
VdA‘s ’multidisciplinary’ restructuring and insolvency team supports corporate clients, creditors and debtors on financial restructurings, distressed asset negotiations, insolvency proceedings, recovery and insolvency plans and NPL-related matters. The firm’s ‘technical depth’ also covers special revitalisation processes and voluntary business rescue procedures. The practice is co-led by Frederico Gonçalves Pereira, also a key figure in litigation and arbitration, and Paulo Olavo Cunha, noted for his experience in group restructuring transactions and complex insolvency plans. Teresa Pitôrra, recognised for her ’profound’ knowledge, is active in high-profile insolvency proceedings and judicial and non-judicial restructurings in Portugal and other Portuguese-speaking jurisdictions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Quality of service provided. The restructuring/insolvency team is multidisciplinary, also composed of members with solid knowledge in banking and finance and corporate/M&A. Tier 1 law firm in almost all areas of law. Market leaders, and are involved in a high number of relevant transactions.’
- ‘The restructuring and insolvency team at VdA is hands down one of the best teams in Portugal on this matter. They explain in simple terms the various options/paths and have a very pragmatic approach. They have a razor-sharp focus on results and on the best outcome for the client.’
- ‘VdA's restructuring and insolvency team stands out for its technical depth and consolidated experience in highly complex processes involving multiple stakeholders and sensitive legal frameworks. The service provided is characterised by high rigour, but also by a pragmatic approach focused on effective solutions that ensure stability and confidence for companies in crisis situations.'
- ‘Teresa Pitôrra stands out remarkably in the insolvency and restructuring team for her profound legal knowledge, with a practical and accessible approach. Her constant availability, regardless of the time or urgency, conveys unparalleled security to clients. Teresa combines natural friendliness with clear and effective communication, which makes working with her extremely easy and pleasant.'
- 'What truly distinguishes Teresa Pitôrra from competitors is her deep knowledge of the intricacies of the courts, a result of her experience. This familiarity with judicial procedures and dynamics allows her to anticipate scenarios accurately, offering strategic solutions even before problems materialise. She is a professional who combines technical rigour with human sensitivity, which makes her an unavoidable reference in her areas of practice.’
- ‘Catarina Carvalho Cunha was instrumental in advising us and navigating the maze of Portuguese trials, courts and bankruptcy processes, and we obtained the best possible outcome.’
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Frederico Gonçalves Pereira; Paulo Olavo Cunha
Other key lawyers
Teresa Pitôrra; Catarina Carvalho Cunha; Paulo Trindade Costa; Madalena Salazar Leite
Comparative Guides
Comparative Guide
Corporate Governance
Portugal
Miguel Ventura & Matilde Silveira Rodrigues
Comparative Guide
Public Procurement
Portugal
André Gaspar Martin & Marco Caldeira
Comparative Guide
Pharmaceutical Advertising
Portugal
Francisca Paulouro & Ana Isabel Lopes
Comparative Guide
Lending & Secured Finance
Portugal
Benedita Aires, Teresa Pitôrra & Maria Carrilho

