
VdA fields a market-leading TMT practice, with expertise in electronic communications, data protection and cybersecurity, IT, emerging technologies, telecoms, and the media and entertainment sectors. The firm offers comprehensive support to telecom clients on licensing, privatisation, liberalisation, and regulatory matters; guides technology clients through project launches and commercialisation; and assists media clients in navigating complex regulatory landscapes. The practice is led by Magda Cocco, a prominent figure in the Portuguese TMT market, recognised for her contributions to sector-related regulatory policies, legislative drafting, and major projects. Tiago Bessa stands out for his knowledge of the electronic and postal communications segment, where he handles regulatory, projects, commercial and contentious mandates.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Experience. Ability. Know-how. Scope. Professionalism.’
- ‘The TMT department at VdA is by far the best department in Portugal for TMT matters. They are at the forefront in terms of knowledge of the subject matter, which is extensive and constantly evolving, having handled important cases in recent years before regulators, courts, and European institutions, which constitutes an undeniable advantage over other departments with less practical and litigation experience in these areas.’
- ‘I would like to highlight Magda Cocco for her knowledge, practical and business-oriented vision.’
- 'Joana Pacheco: On more specific issues, she contributed significant technical and legal expertise, demonstrating great rigour and an ability to adapt to our needs.'
- 'Rui Gordete Almeida: His deep understanding of our operation allows for a very efficient and fluid approach, with a strong sense of continuity in matters, which significantly facilitates our joint work.'
Key clients
- AdvanceCare
- AFR-IX Telecom SA
- Amtrol-Alfa
- APAJO
- Associação Portuguesa de Seguradores
- Avaya Emea, Ltd
- Betclic Everest Group SA
- Brisa
- Cellnex
- Center for Responsible AI
- Cloudflare, Inc.
- Companhia Santomense de Telecomunicações, SARL
Work highlights
Advising Luz Saúde on the implementation of the AI Regulation (AI Act) across all entities within the group.
Integrates the New Space Portugal initiative, a consortium of nearly 40 entities that aims to design, develop, manufacture, and launch constellations of satellites, especially Earth Observation (EO) satellites.
Supported EllaLink in its international submarine cable project and landings in Portugal.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Magda Cocco
Other key lawyers
Tiago Bessa; Joana Pacheco; Rui Gordete Almeida
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

