'Prepared and attuned to the changes and adaptations that often occur in the third sector', Szazi, Bechara, Storto, Reicher e Figueirêdo Lopes Advogados is a key port of call in Curitiba for clients in the non-profit space. The firm specialises in non-profit law, corporate social responsibility, philanthropy, and social enterprises, offering consultancy services as well as advocacy for enacting laws affecting civil society organisations and human rights. The group has recently seen increased demand for tax litigation, administrative disputes, and matters involving the defence of rights of people with disabilities. Co-leading the group are: Eduardo Szazi, a key contact for companies, foundations, institutes, civil society organisations and governmental entities; environmental and consumer law specialist Erika BecharaPaula Raccanello Storto, who handles both advocacy and contentious matters; Stella Camlot ReicherLaís de Figueirêdo Lopes, and Aline Gonçalves Videira de Souza. The team is noted for its ‘commitment to excellence’ and 'proactive and ethical approach'.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘SBSA is one of the few law firms dedicated solely to the cause of the third sector in Brazil, with a multidisciplinary team of lawyers, capable of meeting legal demands. The high specialisation in this specific sector, the focus on the quality of the team of lawyers, the initiatives led by the firm to improve public policies in the third sector, and the constant monitoring of the agenda in decisions taken by the judiciary, legislative, and executive branches make SBSA the best third sector law firm in Brazil.’

  • ‘The team is prepared and attuned to the changes and adaptations that often occur in the third sector. In order to carry out its work, it delves into the organisation's understanding and knowledge before proposing solutions or raising potential risks. They work collaboratively and closely with the client in order to achieve good results. ’

  • ‘I see the SBSA firm as being the main reference in the third sector in Brazil. What differentiates the team is its team, which is diverse and highly competent, providing us with security and support in a very wide range of topics and demands that arise. They constantly monitor and update themselves on the evolution of legislation and public policies, including anticipating the need for improvements in our structure and operating processes.’

  • ‘The biggest highlight for us is undoubtedly Erika Bechara who provides strategic dialogue with our organisation. Paula Raccanello Storto, Laís Figueirêdo Lopes, and Eduardo Szazi also have an outstanding performance and serve us with excellence in some specific demands. I recommend them all for always providing us with quality support.’

  • ‘The firm is exceptional and worthy of being recognised as a true reference in the legal market. Its reputation is not only the result of its technical competence, but also its commitment to excellence in all aspects of its legal practice. What is most impressive is their ability to bring together a truly diverse team specialised in different areas of law.’

  • ‘An aspect that I consider notable is the initiative to issue technical notes in real time whenever there are relevant legislative movements in the National Congress that could affect non-profit organisations. This demonstrates a genuine commitment to their interests and a deep understanding of the complexities of the legal environment in which they operate.’

  • ‘The firm is dedicated to keeping up to date with the latest trends, which always guarantees the best possible legal advice, adapted to the demands of the ever-changing world in which we live. In short, the firm is a trusted legal partner and a true thought leader in the field of law. Their proactive and ethical approach, alongside their commitment to excellence, supports us in any legal matter we may face.’

  • ‘Paula Raccanello Storto is remarkable, combining deep knowledge in her field with a keen sensitivity to organisational complexity. Her technical competence is evident, but what sets her apart is her unique ability to offer insights that transcend purely technical issues, consistently contributing to better decisions. Furthermore, she stands out for her empathy and ability to understand interpersonal nuances.’

Key clients

  • Grupo de Institutos Fundações e Empresas - GIFE
  • Plataforma por um Novo Marco Regulatório das Organizações da Sociedade Civil - Plataforma MROSC
  • PORTICUS
  • IJC - Instituto Jô Clemente
  • IDESAM - Instituto de Conservação e Desenvolvimento Sustentável da Amazônia
  • Greenpeace Brasil
  • Visão Mundial
  • Save the Children
  • Instituto de Pesquisa Eldorado
  • Good Energies Foundation
  • Rede Esporte pela Mudança Social
  • Instituto de Apoio ao MAPBIOMAS
  • IJC – Instituto Jô Clemente
  • Associação Evangelizar é Preciso
  • Instituto Conexões Sustentáveis - Conexsus

Work highlights

  • Advised Grupo de Institutos Fundações e Empresas on legal advocacy in the constitutional tax reform discussed by the Congress.
  • Advised Save The Children International on the  establishment of Save The Children Brazil.
  • Created the “Fair Contract Project” as a collaborative methodology that will guide companies and local communities in the Amazon to execute commercial contracts strictly adhering to the law.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Eduardo Szazi, Erika Bechara, Paula Raccanello Storto, Stella Camlot Reicher, Laís de Figueirêdo Lopes, Aline Gonçalves Videira de Souza

Other key lawyers

Rodrigo Kroth Bittencourt, Fernando Arruda de Moraes