At Uría Menéndez, the team is commended for its ‘deep and solid knowledge of all areas of public law’, including public contracts, privatisations, complex regulatory proceedings and public law litigation. The practice is led by Bernardo Diniz de Ayala, who is singled out for his deep expertise in public procurement, public law disputes, as well as public sector finance, and environmental law. Afonso Choon is distinguished for his proficiency in contentious matters and public procurement. With extensive experience in both contractual and litigious issues in the energy sector, João Louro e Costa often guides clients through privatisations and regulatory proceedings.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Bernardo Diniz de Ayala is a true leader and has a very good command of public law and litigation issues. Mariana Viana Pereira, associate, has demonstrated enormous technical capacity and a lot of good knowledge.’
‘The public law team has valuable technical know-how combined with a lot of practical experience. The lawyers are very quick in responding, available for occasional contact and flexible in terms of evaluating matters, allowing them to make complete assessments. ’
‘Bernardo Diniz de Ayala always brings a very pragmatic approach to the matters submitted to him, helping to achieve the best solutions. Afonso Choon stands out for his pragmatic and assertive approach.’
‘Very consistent and solid team, deep knowledge of the area, and a strong degree of specialisation.’
‘Bernardo Diniz de Ayala is a very present and knowledgeable partner. Gonçalo Andrade e Sousa is an excellent lawyer, and Mariana Viana Pedreira is a junior to watch.’
‘The team has deep and solid knowledge of all areas of public law, with a special focus on public procurement and projects.’
‘Bernardo Ayala is an excellent example for everyone; João Louro e Costa is exceptional and has comprehensive legal knowledge of the energy area; Afonso Choon has solid knowledge of public law (especially public procurement and administrative litigation), is dedicated, and searches for the best solutions.'
- 'Mariana Viana Pedreira is an up-and-coming associate who runs the whole team. Hugely impressive.’
Key clients
- Banco Santander
- Euroscut Açores (Cintra-Ferrovial Group)
- European Investment Bank (EIB)
- JCDecaux S.A.
- Booking.com
- Avincis (formerly Babcock)
- XAIA Investment
- Ecodeal
- Ancala
- Reyal Urbis, S.A.
- Growing Spring – Investimentos Imobiliários e Turísticos, S.A.
Work highlights
- Advising Euroscut Açores (Cintra-Ferrovial Group) on the financial rebalance procedure of its Açores motorway concession.
- Advising JCDecaux on an injunction filed against a merger control decision from the Portuguese Competition Authority.
- Representing Avincis (formerly Babcock) in several public law matters, including administrative, judicial and arbitration proceedings.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Rising stars 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.
Bernardo Diniz de Ayala