Garrigues Portugal houses an ‘elite group’ of competition law specialists, praised for their ’strong technical background’. The practice possesses a strong track record of representing domestic and international clients from the worlds of automotive, technology, consumer and banking in complex cartel cases and merger control proceedings. Practice head Luís Pinto Monteiro - 'known for his unwavering ethics, commitment to justice and in-depth knowledge of the law' - is active in cartel mattes, antitrust litigation, national and international merger control, and in the implementation of antitrust compliance programmes. Associate Sofia Vilas Boas regularly advises clients on concentration proceedings before the European Commission and the PCA, while Miguel Cortes Martins is especially noted for his experience in hub-and-spoke arrangements.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The way they dedicate themselves to their clients’ needs is unparalleled. Moreover, they are highly skilled, brilliant lawyers that have significant experience in competition law. On top of that, the team also has deep understanding of contracts, consumer protection and advertising law, which is a plus concerning some of the problems we deal with.'

  • ‘We highlight Luís Pinto Monteiro who never fails to meet our needs. He is a strategic killer. He is also surrounded by very well-prepared lawyers.'

  • ‘It is a team available 24/7, with an elite group of experienced lawyers that are focused on finding solutions and showing results. A highly pragmatic and very well-prepared group of lawyers headed by Luís Pinto Monteiro.'

  • 'The team members can easily see the big picture while paying attention to the details. They are also highly proficient in consumer protection law and commercial contracts, which is a plus when dealing with matters that touch upon these fields of law.'

  • ‘Our matters are managed by Luís Pinto Monteiro. He is our trusted adviser on a regular basis. When we met him, we recognise in him not only a superb lawyer and professional, but also someone who is a kindred spirit.'

  • ‘Garrigues is a law firm that stands out for its excellence and commitment to quality in all aspects of its legal services. The quality of the service provided by Garrigues is a fundamental pillar of its identity and success.'

  • ‘I highlight Luís Pinto Monteiro. He is a lawyer whose professionalism is truly exemplary. With a distinguished career, he stands out not only for his legal skill, but also for his tireless dedication to the interests of his clients. He is known for his unwavering ethics, commitment to justice and in-depth knowledge of the law.'

  • ‘The EU and competition team from Garrigues stands out for the way it interacts with clients. They are always, and without exception, extremely well prepared.'

Key clients

  • Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria
  • WPP
  • Prestibel – Empresa de Segurança, S.A.
  • Jaguar Land Rover
  • Volvo
  • Polestar
  • ANF
  • Samsung
  • Honda
  • Atena
  • Explorer Investments
  • Netflix
  • Silopor

Work highlights

  • Assisting BBVA in a cartel case concerning the alleged exchanging of confidential information with other banks.
  • Assisting Prestibel – Empresa de Segurança, S.A. in an alleged cartel sanctioned by the Portuguese Competition Authority.
  • Assisting Boston Scientific Corporation in a horizontal merger related to the acquisition of MI Tech which develops, manufactures, and provides medical devices in the field of digestive endoscopy.

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.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Luís Pinto Monteiro

Other key lawyers

Sofia Vilas Boas, Miguel Cortes Martins