The strategic vision behind GA_P in Lisbon
In the ever-evolving legal landscape of Portugal, Gomez Acebo & Pombo (GA_P) continues to strengthen its market position through strategic hiring and targeted expertise.
In the last six months, the Lisbon office welcomed three distinguished partners: Filipa Cotta, Madalena Caldeira, and Ana Luísa Guimarães, each a specialist in a vital legal sector — litigation and restructuring, labour law, and public law respectively. These additions are not only a testament to the firm’s commitment to growth but also align with specific market demands that have emerged in Portugal’s dynamic economic environment. This interview with Mafalda Barreto, the managing partner of the Lisbon office, delves into the strategic rationale behind these hires, the anticipated impact on the firm’s service offerings, and the broader vision for the firm in the legal arena.
by ilaria Iaquinta
How do the recent strategic hires align with the law firm’s ambitions in Portugal?
These three professionals possess a wealth of expertise in areas that we see as key for the market: litigation, labour, and public law. Collectively, they have strengthened our capabilities and will assist in advancing our legal excellence through the implementation of innovative solutions.
Could you elaborate on the choice of these specific areas? Are there particular market needs or opportunities that the law firm aims to meet with these specialties?
The decision to focus on Litigation, Restructuring and Insolvency, Labour Law and Public Law and Regulatory responds to distinct market needs. Economic challenges, such as increased corporate insolvencies, drive demand for legal support in resolving financial distress and disputes. In the evolving landscape of employment, specialized advice is crucial to navigate new labour regulations and ensure compliance while managing employees effectively. Additionally, the growing complexity of government regulations and the rise in public sector projects require expertise in administrative law and regulatory compliance. These areas directly address current market opportunities and fulfil client demands in Portugal.
How will the expertise of these new partners enhance the law firm’s service offerings?
Ana Luísa will help consolidate our position in public law across the Iberian Peninsula. Her extensive experience, profound knowledge, and strong market presence will enhance our ability to serve clients in regulated sectors and support major projects that are being launched in Portugal. Madalena, a lawyer with an exceptional career in labor and social security law, is a significant asset for GA_P, particularly in a crucial area of the business world where leading professional advice is indispensable. Her addition has significantly enhanced our capabilities. As to Filipa, she is known for being a litigation expert with a distinguished track record and unparalleled knowledge in a sector that is vital to our economy. Her extensive experience will be invaluable in supporting our clients and expanding our Iberian litigation, restructuring, and insolvency practices, areas in which we are already market leaders in Spain. The combination of the expertise of these top-tier professionals with the strongly qualified team of partners and lawyers we already had in Portugal position us as one of the leading firms present in the market.
Are there other areas where the law firm is looking to expand?
The expansion of the Portuguese office is part of the strategy of the firm. Our plans will combine the promotion of internal talent with lateral hires in areas that we see as strategic for our clients or that present specific market opportunities.
What is your vision for the Lisbon office? What are the key challenges and opportunities you anticipate for the law firm in the upcoming years?
