Morais Leitão promotes six lawyers to partners
Morais Leitão has promoted six lawyers to partners, and has also introduced a refreshed coordination team to lead the development of its public law practice. The law firm has promoted Philipp Melcher to equity partner and of Diana Ettner, Elmano Sousa Costa, Isabel Valente Dias, Rita Nunes dos Santos, and Vasco Xavier Mesquita to partners. Diana Ettner and Vasco Xavier Mesquita will assume coordinating roles within the public law department.
New partners
Philipp Melcher – A specialist in Portuguese and European competition law, he reinforces Morais Leitão’s international vocation. He has taken on responsibilities in the telecommunications and technology sectors, contributing to the deepening of these strategic areas.
Diana Ettner – Co-coordinator of the public law department, she has a particular focus on the environment and ESG issues, combining these with a focus on innovation and administrative simplification, both in organizations and in companies.
Elmano Sousa Costa – Specializing in financing, including project finance and derivatives, he has been involved in cross-border infrastructure projects, particularly in the oil & gas sector. He maintains strong ties with Latin America, where he has obtained professional experience, particularly in Brazil.
Isabel Valente Dias – Recently awarded a PhD in labor law, she has participated in complex projects and transactions, including corporate restructuring processes and labor litigation, and also has experience in providing specialized services in the area of remuneration and benefits.
Rita Nunes dos Santos – A litigator for over ten years, Rita Nunes has specialized in banking and financial litigation, an area of growing importance in the national legal landscape.
Vasco Xavier Mesquita – Co-coordinator of the public law team, he has been working for over 15 years on matters related to procedures, contracts, and litigation, developing his activity in the infrastructure, transport, and construction sectors, as well as in the defense and aerospace sectors, which are expanding business areas of high technical complexity.
A structural renewal
“Today’s promotions are a source of great pride for the firm. They exemplify our commitment to deepening specialization and expanding into new areas of practice, while upholding the ethical and professional standards that define Morais Leitão. These partners will play a central role in shaping the firm’s future. Their strategic insight, unwavering dedication to clients, and technical excellence position us strongly for the challenges ahead”, says Martim Krupenski, managing partner.
According to Morais Leitão, these promotions are part of a broader plan for the structural renewal of the law firm, which includes the development of new competencies, the modernization of internal processes, and continuous investment in technology and legal expertise.
On the picture, from left to right: Philipp Melcher, Diana Ettner, Elmano Sousa Costa, Isabel Valente Dias, Rita Nunes dos Santos, and Vasco Xavier Mesquita.
