Recognised as a ‘leading law firm’, VdA’s privacy and data protection team seamlessly integrates into the larger information, communication, and technology group. Praised for its ability to ‘provide truly remarkable solutions’, the team comprises specialised practitioners in specific industries, who adeptly support clients across sectors such as retail, healthcare, energy, insurance, transport, banking and gambling. The practice is steered by Magda Cocco, who has in-depth knowledge and experience in innovative technological projects in the electronic communications industry, is a key name in the market for data transfers, data breaches and compliance issues. Focused on data protection compliance programmes in Portugal and Africa, Inês Antas De Barros is noted for her work across the IT, insurance, banking, transport, pharmaceuticals, distribution and retail sectors. Managing associate Maria De Lurdes Gonçalves is also part of the core team focused on data protection and cybersecurity mandates.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘VdA is a leading law firm. It has been absolutely remarkable to witness, as a long-time client, that each year VdA is dedicated to innovation and enhancing the already excellent service it consistently delivers.'

  • 'They provide truly remarkable solutions. The team is incredibly fantastic, in terms of knowledge, experience, creativity and innovation.'

  • I highlight Magda Cocco and Inês Antas de Barros for the incredible work they do with their team(s). I consider and testify to their enormous skills and sense of responsibility, making them a great reference in the market for me and, thus, justifying my loyalty as a client.'

  • ‘We have been working with VdA for several years now and the reliability of the service provided has always been excellent.'

  • ‘The team is made up of people with high knowledge and the ability to listen and understand the client's specific problems. They are committed to finding the best solution.’

  • ‘Total focus on the client and their operational needs combined with high-quality technical expertise in the matters in which legal advice is requested.'

  • ‘Magda Cocco, Inês Antas de Barros, and Maria de Lurdes are all noted for their technical knowledge and availability.'

Key clients

  • AGEAS Group
  • Altice Group
  • APS – Associação Portuguesa de Seguradores
  • Bial – Portela & Cª, S.A.
  • Brisa Group
  • ComparaMais, Lda.
  • CTT Group
  • CUF
  • EDP Group
  • European Space Agency (ESA)
  • E-REDES – Distribuição de Eletricidade, S.A.
  • Fresenius Kabi Pharma PT
  • Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian
  • Galp Energia, SGPS, S.A.
  • Gilead
  • HPA Saúde Group
  • IQVIA
  • José de Mello Group
  • Luís Simões
  • Lusíadas Saúde
  • Luz Saúde
  • MEO – Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia S.A.
  • Mudum
  • ProChild Lab
  • Sistemas McDonald’s Portugal, Lda.
  • Sport Lisboa e Benfica Group (SLB)
  • VIA Outlets Portugal
  • Vodafone Portugal
  • Sonae Sierra S.A.
  • Zurich Insurance plc – Sucursal em Portugal

Work highlights

  • Advised AdvanceCare on a privacy by design and by default assessment of wellness and health-related mobile applications, while ensuring compliant deployment of AI solutions.
  • Assisted EDP Group with the implementation of two social projects (“Inclusão Energética” and “Solar Solidário”) aimed at providing efficiency and energy saving solutions to low-income families and individuals.
  • Assisted CVC Brasil (a Brazilian travel agency) with the incorporation of a Portuguese branch to operate in Portugal, drafting standard contracts for the Portuguese branch to use when providing services to Brazilian consumers, but also with European based hotels, transportation services and similar.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Rising stars with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Hall of fameVdA
Partner, Head of Information, Communication & Technology and Digital Frontiers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Magda Cocco

Other key lawyers

Inês Antas de Barros, Maria de Lurdes Gonçalves