With a broad multidisciplinary practice, Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados' Porto office assists regional, national and international clients across corporate and commercial, capital markets, dispute resolution, competition, employment, tax, and public law. Bernardo Lobo Xavier, managing partner of the Porto office, leads the corporate team, and demonstrates particular expertise in M&A and real estate transactions. Joaquim Vieira Peres is a reference for EU and competition matters, while Francisco Mendes da Silva excels in tax litigation. Nuno Peres Alves brings together expertise in public procurement, administrative law and TMT; Paula Ponces Camanho advises on labour and social security matters; and João Anacoreta Correia focuses on litigation and arbitration proceedings. Maria Gouveia is another name to note for tax issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Profile
Work Department
Corporate M&A, Real Estate.
Position
Bernardo is widely experienced in both M&A and real estate having participated in several relevant transactions. He also provides advice and regular assistance on different aspects of the ongoing commercial activities of our clients.
Career
Qualified (1992). Partner (2008). He is the coordinator of the Porto office and coordinates as well one of the corporate teams. Lawyer, Osório de Castro, Verde Pinho, Vieira Peres, Lobo Xavier & Associados (1990-2002). Partner, Osório de Castro, Verde Pinho, Vieira Peres, Lobo Xavier & Associados (2002-2005).
Languages
Portuguese, English and Spanish.
Memberships
Portuguese Bar Association (admitted in 1992).
Education
Law Degree (Law Faculty of the University of Coimbra, 1989).
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The firm stands out in the national legal market for its excellence, technical precision, and close relationship with clients. The Porto office, in particular, combines deep legal knowledge with a practical, solution-oriented approach, resulting in high-quality and trustworthy service. The team is composed of highly qualified professionals, defined by collaboration and ethics.' 'What makes the firm unique is its ability to maintain high standards of rigour while remaining agile and empathetic in client relations. Clear communication, close engagement, and commitment to results are hallmarks of its work.' ‘The partners and associates at the Porto office demonstrate not only technical excellence but also a human and approachable attitude. I particularly recommend Paula Ponces Camanho for her strategic vision, negotiation skills, and deep legal knowledge, and Filipa Godinho Duarte for her attention to detail, availability, and ability to build lasting, trusted relationships. Both are defined by integrity, active listening, and a genuine client-oriented approach.’ ‘They think outside the box and work side by side with the client.’ ‘Francisco Mendes da Silva and Solange Dias Nóbrega – excellent collaboration and responsiveness.’ ‘Paula Ponces Camanho and Ana Filipa Godinho – thorough, professional, and solution-driven in their approach.’ ‘The team composed of Maria Gouveia and Solange Dias Nóbrega demonstrates superior differentiation in the market through its practical mindset and high efficiency in managing cross-border tax litigation projects.’ ‘I highly recommend Maria Gouveia and Solange Dias Nóbrega for their exceptional service and effective delivery.’