Best Conveyancing Lawyers in Portugal

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Lamares, Capela e Associados

Lamares, Capela e Associados

15 minutes Free Consultation
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 2019
17 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Spanish
French
Real Estate Conveyancing Mortgage +3 more
Portuguese lawyers Ana Sofia Lamares and Diogo Capela are the founding partners of the law firm. After deepening their expertise and gaining experience, primarily in the fields of Immigration and Citizenship, both decided to found LACA and pursue their mission.The team brings...
GFDL Advogados
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 2018
15 people in their team
Portuguese
English
French
Hungarian
Romanian
Real Estate Conveyancing Brokerage +9 more
GFDL Advogados is an independent full-service law firm based in Lisbon. Our team comprises highly skilled advisors and lawyers with international experience in law and business affairs.Our dedicated teams handle all aspects of doing business and investing in Portugal. We consolidate intellectually...
Global Lawyers
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 1998
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Real Estate Conveyancing Natural Resources +9 more
Global LawyersGlobal Lawyers has a multidisciplinary team with proven experience and in-depth knowledge in all areas of law: litigation, public and private, corporate, real estate and foreign investment, out-of-court dispute resolution and arbitration, golden visa, visa and citizenship.We provide...
EDGE - International Lawyers
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 2016
200 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Our experienced team provides legal solutions for both international and domestic clients, serving their business needs whilst also understanding their cultural diversity. Often these solutions need to be individualised and we have the flexibility to blend both traditional and innovative...

Founded in 1976
200 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Who We AreEach step of the deal is vital. Drawing upon a wealth of knowledge and experience our extensive track record of innovation enables our teams to deliver legal services of excellence every stage of the way. Our professionals are carefully selected for their advanced technical skills and...
Amaro da Luz Advogados
Coimbra, Portugal

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
We believe that the relationship between lawyer and client is based, above all, on trust and reflects a personal bond.We excel, therefore, in the zeal and rigor in the exercise of our profession, as it is our conviction that only the Law allows the true safeguard of society.In these times, it is...
Cuatrecasas
Porto, Portugal

Founded in 1989
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
In Portugal, Cuatrecasas currently has more than 180 lawyers and the Porto office has 20 professionals. Cuatrecasas has its Portuguese roots in the Lisbon office founded in 1928 by Professor Armando Gonçalves Pereira, who soon stood out for his independence in the exercise of law and for an...

Founded in 2001
English
Lopes Cardoso & Associados, Sociedade de Advogados, R. L., is a distinguished law firm based in Porto, Portugal, renowned for its comprehensive legal services and commitment to excellence. Established in 2001 by João António Lopes Cardoso, the firm has built a reputation for delivering...

English
bcp - Sociedade de Advogados, S.P. RL. is a distinguished law firm located in Porto, Portugal, at Rua Eugénio de Castro, nº 280, Sl 129, 1º andar, 4100-225. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, catering to both national and international clients. With a team of experienced...
César Vila Franca Solicitador
Macedo de Cavaleiros, Portugal

Founded in 2013
English
César Vila Franca Solicitador, established in 2013, offers comprehensive legal services in Macedo de Cavaleiros, Portugal. With a professional license number 6518, the firm specializes in providing expert legal advice and representation across various domains, including corporate law, inheritance...
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About Conveyancing Law in Portugal

Conveyancing in Portugal refers to the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. This process includes all the legal steps, from drafting and signing contracts to registering ownership in public records. It typically involves residential or commercial property sales, ensuring all legal requirements are met so that the transfer is valid and secure. Portuguese conveyancing law is shaped by both local statutes and practices, which can vary from region to region.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer for conveyancing in Portugal is highly recommended due to the complexity of property laws and the risks involved in real estate transactions. Some common situations where legal advice is crucial include:

  • Purchasing or selling property as a foreigner
  • Understanding zoning, land use restrictions, or inheritance issues
  • Ensuring compliance with both national and municipal property laws
  • Verifying property titles and encumbrances before purchase
  • Handling disputes over boundaries or co-ownership
  • Preparing or reviewing sale and purchase agreements
  • Clearing outstanding debts or liens on a property

Professional legal assistance can help avoid costly mistakes, protect your interests, and ensure a smooth and lawful transaction.

