IFLR 1000

Abreu Advogados has strengthened its already sizable banking and finance practice with the addition of Paulo de Tarso Domingues and José Miguel Tropa in November 2008 and January 2009 respectively.

Abreu Advogados is a recognised name in the market and is particularly active in fund formation. The firm also provides financial services to a range of leading institutions and advised la Caixa (Barcelona) on the setting up of a Portuguese branch.

Abreu Advogados is one of the fastest-growing firms in Portugal. In January 2009 Abreu incorporated a team of lawyers including three partners from SMS Advogados.

The firm's size has seen it active in a large number of deals and though expansion is viewed with caution in the prevailing economic climate, competitors note the quality of Abreu's practitioners. "Size can be a problem," says a rival. "If you don't have the work it can force you to take on transactions just to feed the structure. But they have got good lawyers and I'm told they have some important clients too."

Abreu's corporate practice is headed by Miguel de Avillez Pereira. He led the team advising Crédit Foncier de France in the acquisition of 100% - and then the subsequent sale of 15% - of Banco Primus in the last quarter of 2008.