TozziniFreire Advogados > Sao Paulo, Brazil > Firm Profile
TozziniFreire Advogados Offices

R. BORGES LAGOA 1328
SAO PAULO, SP
CEP 04038-904
Brazil
TozziniFreire Advogados > The Legal 500 Rankings
City focus - Porto Alegre > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Active in a wide range of sectors, such as transport, chemicals, food and beverage, healthcare, and banking, the corporate team at TozziniFreire Advogados works in an integrated basis with the firm’s national network of offices to assist clients in complex cross-border mandates, M&A transactions and corporate restructurings. Venture capital deals and matters related to start-ups are other areas of particular strength for the group. The practice’s leadership is split between Luis Renato Ferreira da Silva, a specialist in contract law, litigation and arbitration, and Maria Bofill, who is qualified in both Brazil and California and has extensive experience in M&A, private equity and foreign investments. At the associate level, Daniel Born Roman and Bruna Braga Luz De Oliveira are noted for their expertise in contractual matters. In August 2022, the team was strengthened by the arrival of Fernanda Fossati from Veirano Advogados, who joins as a partner.Practice head(s):
Luis Renato Ferreira da Silva; Maria Bofill
Testimonials
‘Experience and ability to resolve complex situations.’
Key clients
Magazine Luiza
Polo Venture Participações (Marcopolo)
Franke Kitchen Systems
Rudder Segurança
SLC Agrícola
RVC Venture CapitalParticipações e Investimentos (Randon Ventures)
Delinea Tecnologia Educacional
Aegro Holding
Boletoflex Tecnologia e Serviços
Lojas Renner
Sodexo do Brasil Comercial
Vulcabras Azaleia
Stahl Brasil
Tanac
Work highlights
- Assisted Magazine Luiza in a series of M&A transactions focused on digital companies and e-groceries.
- Advised Swiss company Franke Kitchen Systems on the sale of 100% of the shares issued by Franke Production, its Brazilian subsidiary, including all Franke’s manufacturing activities in Brazil, to Docol Metais Sanitários.
- Assisted Rudder and its shareholders in the sale of 100% of the Rudder Group’s shares to the GPS Group after the acquisition was approved by the CADE and the Brazilian Federal Police.
City focus - Porto Alegre > Tax Tier 1
TozziniFreire Advogados is a go-to choice for companies operating across an array of industries, including real estate, manufacturing, mining, infrastructure and energy. The tax department is singled out for its wide-ranging expertise, which covers tax planning, PIS and COFINS issues, corporate income tax (IRPJ/CSLL), sales tax (ICMS) and tax on manufactured goods (IPI) matters. The practice also demonstrates strength in administrative and judicial litigation, handling cases at all levels of the judiciary. Gustavo Nygaard, who specialises in corporate taxation matters, co-heads the department with litigator Rafael Mallmann, who is praised for his ‘excellent technical knowledge’.Practice head(s):
Gustavo Nygaard; Rafael Mallmann
Testimonials
‘Our main contact is Rafael Mallmann, who is always ready to assist us, with the greatest promptness and with great technical quality. He has excellent technical knowledge and is always attentive to legislative and jurisprudential changes.’
‘Ability to serve clients on a national level.’
‘Rafael Mallmann was responsible for the case, he demonstrates full mastery of the matters, and is always available to clarify doubts and provide the necessary advice.’
‘The firm handles cases in an individualised way. They seek legal and factual details that bring favourable results to the company.’
‘I can sum it up in one word: efficiency. Its efficiency is the result of a competent and multidisciplinary team.’
‘The team’s highlights are Gustavo Nygaard, who is distinguished by his extensive tax knowledge, making it possible to find solutions to different problems, and Rafael Mallmann, who stands out for his agility and readiness to find solutions, always suggesting a safe strategy. I recommend both professionals.’
Key clients
Rumo Malha Norte
Lojas Renner
Vonpar Group
BSBIOS
Ecoplan Engenharia
Zenvia Mobile Serviços Digitais
Realize Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento
RGE Sul Distribuidora de Energia
Stahl Brasil
Empresas Randon
Sabemi Previdência Privada
Grupo Vulcabras|Azaleia
Thoughtworks Brasil
MRC Soluções em Logística Ferroviária Vnte-Al
Brasil Student Housing Empreendimentos e Participações
Fraport Brasil (Aeroportos de Porto Alegre e Fortaleza)
Timac Agro Indústria e Comércio de Fertilizantes
Fagundes Mineração
Tanac
Work highlights
- Advised BSBIOS AgroIndustrial on a tax infraction notice issued by the Federal tax authorities, which denied the recovery of PIS and COFINS paid.
- Acted for Rumo Malha Noter in a tax litigation case, in which the Federal Revenue Office assessed the client to have misused PIS and CONFIS tax credits related to railway infrastructure.
- Represented Sodexo do Brasil Comercial in a tax litigation case, in which the State of Minas Gerais charged ICMS on the acquisition of food products from suppliers located in other states.
Brazil > Competition and antitrust Tier 1
TozziniFreire Advogados ‘remains one of the great references in Brazil when it comes to high-end corporate law firms‘. In competition and antitrust, the firm has established an impressive track record in the negotiation of leniency agreements with CADE, an area in which it maintains a large market share. The practice can also be seen representing companies in cartel and unilateral conduct investigations, and merger filings. Other distinguishing features include the team’s experience at CADE, with several of its lawyers having previously worked at the authority. Beyond the core competition group, the firm is also able to deploy cross-practice teams to cover the interconnected antitrust, compliance and white-collar criminal law aspects of complex cases. Tatiana Lins Cruz and Patricia Bandouk Carvalho are highlighted for their ability ‘to engage and dialogue with relevant authorities in this area at a high level‘. The well-regarded Marcelo CalliariPractice head(s):
Marcelo Calliari
Testimonials
‘Availability. Speed. Good technical knowledge. Business knowledge.’
‘Excellent, practical and clear advice, understanding of other jurisdictions’ practice to be able to explain the difference with CADE, first-class knowledge of CADE’s practice.’
‘Marcelo Calliari is first class!’
‘I’d highlight Marcel Medon Santos.’
‘All lawyers have excellent preparation and are highly specialised in antitrust, always leading the best practices and ahead of the most current discussions at CADE.’
‘Marcelo Calliari, Patricia Bandouk Carvalho and Tatiana Lins Cruz stand out.’
‘Tozzini Freire remains one of the great references in Brazil when it comes to high-end corporate law firms. The name of the firm, the unblemished reputation and the high ethical level play a role in the choice of this firm. It is even needless to say that the level of quality of services is high, and the attention and care for the client is a highlight.’
‘In competition law, Tozzini Freire has a highly qualified team to assist multinational companies in very sensitive matters. In this sense, I must highlight the work of Tatiana Lins Cruz and Patricia Bandouk Carvalho, who have dedicated a lot of attention and high-level work to defending our company’s interests. Furthermore, I must highlight the ability of these professionals to engage and dialogue with relevant authorities in this area, at a high level.’
Key clients
ABB
AstraZeneca
Ford
LafargeHolcim
Louis Dreyfuss Company
Marsh
Mastercard
Pfizer
UBS
Colgate
Luxottica
Work highlights
- Acted for Gettinge in a cartel investigation that originated from a leniency agreement launched by CADE in March 2021 to investigate possible anticompetitive practices involving HR departments of healthcare companies.
- Advised AstraZeneca on competition law matters with respect to its acquisition of sole control of Alexion Pharmaceuticals.
- Advised Varian Medical Systems on the competition law aspects with respect to its acquisition by Siemens Healthineers.
Brazil > Compliance Tier 1
A pioneer in the field of compliance, TozziniFreire Advogados stands out for its longevity in the market, and is noted for its ‘unique knowledge of the Brazilian compliance ecosystem‘. The firm has been particularly focused on crisis management, where it deploys multidisciplinary teams to assist clients in the context of environmental disasters, cyberattacks and other investigations. It also stands out for its active practice in internal investigations, in which it is frequently sought by well-known companies in a range of industries in sensitive matters. Co-founder of the Latin American Compliance & Investigation League (LACIL) and board member of The Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE), Shin Jae KimPractice head(s):
Shin Jae Kim
Testimonials
‘Recognised in the market for the professional way in which it acts!’
‘Karla Lini Maeji: technical and communicative professional with a solid background in compliance and who stands out for her pragmatism and leadership. Karla is an excellent professional!’
‘Giovanni Paolo Falcetta: he is very communicative, practical and has a business vision that collaborates in a unique way in his work.’
‘Tozzini’s team has a multidisciplinary profile and unique knowledge of the Brazilian compliance ecosystem, providing straightforward advice that is inestimable for in-house lawyers.’
