VdA delivers ‘integrated, complete’ solutions across the privacy and data protection spectrum, with extensive expertise in data governance, data economy and cybersecurity. The team demonstrates ’technical excellence’ in contentious and non-contentious matters, supporting clients across sectors in digital transformation projects, compliance programmes and GDPR implementation. The practice is led by the vastly experienced Magda Cocco, who advises on governance, data-related strategies, GDPR compliance programmes and cybersecurity threats. Inês Antas De Barros is recognised for her ‘profound knowledge’ of data protection, cybersecurity and data economy, while Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves brings her ’advanced knowledge and a strong practical sense’ to data protection in the healthcare, banking, finance, energy and infrastructure sectors.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘VdA manages to guarantee the quality of services without neglecting the practical and flexible nature of the legal solutions required by clients.’
‘Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves has advanced knowledge and a strong practical sense; she knows the client well, their needs and preferences, and provides personalised legal support.'
'Laura Sarmento is proficient in personal data matters in general and can provide legal support "on the spot"; she is very business-oriented, proactive, and efficient.’
‘VdA distinguishes itself through the technical excellence of the services provided and its pragmatic approach, oriented towards the specific needs of the client at each stage. The team is composed of lawyers with solid experience in privacy and personal data protection, as well as in other relevant practice areas, benefiting from a strong culture of internal collaboration, which allows for the development of integrated, complete solutions adapted to the organisation's reality.'
‘We would like to highlight Inês Antas de Barros for her profound knowledge of the subjects addressed, her proactive approach in identifying critical issues, as well as her clear communication and consistently collaborative, available, and interested attitude towards the client's needs.'
'Inês Melo stands out for her close monitoring of projects, her ability to propose balanced and effective solutions to complex issues always aligned with the client's objectives, and her constant availability to clarify doubts and support the team.’

Key clients

321 Crédito
AGEAS Group
Agilidade
Altice Group (MEO)
APS – Associação Portuguesa de Seguradores
Banco CTT
Bial – Portela & Cª, S.A.
Brisa Group
Center for Responsible AI
CTT Group
CUF
EDP Group

Work highlights

Advised EDP Group on the implementation of Directive (EU) 2022/2555 in 8 EU member states (Portugal, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, and Spain).

Advised Luz Saúde on the implementation of the AI Act across all group entities with a focus on data, delivering a comprehensive AI and data governance strategy tailored to healthcare.