Legal 500 2026

"Praised for its ‘great technical ability’ and regulatory expertise, Sérvulo & Associados’ finance and governance team advises credit and financial institutions, as well as crypto-asset, payments and neo-banking clients, on financing transactions, fintech and regulatory matters, including compliance and investment fund authorisations. The practice also has a strong track record in bank resolutions and the reorganisation of public financial institutions."

"Sérvulo's banking and finance team is one of the most experienced and capable teams in Portugal. They have extraordinary practical knowledge, combined with great technical ability, representing enormous added value for any client."

"Manuel Magalhães has in-depth knowledge of the sector, as well as being available."

"Manuel Magalhães is undoubtedly a leading figure in this area."

"We have used the firm, specifically the team led by partner Francisco Barona, mainly for representation in cases of high legal complexity. They demonstrate a high level of competence and availability."

"Sérvulo & Associados leverages its ‘excellent technical skills’ and ’in-depth knowledge of the regulatory framework’ to advise on regulatory compliance, transactions, fintech, corporate governance, asset management and investment funds. The practice is jointly led by Manuel Magalhães alongside Paulo Câmara."

"Excellent technical skills, responsiveness, problem-solving ability, proactivity, and rigour."

"Sérvulo has assisted us in the regulatory area since our establishment, and they have maintained the same availability to clients and sophistication in their technical and legal solutions."

"The capital markets team at Sérvulo & Associados demonstrates great rigour in supporting regulatory compliance. The department closely monitors regulatory updates and provides clients with clear and well-founded guidance."

"Sérvulo & Associados provides a service of excellence, anchored in close relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and seeking the legal solution that best satisfies their interests with unparalleled rigour and technical quality."

"Availability, proximity, commitment, and technical quality are the main distinguishing characteristics of Sérvulo."

"Paulo Câmara is a distinguished lawyer and law professor, with profound theoretical and practical knowledge of capital markets and banking law, possessing unparalleled technical expertise and highly refined legal reasoning. He also manages to build a close relationship with his clients, allowing him not only to understand their objectives but also to instil confidence in their management of the matters entrusted to him, given his constant presence in the direction, discussion, and monitoring of the subject."

"Recognised for its ‘dedication’ and ’excellence’, Sérvulo & Associados advises on high-profile deals and restructuring matters across key sectors, including energy, infrastructure, technology, sports and healthcare. Pedro Silveira Borges, promoted to equity partner in September 2025, focuses on high-impact deals in the energy industry. Inês Gomes Ferreira and Ana Rafaela Balas joined in December 2025, bringing considerable experience in M&A, restructuring and corporate governance."

"What sets Sérvulo apart is the team's dedication, as well as their creativity and ability to present solutions to problems."

"A professional team with a remarkable capacity for analysis and adaptation."

"The team's excellence, the close relationship with the client, and the expertise in the business areas. The Sérvulo team is one of the best in the market, with an ability to find solutions that few can achieve."

"Sérvulo has a highly experienced, versatile, and technically sound team."

"Pedro Silveira Borges is probably the best lawyer in the field of his generation. Excellent, innovative, tireless. With a brilliant, critical and analytical sense. Someone we always want around and by our side, for any transaction. Furthermore, his empathetic spirit makes him a true "team player," achieving client intimacy like few others."

"Drawing on deep regulatory knowledge of data privacy and protection, Sérvulo & Associados assists with GDPR compliance, incident responses, data governance, data sharing and impact assessments across healthcare, finance, telecoms and public administration. The team saw significant expansion in December 2025, with the arrival of the experienced Ana Ferreira Neves and Pedro Vidigal Monteiro, along with a team of associates. Monteiro now leads the practice."

"The data protection team at Sérvulo & Associados distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to cross-sectoral data protection matters, delivering practical solutions to complex challenges. Our experience is of a practice committed to collaborative working, who are extremely responsive and client-oriented, with deep sector specialisation."