‘Karla Lini Maeji and Brunna Ortega de Almeida are really business partners, providing outstanding support, with innovative thinking while always providing guidance on a legally compliant manner.’
Brazil > Labour and employment Tier 1
TozziniFreire Advogados has a ‘very deep and broad team, experienced in collective labour and litigation as well as everyday advice’. The top-tier practice acts for major domestic and international clients in established industries, in addition to nascent sectors such as fintech and cryptocurrencies. Lead roles on highly sensitive matters, such as advising Ford on the closure of its Brazilian manufacturing operations, are testament to the team’s impressive market reputation. Clients also note that the firm has ‘a robust legal and paralegal team and great aptitude for managing volume labour litigation’. The practice is led by Alexandre de Almeida Cardoso, who is ‘always bringing innovative ideas that solve the client’s problems’. Mihoko Sirley Kimura and Gabriela Lima are also highlighted by clients, and Fernanda Bianco Pimentel is a name to note on the social security side. Since publication, Marcelo Pereira Gômara has retired.Practice head(s):
Alexandre de Almeida Cardoso
Testimonials
‘Very deep and broad team, experienced in collective labor and litigation as well as everyday advice and counsel on employment law issues. Also very responsive and cost-effective, with multiple English-speakers.’
‘It is a firm with extensive experience in the labor area, with a robust legal and paralegal team and great aptitude for managing volume labor litigation.’
‘Alexandre de Almeida Cardoso is a lawyer with a lot of experience in the legal market, especially in the labor area, always bringing innovative ideas that solve the client’s problems.’
‘Gabriela Lima: very strong in all areas, gives good, practical advice to US clients and understands risk assessment. Mihoko Kimura: the same, with emphasis on litigation.’
‘It has a truly interdisciplinary team. Professionals are experts in the subjects they deal with. The analysis of the issues is very deep. It stands out for its diversity.’
‘Gabriela Lima Antares is an exceptional professional, with deep knowledge of the subject, excellent interpersonal skills and a lot of agility.’
‘TozziniFreire is a full service firm that has deservedly acquired great prominence in the labor area. In addition to being prominent in labor consultancy, it has a very expressive role in the Labor Courts and with the Public Ministry of Labor, defending clients from various sectors.’
‘Tozzini Freire’s labor department provides an excellent advisory service, with agility, assertiveness, innovation and clarity. The service and response time are fast, based on notable technical and practical legal knowledge, with a look at the client’s activity in a macro way and not restricted to labor aspects. They are innovative in their operating model, in the way they address their queries to clients, in managing diversity and inclusion. We note the differentiated area for precisely bringing a generalist view of the client’s operation, focusing on the labor area, but without disregarding or derailing the good operation and aspects involved in other areas.’
Key clients
Ford Motor Company
Mercedes-Benz do Brasil
Mercado Bitcoin
Oracle
Renner
Spal Indústria Brasileira de Bebidas
E-Banx
Siemens Group
Infracommerce
SAAB
Vedacit
São Paulo Futebol Clube
Banco Safra
Magazine Luiza
EMBRAER
Beneficência Portuguesa
Hospital Sírio Libanês
Banco BMG
McCain Brasil
Work highlights
- Acts as employment counsel to Ford Brasil on all aspects of the closure of its Brazilian production operation, involving the redundancy of over 5,000 direct employees.
Brazil > Banking and finance Tier 2
TozziniFreire Advogados has a versatile banking group, which is noted for its ‘customised solutions‘. The firm is especially strong in regulatory matters, where it represents a mix of fintech companies, payments providers and banks on a range of related issues, including licensing and partnership agreements. The firm’s transactional practice was also boosted by the arrival of Ricardo Stuber from KLA Advogados; he is particularly experienced in Real Estate Receivables certificates. The team has also been involved in several novel social impact-related financings. The practice is led by the ‘extremely attentive, proactive and agile‘ Alexei Bonamin, with recently promoted partner Marcus Fonseca especially active on the fintech front. Pedro Eroles, whose practice focuses on fintech, payment regulation and cryptocurrency matters, joined from Mattos Filho in August 2022.Practice head(s):
Alexei Bonamin
Testimonials
‘The team’s ability to seek customised solutions, in addition to the support that the brand offers, offers peace of mind for our partners.’
‘Alexei Bonamin, Marcus Fonseca – Extremely attentive, proactive and agile.’
Key clients
Agricultural Bank of China
Bank of New York Mellon
Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (Banrisul)
J.P. Morgan
Tenpay
United States International Development Finance Corporation – DFC
World Bank
Morgan Stanley
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Bank of America Corporation
Banco Société Générale Brasil
Raízen
Revelo
Impact Bank
Facebook Pay
Decolar / Koin
Raidiam Services Limited
Rebel
N26
Recarga PAY
Work highlights
- Advised Discovery on implementing its payment structure for the subscription of the Discovery+ streaming services in Brazil.
- Advised Blue Like an Orange Sustainable Capital and Órigo Energia on the first issuance of R$106m in non-convertible debentures to help broaden access to affordable clean energy to SMEs.
- Advised Raidiam, a fintech company responsible for delivering a suitable trust framework for Open Banking Systems, during the negotiations of an agreement that will regulate the duties and obligations of Raidiam when rendering its services in Brazil.
Brazil > Capital markets Tier 2
TozziniFreire Advogados is regularly involved in domestic and cross-border debt and equity listings. Recently, the firm has developed a good name for advising on ESG-linked products, including green bonds for manufacturing, renewables and infrastructure projects. The firm has established relationships with many of Brazil’s leading financial institutions and has a notable track record acting as counsel to underwriters. Practice head Alexei Bonamin handles a broad range of transactional and regulatory matters and also advises investment funds on related issues. The real estate receivables side of the practice was boosted by the recruitment of partner Ricardo Stuber from KLA Advogados. Gustavo Rabello and Fabíola Augusta Cavalcanti are also active on the debt side.Practice head(s):
Alexei Bonamin
Key clients
Banco Morgan Stanley
Banco do Brasil (BB) Banco de Investimento
Lojas Renner
Drogaria São Paulo
Banco Santander Brasil
Banco J.P. Morgan
Banco Itaú BBA
Banco BTG
Banrisul
FS Bioenergia
Work highlights
- Advised Itapoá Participações on its second issuance of debentures worth R$750m.
- Advised FS Bioenergia on the $80m issuance and sale of senior notes.
- Advised J.P. Morgan, Deutsche Bank Securities and the initial purchasers on a €500m green bond offering by the aluminium manufacturer Novelis, part of which will go towards financing new renewable energy generation facilities and aluminium recycling centres.
City focus - Brasilia > Government relations Tier 2
At TozziniFreire Advogados, the government relations team benefits from its ability to leverage the firm’s full-service capabilities in areas such as tax, labour, life sciences and banking, among others. The group is often retained by national and international clients to assist with parliamentary inquiries, public hearings and legislative proposals. Practice head Cláudio Timm is a key contact for clients seeking representation before government bodies and public authorities. With vast sectorial experience in life sciences, he often handles regulatory matters and enforcement proceedings before the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply and the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA). Since publication, Cláudio Timm has left the firm.Key clients
Instituto Brasileiro de Governança Corporativa (IBGC)
Associação dos Empregados do Serpro de Brasilia (ASES-DF)
IGT Global Services Limited
Scientific Games Investments Itália
Ford Motor Company Brasil
Messes Gases
Work highlights
- Represented IBGC in its government relations initiatives since 2016, especially in dialogues with parliamentarians about legislative proposals in the National Congress and with government officials about the review and enactment of new regulation.
City focus - Porto Alegre > Dispute resolution Tier 2
Major domestic and international companies turn to TozziniFreire Advogados for assistance in litigation before all levels of the judiciary, and arbitration cases involving the energy, transport, banking, infrastructure and telecoms sectors. In addition to its track record in disputes against regulatory agencies and public authorities, the group excels in contentious matters concerning commercial contracts, consumer law and civil liability. Civil and post-M&A arbitration proceedings are among Guilherme Carneiro Monteiro Nitschke‘s areas of expertise. Eduardo Mariotti is a key name for banking, financial and consumer disputes, while Luis Renato Ferreira da Silva focuses on contractual issues. Vinícius de Oliveira Berni is specialised in administrative and regulatory law. Gabriela Vitiello Wink is well versed in civil litigation. Senior associate Filipe Nasi is noted for his expertise in judicial and administrative disputes.Practice head(s):
Eduardo Mariotti; Luis Renato Ferreira da Silva; Vinícius de Oliveira Berni; Guilherme Carneiro Monteiro Nitschke; Gabriela Vitiello Wink
Testimonials
‘The technical quality of the professionals, organisation, and transparency sets the practice apart.’
