Projects and project finance

PLMJ

Led by Maria Zagallo, the team at PLMJ has a wealth of experience in the financing and development of projects in the transport, healthcare, and energy sectors. Practitioners ‘actively search for innovative solutions to the problems presented’ and are noted for their capabilities in public procurement, PPPs, concessions and regulatory issues. Zagallo possesses ’experience in both the private and public sector’, with a particular focus on matters related to motorways, ports, and railways. Diogo Perestrelo, a ‘reference in the national legal market’, is noted for his expertise in M&A and investments in regulated sectors, while Joana Brandão is recognised for her work in energy, infrastructure and real estate projects. Former co-head Inês Pinto da Costa left the firm in October 2024.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'The team actively search for innovative solutions to the problems presented to them.'
'The team build close relationships with the client.'
'The lawyers were fully compliant with strict deadlines.'
'Diogo Perestrelo is a reference in the national legal market, with his vast experience.'
'Maria Zagallo: a lawyer whose experience stands out from the rest, with experience in both the private and public sector.'
'Their client-focused, agile approach ensures tailored, strategic guidance that aligns with both industry standards and local regulations. Known for its strong regulatory network, PLMJ efficiently navigates complex compliance processes, accelerating project timelines. They also bring innovation through real-time digital collaboration tools and flexible billing, enhancing transparency and accessibility for clients. PLMJ’s commitment to diversity further enriches its service, bringing a wide range of perspectives to each project.'
'Joana Brandão truly stands out for her expertise, dedication, and collaborative approach. She is exceptional at navigating complex regulatory frameworks, particularly in environmental and energy law, and consistently provides strategic insights that are both thorough and practical. Her leadership and foresight make a significant difference in pushing our projects forward efficiently, she is actively participating in our face-to-face kick-off meetings to ensure that we are walked through all the vital processes smoothly.'

Key clients

NOAE Investments, S.A.
LNEC
RyanAir DAC
Ardian
DIF Capital Partners
Strategic Value Partners
Cape Verde State
Aer Rianta International CPT
Eco Wave Power
Ecoslops
Enerparc
Engie Group
Galp
Fattal Hotel Group
Universidade Nova de Lisboa
Universidade de Aveiro
Endesa Generación
Electra - Eletricidade e Água
Parkia Iniciativas S.L.U.

Work highlights

Advising the technical committee appointed by the Portuguese Government (LNEC – Laboratório Nacional de Engenharia Civil), as the PPP airport infrastructure legal specialist for a debate on the new Lisbon Airport.
Advising LHEA on a PPP between a Nova Medical School and a CUF Group, on the construction of the new building that will be included in the future “health campus” along with the Nova Medical School new building.
Advising two road concessionaires - Autoestradas do Algarve and Autoestradas Norte Litoral, and DIF on an arbitration against the Portuguese State (grantor), concerning a dispute over the interpretation of the concession agreements about a toll-related benefit sharing mechanism.