"Sérvulo & Associados offers a comprehensive dispute resolution practice, covering commercial litigation, domestic and international arbitration and administrative litigation, with expertise spanning sectors such as finance, automotive, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, transport and infrastructure. The ‘experienced’ team is co-led by the ’excellent’ João Saúde, who has notable experience in international arbitration and sports law litigation, alongside António Teles and Mafalda Ferreira Santos, who handle a wide range of commercial disputes. Miguel Santos Almeida and Alexandra Valpaços regularly represent clients before state and arbitral courts in matters involving contractual and non-contractual liability."

"Experienced team with good communication skills."

"They are very knowledgeable, have a lot of experience and are excellent litigators."

"João Saúde and Alexandra Valpaços are both excellent lawyers. Maria Novo and Inês Pereira are also very good."

"Attention to detail and depth of knowledge."

"Combining ‘deep local expertise with an international outlook’, Sérvulo & Associados advises on individual and collective working relations throughout the full employment cycle, with a strong track record in disputes, restructurings and collective redundancies. The ’technically impeccable’ team also covers immigration, labour due diligence, pay gap and quotas matters. Practice head Rita Canas da Silva is noted for her ‘extensive experience’ across all areas of labour law. João Maria Bismarck arrived in June 2025, bringing expertise in investigations, contracts and restructuring oversight."

"This Portuguese law firm stands out in the national market for combining deep local expertise with an international outlook. The team is recognised for its pragmatic, business-oriented approach and its ability to deliver clear, commercially sound legal advice."

"The team at Sérvulo & Associados stands out for its deep expertise in Portugal’s Tech Visa and other visa categories, providing thorough, attentive, and practical guidance. Their responsiveness and willingness to carefully explain each step ensure clients feel supported through complex immigration processes."

"The labour law department at Sérvulo & Associados has established itself as an undeniable benchmark in the national legal landscape. It is an extraordinarily versatile team, technically impeccable, and with a culture of excellence that permeates all levels of seniority. Its work combines profound legal rigour with strategic vision and practical sensitivity, qualities that are reflected in a very high success rate and client loyalty."

"The team operates in all areas of labour law, with an emphasis on complex litigation, corporate restructurings, collective bargaining, and international mobility, providing highly rigorous technical advice. The department distinguishes itself through its multidisciplinary approach, working closely with the corporate, tax, public, and ESG areas, which allows for comprehensive and innovative solutions. The quality of service is based on an experienced team with a strong academic component and the ability to translate complex legal issues into simple solutions."

"The presence of Rita Canas da Silva as a partner and coordinator guarantees a very high level of work quality, extensive experience, dedication to clients, market knowledge, seriousness, and responsibility."

"Particularly well regarded for its expertise in public and administrative law, Sérvulo & Associados assists energy clients in contractual, transactional, procurement and regulatory compliance matters. Mark Kirkby has extensive experience in public and regulatory law, with a particular focus on the energy sector."

"A team with extensive knowledge and practical experience in public law, possessing significant expertise in public and regulatory matters – having specialised in public and regulatory law within the energy/renewable energy sector for nearly a decade. Their opinions are reliable and practical in energy regulation."

"Mark Kirby is our go-to external lawyer for difficult regulatory and administrative law issues."

"Sérvulo & Associados is recognised for the ‘excellent quality’ of its work across the full spectrum of competition law, including State aid, restrictive practices, abuse of dominant position cases, private enforcement and class actions. The ’highly qualified’ team also handles merger control, Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR), and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) matters. Practice head Miguel Gorjão-Henriques stands out for his longstanding experience across EU and competition law, being a trusted adviser to public authorities. Alberto Saavedra, ‘a reference’ in competition law, is commended for his work in high-profile advisory and litigation matters at the national and EU levels."

"The response is effective, assertive, and meets the client's needs."

"The firm distinguishes itself in the national legal landscape through its combination of technical rigour, innovative approach, and close client relationships, guaranteeing a personalised service and a clear interpretation of our needs. The quality of service provided is based on a highly qualified multidisciplinary team, recognised for its ability to anticipate risks, propose creative solutions, and act quickly and efficiently in complex and challenging contexts."

