VdA draws considerable praise from clients, who turn to the team for its ‘depth of analysis’ and ’vast knowledge’ on the full gamut of regulatory and criminal investigations. The practice assists clients from the sports, financial services, telecoms, energy and media sectors on matters pertaining to regulatory investigations, money laundering and corruption cases, and search and seizure procedures. The team is spearheaded by Sofia Ribeiro Branco who is noted for her focus on regulatory offences cases across a wide range of sectors. Branco is supported by managing associate Joana Bernardo, who boasts considerable experience in criminal cases and misdemeanour and regulatory litigation.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team has unique expertise in the Portuguese market. Sofia Ribeiro Branco is an excellent professional, with great experience in the area. She combines very solid legal knowledge, sagacity and great availability, involvement and commitment to the cases she works on.’
‘Depth of analysis and the team searched for alternatives with persistence.'
‘VdA has a team that is very available and focused on providing the best client advice.’
‘I highlight the availability and holistic vision of Sofia Ribeiro Branco, as well as the professionalism and thoughtful attitude of Joana Bernardo.’
Key clients
- EDP Group
- Mário Ferreira (Pluris Investments)
- Doyen Sports Investment (DSI)- Football Leaks
- Ascendi and Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian
- Sport Lisboa e Benfica — Futebol, S.A.D.
- Varzim sol – Turismo, Jogo e Animação, S.A.
- CUF
- Asperbras
- Manuel Salgado
- Several companies and insolvent companies of the Espírito Santo Group (BES Case) RFI/ESI
- Francisco Andrade
- Marítimo da Madeira Futebol – SAD
- INE – Instituto Nacional de Estatística (the National Statistics Institute)
- Engie Group
- MEO (Altice Group)
Work highlights
- Advising António Mexia and João Manso Neto and assisting REN in an ongoing criminal investigation, looking into the conduct of members of EDP Group, REN Group and the Portuguese Government.
- Acting for Mário Ferreira and Pluris in an investigation by the recently created European Public Prosecutor's Office for alleged fraud in obtaining European subsidies.
- Representing Doyen in a cybercrime investigation case related to the illegal disclosure of several contracts and information.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Sofia Ribeiro Branco