Singled out for its 'dedication to the client, in-depth knowledge, and excellent service', Garrigues Portugal is adept at advising domestic and multinational corporations on a host of employment matters, most notably collective dismissals, redundancy procedures, outsourcing, and social security issues. Co-head Rui Valente has a proven track record in managing individual and collective dismissals, with a particular focus on the tourism, entertainment, and automotive sectors. Fellow co-leader João Soares Almeida brings a wealth of experience in restructuring procedures, transfers of undertakings, and labour due diligence. André de Oliveira Correia is a name to note for clients from the private and public sectors seeking guidance in transactional matters, restructuring processes, and collective bargaining agreements. Rita Nogueira Neto is seen with great regularity handling the employment aspects of acquisitions and disputes.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Their qualities include availability, good quality of work, commitment, responsibility, dedication to the client, in-depth knowledge, and excellent service.'

  • ‘André Correia Oliveira showcases rigour, seriousness, and availability, offering good advice and monitoring.’

  • ‘Garrigues represents the best that exists in the labour sector. All topics are simplified and communicated clearly.’

  • ‘Ricardo Grilo has very clear and transparent communication and creates trust with other interlocutors.’

  • ‘This law firm stands out in the national legal market for its commitment to quality, innovation, diversity, social and environmental responsibility, and for its ability to provide comprehensive and effective legal solutions to its clients. These characteristics make it a leader in the legal sector and a reliable partner for those seeking high-level legal services.’

  • ‘Rita Nogueira stands out for her remarkable professionalism, flexibility, adaptability, effective communication, solid technical skills and in-depth knowledge.’

  • ‘Garrigues' labour department understands the reality and needs of the business, and always maintains a high quality of services.'

  • ‘João Soares Almeida is notable for his preparation, availability, empathy and ability to guide his team towards the themes and challenges we pose to them. André Oliveira is extraordinarily competent, always available, and seeks to understand in detail the concerns and challenges of clients.’

Key clients

  • Super Bock Group
  • Sonae
  • Bosch
  • Cognizant
  • Linde Group
  • Faurecia / Forvia
  • Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Portugal
  • Avincis (former Babcock)
  • Eberspaecher – Purem Tondela
  • Mahle
  • Gestamp Group
  • Volvo Cars
  • Bimba & Lola
  • KP Group

Work highlights

  • Advised Cognizant on employment matters related to the “return to the office” plan.
  • Acted for MAHLE in several class actions filed by hundreds of employees claiming the payment of shift allowance.
  • Assisted Águas e Energia do Porto in the renegotiation of its collective bargaining agreement.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates 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.
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.

Rui Valente, João Soares Almeida

Other key lawyers

André de Oliveira Correia, Rita Nogueira, Magda Nunes, Ricardo Grilo