CMS advises domestic and international corporates, credit institutions, private equity and venture capital firms on M&A, corporate governance, restructurings, privatisations and joint ventures, with ‘absolute dedication’. Practice leadership is shared between founding partner João Caldeira, noted for his cross-border M&A expertise; Francisco Xavier de Almeida, praised for his ’excellent’ negotiation skills; and João Leitão Figueiredo, recognised for his ‘technical expertise’ in commercial matters. The ’very experienced’ Tiago Valente de Oliveira advises on the full range of corporate, commercial and M&A matters, while the ‘available’ David Apolónia is well-versed in contract drafting, restructurings, M&A and fund structuring.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Francisco Xavier de Almeida - our relationship partner, a true partner, excellent relationship, empathy with the challenges of the business, excellent negotiation and process management. David Apolônia - extremely helpful, available. João Leitão Figueiredo - immediate and accurate response, our choice for IP, RGPS, and cybersecurity issues.’
- ‘Tiago Valente de Oliveira: an excellent M&A lawyer with extensive experience in multiple deals, bringing significant value to the client. André Guimarães: incredibly committed to the project, always available and with a strong focus on the success of the deal.’
- ‘We especially highlight Cláudia Antunes da Silva, whose combination of profound legal knowledge, constant availability, and high professionalism makes her a benchmark in the sector. Her ability to communicate clearly, anticipate needs, and find effective solutions distinguishes them as a true strategic partner.’
- 'André Guimarães demonstrates great work capacity and understanding of situations - very technically sound and with a great capacity for response.’
- 'Tiago Valente de Oliveira, who is very experienced, performs well under pressure, shows foresight and confidence in the solutions he proposes - he understands the business and is pragmatic in his approaches.'
- ‘I would highlight João Leitão Figueiredo for his ability to build bridges, both internally and externally to the company, as well as for his responsiveness, technical expertise, and interpersonal skills.'
Key clients
- Grupo Bensaúde
- Sociedade Atlas Copco
- Valmesa
- Indumape S.A.
- H&N Peninsular 2012, SL.
- InPost sp. z o.o.
- CREST Capital Partners
- PTB Education
- FCR 2 MedCapital
- Sonepar Portugal, S.A.
- Energyco II, S.A.
- Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Portugal
Work highlights
Advised CREST Capital Partners on the sale of its 50% stake in Irmarfer and, consequently, in its subsidiary Imagindustrial - Design, Publicidade e Impressão Digital, to Adapta Capital.
Advised Grupo Bensaúde on the acquisition of Caloura Hotel Resort holding company — a hotel in the Azores Islands.
Advised FCR C2 MedCapital on the sale to Luz Saúde of a controlling stake in HL - Hospital de Loulé, S.A., which operates one private hospital unit in the south of Portugal, and in Infrapetagi, S.A., which operates two clinics specialised in perinatal care services.
Lawyers
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.
Practice head
João Caldeira; Francisco Xavier de Almeida; João Leitão Figueiredo
Other key lawyers
Tiago Valente de Oliveira; Cláudia Antunes da Silva; Francisco Xavier de Almeida; João Leitão Figueiredo; André Guimarães; Margarida Vila Franca