With expertise in the gamut of corporate and M&A matters – including privatisations, joint ventures, and public auctions – Cescon Barrieu remains a key player in the Brazilian market. The group has experience handling both domestic and cross-border transactions across a range of sectors, including agribusiness, aviation, education and energy, to name a few. Maria Cristina Cescon co-heads the practice alongside Marcos Flesch and Ronald Herscovici, and stands out for her aptitude in handling M&A, tender offers, and equity investments on behalf of financial institutions, private equity funds, and publicly and privately held businesses. Flesch’s key areas of activity cover restructuring, corporate governance, and acquisitions. Cross-border transaction specialist Herscovici is recognised for his deep knowledge of leveraged acquisitions, divestitures, and M&A. Matheus Bittencourt Fernandes concentrates on transactions in the healthcare, technology, and energy sectors. Lior Pinsky joined from Veirano Advogados in February 2025, while Ana Carolina Botto Audi arrived from Demarest Advogados in April 2025. Most recently, Fernanda Montorfano left the firm in June 2025. Luciana Mares is also no longer at the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They have a unique understanding of the characteristics and peculiarities of the client's business and the sector in which clients operate.’
‘A highly specialised team with in-depth and detailed knowledge of the topics covered.’
‘The firm provides comprehensive advice. It has experts in all fields, which is extremely important to me as an in-house lawyer.’
‘The Cescon team is excellent. They have extensive knowledge of corporate and M&A law. They are extremely committed to the client and have a deep understanding of its business, which is incredibly important.’
‘The practice produces customised legal solutions, tailored to the specific needs of the client. They have a proactive and results-oriented approach, ensuring that the client's interests are always protected and promoted.’
- 'I particularly recommend Matheus Lima. He is experienced and creative.'
Key clients
- AES Brasil Energia S.A.
- Ambev S.A.
- Air Products Brasil
- ArcelorMittal Brasil S.A.
- Atena Fundo De Investimento Em Participações Multiestratégia
- Appian Capital Advisory LLP
- Azul
- B3 S.A.
- Banco BTG Pactual S.A.
- BP Biocombustíveis S.A.
- Brookfield Asset Management
- Camil Alimentos S.A.
Work highlights
Advised BP on the acquisition of 50% of the share capital of BP Bunge Bioenergia S.A. held by Bunge Global.
Advised Canada Pension Plan Investment Board on the investment made in Iguá Saneamento S.A.
Advised JBS S.A. on a capital investment in Mantiqueira Alimentos Ltda.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Maria Cristina Cescon; Marcos Flesch; Ronald Herscovici
Other key lawyers
Matheus Bittencourt Fernandes; Darkson Delmondes Galvão; Eduardo Lanna; Andrea Campos; Marina Carvalho Faro; Lior Pinsky; Ana Carolina Botto Audi