Combining ‘deep industry expertise with a highly pragmatic and commercial approach’, VdA advises domestic and international corporates and investors on complex M&A and corporate transactions across sectors as diverse as energy, technology, aviation and healthcare. Cláudia da Cruz Almeida leads the practice and is recognised for her ’strategic vision’ in corporate finance, acquisitions and disposals, private equity and public takeovers and mergers. Jorge Bleck is a key figure, with extensive transactional experience, including high-profile distressed M&A, restructurings and privatisations. Other key members of the ‘impressive’ team are Sofia Bobone, who excels in domestic and international M&A matters, and Maria Cunha Matos, who is active in cross-border M&A, joint ventures, reorganisations and carve-outs.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The practice combines deep industry expertise with a highly pragmatic and commercial approach, which sets it apart from more traditional legal advisers. The team understands not only the legal aspects of a transaction but also its financial, strategic, and operational dimensions, allowing them to provide advice that is both technically robust and business-oriented.'
'Clients particularly value the team’s responsiveness, accessibility, and proactive attitude. They are solution-driven, often anticipating issues before they arise and proposing clear, actionable strategies rather than purely theoretical advice.'
'The team stands out for its close collaboration with clients, acting as true business partners rather than external advisors. Their cross-practice coordination ensures a seamless execution of complex transactions.’
‘VdA is a truly impressive team that combines strong technical knowledge with a very practical, client-oriented approach. What makes the practice unique is the level of partner involvement and the personal attention that clients receive throughout the lifecycle of their matters. I particularly value the commitment to tailored solutions and the ability to handle sensitive or complex matters with discretion and efficiency.’
‘The individuals are not only technically skilled but also approachable, pragmatic, and deeply committed to client service. They combine legal expertise and personal dedication and invest time to understand the client’s needs, providing clear, actionable advice rather than theoretical analysis. Clients can be assured that they are in excellent hands.’
'Cláudia Cruz Almeida stands out for her strategic vision and ability to simplify complex legal frameworks, while Maria Leonor Piconez combines outstanding technical skills with exceptional efficiency and communication.’

Key clients

Cepsa
First Sentier Investors (FSI)
Fortitude Capital – Sociedade de Capital de Risco, S.A.
Horizon Equity Partners, S.A.
LeadCrest Advisory Capital Partners S. A. R. L.
NKT Cables Group A/S
Hollard Moçambique Companhia De Seguros S.A.r.l
Arrow Credit Opportunities II Aggregator SCSp, SICAV-RAIF
Axon Partners Group S.A.

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