients. It’s not just about issuing an invoice, but developing concrete analysis and specific reports tailored to each clients or each invoicing platform. Quick access to information, well-defined processes and well-prepared management teams proved to be fundamental. Client’s procurement teams have evolved immensely in the last decade and run almost parallel to the relationship between GC and Abreu’s lawyers. Knowing how to live up to these requirements is part of the overall service provided by Abreu and shows the importance of management teams.
The benefits that Abreu has registered in the efficient management of the data is intrinsically linked to a faster access to relevant information, in order to make the right decisions, namely, in the search for pricing patterns. The consequent profitability analysis that can be performed (by the minute) allows for more targeted proposals built on history (and combined with some prospective, naturally). This allows not only to understand the client’s perspective but also to adjust the teams internally for the improvement of profitability and to increase the efficiency of our service delivery.
Another dimension on which the firm has been changed regards People management. Knowing that a generational renovation is essential for the continued success of any firm, Abreu proactively engages with younger lawyers. With a unique perspective on careers and success in life and in the office, Abreu examined the market in order to adapt our people management system according to the ongoing generational shift, resulting in the creation of The Happiness Hub, aimed at monitoring and supporting actions of the organizational culture.
Abreu successfully identified long term protocols and created internal policies directly intended to improve work-life balance. Abreu developed a set of internal initiatives based on a holistic vision of wellbeing, with the mission to care for the physical, emotional and psychological health of all employees, inside and outside the office, breaking barriers and establishing a unifying link between all teams.
The Happiness Hub is the area entirely dedicated to the promotion and active monitoring of the well-being of all employees, through monitoring and support actions to the organizational culture and climate. This is a reflection of an internal process, which reflects a generalized understanding by all partners to maintain the high level of Abreu’s retention rate (currently at 82%) which required the entire firm act under a unique understanding: the well-being of each and every one is the key.
Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?
Absolutely. Abreu has developed TOM (Time. Optimal. Manager.), a global eSignature platform to accelerate agreements, reduce manual tasks, enable remote working conditions and automate interactions with clients, employees and partners. TOM is a robot that automates the consultation and sharing of notifications from the CITIUS and SITAF portals and through which Abreu has optimized the work and time of its teams. TOM automates repetitive and time-consuming tasks, performs tasks autonomously, such as consulting deadlines and collecting dispersed information, aggregating everything in a single document. So far, it has maximized time management by about 80% and reduced the possibility of error in these proceedings.
In the past 18 months, it is also worth highlighting the increase of the internal usage of e-discovery tool, namely Luminance, with the adoption rate spreading among teams and projects. This AI-driven system allows our teams to work collectively in a secure manner on large sets of documents in order to analyze, filter and find crucial information in your documents and contracts. This tool has had a tremendous impact on the quality of results and also efficiency wise, benefiting, at first hand, our clients. By navigating the learning curve, costs are already decreasing for the client, making Abreu’s proposals much more competitive.
Besides the impact of the usage of the e-discovery tool, which brought to light the ability to offer better, faster and cheaper services to our clients, data analysis has made it possible to anticipate trends in demand for legal services. A good example in the last 18 months was the identification of an increase in demand for services related to crypto-assets, both by individuals in terms of taxation, and by companies looking to establish themselves in Portugal or even by incumbents. This analysis led to the presentation of opportunities to the Fintech team and the team’s strategic plan was jointly adapted, resulting in a chain of short-term actions such as: active participation in various generalist and more specific media (such as Coindesk), decision on online commercial investments to promote the team internationally (Chambers’ global fintech guide), proposal to open a fintech category in Chambers’ research process (already ongoing) and holding several international roadshows. The data, combined with Abreu’s innovative culture, result in an unparalleled ability to act, which has earned Abreu a top spot in the fintech sector.
Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?
Abreu´s successfully implemented strategy has been to continue to be disruptive and challenge the status quo when delivering solutions.
As the EU moved forward with a general digital finance package, NFT´s are likely to fall under the general definition of crypto assets. Far from operating in a regulated industry, Fintech companies looking into developing businesses eventually collided with the highly regulated sectors as Financial and Banking.
