With a balanced claimant and defendant practice, VCA - Valadas Coriel & Associados noted a recent increase in maritime-related disputes and tax arbitrations. Real estate disputes are another focal point for the dispute resolution team, along with civil, corporate and commercial litigation. Rated for displaying 'a rare combination of legal knowledge and strategic pragmatism', the practice is under the leadership of four practitioners: João Valadas Coriel, who possesses significant experience in white-collar crime cases; Hugo Martins Braz, who leads on mass litigation; Vera Chalaça, a contact for civil and administrative litigation, and Sofia Quental, whose strong background in tax disputes is noteworthy.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘João Valadas Coriel is a competent lawyer and excellent managing partner of the firm. He has a business-oriented approach and a great understanding of clients' needs.’

  • ‘Valadas Coriel & Associados makes a difference compared to other law firms/firms.'

  • ‘João Valadas Coriel stands out for his availability, speed in processing and resolving our legal processes.’

  • ‘Hugo Martins Braz - availability, proactivity, technical knowledge and timely responses.’

  • ‘VCA - Valadas Coriel & Associates represents a bastion of competence in the sphere of litigation. The technical excellence of the team is complemented by a meticulous understanding of the commercial realities that the cases entail. The team, composed of highly esteemed lawyers, displays a rare combination of legal knowledge and strategic pragmatism, namely around dispute resolution.

  • 'This law firm stands out for its consultative and anticipatory approach. They do not just provide legal advice, but offer an integrated strategy aimed at mitigating risks and leveraging opportunities for their clients.'
  • ‘When considering the effectiveness of a law firm, eyes frequently fall upon the leaders who direct it and the excellence of its members. In Valadas Coriel & Associates, certain figures stand out in this landscape. Among them is the managing partner João Valadas Coriel, whose strategic acumen and institutional perspicacity have served as foundations for the firm becoming one of the most reputable in the country.'

Key clients

  • EDP - Energias de Portugal, S.A.
  • GALP Energia, S.A.
  • Albano Alves
  • EDP Foundation and MAAT Museum
  • Hotéis Roma Group
  • STILL - Sociedade de Tratamento de Imagem Lusitana

Work highlights

  • Representing Albano Alves in a range of major litigations, including a dispute with the landlord of its industrial site concerning unlicensed buildings and environmental issues.
  • Representing EDP – Energias de Portugal in the launch of a special task force to combat and litigate against criminal insolvencies by companies that create successive fronts to avoid energy payments.
  • Advising Hotéis Roma Group on administrative litigation linked to alleged regulatory infringements.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

João Valadas Coriel, Hugo Martins Braz, Vera Chalaça, Sofia Quental

Other key lawyers

António Cayolla