‘Vinicius de Oliveira Berni and Filipe Nasi stand out for their availability.’
‘The lawyers are very attentive, and achieve great results.’
‘Great ability to seek positive results for the clients.’
Key clients
RGE Sul Distribuidora de Energia
Banco Santander
Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul – BANRISUL
CPFL Energia
Claro
Lojas Renner
SPAL Indústria Brasileira de Bebidas (Coca Cola FEMSA)
Braskem
Companhia de Geração e Transmissão de Energia Elétrica do Sul do Brasil – Eletrobras CGT Eletrosul
Fras-Le
Sodexo Comercial do Brasil
Sport Club Internacional
Copobras SA Indústria e Comércio de Embalagens
Cosan
Pirelli
Tanac
Banco BMG
Ford Motor Company Brasil
Work highlights
- Represented Banco Santander in a claim filed by Caixa Econômica Federal against Banco Santander and Bozano Holding, in which the claimant requested the account reconciliation for credits and debts related to the acquisition and transfer of assets concluded by the parties in 1997.
- Acted for TESB – Transmissora de Energia Sul Brasil in a claim against ProCable Telecomunicações e Energia seeking compensation for damages arising from the breach of an EPC contract.
- Acted for Claro in a claim filed by Centrais Elétricas de Goiás – CELG.
Brazil > Corporate and M&A Tier 2
TozziniFreire Advogados' team is regularly instructed by a sizeable roster of prestigious corporate clients in an array of high-end and mid-market M&A transactions, private equity investments and divestitures, both domestic and cross-border in nature. Under the joint leadership of Marcela Waksman Ejnisman and João Busin, the practice has been notably active in high-profile deals in the technology and software fields, including fintech, as well as healthcare, logistics and infrastructure, among other sectors. Highlighted for its focus in innovation and strength in venture capital matters, the team has been ‘fostering the growth of new companies and entrepreneurship through Think Future‘, a programme whose focal point is on agile methodologies, visual law and legal initiatives that bring lawyers closer to the technical and operational areas of the law firm. On the topic of innovation, the firm has long utilised automated due diligence and AI sytems aiming at reducing costs and enhancing efficiency in the provision of legal services. Its D&I initiative (TFInclusão), which comprises affinity groups focusing on gender, LGBTIQA+, race, people with disabilities, refugees and sustainability, is also of note. The firm’s well-established pro bono programme goes from strength to strength; the firm reported an increase of almost 400% hours per year since 2017. Names to note in the M&A team include Maria Elisa Gualandi Verri, who acts for public and privately held companies in deals across the infrastructure, logistics and energy sectors, and Francisco Eumene Machado de Oliveira Neto, whose experience covers M&A, private equity, spinoffs and restructuring. Silvia Martins De Castro Cunha Zono marries M&A experience with in-depth knowledge of wealth and estate planning, while Fernando Silveira Carvalho is recommended for venture capital and foreign investments. Victor Frias Françoso ‘is an excellent professional and super available'. Juliana Soares Zaidan Maluf and Beatriz Seixas recently joined from Pinheiro Neto Advogados, while João Ribeiro da Costa and Oswaldo Dalla Torre arrived from Landi, Rodrigues, Nakano e Giovannetti Advogados.Practice head(s):
Marcela Waksman Ejnisman; João Busin
Testimonials
‘We were very impressed by the professionals’ diligence, agility and knowledge of the healthcare sector. In the work we have done with them advising us, we highlight the knowledge they have in venture capital.’
‘We have worked with João Busin and Juliana Maluf. João is a great lawyer and provides a high quality service. He is well respected in the legal market. Juliana is very technical and experienced in VC, and has a very commercial profile. Both are excellent M&A attorneys.’
‘Tozzini always served us impeccably. They meet deadlines, charge agreed fees, demonstrate deep business knowledge and are technically excellent. Some of Tozzini’s differentials are the level of specialisation of the professionals in each area, the fact that they are full service and because they are always at the forefront of new practices. They were the first to have an M&A team focused on Venture Capital, for example. They are also very focused on innovation in general, fostering the growth of new companies and entrepreneurship through Think Future, a program aimed at young companies.’
‘The partners I highlight are João Busin, Silvia Cunha and Fernando Carvalho. João is today one of the main M&A lawyers in Brazil and is Tozzini’s main reference in M&A. He is very technical. Silvia is one of the highlights of the M&A team, with extensive experience in complex transactions, as well as focusing on M&A deals involving family businesses and in the agribusiness space. She is an excellent team builder, always surrounding herself with good professionals. Fernando has a very similar profile to João in terms of practice and sophistication. His knowledge of litigation, in addition to the depth he has in M&A gives him a more dynamic view of the market. Among the associates, I highlight Victor Françoso, who is an excellent professional and super available.’
‘Beatriz Seixas and João Busin worked on the project at all times, with great availability and efficiency.’
‘I like the level of delivery of the partners, diverse team, speed and readiness in relation to demands, technical and negotiating capacity of the team.’
‘In particular, I would recommend the partners Juliana Maluf and Beatriz Seixas. Both have excellent technical knowledge, in addition to good client service.’
‘We worked several times with partners João Busin, Fernando Carvalho, Silvia Cunha, Beatriz Seixas and Juliana Maluf. The team is spectacular and, despite being young, very experienced. Another quality is the speed and precision in the answers. All of them have always presented a very homogeneous level of excellence and quality, so that today they have become our reference for legal services.’
Key clients
Axxon Group
VF International
Vivante
GEF Capital Partners
Opy Health
JB3 Investimentos
FEMSA
Ontario Teachers Pension Plan
Votorantim
Solistica
McCain Foods Limited
Sinqia
Indigo Estacionamento
Marubeni Corporation
Amsted-Maxion Fundição e Equipamentos Ferroviários
Sumitomo Corporation of America
Toyota
Elis (Europe Linge Service)
Whirlpool
Decolar.com
Work highlights
- Advised OTPP on the acquisition of Evoltz and Norte Brasil Transmissora de Energia.
- Assisted MWS Capital in the series A investment in Árvore Educação and acquisition by Nubank of 100% of the capital stock of Olivia, a start-up focusing on AI and financial organisation.
- Advised on the acquisition of 100% of NewCon Tecnologia and NewCon Software, companies that develop software for the management of consortium, by Sinqia.
Brazil > Dispute Resolution: Arbitration Tier 2
At TozziniFreire Advogados, the ‘excellent arbitration practice' offers ‘well-thought-out and practical advice' in proceedings conducted under all sets of institutional rules. Arbitration arising from M&A, distribution agreements, shareholder disputes, construction contracts and conflicts involving the public administration are all core areas of focus for the department, which is often retained by clients operating in an array of industries, including real estate, energy, agribusiness and transport, among others. Fernando Eduardo Serec, who is a ‘go-to lawyer in difficult M&A disputes and any complex business litigation or arbitration’, oversees the practice, which also includes Guilherme Carneiro Monteiro Nitschke, who specialises in commercial and investment-related arbitrations, Lucas Britto Mejias, who undertakes both litigation and arbitration work, and Antonio Marzagão Barbuto Neto, a name to note for international arbitration. Luis Renato Ferreira da Silva is a key contact in Porto Alegre. Senior associate Maria Isabel De SÁ Dias Machado stands out for her involvement in domestic arbitrations concerning commercial, corporate and administrative law.Practice head(s):
Fernando Eduardo Serec
Testimonials
‘Proximity to the client and business understanding.’
‘Lucas Britto Mejias is extremely competent and focused on client solutions.’
‘Excellent arbitration practice, which provides well-thought-out and practical advice.’
‘Fernando Eduardo Serec is our go-to lawyer in difficult M&A disputes and any complex business litigation or arbitration. Antonio Marzagão Barbuto Neto is an excellent lawyer who works well with co-counsel and clients alike.’
‘Fernando Eduardo Serec and Lucas Britto Mejias are always available and very helpful.’
Key clients
Autonomy Investimentos
Acciona Infraestructuras Brasil
Central Park Empreendimentos Imobiliários
Coteminas
SBA Torres Brasil
Dufry Lojas Francas
MHFT – Investimentos
Nebras Power Investment Management
Lex Finance Advisory
Canadian Solar
Companhia de Geração e Transmissão de Energia Elétrica do Sul do Brasil – Eletrobras CGT Eletrosul
Kerui Método, Construção E Montagem
Fras-Le
Josema Administração e Participação
International Industria Automotiva da América do Sul
Fs Agrisolutions Indústria De Biocombustíveis
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Transportation Systems Brasil
Hormel Foods Brazil Participações
Notre-Dame Intermédica Saúde
Work highlights
- Representing Petrobras’ minority shareholder Alejandro Constantino Strationis in a case against the Government of Brazil seeking compensation for all losses deriving from the wrongdoings investigated in the “Car Wash” operation.