Abreu’s advice on digital assets quickly expanded to high net worth clients and, subsequently, to companies trading in digital assets, using blockchain technology. Abreu quickly deepened its knowledge in this sector lacking in legislative framework. The challenge was clear: to invest in a niche sector with the potential to disrupt traditional business models. Abreu’s core is deeply non-conformist and there was no doubt about diving into what is now the most innovative sector in the global legal sector.
As this is an innovative sector with regulatory loop holes in Portugal and Europe, it was necessary to gather internal and external expertise (consultants and referrals) to help us build a benchmark of best practices. Once the foundation for a new team was laid, the team became a close partner to enthusiastic clients in order to better understand their business goals, identify obstacles and (re)think long lasting regulatory compliant solutions. Consequently, a symbiotic relationship between Clients and lawyers was formed.
Once the grounds were laid, Abreu advised SCML on the creation and launch of the “Artentik | NFTs for good causes” platform of SCML. Artentik is an NFT`s marketplace, registered on the Ethereum blockchain network, linked to images belonging to SCML’s art collection, relics, reliquaries, sculptures or artefacts and other objects belonging to its cultural heritage, and authenticated by Santa Casa da Misericordia de Lisboa. Artentik results from a joint venture between SCML and the Delaware company Boloro Ltd.
The original features of Artentik make this project the first project of its kind to be implemented in Portugal and represents a step forward on the EU´s vision on whether a specific regime for NFT’s is necessary.
To enable the construction of the business model, the team – made up of senior and junior lawyers with different specializations, focused on elaborating a special regime – gathered all the pieces of knowledge and put together a proposal for a business model and use of the service.
The launch of this platform provided not only a learning experience for the benefit of the client but also to strengthen the Fintech team, which is now fully prepared to keep up with the growth of clients in this area and provide innovative legal services.
Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?
Abreu Advogados has seen positive results through consistency whilst powering the strategy initiated four years ago, focused on growth by gaining market share at a national level and with a clear vision of an international project for Portuguese-speaking countries. This strategy started with the change of brand, headquarters and hiring rainmakers of high recognition in the Portuguese market and with international projection.
Continuously strengthened, our teams are attentive and already working with what will be the great challenges of the future in the area of technology, namely, digitalization, robotics, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. Considered a leading tech firm in the Finance, Fintech and TMT areas, our teams have analyzed the consequences not yet addressed of different corporate models related to cryptocurrency and blockchain. Abreu helps find solutions that ensure compliance with the applicable legislation on data protection and cybersecurity.
The goal has been achieved: For the past 5 years, Abreu’s reputation grew with international rankings, having been considered by The Lawyer as Highly Commended Law Firm of the Year Iberia 2020 and shortlisted for the FT Innovative Lawyers 2022 (in three different categories), with law students, who consider Abreu the best law firm to work since 2019, and regarding employees, with the internal engagement rate growing by 40%.
Our vision is to continue to be an increasingly resilient firm, prepared for the world’s challenges alongside our clients.
Comparative Guides
-
Portugal: TMT
Published: August 2023
Authors: Ricardo HenriquesJosé Maria Alves PereiraMargarida Castillo Silva
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of TMT laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.
-
Portugal: Tax
Published: October 2023
Authors: Alexandra Courela Nuno Cunha BarnabéManuel André Martins
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Tax laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.
-
Portugal: Mergers & Acquisitions
Published: March 2024
Authors: Ana Sofia Batista Manuel Santos Vitor Benedita Marques PomboMatilde Carvalho e Cortinhal
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Mergers & Acquisitions laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.
-
Portugal: Renewable Energy
Published: June 2024
Authors: Tiago Corrêa do AmaralJoão Lupi
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Renewable Energy laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.
- Intellectual property
- Tax
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Banking and finance
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Energy and natural resources
- Fraud and white-collar crime
- Porto: Leading commercial firms
- Projects and project finance
- Real estate and construction
- Transport
Firm Rankings
- Angola > Foreign firms
- Mozambique > Foreign law firms