Portugal Teams 2025
Supported by the Association of Corporate Counsel
Legal 500 is proud to present the first-ever Teams edition of the GC Powerlist: Portugal, a milestone shift from the traditional Individuals issue, now spotlighting the country’s top corporate legal departments. For over a decade, the GC Powerlist series has consistently recognised the invaluable contributions of in-house counsel, expanding to more than 70 jurisdictions worldwide. This evolution to a Teams edition is a natural step forward, driven by the outstanding success of the past three years of the Individuals category.Â
Why now? Because today’s legal departments are no longer viewed as mere support functions. They are strategic business partners, deeply embedded in decision-making and integral to driving organisational success. Honouring entire teams better reflects the collaborative nature of in-house legal work, celebrates the diversity of expertise within departments, and acknowledges the shared effort behind major legal and commercial achievements. It also mirrors how modern businesses operate: through cross-functional teamwork and collective leadership.Â
This special edition recognises a select group of legal teams whose expertise, innovation, and strategic insight distinguish them across both the business and legal landscapes. From adopting cutting-edge legal technologies and navigating complex political and economic environments, to championing diversity, equity and inclusion and shaping decisions at the highest levels, these teams exemplify what it means to lead with impact in today’s corporate world.Â
Inside, you’ll find exclusive interviews and in-depth profiles of Portugal’s most influential legal departments, representing a diverse array of industries. Their ability to craft legal strategies, manage risk, and guide business priorities speaks to the increasingly pivotal role of in-house counsel in shaping the future of their organisations.Â
This publication also highlights key trends: the resilience of in-house teams amid ongoing European political and economic challenges; the growing integration of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, into legal workflows; and the rising influence of general counsel at the C-suite level.Â
Through this edition, we explore the evolving dynamics of Portugal’s in-house legal landscape and share the stories of the teams redefining what it means to be a modern legal leader. Our aim is to provide a compelling snapshot of the sector’s transformation and the enduring value of legal departments in today’s corporate environment.Â
We extend our sincere congratulations and gratitude to all the teams featured. Thank you for sharing your insights and for your commitment to excellence – it is our privilege to showcase your remarkable achievements.
Finally, our heartfelt thanks to PLMJ for once again partnering with us and hosting the official launch event. Your continued support is deeply appreciated and demonstrates your commitment to the country’s in-house legal community,Â
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Francisco Faria e Castro | Research Editor | GC Powerlist SeriesÂ
Legal 500’s 2025 edition of the GC Summit Taiwan 2025 at the Mandarin Oriental Taipei raised the bar for GC-focused, content led events for corporate counsel in Taiwan. The event provided an invaluable opportunity for the in-house legal community in this dynamic and globally respected market to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping their profession in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Opening remarks were delivered by Joe Boswell, Global Editor of The Legal 500’s GC Powerlist series, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the Summit’s central theme of in-house lawyers leading with agility and foresight in a rapidly changing world. Boswell emphasised the strength and dynamism of Taiwan’s legal community, setting the tone for an afternoon of thoughtful and practical dialogue. He then introduced Lois Lin, Chief Legal Officer of Wiwynn Corporation, who officially opened the day’s proceedings with remarks on innovation, collaboration, and leadership within Taiwan’s corporate legal sector, particularly in regards to utilising AI and legal tech tools within a modern legal department.
The first panel Powering Digital Growth: Challenges and Opportunities in Taiwan’s Data Center Landscape, examined the infrastructure driving Taiwan’s digital expansion. Ken-Ying Tseng, Lily Kuo, and Chi Lee of Lee and Li discussed how legal teams can balance rapid technological growth with compliance, sustainability, and innovation, offering practical insights into the evolving regulatory environment surrounding data centres.
The second session, U.S. Tariffs, Export Controls, and Sanctions Under the New Administration: Implications for Taiwan’s Exporters, featured Winston Y. Chan and Matthew S. Axelrod, Partners at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP. Drawing on their experience as former U.S. government enforcement officials, they provided a compelling analysis of shifting U.S. trade policies under the new administration and their implications for Taiwan’s exporters.
Following this, Winning in the Federal Circuit: Recent Case Studies brought James Lin and Matthew Wawrzyn, Partners at FisherBroyles, to the stage for a fascinating discussion on Federal Circuit litigation strategy. Sharing lessons from cases they personally argued and won, the panellists provided attendees with practical takeaways on managing cross-border IP disputes.
The final session, AI for In-House Legal Teams: Evolution or Revolution?, explored the realities of AI adoption within corporate legal departments. Jolie Shu Chun Liao, Hsiao Wei (William) Tsai, Christine Yang, and Sabrina Chang shared insights into how technology is reshaping workflows, decision-making, and the role of legal teams across industries.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Joe Boswell, followed by drinks and canapés, where attendees continued the discussion in a relaxed setting. The GC Summit Taiwan 2025 reaffirmed The Legal 500’s commitment to providing a platform for Taiwan’s in-house counsel to share experiences, gain insights, and shape the future of the legal profession.