Brazil > Dispute Resolution: Litigation Tier 2
Standing out for its strong capabilities across all types of litigation, TozziniFreire Advogados ‘provides an excellent service in civil litigation‘ and has a strong track record in bet-the-company cases. The team, which acts at all judicial levels, is particularly noted for its strength in commercial disputes, and litigation involving the automotive and technology industries. Its sectoral coverage is not restricted to these segments, as the team is also regularly engaged by leading domestic and international clients operating in the construction, financial services, chemicals and pulp and paper industries. The nationwide practice is further bolstered by the firm’s strong presence in Porto Alegre. Singled out for his track record in construction-related cases, Fernando Eduardo Serec jointly manages the team with Luíz Virgílio Pimenta Penteado Manente, the latter of whom is counsel of choice for major telecoms companies in a host of commercial litigation matters. Disputes arising from M&A, distribution and agency agreements are among Mônica Mendonça Costa‘s legal specialisms. Elias Marques de Medeiros Neto, who possesses a strong background in strategic litigation and alternative dispute resolution as in-house counsel, joined from Cosan in February 2021.Practice head(s):
Fernando Eduardo Serec; Luiz Virgilio Pimenta Penteado Manente
Testimonials
‘TozziniFreire provides an excellent service in civil litigation. The answers are fast, demonstrate a lot of technical knowledge and the team provides a careful follow-up of cases.’
‘Mônica Mendonça Costa is an exceptional professional, competent, and up-to-date.’
Key clients
W.R. Grace & Co.
Colgate-Palmolive
Coteminas
Caterpillar
BMW do Brasil
Univar
Banco Societe Generale do Brasil
Ford Motor Company Brasil
Claro
Oracle do Brasil Sistemas
BRFIP
LafargeHolcim (Brasil)
Refinaria Nacional do Sal
FS Agrisolutions Industria de Biocombustíveis
Axalta Coating Systems
Mitsui Gás
Autonomy Investimentos
Work highlights
- Representing Oracle in a case brought by IBQ relating to the termination of a cloud computing services contract.
- Defended Axalta in a case against distributor Colorimetria Tintas seeking compensation for an alleged breach of exclusivity and termination of agreement for fault.
- Representing Ford in a case against ABRADIF which claims compensation for damages resulting in competition tort.
Brazil > Environment Tier 2
Praised for its ‘availability, speed of response and good technical knowledge’, the environmental law practice at TozziniFreire Advogados offers legal support to clients operating in a variety of sectors, including forestry, agribusiness, real estate, transport, energy and social infrastructure, on a multitude of projects, business transactions, regulatory matters and in litigation at the judicial and administrative levels. The team, which often works together with other practice groups in multidisciplinary matters, is also proficient in ESG, environmental compliance, sustainable finance and criminal law matters. Adriana Baptista is recognised for her work in relation to business-critical environmental mandates; she is a popular choice for clients involved in environmental disputes and projects with significant environmental implications. She jointly heads the department with Bianca Bilton Signorini Antacli, whose experience includes M&A transactions, brownfields, and projects related to the Convention on Biological Diversity and Nagoya Protocol. Noted for ‘his excellent technical capacity and good communication with the client‘, senior associate Danilo Lambert Vieira de Sousa handles administrative proceedings, environmental licensing and the environmental risks of energy and infrastructure projects. Vladimir Miranda Abreu chairs the climate change and carbon market practice group.Practice head(s):
Adriana Baptista; Bianca Bilton Signorini Antacli
Testimonials
‘Very competent team and excellent professionalism.’
‘Availability, speed of response and good technical knowledge.’
‘Adriana Mathias Baptista is a very technical professional who understands the business and the client’s needs with great ease.’
‘Adriana Mathias Baptista is extremely technical and knowledgeable on the subject. Danilo Lambert Vieira de Sousa is a very technical lawyer who is able to meet the client’s needs in short terms.’
‘This team of lawyers is very responsible in their work, has very good legal knowledge and responds effectively to the work required.’
‘Danilo Lambert Vieira de Sousa is a lawyer who stands out for his excellent technical capacity and good communication with the client. Excellent performance with external bodies.’
Key clients
ZF
TAG Transportadora Associada de Gás
Ericsson
GE
Ford
BMW
Honeywell
P&G
Saab AB
Fras-Le (Randon Group)
Work highlights
- Assisting Saab Sweden on the environmental licensing proceeding for producing sensor systems in Brazil.
- Assists SABESP in the analysis of the state of São Paulo’s legislation and regulatory environment, with an aim to support the drafting of bills for the implementation of a registration system for greenhouse gas emissions reduction.
Brazil > Public law Tier 2
Cláudio Timm The government projects and contracts team at TozziniFreire Advogados demonstrates strong capabilities in designing PPP structures, negotiating public contracts and assisting clients in public procurement. The department offers legal support to a varied client roster, helping companies navigate the complexities surrounding interactions with governmental entities, public bodies and regulatory agencies. José Augusto Dias De Castro, who focuses on public procurement and compliance issues involving public-private sector interactions, and Marcelo Zenkner, who recently joined from Petrobras to oversee mandates involving administrative improbity, anti-corruption and compliance, jointly head up the team. The team was strengthened by the arrival of Caio de Souza Loureiro from Cascione Pulino Boulos Advogados in March 2022; he focuses his practice on the interaction between the public and private sectors. Since publication, former co-head Cláudio Timm has left the firm.Practice head(s):
José Augusto Dias de Castro; Marcelo Zenkner
Testimonials
‘Tozzini’s team has a business-oriented profile, demonstrating great knowledge and experience in providing straightforward advice that is inestimable for in-house lawyers.’
‘José Augusto Dias de Castro provides outstanding legal support.’
Key clients
BRK Ambiental
Mitsui Gás e Energia do Brasil
Saab Ab
Advent do Brasil
Elis Groupe
Citelum (Citéluz Groupe)
Uberluz Energética and Caraguá Luz
Mindray Brasil
Estrela Instantêa Loteria SPE
Associação dos Empregados do Banco de Brasília (AEBRB)
Associação dos Empregados do Serpro de Brasília (ASES-DF)
IGT Global Services Limited
Scientific Games Investments Itália
Veolia Brasil
Banco Credit Agricole Brasil
Oxbow Brasil Energia, Indústria e Comércio
Companhia Estadual de Energia Elétrica – Geração e Transmissão (CEEE-GT)
Companhia Estadual de Energia Elétrica – Distribuição (CEEE-D)
Banrisul – Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul
Work highlights
- Part of a consortium that won a bidding process and executed an agreement with BNDES, whose scope is to perform the studies required for privatising TRENSURB.
- Assisting IGT and Scientific Games in their joint venture to participate in all profitable opportunities in state lotteries.
- Advising AEBRB, which is the largest minority shareholder of the Bank of Brasília, on its corporate reorganisation.
Tax > Customs Tier 2
Brazil > TMT: Cybersecurity and data privacy Tier 2
The cybersecurity and data privacy practice at TozziniFreire Advogados covers contentious and non-contentious data protection issues related to LGPD compliance, data breaches, and administrative and judicial proceedings. The litigation side of the practice regularly handles emblematic issues within the LGDP and internet law space, such as artificial intelligence, and intermediary liability for personal data in instances of illegality online. Marcela Waksman Ejnisman focuses her practice on contracts and advisory work related to data compliance programmes and training. Patricia Helena Marta Martins is a key contact within the team for litigation and administrative proceedings before the courts and regulators. Carla Do Couto Hellu Battilana is also a technology expert, regularly advising on data sharing agreements, data licensing and internal policies for clients. Luiza Sato joined the team from ASBZ Advogados in July 2022, bringing with her expertise across IP, technology and digital law.Practice head(s):
Marcela Waksman Ejnisman; Patrícia Helena; Marta Martins
Testimonials
‘The firm has a team of proactive lawyers, who always seek to understand all the details of the issue presented by the company, when they are called upon, presenting in the end a precise and excellent result.’
‘Extremely dedicated team and subject matter experts. Agility in service. They understand the client’s business vision.’
‘Carla do Couto Hellu Battilana, Tulio Belem de Andrade, and Marcela Ejnisman: I recommend these three practitioners.’
Key clients
Meta
TikTok
Softbank
Mitre Realty Empreendimentos e participações
Page Group
Vitamina
Hanesbrands
Mckinsey
Adobe
dunnhumby
Colgate
Hasbro
Biogen
Aspen Pharma
GoDaddy Serviços Online do Brasil
Lojas Renner
BMW
Magna
Work highlights
- Assisting McKinsey with its LGPD data conformity programme, which includes mapping the data processing activities carried out in the company.
