
Noted for its ‘availability, technical knowledge and close client management’, the team at VdA handles the full gamut of regulatory and criminal investigations for its diverse roster of clients. Operating across a myriad of sectors, including but not limited to, sports, financial services, telecoms, energy and media, the team handles matters pertaining to regulatory investigations, money laundering and corruption cases, and search and seizure procedures. Leading the team is Sofia Ribeiro Branco, whose expertise lies in regulatory offence cases, where she applies her in-depth knowledge across various industries. Elsewhere in the team, Joana Bernardo brings extensive expertise in criminal law, excelling in both misdemeanour cases and regulatory litigation, while Inês Sotto Mayor is noted for her expertise in commercial litigation matters.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Immediate availability. Technical robustness.'
‘The team has legal knowledge fully suited to the tasks they are responsible for, and also stands out in the care given to the relationship with the client.’
‘We would highlight Joana Bernardo and Patrícia Lemos Peixoto, who have ensured the first line of treatment of matters entrusted to the team and who demonstrate mastery of the applicable legislation, also ensuring quick and enlightening responses.’
‘The VdA team always provide very good and in-depth analysis of cases and always gives good advice on the way forward. ’
‘Sofia Ribeiro is very experienced and always provides very good analysis and good advice on the way forward. She always makes herself available when needed. She also has a very good team.’
'The team is noted for its availability, technical knowledge and close client management.'
Key clients
- Altice
- REN
- ENGIE/Movhera
- Futebol Clube do Porto
- DOYEN
- Clube de Futebol Marítimo
- Grupo Lusíadas
- Caixa de Crédito Agrícola
- EDP
- Montepio
Work highlights
- Representing Doyen in the cybercrime investigation case related to the illegal disclosure of several contracts and information.
- Representing Altice as the victim/assistant that is proactively handling the case before the Public Prosecutor.
- Representing Futebol Clube do Porto (FC Porto), as an offended party, in a variety of criminal proceedings.
Lawyers

Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Sofia Ribeiro Branco