The core strength of CGM Advogados’ environmental practice is advising foreign clients on administrative proceedings related to the importation of native wood from sustainably managed forests in the Brazilian Amazon. The specialised team also handles reverse logistics, liability analysis and allocation, risk assessments, as well as licensing, carbon market and contaminated land matters. Practice head Paula Chaccur de Cresci, based in São Paulo, is vastly experienced across the spectrum of environmental law and sustainability.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'The environmental team is extremely competent, especially partner Paula Chaccur, who has vast experience and knows how to reassure clients throughout case management.'
'Paula Chaccur, due to her experience in the area and her calm approach, brings confidence to the client.'
'CGM’s environment practice stands out for its ability to align Brazilian regulatory frameworks with the expectations of international clients, especially those facing scrutiny under US environmental laws like the Lacey Act. The team is knowledgeable, responsive, and solution-oriented, with a deep understanding of forest legality documentation, government agency processes (such as IBAMA and SISFLORA), and international compliance requirements.'
'Paula Chaccur in particular has been instrumental—her ability to translate complex Brazilian legal structures into clear, credible narratives for foreign regulators has been a major asset. Her strategic thinking and hands-on involvement set the tone for the team.'
'Paula Chaccur has been our primary contact at CGM Advogados, and her performance has been outstanding. She brings a strong command of Brazilian environmental and export law and knows how to present information in a way that meets the expectations of US regulators.'
'Paula Chaccur stands out for her extensive experience across a range of environmental law topics, having worked for many years with both national and international clients. Her analytical skills, sense of timing and cautious risk assessment ensure a complete technical skillset.'
Key clients
- Knorr-Bremse
- Johnson & Johnson do Brasil
- Hershey Company
- Brazilian Wood Depot (BWD)
- Volkswagen
- Stockton Agrimor do Brasil
- Monte Alegre Empreendimentos
- Ecolab
- Johnson & Johnson Medtech
- Marel H.F
Work highlights
Advised Hershey Company on compliance with Brazilian federal, state, and municipal laws, and the development of a reverse logistics strategy for packaging.
Advised Volkswagen do Brasil on the review and negotiation of a purchase and sale of waste agreement.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Paula Chaccur de Cresci