"One of the main differentiators is the integrated way in which the firm operates: the teams work collaboratively, responding to the specific needs of the challenge at hand, crossing areas of practice, experience in similar processes, and sectors of activity, ensuring a complete and personalised response to the needs of each client."

"They are very helpful and deliver excellent quality work."

"Alberto Saavedra stands out as a reference in competition law. With a remarkable professional profile, he is recognised for his analytical acumen, impeccable ethical stance, and ability to act both in advisory and litigation matters, particularly in proceedings before the Competition Authority and national and European courts."

"Sérvulo & Associados is distinguished by its expertise in high-profile criminal and regulatory matters involving financial crime and corruption. Considered ‘a benchmark’ in criminal litigation, the firm has increasingly developed its compliance capabilities, assisting clients with internal investigations, whistleblowing and internal policies. The practice is jointly led by José Lobo Moutinho, regarded for his ’extensive’ knowledge of criminal law; Teresa Serra, with longstanding experience in white-collar and regulatory matters; and Cláudia Amorim, highly specialised in corporate crime and regulatory compliance."

"The team provides very personal support to clients and responds to all the legal challenges that the processes create. The team's experience sets it apart from the best firms in this area."

"The team is very well prepared technically and always available to provide the appropriate/necessary legal services."

"Sérvulo is a benchmark in terms of service quality and inspires confidence at every stage of the process."

"José Lobo Moutinho possesses experience, human qualities, and agility."

"The interaction with the team is very attentive and clear, and the procedures are very efficient. I would highlight Teresa Serra and Miguel Almeida, whom I recommend without reservation."

"Combining a ‘rigorous legal approach’ with business acumen, Sérvulo & Associados is trusted by creditors, distressed companies, financial institutions and public sector entities for assistance with complex insolvency and restructuring matters. Its work in judicial insolvency proceedings, out-of-court restructurings, enforcement actions and liquidation processes is recognised for its ’exceptional quality’. Practice leadership is split between Manuel Magalhães, noted for his ‘in-depth technical knowledge’ of banking operations restructuring; Mafalda Ferreira Santos, who often represents both creditors and debtors in intricate insolvency and restructuring proceedings; António Teles, experienced in the resolution and winding-up processes of major financial institutions; and João Saúde, who advises across all stages of liquidation and insolvency processes."

"We consider Sérvulo & Associados' work to be of exceptional quality, both in legal consulting and litigation, in an extremely complex insolvency process. Furthermore, Sérvulo's response time to any of our inquiries has always been very short, and their monitoring of our activity has proven essential to the smooth functioning of this liquidation/insolvency process."

"We would like to highlight the contributions of Manuel Magalhães and António Teles, who have been diligently and competently involved in the liquidation process from the outset, as well as the work of José Guilherme Gomes, particularly regarding legal advice on the relationship between our entity, in liquidation, and its foreign subsidiaries."

"High degree of professionalism, technical competence, and close monitoring of processes. What makes this firm unique is its ability to combine a rigorous legal approach with a strategic understanding of the business contexts in which they operate."

"The team has demonstrated great sensitivity to the specific challenges faced by companies in crisis, offering solutions that go beyond the legal aspects, with a direct impact on business viability. The cross-disciplinary nature of the advisory services—involving areas such as tax, labour, corporate, and financial law—is a clear asset, allowing for an integrated and effective response. I would also like to highlight Sérvulo's commitment to innovation."

"I have had a very positive experience with Manuel Magalhães and António Teles, two professionals who stand out for their competence, availability, and ability to adapt to the demands of the processes in which we are involved."

"Manuel Magalhães is someone who inspires confidence, knows how to listen, and has a remarkable ability to simplify complex issues, which greatly facilitates decision-making."

"Sérvulo & Associados is active in IP rights litigation, advising domestic and international clients on disputes involving patents, trade marks, copyright, and distribution and agency matters, with a strong focus on the pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors. Mariana Costa Pinto is a key figure in patent litigation. Pedro Vidigal Monteiro and Ana Ferreira Neves joined in December 2025."