- Assisting Colgate with LGPD compliance, including mapping the data processing activities carried out in the company, and identifying the applicable legal bases, risks and recommendations.
- Advising BMW on its compliance with LGPD, including the development of the legal structure to introduce connected vehicle services in the Brazilian market.
Brazil > TMT: Tech, innovation and digital business Tier 2
Technology-related litigation is a core strength for TozziniFreire Advogados‘ technology and digital business practice, which is trusted by major international social media and networking companies in complex mandates. The team regularly advises on both regulatory and transactional matters, including technology transfer agreements, software licensing and venture capital funding. In addition, the team represents clients in civil and electoral disputes. The department is co-led by Marcela Waksman Ejnisman and Patricia Helena Marta Martins, with Ejnisman a key contact for contractual and advisory work and Martins focusing on civil litigation matters concerning data protection and AI. Carla Do Couto Hellu Battilana and Bruna Borghi Tomé are also of note, both advising on data protection issues.Practice head(s):
Marcela Waksman Ejnisman; Patrícia Helena Marta Martins
Testimonials
‘The Tozzini team is agile and responsive and expert in the areas of Brazilian law and practice that matter most to us.’
‘Bruna Valeri Taavora has been great for us.’
Key clients
TikTok
Magazine Luiza
Decolar.com
Salesforce
Adobe
Raidiam
Sinqia
Pearson Education
OSIsoft
Work highlights
- Advised Raidiam during the negotiations of an agreement to regulate the duties and obligations of Raidiam when rendering services in the implementation of the open banking structure in Brazil.
- Advised Sinqia on the disposal of 51% of its shares of Rosk Software known as QuiteJá, which is a technology provider for digital negotiation and debt collection through AI.
City focus - Brasilia > Public law and regulation Tier 3
TozziniFreire Advogados is retained to handle PPPs, public contracts and compliance matters as well as judicial and administrative disputes. The group is noted for its strength in the infrastructure sector, where it provides strategic advice on administrative law and concessions for airports, roads, ports and public transportation. The practice is also a popular choice in public procurement matters such as the negotiation of supply agreements and actions with state-owned companies and the Brazilian government. Leading the department is Cláudio Timm, who draws on extensive experience in regulatory and enforcement proceedings before various public bodies such as the Federal Court of Accounts, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture. Since publication, Cláudio Timm has left the firm.Testimonials
‘In-depth analysis of the topics and quick responses.’
‘High level of knowledge of the matters discussed, always up-to-date with jurisprudence changes.’
‘Professional commitment and assertiveness in solving complex issues.’
Key clients
Associação dos Empregados do Serpro de Brasília (ASES-DF)
IGT Global Services
Scientific Games Investments Itália
Veolia Brasil
Banco Credit Agricole Brasil
Association of Workers of the Bank of Brasilia (Associação dos Empregados do Banco de Brasília – AEBRB).
Companhia Estadual de Energia Elétrica – Geração e Transmissão (CEEE-GT)
Companhia Estadual de Energia Elétrica – Distribuição (CEEE-D)
Banrisul – Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul
Work highlights
- Assisted IGT and Scientific Games with their joint venture to participate in all profitable opportunities in several state lotteries.
- Advised AEBRB, a minority shareholder of the Bank of Brasília (BRB), a commercial bank controlled by the government of the Federal District, on the corporate reorganisation of BRB.
City focus - Porto Alegre > Labour Tier 3
With notable strength in the energy, telecoms, tech, manufacturing and pharmaceutical segments, TozziniFreire Advogados undertakes contentious and non-contentious work. The team is often engaged in complex collective negotiations with trade unions, employment matters related to M&A transactions and individual and collective claims. Litigator Maurício De Carvalho Góes oversees the practice.Practice head(s):
Maurício de Carvalho Góes
Testimonials
‘Excellent service. Lawyers are very well prepared and up-to-date on matters.’
‘Confidence, quick feedback and broad knowledge of the subjects.’
‘The firm stands out for its professionals, who have excellent technical knowledge in their areas of expertise, providing services in a personalised way.’
‘Focused on serving the client with quality and availability.’
‘Negotiations are integrated with other departments.’
‘Maurício de Carvalho Góes is very knowledgeable and didactic.’
Key clients
Braskem
BRK Ambiental
Escola Panamericana
Foxter Cia Imobiliária
FRAS-LE
Kavo Kerr
Lojas Colombo
Mineradora Fagundes
Pirelli
Portocred
Prometeon Tyre Group
Radio E Tv Bandeirantes
Randon
RGE Sul
CGT ELETROSUL
CPFL ENERGIA
Nexteer
Banco de Lage Landen
Grupo RBS
SoloNetwork
Energy and natural resources > Electricity (and renewable energy)
Praised by clients for its ‘ability to combine corporate know-how with regulatory experience', TozziniFreire Advogados is recognised for its strength in M&A transactions and project financing in the power sector. Its varied client roster comprises numerous energy generators, transmission and trading companies, distributors, as well as national and foreign institutional investors seeking assistance with critical corporate and regulatory aspects arising in the purchase and sale of energy companies and assets. The practice is also active in advising corporate consumers of electricity on offtake agreements, and non-energy companies looking to develop energy generation projects. Leading the department is Leonardo Miranda, who possesses ‘great knowledge of the M&A market' and project contracts. He receives key support from Ana Carolina Katlauskas Calil, whose experience covers project development, corporate transactions and regulatory issues across all power sub-segments.Practice head(s):
Leonardo Miranda
Testimonials
‘The team is extremely pragmatic, with deep knowledge of the business, including our purposes and investment strategy in the Latin American region. All partners, in their respective specialties, have a deep knowledge of their markets, always distinguishing between what is common practice in Brazil and what is not, often through comparisons with what is practiced in other markets. All professionals are fluent in English, with an integrated and international profile. They value technical excellence.’
‘Ana Carolina Katlauskas has helped us in various regulatory matters and participated in some of our projects. She demonstrates mastery of the subject and deep knowledge.’
‘Leonardo Miranda is a great lawyer, attentative to detail and with great knowledge of the M&A market; I also highlight the work of Ana Carolina Katlauskas.’
‘TozziniFreire has the ability to combine corporate know-how with regulatory experience, especially regarding participation in M&A transactions and project financing.’
‘The Firm has excellent performance in the energy area. We were successful in a complex matter due to the diligence, competence and technical skills of the Tozzini energy team.’
‘Ana Carolina Katlauskas Calil is an exceptional lawyer. We have extreme confidence in her competence and performance in the energy sector.’
Key clients
Darby Servtec Energia FIP
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
Danske
Red Eléctrica Internacional
Grupo BP
Prisma Capital
Essentia
Claro
SuperVia
Celeo Redes
Nouryon
Vestas
Safira Energia
Riacho da Serra
Órigo Energia
Faro Energy
Work highlights
- Assisted FDN in the sale of the Colombian Ministry of Finance’s equity interest (51.4%) in Interconexión Eléctrica to Ecopetrol.
- Assisted Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board – OTPP with the acquisition of 100% of the shares held by global private equity sponsor TPG in Evoltz Participações.
- Advised Leovac on the acquisition of all shares held by Centrais Elétricas do Norte do Brasil – Eletronorte.
Brazil > Insurance Tier 3
TozziniFreire Advogados advises on a broad spread of insurance and reinsurance matters including corporate, regulatory and litigation. Clients include major insurers, reinsurers and brokers, which regularly instruct the firm on high-profile coverage claims as well as M&A, insurance policies and joint ventures. The team is also increasingly involved in growth sectors such as insurtech and related online and data protection matters. The practice is jointly led by the versatile Bárbara Bassani De Souza, who handles a range of litigation and regulatory issues, and New York-based partner Marcio Mello Silva Baptista.Practice head(s):
Bárbara Bassani de Souza; Marcio Mello Silva Baptista
Key clients
Principal Financial Services
Compagnie Française d’Assurance pour le Commerce Extérieur (COFACE DO BRASIL)
Zurich Minas Brasil Seguros
Fairfax Brasil Seguros Corporativos
Berkley International do Brasil Seguros
Euler Hermes Seguros
Banco ABC Brasil
Argo Seguros Brasil
CesceBrasil Seguros de Garantias e Crédito
Work highlights
- Assisted Banco ABC Brasil with the creation of an insurance broker, ABC Brasil Corretora de Seguros.
- Assisted several insurers, brokers and reinsurance companies on their compliance with insurance regulatory matters related to data privacy.
- Advised the underwriter Planeta of CRAS (credit receivable certificates) on the purchase of an internal credit insurance policy to cover its securitised products.
