Pinheiro Neto Advogados advises clients across a wide range of sectors in matters ‘of extreme complexity and relevance’ concerning project development and finance. The team combines expertise in banking, finance, and capital markets with knowledge of public law and regulated industries. Core strengths include construction matters, bidding procedures, concessions and PPPs. The practice is led by Thaís Fernandes Chebatt, recognised for her ’precision and deep knowledge’ in contentious and transactional infrastructure matters. Júlio César Bueno, who excels in non-contentious and contentious construction matters, Ricardo Coelho, who handles M&A and financial transactions in regulated sectors, and Gustavo Carneiro de Albuquerque, who joined as counsel in March 2024, are other key figures in the practice. Ricardo Russo left the firm in January 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The firm provides prompt service in cases of extreme complexity and relevance, making it stand out in the market.'
  • ‘Pinheiro Neto stands out in the national legal market for its rich tradition and the excellence of its services. With a team of highly qualified lawyers, the firm not only has a proven track record of success but also cultivates an impeccable, innovative and positive attitude and conduct, which is reflected in the way they interact with clients and other parties during potential negotiations.'

  • 'One of the team's main capabilities, which I was able to prove in my last work with them, was their expertise in multicultural contracts. Using advanced tools, the firm is able to bring efficiency and agility to the process of drafting these contracts, which is essential in a scenario where contracts between companies of different nationalities will be frequent. Compared to other firms, Pinheiro Neto is not just a legal services provider, but a true strategic partner to its clients, committed to delivering not only results but exceptional experiences.’

  • ‘Thaís Fernandes Chebatt stands out for her respectful and firm stance, always consistent in her approaches and capable of adding value to discussions, supporting her arguments with precision and deep knowledge. She has high emotional control, regardless of the environment in which she is acting.'

Key clients

  • Eneva
  • Energisa Group
  • Aegea
  • Changi Airports International PTE. LTD. (CAI)
  • Huma Capital Group
  • Starboard
  • Vinci Partners
  • Norte da Amazonia Airports (NOA)
  • Nuclebrás Equipamentos Pesados (NUCLEP)
  • Serviço Social da Indústria (SESI) - Departamento Regional do Estado de Goiás
  • International Finance Corporation (IFC)
  • Neoenergia
  • Almeida Sapata Engenharia e Construções
  • Allpark Empreendimentos, Participações e Serviços (ESTAPAR)
  • Port of Rotterdam (Havenbedrijf Rotterdam N.V.)
  • Fortescue
  • COMGÁS
  • Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB)
  • Companhia de Participações em Concessões (Grupo CCR)
  • Franco-Nevada Corporation

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Júlio César Bueno

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Gustavo Carneiro de Albuquerque

Practice head

Thaís Fernandes Chebatt

Other key lawyers

Júlio César Bueno; Ricardo Coelho; Gustavo Carneiro de Albuquerque