Local Laws Overview

Conveyancing in Portugal is governed by the Portuguese Civil Code and subject to various local regulations. Key aspects include:

  • Public Deed of Sale: Property must be transferred through a public deed, executed before a notary or a lawyer with special notarial competence.
  • Land Registry: Registration of ownership at the Land Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Predial) is mandatory for the legal recognition of ownership.
  • Legal Due Diligence: Comprehensive checks must be completed regarding property debts, zoning regulations, and building licenses.
  • Taxation: Buyers need to pay several taxes, including the Property Transfer Tax (IMT), Stamp Duty, and possibly Annual Municipal Property Tax (IMI).
  • Foreign Ownership: There are generally no restrictions for foreigners, but compliance with money laundering and documentation rules is required.
  • Preliminary Contract: Frequently, parties sign a preliminary contract known as CPCV that outlines the terms prior to the final deed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a lawyer in Portuguese conveyancing?

A lawyer oversees legal due diligence, drafts and reviews contracts, ensures the transaction is compliant with the law, and safeguards the client's rights throughout the process.

Do I need to be in Portugal to buy or sell property?

No, you can grant a Power of Attorney (Procuração) to a local lawyer or trusted representative to act on your behalf for most conveyancing matters.

What taxes are involved in Portuguese property transactions?

Buyers typically pay Property Transfer Tax (IMT), Stamp Duty, and thereafter, Municipal Property Tax (IMI). Sellers may be liable for capital gains tax.

Is it necessary to sign a preliminary contract?

While not legally required, the Contrato-Promessa de Compra e Venda (CPCV) is commonly used to formalize the agreement before the final deed and to establish penalties for non-compliance.

How can I confirm that a property is free of debts or legal issues?

Your lawyer will obtain a detailed property registration certificate (certidão do registo predial) and a tax clearance document to confirm this.

Are there restrictions on foreign property ownership?

No, there are no significant restrictions for foreigners purchasing property in Portugal, but they must adhere to identification and anti-money laundering laws.

What is the Land Registry and why is it important?

The Land Registry is the official record of property ownership and encumbrances. Registering your title here is essential for legal recognition of ownership.

How long does the conveyancing process take?

The process typically takes between 4 to 12 weeks, but timing can vary depending on factors like due diligence, documentation, and negotiation of terms.

What costs, besides taxes, should buyers expect?

Buyers should budget for notary and registration fees, legal fees, surveyor costs if needed, and bank costs if a mortgage is required.

Can disputes arise after a property purchase is completed?

Yes, issues may emerge concerning property boundaries, hidden defects, or unpaid debts. A lawyer can help manage or resolve disputes post-sale.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking further information or assistance regarding conveyancing in Portugal, consider reaching out to the following organizations and institutions:

  • Portuguese Bar Association (Ordem dos Advogados)
  • Land Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Predial)
  • Portuguese Chamber of Notaries
  • Institute of Registries and Notary (Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado - IRN)
  • Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (Portuguese Tax Authority)
  • Municipal Councils for local property taxes and zoning information

These organizations provide official information, legal support, and guidance for individuals involved in property transactions.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with conveyancing in Portugal, consider the following actions:

  • Gather all relevant property documents such as contracts, registry extracts, and identification papers.
  • Consult a qualified Portuguese lawyer who specializes in real estate or property transactions.
  • Ask for clear explanations of each stage in the process and seek transparency in legal fees.
  • Ensure that your lawyer carries out comprehensive due diligence and clarifies the legal and tax implications.
  • Stay informed throughout the transaction and do not hesitate to ask questions if anything is unclear.

Seeking professional guidance ensures your conveyancing process in Portugal is safe and compliant with all legal requirements.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Portugal through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Conveyancing, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Portugal - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.