The ‘top-notch’ team at Garrigues Portugal is praised for its ability to offer ’innovative solutions that meet the client’s needs’. Boasting a longstanding presence in Porto, the practice is regularly engaged by national and international clients on a host of matters, ranging from corporate and M&A and banking and finance, to employment, tax and dispute resolution. The group is particularly active in the automotive, manufacturing, real estate, IT and retail sectors, earning additional acclaim for its adept handling of cross-border matters. Rui Valente and João Soares Almeida spearhead the employment and social security practice, offering guidance in significant matters such as collective dismissals and lay off proceedings. Leading the corporate and M&A team is Tomás Pessanha, who is a key port of call for several multinational companies in high-value corporate, private equity and venture capital deals; counsel Manuel Liberal Jerónimo assists Pessanha on these matters. Principal associate André de Oliveira Correia is recommended for his employment law expertise.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Great quality of work and availability.'
‘The Garrigues Porto office stands out for the excellence of the legal services provided, presenting innovative solutions that meet the client's needs. They develop lasting relationships of partnership and trust with the client. They have a very quick response capacity.'
‘Partner Tomás Pessanha is one of the best Portuguese lawyers, with great legal knowledge and a lot of experience in international transactions, always focused on finding solutions that protect the client's interests. Creates trusting relationships and knows the client's business and culture very well, which allows him to quickly present solutions suited to the client's needs.'
‘The Garrigues Porto office has been working with us for around 10 years. We value their clarity, technical knowledge, communication and understanding skills, creativity and effectiveness.'
‘André Gualter Vasconcellos is insightful, clear, creative and has great technical-legal knowledge.'
'Manuel Liberal Jerónimo is rigorous, creative, good communication skills and has a critical spirit.'
‘We have worked mainly with Tomás Pessanha and Manuel Liberal Jerónimo. They are experts in their practice, with in-depth knowledge of the general legal framework, ensuring that all issues are handled professionally and efficiently.'
‘Top notch know-how, reliable and client-centric. Fantastic team.’

Key clients

Amorim Group
Samsung Portugal
Bosch Group
BNP Paribas
Max Stock
Vallis Capital Partners
Taga Urbanic
Farminveste (ANF Group)
Fischer Connectors
WireCo WorldGroup
Super Bock Group
Sonae
Bosch
Cognizant
Linde Group
Mahle
Gestamp Group
Volvo Cars
Bimba & Lola
KP Group

Work highlights

Represented MAHLE in several class actions filed by hundreds of employees claiming the payment of shift allowance.
Advised the Amorim Group on the sale of its 10% in Tom Ford International (and Tom Ford Brand) to Estée Lauder Companies Inc. and Zegna Group.
Advised Max Stock Ltd. on the setting up of a joint venture company based in Portugal and jointly owned with another local player.