"I have worked with Sérvulo & Associados on several patent-related matters and have found their team to be highly professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. Their expertise in IP law, particularly in the Portuguese legal framework, has been instrumental in helping us navigate complex patent issues with confidence."

"The firm provides clear, strategic advice that is both technically sound and commercially relevant. Their ability to understand our business needs and tailor their legal solutions accordingly has made them a trusted partner in our operations."

"I have had the opportunity to work with Mariana Costa Pinto from Sérvulo & Associados on patent-related matters, and I can confidently say that her professionalism, legal insight, and dedication to client service are exceptional. She combines deep technical knowledge of intellectual property law with a pragmatic and solution-oriented approach."

"Mariana Costa Pinto is responsive, thorough, and consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to achieving the best outcomes. I would highly recommend her to any organisation seeking expert legal support in the field of patents and IP in Portugal."

"Our experience with Sérvulo & Associados has always been very positive. The team demonstrates remarkable speed of response and great efficiency in addressing diverse problems – from contractual issues with suppliers to situations of default or other matters of a civil nature."

"The urban planning team at Sérvulo & Associados advises public and private clients on zoning, licensing, regulatory compliance and construction agreements. Eduardo Gonçalves Rodrigues leads the practice, assisting with planning instruments, urban development operations, and real estate transactions, including tourism projects. Filipa Névoa handles urban planning and licensing matters with a litigation component, while Sara Teixeira Pinto focuses on zoning, planning, and urban licensing, as well as real estate transactions."

"Eduardo Gonçalves Rodrigues is one of the leading specialists in the field, standing out for his vast experience, deep knowledge and know-how. A dedicated professional, always available and providing prompt responses to urgent matters."

"The team at Sérvulo & Associados, particularly in the area of urban planning and land management, has demonstrated an exceptional level of excellence. I especially highlight the work of lawyer Eduardo Gonçalves Rodrigues, whose involvement in the project has been exemplary. His deep understanding of the legal aspects of land management, combined with a practical and solution-oriented approach, has been crucial to the project’s success."

"What distinguishes this team is its ability to combine legal and technical expertise with a strategic and collaborative outlook, resulting in genuinely integrated legal support. Availability, precision, and clarity in communication are also noteworthy aspects."

"In the context of work carried out in urban planning and land management, lawyer Eduardo Rodrigues has stood out very positively. He demonstrates deep technical knowledge, strong analytical skills, and a collaborative attitude that significantly contribute to the progress of projects. His involvement in the project has been particularly valuable, showing not only solid legal expertise but also strategic and operational insight."

"A team recognised for its extensive technical expertise and practical approach to resolving issues related to licensing and urban planning. Outstanding command of urban planning legislation. Quick responses and close support at every stage."

"Sérvulo & Associados is highly regarded for its wealth of experience in advising public entities on tender procedures, procurement, and public concessions, with notable experience in energy and infrastructure projects in Portugal and Lusophone Africa. Co-head Mark Kirkby has a strong track record in concessions and PPPs, particularly within the renewable energy and transport sectors. Fellow co-lead Francisca Mendes da Costa focuses on concessions, public procurement, and PPPs, frequently advising on international mandates across Mozambique, Angola, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Cape Verde."

"From my experience, Sérvulo stands out for its intellectual rigour, ethical standards, and genuine client commitment. The team combines deep legal knowledge with practical, business-oriented advice, ensuring efficient and balanced solutions. Partners are directly involved, highly responsive, and collaborative across departments — particularly strong in regulatory, public, and corporate matters. Compared to other firms, Sérvulo offers exceptional consistency, trust, and long-term perspective."

"I have worked closely with Francisca Mendes da Costa, whose support has been truly exceptional. She combines deep technical knowledge with clarity, pragmatism, and a remarkable ability to anticipate issues before they arise. Francisca’s judgment, integrity, and commitment make her an outstanding and trusted advisor. The broader Sérvulo team reflects the same professionalism and cohesion — highly responsive, coordinated, and solution-driven."

"Overall, what differentiates them from competitors is the balance between intellectual rigour, teamwork, and a genuine sense of partnership with the client."

