Combining a ‘deep understanding of the local market’ with global reach, CMS advises on the full range of competition matters, including compliance, merger control and litigation. The firm acts as a ’strategic partner’ to clients in highly regulated sectors, such as energy, healthcare and pharma, automotive, aviation and TMT. Practice head Luís Miguel Romão is highly regarded for his ‘extensive experience and technical knowledge’ in State aid, cartels, abuse of dominance, merger control and litigation. Ana Cantanhede Gonçalves is no longer at the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘CMS' uniqueness lies in combining a deep understanding of the local market with the broad reach of one of the world's largest law firm networks. This duality allows it to offer Portuguese clients legal advice that is both specialised in local challenges and adapted to the complexities of global markets.'
- 'More than just a provider of legal services, CMS positions itself as a strategic partner that helps its clients anticipate and adapt to future changes. The quality of service is guaranteed by multidisciplinary teams that organise themselves according to the needs of each client, ensuring a comprehensive approach. The dedication and professionalism of its lawyers are key factors.’
- ‘Luís Miguel Romão is a highly regarded partner at CMS, recognised for his deep specialisation in competition law and European Union law. His extensive experience and technical knowledge in this area are central aspects that distinguish him in the market.'
- 'Luís Miguel Romão presents a strategic and business-oriented approach, providing practical and useful solutions that go beyond mere legal theory, adapting to the culture and objectives of his clients. He possesses excellent interpersonal qualities, acting as a true partner to his clients. His availability and receptiveness, combined with clear and efficient communication, create a relationship of trust that is fundamental in complex and high-risk cases.’
- ‘Luís Miguel Romão is an excellent lawyer with a great deal of experience.’
- ‘Technical knowledge, understanding of the client's business and needs, clarity of advice provided.’
Key clients
- Accenture, Consultores de Gestão, S.A.
- ANA Aeroportos de Portugal, S.A.
- Mercedes-Benz AG
- Crest Capital Partners - Sociedade de Capital de Risco, S.A.
- Liga Portuguesa de Futebol Profissional
- Knorr-Bremse España, S.A.
- Coca-Cola European Partners Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda.
- Goldman Sachs International
- Lidl & Companhia
- MOP - Multimédia Outdoors Portugal – Publicidade, S.A.
- VINCI Energies Portugal, S.A.
- Selena FM, S.A.
Work highlights
Advised Liga Portugal and 19 football clubs on a Portuguese Competition Authority case concerning alleged “no-poach” agreements during the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in total fines of approximately €11m.
Advised Accenture Portugal on an ongoing infringement case before the Portuguese Competition Authority involving alleged collusion with telecom providers over pre-access TV advertising.
Advised Lidl Portugal on challenging a €5.48m fine in a Portuguese Competition Authority ‘hub-and-spoke’ cartel case concerning alleged retail price coordination.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Luís Miguel Romão
Other key lawyers
Maria Joana Faria