Brazil > International trade Tier 3
TozziniFreire Advogados has a ‘highly specialised‘ international trade team that offers clients ‘360° knowledge of each theme and the impacts and benefits‘. The ‘attentive, competent, objective, ethical and strategic‘ practice head Vera Kanas brings over 20 years’ market experience, including time spent working on WTO disputes for Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The lawyers regularly advise domestic and international clients on trade remedies and compliance issues, including anti-dumping investigations and sunset reviews. There is close co-ordination with the tax practice on related customs and tariff issues, an area where partner Lisandra Pacheco is particularly experienced.Practice head(s):
Vera Kanas
Testimonials
‘Highly specialised team, with unique relationship level with each client, understanding their purposes and strategies. Advanced technical quality, involvement, 360° knowledge of each theme and the impacts and benefits. They are absolutely market benchmarks, both in Brazil and abroad.’
‘Vera Kanas and Isabelle Ruiz Guero are both attentive, competent, objective, ethical and strategic professionals.’
‘Technical quality, competence, attention, and great client care.’
‘I’d highlight Lisandra Pacheco.’
‘Quickly understands the client’s needs, and practical knowledge of customs and trade matters.’
Key clients
Greiner Bio-One
Sumitomo Rubber Industries
Valeo Sistemas Automotivos
CMPC Celulose Riograndense
Saab AB
Mercado Livre
McCain
Tanac
Elizabeth Arden
Correias Mercurio
Oxbow
Hyundai
Cochlear
Emerson
Sonova
Mosaic
Work highlights
- Represented Greiner Bio-One Brasil in the sunset review regarding the anti-dumping duties applicable to the imports of blood collection tubes.
- Representing Correias Mercurio in the application procedure to reduce the tariffs applied to the importation of steel cords used to produce conveyor belts in Brazil.
- Representing CMPC, a pulp producer in Brazil, in an anti-dumping investigation into imports of caustic soda from the US.
Brazil > Life sciences Tier 3
Praised for its ‘excellent service’ and ability to offer clients ‘comprehensive advice covering all relevant legal areas and commercial aspects’, TozziniFreire Advogados’ life sciences offering is multidisciplinary in nature, with strong regulatory expertise. Recent highlights include advising on vaccine manufacture, ventilator regulation and medical device refurbishment during the Covid-19 pandemic. The ‘client focused’ Marco Aurélio Torronteguy heads up the practice and is a go-to partner in the firm for all manner of regulatory matters. Senior associate Victor Hugo Callejon Avallone is also of note within the team, particularly for advice on clinical trials, administrative proceedings and health-sector M&A. Pro bono work continues to be a standout area for the firm, particularly in providing legal assistance to NGOs and similar entities.Practice head(s):
Marco Aurélio Torronteguy
Testimonials
‘What makes the firm unique is the highly qualified staff, the promptness in service, that the team adapts itself to the client’s needs, and the quality of the work. The combination of so many qualities in a team only makes the service and the result unique.’
‘Marco Aurelio Antas Torronteguy is professional and very qualified. He provides an excellent service. Fast, efficient, effective and very well qualified.’
‘Tozzini’s practice is unique because of its long-established reputation and presence in the industry. Any potential client should know that they will receive comprehensive advice covering all relevant legal areas and due to its experience even advice on certain commercial aspects and decisions.’
‘Tozzini’s Life Sciences team is in contact with major pharmaceutical companies and therefore exposed to all types of situations. This gives Tozzini’s team a difference over other firms.’
‘Marco Aurelio Antas Torronteguy has proved to be a very enthusiastic and client focused attorney. He is always a available to respond in time about any regulatory matter, with deep knowledge and detailed analysis of each arising issue. It is not common to see this kind of commitment and this certainly makes a difference.’
‘Professionalism, creativity, client knowledge.’
Key clients
Laboratórios Pfizer
Amyris
Danone Brasil
CSL Behring
Elizabeth Arden Cosméticos Do Brasil
Torrent Do Brasil
Kavo Do Brasil
Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer
Covington & Burling
Work highlights
- Advising a producer of cannabis medical products on the public health regulatory assessment of its products, including the description of ANVISA’s regulations.
- Supporting a multinational pharmaceutical client with legal, regulatory and compliance assistance regarding the regulation on drug marketing and controlled drugs.
- Assisting a biopharmaceutical company, which manufactures plasma-derived and recombinant therapeutic products on several matters in Brazil.
Brazil > Projects and infrastructure Tier 3
The multidisciplinary infrastructure group at TozziniFreire Advogados provides ‘excellent advisory services' in the fields of project finance, project structuring and regulatory matters. Its diverse client roster is made up of sponsors, multilateral agencies, and domestic and foreign investors seeking advice on public bids, projects and M&A transactions in the energy, water, waste management, mobility and logistics sectors. José Augusto Dias De Castro is regularly involved in governmental, regulatory and compliance matters related to the implementation of infrastructure projects, with a special emphasis on ports and terminals. Leonardo Miranda ‘has in-depth knowledge of energy regulatory matters and is well versed in related topics'. Jun Makuta is a key contact for Japanese investors, and Karin Yamauti Hatanaka, who recently joined from Cescon Barrieu, is noted for her extensive experience in project finance. Ana Carolina Katlauskas Calil stands out for her comprehensive knowledge of the power sector, including regulatory and transactional issues. Caio de Souza Loureiro, who is seasoned in infrastructure projects and administrative contracts, joined from Cascione Pulino Boulos Advogados in March 2022.Practice head(s):
José Augusto Dias de Castro; Leonardo Miranda; Jun Makuta; Karin Yamauti Hatanaka; Ana Carolina Katlauskas Calil
Testimonials
‘Jun Makuta is skilled in negotiations, flexible, always seeking the best solutions for clients.’
‘The team is extremely pragmatic, with deep knowledge of the business. All partners, in their respective specialties, have a deep knowledge of their markets, always distinguishing between what is common practice in Brazil and what is not, often through comparisons with what is practiced in other jurisdictions. All professionals are fluent in English, with an integrated and international profile. They value technical excellence. Another point that also makes them stand out is that, despite being a large firm, the relationship with us is very fluid, efficient and customised.’
‘Leonardo Miranda has in-depth knowledge of energy regulatory matters and is well versed in related topics, such as corporate, project financing, administrative law and tax matters specific to the sectors he covers.’
‘The team provided excellent advisory services. We had discussions that were very well handled by the team. I also highlight that the transaction was signed in record time.’
Key clients
Advent do Brasil Consultoria e Participações
IFC – International Finance Corporation
Holcim
Philips do Brasil
Mckinsey & Company
Saab AB
Norte Energia
Acciona
bp Group
Litasco (Lukoil Group)
Citelum
Work highlights
- Acted for FDN in the sale of the Colombian Ministry of Finance’s equity interest (51.4%) in Interconexión Eléctrica (ISA) to Ecopetrol.
- Assisted Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board – OTPP with the acquisition of 100% of the shares held by TPG in Evoltz Participações.
- Part of a consortium that won a bidding process and executed an agreement with BNDES, whose scope is to perform the studies required for privatising Empresa de Trens Urbanos de Porto Alegre – TRENSURB.
Brazil > Real estate Tier 3
TozziniFreire Advogados provides an ‘excellent and extremely personalised service‘ at a ‘high technical level‘. The ‘highly qualified lawyers‘ are noted for their ‘excellent communication, both with their client and with their client’s clients‘. The multidisciplinary team regularly assists in major hotel and multi-use developments, and has recently been involved in projects in the student housing and airport sectors. This is backed by a strong and expanding finance arm. Vladimir Miranda Abreu leads the team and is particularly experienced in rural and agribusiness related issues. Pablo Meira Queiroz has ‘extensive experience in real estate transactions of significant financial value and in structured real estate transactions‘.Practice head(s):
Vladimir Miranda Abreu
Testimonials
‘What makes TFA unique is the excellent and extremely personalised service they provide to their clients. Exemplary technical capacity, organisation in demands, intelligent and innovative solutions.’
‘I’d highlight Pablo Queiroz and Gabriela Nunes: Gabriela develops risk analysis with a lot of technique and proposes adequate solutions and mitigating factors in order to make the transaction viable with legal certainty. In addition, she is proactive and detailed, providing confidence that the audit is being carried out without information leaks. Pablo is always available to make calls and discuss solutions and the structure of the transaction.’
‘Pablo Queiroz – excellent partner, exemplary technical ability, extremely intelligent, remarkable social ability and always available. Julian Junqeira Rillo – excellent professional, dedicated, intelligent and always available. Anelio Junqeira Borges – excellent professional, dedicated, intelligent, in-depth knowledge of construction-related matters and always available;’
‘TozziniFreire’s performance has been impeccable, diligent and committed to its client’s goals.’
