Best Corporate & Commercial Lawyers in Portugal

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GFDL Advogados
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 2018
15 people in their team
Portuguese
English
French
Hungarian
Romanian
Corporate & Commercial Business Registration Contract +11 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...

Founded in 2018
English
Corporate & Commercial Sanctions & Export Controls Private Equity +20 more
F+AS - Ferraz e Aguiar Soares, Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL, is a distinguished Portuguese law firm with offices in Lisbon and Porto. The firm's team comprises seasoned lawyers, each with an average of 18 years of legal practice, ensuring that clients receive counsel from experienced...
Global Lawyers
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 1998
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Corporate & Commercial Government Relations & Lobbying International Trade Law +10 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...
Giambrone & Associados
Porto, Portugal

Founded in 2005
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
About usGiambrone & Partners is an international law firm with legal capacity in a wide range of jurisdictions and over 15 years of experience in providing international legal advice, to both our corporate and private clients.The firm was founded in 2005 by Gabriele Giambrone with the...
QUOR Advogados
Braga, Portugal

Founded in 2021
9 people in their team
Portuguese
English
French
Spanish
A QUOR Advogados é um escritório de advogados com sede em Braga, Porto e Esposende, com foco em Direito da Família, Direito do Trabalho, Direito Imobiliário e Direito Penal. Valorizamos a prestação de serviços jurídicos personalizados, adaptados às necessidades específicas de cada...

English
Miguel do Amaral Advogado, based in Santa Maria da Feira, offers comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas, including civil, labor, commercial, criminal, family, and succession law. The firm provides assistance with contract negotiation and execution, as well as services related...

Founded in 2017
English
Passos & Passos - Escritório de Advogados, R.L., established in 2017 and located in the heart of Espinho, Portugal, offers comprehensive legal services across various domains. The firm's primary practice areas include Civil Law, Criminal Law and Misdemeanors, Labor Law, Family and Succession Law...
PMS Advocacia
Porto, Portugal

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
ABOUT USOur firm covers Private International Law, Immigration Law, Portuguese Tax Law, Civil and Criminal Law, and is specialized in processing applications for Portuguese Citizenship, with direct entry into Portugal. We have vast experience in Visa applications, Civil Registry rectification,...
Think Legal
Porto, Portugal

English
Think Legal is a distinguished law firm based in Portugal, renowned for its comprehensive legal services across various practice areas. The firm's team of seasoned attorneys brings extensive experience and in-depth knowledge to each case, ensuring clients receive expert guidance tailored to their...

Founded in 2001
English
Established in 2001, DELGADO e ASSOCIADOS - Sociedade de Advogados is a distinguished law firm based in Porto, Portugal. The firm has evolved from the merger of several traditional Portuguese law practices, combining deep-rooted legal expertise with a forward-thinking approach. With a team of 27...
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About Corporate & Commercial Law in Portugal

Corporate & Commercial Law in Portugal governs the formation, operation, and regulation of businesses, as well as commercial transactions within the country. It sets out the legal framework for companies, partnerships, and other business entities, addressing matters such as company formation, mergers and acquisitions, contracts, intellectual property, competition, and dispute resolution. Portugal's evolving legal landscape is designed to foster both domestic and international business, enhance market transparency, and ensure the fair treatment of all involved parties.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer in Corporate & Commercial matters can be critical for several reasons. Common scenarios include starting or restructuring a business, drafting and negotiating commercial contracts, handling mergers or acquisitions, resolving disputes between shareholders or with other businesses, ensuring regulatory compliance, and protecting intellectual property rights. Legal professionals can help navigate complex regulations, avoid costly mistakes, and represent your interests effectively in negotiations or litigation.

Local Laws Overview

Corporate & Commercial activities in Portugal operate under the Portuguese Civil Code, the Commercial Companies Code (Código das Sociedades Comerciais), and various sector-specific regulations. Key aspects to understand include:

  • Company Formation: Companies must be registered with the Commercial Registry Office and comply with minimum capital requirements and corporate governance standards.
  • Corporate Structures: Common forms include Sociedade por Quotas (Lda, private limited company) and Sociedade Anónima (SA, public limited company).
  • Contract Law: Contracts are primarily governed by the Civil Code, emphasizing freedom of contract but subject to mandatory legal provisions.
  • Employment Regulations: Employment contracts and labor relations are tightly regulated to protect workers' rights.
  • Taxation: There are corporate, value-added, and local taxes applicable to businesses, which require careful planning and compliance.
  • Foreign Investment: Portugal encourages foreign investment, though certain sectors are subject to regulatory approval or limitations.
  • Dispute Resolution: Disputes may be handled in civil courts, commercial courts, or through arbitration, depending on the nature of the disagreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of business entities can I establish in Portugal?

The most common types are the Sociedade por Quotas (Lda), a private limited company, and Sociedade Anónima (SA), a public limited company. Other forms include sole proprietorships and partnerships.

How long does it take to establish a company in Portugal?

If all documents are in order, a company can often be registered within a few days, especially with the "Empresa na Hora" (Company in an Hour) service. More complex structures may require additional time.

Do I need a local partner to open a business in Portugal?

No, foreign individuals and entities can own 100 percent of a Portuguese company. However, at least one director may need to be a resident for certain business types or sectors.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements for companies?

Portuguese companies must maintain accurate accounting records, file annual tax returns, hold annual general meetings, and comply with regulations regarding social security, tax, and labor.

Can I draft my own commercial contracts?

While technically possible, drafting contracts without legal expertise can expose you to risks or unfavorable terms. It is advisable to have contracts reviewed or prepared by a lawyer.

What is the process for resolving a commercial dispute?

Disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation in the civil or commercial courts. The chosen method will depend on the contract and nature of the dispute.

How is intellectual property protected?

Portugal is part of the European Union intellectual property regime. Trademarks, patents, and designs must be registered with the Portuguese Institute of Industrial Property to receive protection.

What tax obligations do companies have?

Businesses must pay corporate income tax, VAT, and may be subject to municipal and other taxes. Registration with the tax authorities and regular filing of returns is mandatory.

Are there restrictions on foreign investment?

Portugal generally welcomes foreign investment, but some sectors such as defense and transportation are subject to additional scrutiny and approval processes.

What happens if a company becomes insolvent?

Portuguese law provides procedures for insolvency and restructuring, including judicial reorganization or liquidation. Legal advice is strongly recommended for managing insolvency risks and proceedings.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:

  • Portuguese Institute of Industrial Property (INPI): For intellectual property matters.
  • Conservatória do Registo Comercial (Commercial Registry Office): For company formation and registration.
  • Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (Portuguese Tax Authority): For matters concerning business taxation.
  • ACCPE (Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation): Offers resources to support entrepreneurs and investors.
  • Order of Lawyers (Ordem dos Advogados): Professional regulator for legal practitioners in Portugal.
  • AICEP Portugal Global: Provides guidance for foreign investors and exporters.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in the field of Corporate & Commercial in Portugal, consider the following steps:

  • Define your needs clearly, such as company formation, contract drafting, or dispute resolution.
  • Gather and organize any relevant documentation regarding your business or issue.
  • Seek a qualified legal professional with experience in Corporate & Commercial Law in Portugal. The Ordem dos Advogados can help locate registered lawyers.
  • Consult with your lawyer early to address any legal issues proactively and avoid complications.
  • Keep informed of any regulatory changes that may impact your business activities.

Professional legal support can help you protect your business interests and ensure compliance with Portuguese laws, setting the foundation for growth and success.

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 Corporate & Commercial, 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.