"Deep knowledge and extensive experience in the subjects and topics covered. Ready and immediate availability. Commitment and dedication."

"From what I could gather during my interactions with Servulo's team, what especially stands out is their solid legal knowledge and experience."

"Both Mark Kirkby and Francisca Mendes da Costa are very client-oriented and especially good at tailoring the legal work and the overall strategic framework of the operations to address clients' goals."

"Sérvulo & Associados, a key reference in Portugal for sophisticated public law matters, is widely recognised for its expertise in advising both public and private entities on regulatory, administrative and constitutional issues across the education, transport, infrastructure, energy, and environmental sectors. The team is co-led by Rui Medeiros, who advises on public contracts, PPPs, and regulatory issues; João Amaral e Almeida, a key contact for public procurement in the transport and infrastructure spaces; Mark Kirkby, who focuses on concession renegotiations and PPPs; and Francisca Mendes da Costa and Pedro Fernández Sánchez, who bring deep experience in public procurement and large-scale infrastructure projects. 

"The members of the team with whom we had the privilege of interacting are incomparable, and the company is very satisfied with all of them. Even so, it is worth highlighting Pedro Fernández Sánchez for his great availability, attention, and dedication to the matters entrusted to him and, above all, for his absolute competence and command of the subjects, which make us extremely satisfied."

"Excellent team in technical terms, very quick to respond and supportive."

"Available team with great knowledge of public procurement matters and capable of presenting solutions."

"I distinguish Francisca Mendes da Costa and Jorge Faria Lopes for their deep technical knowledge."

"Technical competence of all professionals, extraordinarily easy communication, and timely and clear responses."

"Technical capacity and availability of excellence, without equal. Extreme speed, efficiency, and cordiality."

"Sérvulo & Associados' real estate practice advises on acquisitions, sales, development and construction matters across the tourism, commercial and retail sectors, as well as on real estate group structuring and funding arrangements. Practice head Manuel Magalhães is noted for his work with investment funds and financial institutions. Sofia Thibaut Trocado advises on real estate asset and share deals, while Manuel Henriques is active in urban planning and construction matters. Rita Lufinha Borges joined in July 2025, bringing considerable experience in real estate transactions and urban planning."

"Manuel Henrique's approach combines technical depth with a practical, business-oriented vision. This close and innovative support distinguishes him in the national legal market."

"Outstanding expertise."

"Recognised competence and experience in the field."

"Very responsive and well informed."

"With experience in advisory and contentious matters spanning domestic, EU and broader international frameworks, the tax team at Sérvulo & Associados is regularly involved in the tax structuring of M&A transactions, financings and corporate reorganisations, as well as in judicial and administrative proceedings. The practice is jointly led by Ana Moutinho Nascimento, whose work centres on tax litigation and inspections, and Teresa Pala Schwalbach, who focuses on transactional tax and wealth management matters. Patrícia Guerra Carvalhal is also active in tax litigation."

"The practice differentiates itself through its collaborative culture, seamless internal communication and ability to integrate innovative approaches, including tailored billing arrangements and efficient use of technology."

'"The firm’s business approach is highly client-oriented, with strong commitment to results-driven professional services, flexibility in forming effective working groups, senior involvement from the outset and innovative billing arrangements, including risk-sharing structures.'"

"The team is easy to work with, responsive and focused on delivering value-added, solution-driven advice with strong technical knowledge and clear communication."

"Teresa Pala Schwalbach is highly professional, exceptionally knowledgeable in tax law and consistently responsive, providing practical, solution-oriented advice tailored to clients’ needs."

Sérvulo & Associados' TMT offering is now overseen by Pedro Vidigal Monteiro and Ana Ferreira Neves, who joined in December 2025.

"Sérvulo & Associados possesses strong expertise in public and administrative law, regularly assisting government bodies, municipal authorities, and public entities with the structuring, development, and concession of major transport projects, including rail and road infrastructure. The practice is headed up by Mark Kirkby, who is highly experienced in procurement procedures and public contracting."

"Technical excellence and unparalleled efficiency."