‘I would like to highlight the performance of Pablo Meira Queiroz and the members of his team, Anelio Junqueira Lopes Borges, Gabriela Machado and Julian Junqueira Rillo, for their high level of technical knowledge, committed performance and clear communication. Together, they seek to make business possible with us from the embryonic stage, through diligence, legal opinions and “tailor made” contracts.’
‘Great partner in business. Works excellently and at a high technical level.’
‘The quality of the service is excellent because it has highly qualified professionals, who have excellent communication both with their client and with their client’s clients. The lawyers are super available.’
‘Pablo Meira Queiroz has extensive experience in real estate transactions of significant financial value and in structured real estate transactions. He is a lawyer who gets along very well both with the company’s board of directors and with the other hired lawyers. Gabriela Nunes Machado is a highly available professional with a lot of experience in the real estate market; she always brings creative, fast and intelligent solutions.’
Key clients
FS Agrisolutions
Mitre Realty
SBA Communications
Carrefour
RB Capital
QuintoAndar
WeWork
Ford Motor Company
McCain
Imbassaí Beach
Ardagh
Serasa Experian
Agro Serra
Claro
Newport Gestora
Suez Water Technologies
Greystar International
Share Student Living
FEMSA/SPAL
Cadillac Fairview / OTTP
CloudKitchens
Work highlights
- Advised Serasa on the sale of its former headquarters (Quinimuras Building) in São Paulo to Tishman Speyer.
- Assisted Newport Gestora, the manager of Fundo de Investimento Imobiliários Newport Logística, in the acquisition of a large logistics centre from Hyperapharma.
- Advised Jive Investments on the acquisition of credits from Banco do Brasil related to the financing of three real estate projects developed by OR (formerly Odebrecht Realizações Imobiliárias).
Tax > Tax advisory Tier 3
TozziniFreire Advogados is praised for the ‘personalised service and excellence‘ of its tax team, which assists clients from across a wide range of industries. The firm’s sizeable department allows for a strong degree of specialisation in key areas such as direct tax, indirect tax and customs law, from both a contentious and non-contentious perspective. The team continues to expand following the recruitment of highly rated Brasília-based federal tax litigator Alberto Medeiros from Stocche Forbes Advogados, and the promotion of litigation partner Bruno Teixeira, who is praised for his ‘great efficiency‘. Other key partners include practice co-heads Gustavo Nygaard, for corporate tax, and Renata Emery, for advisory and contentious matters. Lisandra Pacheco and Thiago Rulfalco Medaglia are lead contacts for customs-related issues. Vinícius Jucá is no longer at the firm.Practice head(s):
Gustavo Nygaard; Renata Emery
Testimonials
‘Personalised service and excellence in the drafts prepared, with always updated jurisprudence and newsletter every month forwarded to clients on the main tax issues in the courts. The fact that it is a full service firm also favours in the analyses that require knowledge in other branches of law.’
‘We work directly with partner Bruno Rodrigues Teixeira de Lima. Bruno is fully available at any time of the day to resolve any question presented. Our queries are always met with great efficiency and brevity.’
Key clients
Nestlé
Claro-Nextel
Naval Group
Whirlpool
Banco Bradesco
Decolar.com
Colgate Palmolive
Audi do Brasil
Femsa
Lojas Renner
Work highlights
- Advising Jaguar Land Rover on tax issues, and related incentives, linked to the development of its first manufacturing plant outside the UK.
- Advising Saab following a tax assessment issued by São Paulo state’s tax authorities for the collection of state VAT (ICMS) applied on the importation of certain equipment.
- Advising Whirlpool on the assessment of IRPJ and CSLL taxes levied on the profits of its controlled foreign subsidiaries.
Tax > Tax litigation Tier 3
Brazil > TMT: Media Tier 3
Particularly adept in matters involving the intersection of entertainment and technology, TozziniFreire Advogados draws on its corporate, regulatory, and IP expertise to advise clients in both non-contentious and contentious issues. Free speech regulations, copyright, licensing, image rights, and trade marks are core areas of activity for the team, which is particularly sought by clients in the social media and computer games industries. Marcela Waksman Ejnisman leads the practice and has a broad base of expertise across the sector, with strength in copyright and trade mark issues relating to financing, broadcasting, distribution, and content governance. Carla Do Couto Hellu Battilana is a key contact for social media clients, and is particularly seasoned in matters involving e-sports competition, free speech and censorship in Brazil.Practice head(s):
Marcela Waksman Ejnisman
Key clients
TikTok
Garena Interactive Holding Limited and Garena Brasil
Teads Studio
Viacom
Fever Up
The Pokémon Company International
Konami Gaming
Konami Digital Entertainment
Discovery Corporate Services Limited
Decolar
Papaya Gaming, Inc
VIRTUAL IP ASSETS LIMITED
Outfit7
Work highlights
- Assisting The Pokémon Company in the manufacturing agreement executed with COPAG.
- Representing Garena Interactive Holding Limited and Garena Brasil in a public civil action filed against the client by a civil organisation called “ANCED” – National Association of Child and Adolescent Defence Centers.
- Assisting Decolar in the context of undue and unlawful use of its brands, corporate name and other identifying elements by unauthorised third parties.
Brazil > TMT: Telecoms Tier 3
TozziniFreire Advogados is routinely retained by domestic and foreign clients, particularly from the US, operating or looking to enter the Brazilian telecoms market. The practice is spearheaded by Marcela Waksman Ejnisman, who is an expert in regulatory and commercial matters pertaining to the telecoms and tech sectors, and often advises on transactions and commercial agreements. Luíz Virgílio Pimenta Penteado Manente is the go-to lawyer for consumer law issues. Senior associate Mariana Del Nero Cornibert Da Barrosa is adept in corporate and partnership agreements within the sector.Practice head(s):
Marcela Waksman Ejnisman
Key clients
Twilio
Boingo
Lumen
Zenvia
Claro
Affirmed Networks
SBA Torres
Netell Telecomunicações
Viasat
Twilio
Boingo
Lumen
Zenvia
Claro
Affirmed Networks
SBA Torres
Netell Telecomunicações
Viasat
BMW
Sonova
Work highlights
- Assisting Boingo Wireless in corporate matters involving the relationship with the minority shareholder of Boingo Holding Participações.
- Assisting the Lumen Group in the post-closing measures of a previous transaction involving a Brazilian Subsidiary of the Group and notification to ANATEL.
- Representing Claro in public class actions filed by the Public Prosecutor concerning the quality of Claro’s Mobile Personal Service.
Brazil > Intellectual property Tier 4
TozziniFreire Advogados‘ IP practice is well known for its strength in internet, domain name and digital technology-related IP matters. Technology agreements, negotiations, transfers and licensing agreements are regularly undertaken by practitioners in the firm for high-profile domestic and international companies. M&A deals in which IP assets are a key consideration are also within the purview of the team, conducting due diligence and assessing potential liabilities across the spectrum of intangible properties, including copyright, trade marks and patents. The team also has a strong media and entertainment industry focus, advising on image usage rights, subsidiary rights and ambush marketing. The ‘exemplary’ team is co-led by transactional IP experts Marcela Waksman Ejnisman and Carla Do Couto Hellu Battilana. Stephanie Consonni De Schryver is also noted.Practice head(s):
Marcela Waksman Ejnisman; Carla do Couto Hellu Battilana
Testimonials
‘TozziniFreire Advogados is exemplary in dealing with issues related to the defence of brands. The professionals present in-depth and fast analysis, which helped in decision-making and overcoming complex problems. Certainly, without the firm’s advice, the chances of success would be reduced.’
‘On this specific point, I highlight the performance of Stephanie Consonni De Schryver. She certainly stands out in the team for her knowledge and ease of communication.’
Key clients
Pokémon
McCain
ByteDance (TikTok)
Grupo Mulheres do Brasil
Quinto Andar
Estée Lauder
Merama Inc
FEMSA Servicios
Veracel Celulose
Raidiam Services
Work highlights
- Assisted FEMSA on the registration of its trade mark OXXO in Brazil, and in an administrative dispute involving the registration of domain name oxxo.com.br.
- Assisting Merama in the negotiations and assignment of trade marks registered in bad faith by third parties and handling Merama’s trade mark portfolio.
- Assisted Raidiam with the implementation of the structure of Open Banking in Brazil by negotiating and drafting the main agreement regarding software, technology and IP matters.
