Clients highlight the team’s ‘capacity for organisation, preparation and analysis’ as a key strength of Lefosse Advogados’ arbitration practice, which is particularly well regarded for its arbitration work in the energy and infrastructure sectors. The group is skilled at handling both domestic and international proceedings involving concessions, post-M&A, shareholder and commercial disputes. The group operates from São Paulo under the leadership of Pedro Maciel, who brings deep experience in disputes involving construction, capital markets, oil and gas, and corporate issues. Bernardo Pires and Diogo Ciuffo Carneiro further bolster the team’s international arbitration capabilities, with notable activity across the finance, pharmaceutical, logistics, insurance, and other regulated sectors. Pires is especially active in M&A-related disputes, while Carneiro is recognised for his experience handling high-stakes cross-border cases.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Best arbitration team in Brazil.’
‘The firm's arbitration team is shining. We have had the opportunity to work together on five major arbitrations, and the capacity for organisation, preparation and analysis has been memorable, which is still a major competitive advantage for the client.’
‘Pedro Maciel has all the skills expected of a great litigation lawyer, with experience, connections, power of synthesis and persuasion, always being available and ready to offer a solution to the most complex problems.'
'Lefosse arbitration team is highly competent and helpful, especially for a foreign group, providing adapted legal and strategic advice.'
'Lefosse stands out in the legal market for the outstanding quality of its legal services and the excellence of its team. The firm provides innovative and effective legal solutions tailored to the specific needs of each client. Its personalised approach, combined with a comprehensive understanding of the client’s business, is a key differentiator in the prevention and resolution of complex matters.'
'Lefosse particularly excels in combining deep industry and business knowledge with extensive experience in both domestic and international disputes, resulting in impeccable work. In my view, this is made possible by the integration across practices—illustrated by the collaboration between the Energy & Infrastructure and Arbitration teams—which ensures a multidisciplinary approach that maximises outcomes and delivers first-class service. Their commitment to results is reflected in their meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of each dispute’s unique aspects. What sets them apart, in my opinion, is the blend of top-tier legal expertise with a bespoke, integrated approach for every client.'
'Pedro Maciel, head of the practice, is an exemplary leader with extensive experience across a wide range of disputes and a profound understanding of both industry and market dynamics. His strategic vision and hands-on industry experience are key drivers of the results achieved. His ability to resolve complex matters swiftly and efficiently is a standout feature in the market.'
'Mônica Murayama is a highly qualified lawyer, both nationally and internationally, and deeply committed to her cases. Her expertise and keen attention to detail ensure excellence in every matter she handles. She applies her international experience with precision and effectiveness.'
'Lefosse's Arbitration practice stands out for its excellence in legal services, combining in-depth technical knowledge with a personalized and detailed approach to each case. The team is comprised of highly qualified professionals.'
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Pedro Soares Maciel
Other key lawyers
Diogo Ciuffo Carneiro; Bernardo Pires: Mônica Murayama