Brazil > White-collar crime and investigations Tier 5
‘Very focused and prepared', TozziniFreire Advogados regularly assists major companies in criminal matters. Its white-collar criminal law practice is independent from others in the firm, although the team benefits from collaboration with colleagues in -primarily- the compliance, competition, environment and tax areas. Highlighted for her ‘excellent professionalism', Isadora Fingermann is ‘very technical, strategic and has a remarkable understanding of corporate dynamics'. A former executive director of the Institute for Defence of the Right to Defence (IDDD), Fingermann is also involved in pro bono projects at the firm, often working alongside litigation partners.Practice head(s):
Isadora Fingermann
Testimonials
‘Isadora Fingermann has exceptional knowledge of Brazilian criminal law. I feel very comfortable having Dr Isadora leading my case because in my opinion she is one of the best lawyers in this area.‘
‘Office with which we already have a long-standing relationship, having a lot of knowledge of our business, as well as understanding the company’s pain. They have a very accurate sense of urgency and are extremely diligent, achieving a lot of speed and assertiveness.‘
‘Isadora Fingermann is a highly-qualified professional with a keen sense of urgency, making a quick analysis of situations and providing assertive solutions.‘
‘Isadora Fingermann is a highlight of the TozziniFreire team who deserves to be recognised. Agile, easy to access, quick thinking, efficient and client focused. Congratulations to Isadora for her excellent professionalism.‘
‘This is a full-service office that has a well-known policy of diversity and transparency in the career plan and also in terms of the requirements for advancement in society, especially for young lawyers. The office is headquartered in several cities in the country and is very renowned in some areas, such as tax and litigation.‘
‘In the scope of corporate criminal law, Isadora Fingermann deserves to be highlighted. She is a professional of excellence, with international practical and academic training, which gives her a special ability to work in the criminal area in the context of a full service office. In addition, Isadora is very technical, strategic and has a remarkable understanding of corporate dynamics. I strongly recommend her.‘
‘Complete office with a very focused and prepared team.‘
‘Isadora Fingermann is the reference name. A smart, mature and talented professional, she changed the reputation of the law firm’s criminal area, making it stronger.‘
TozziniFreire Advogados > Firm Profile
Firm overview: Established in 1976, TozziniFreire Advogados is a premier, full-service law firm acting in 55 areas of corporate law.
Main areas of practice
M&A, corporate and foreign investment: TozziniFreire is a leader in Brazil’s M&A market and is actively involved in structuring high-profile transactions and executing all types of deals. TozziniFreire assists foreign investors in structuring and implementing multidisciplinary and multi-jurisdictional business transactions, advising on investment alternatives, corporate structures and in greenfield and brownfield projects.
Competition and antitrust: The firm provides assistance regarding merger reviews and anticompetitive conduct cases, including cartels and leniency matters, abuse of dominance and vertical restraints, with experienced professionals in corporate investigations and negotiations with the authorities.
Corporate compliance and investigation: One of the first of its kind in Brazil, the practice has an eye on global trends and in-depth knowledge of corporate standards and practices for managing compliance and ethics issues. Its professionals are skilled in assessing corporate risks, conducting corporate investigations, developing and implementing specific programs based on the nature of the business and the risks identified.
ESG – Environmental, social and governance: TozziniFreire’s ESG Group has a multidisciplinary approach composed of professionals with experience and expertise in the areas of environmental law, human rights, corporate governance, climate change, carbon market, sustainable and impact investing, green and social finance, renewable energy, data privacy and compliance.
Financial innovation: As the first full-service Brazilian law firm to concentrate on innovation and entrepreneurship, featuring broad experience in the capital markets, banking and finance areas, TozziniFreire has introduced an exclusive practice focused on financial innovation, with the goal of monitoring trends in the creation and development of new financial instruments.
Agribusiness: With the experience to assist clients through each step of the production chain, including detailed knowledge of raw-material markets, agricultural equipment factories, banking, transportation, logistics, distribution companies, consumer markets and foreign trade, the diversified background of the firm’s agribusiness professionals allows TozziniFreire to present effective legal solutions tailored to the particular needs of its clients.
Infrastructure: TozziniFreire’s multidisciplinary Infrastructure group is organized to meet the needs of any participant in capital intensive projects. We routinely assist sponsors, multilateral agencies, operators, local and foreign investors, in energy, water, waste/sewage, mobility and logistics (ports, airports, railways, roads), biofuels and oil and gas projects. Our team members are experts in public bids, project development (including construction, operation, supply, etc.) and financing. We are also active in projects and equity M&A. Our lawyers are characterised by a proactive approach on structuring projects and creative solutions.Increasingly, our team has been assisting and discussing with clients the decarbonization targets and structures.
Energy: TozziniFreire’s energy practice assists a broad spectrum of industry players, including energy generators, transmission and distributors, as well as energy trading companies and national and international institutional investors with major or growing stakes in the Brazilian power sector either on transactional or regulatory matters. We also advise corporate consumers of electricity on offtake agreements, as well as non-energy companies that are interested in developing energy generation projects to meet part of their electricity consumption needs, particularly on decentralization projects such as self generation and distributed generation.We also routinely handle all the corporate and critical regulatory aspects involved in the buying and selling of energy companies and assets. We advise on the structuring and development of projects(including construction, operation, supply, etc.), including its financing, particularly in the renewable energy space, including biomass, wind, and solar power.Increasingly, our team has been assisting and discussing with clients the decarbonization targets and structures.
Crisis management: The crisis management practice has a multidisciplinary team that is highly qualified to assist clients from the most diverse sectors in complex crises generated by catastrophic and environmental events, investigations by public authorities, cyberattacks, economic issues, litigation or bankruptcy incidents, among others.
Real estate: The multidisciplinary practice provides advice on development and execution of large and structured real estate projects, as well as on several legal structures that make financial funding feasible for such projects. It has also been in the forefront of structuring agribusiness deals in Brazil.
Dispute resolution – litigation, arbitration and mediation: The team is uniquely positioned to represent clients throughout Brazil in litigation and arbitration matters. It is frequently involved in Brazil’s most significant cases and its members also serve as arbitrators and legal experts. TozziniFreire is also routinely engaged to assist clients in commercial mediation and other methods of alternative dispute resolution.
Tax: The firm provides high-quality assistance on tax matters and tax planning structures, including cross-border transactions involving transfer pricing and international tax treaty issues. It also handles complex cases tried at both the administrative and judicial levels.
Banking and fnance: The practice has a long history of representing local and international financial institutions and major companies, offering extensive knowledge in structuring all types of complex finance and derivatives transactions. It has strong expertise in setting up foreign banks in Brazil and Brazilian banks abroad, and in-depth expertise advising financial institutions on banking prudential regulation and compliance issues.
Capital markets: The team has assisted major clients in the most significant transactions and offers extensive experience in handling the placement of securities in domestic and international markets, proved expertise in structuring public offerings of agribusiness, infrastructure and real estate securities and investment funds, and advising on the rules of the Brazilian Securities Commission.
International work: To help clients respond faster to the increasing business opportunities, the firm pioneered the creation of foreign desks in Latin America. Starting with the Asian initiative (comprising of the China, Korea and Japan desks) and fast developing towards other markets (German desk and Latin America), these unique knowledge centres are staffed with professionals familiar with the culture, legal and business practices of each region, and who are charged with keeping up-to-date with bilateral trade relations developments between Brazil and those countries.
Main contacts: Fernando Eduardo Serec, Flávia Cristina Moreira de Campos Andrade, Luis Renato Ferreira da Silva, Marcelo Calliari, Maria Elisa Gualandi Verri, Patrícia Helena Marta Martins and Shin Jae Kim
Number of partners worldwide: 95
Number of other lawyers worldwide: 635
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Corporate and M&A | Maria Elisa Gualandi Verri | mverri@tozzinifreire.com.br | |
Antitrust | Marcelo Calliari | mcalliari@tozzinifreire.com.br | |
Dispute resolution | Fernando Eduardo Serec | fserec@tozzinifreire.com.br | |
Corporate / Commercial South | Luis Renato Ferreira da Silva | lrenato@tozzinifreire.com.br | |
Compliance and investigation | Shin Jae Kim | sjk@tozzinifreire.com.br | |
Technology and Data Privacy | Patrícia Helena Marta Martins | pmarta@tozzinifreire.com.br | |
Restructuring and insolvency | Flávia Cristina Moreira de Campos Andrade | fandrade@tozzinifreire.com.br |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Other fee-earners : 635 Total staff : 1,470Languages
Portuguese English (fluent) German Chinese SpanishMemberships
World Law Group (WLG) IBA (International Bar Association)Other
Partners : 95- City focus - Porto Alegre > Commercial, corporate and M&A
- City focus - Porto Alegre > Tax
- Competition and antitrust
- Compliance
- Labour and employment
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- City focus - Brasilia > Government relations
- City focus - Porto Alegre > Dispute resolution
- Corporate and M&A
- Dispute Resolution: Arbitration
- Dispute Resolution: Litigation
- Environment
- Public law
- Tax > Customs
- TMT: Cybersecurity and data privacy
- TMT: Tech, innovation and digital business