Best Project Finance Lawyers in Portugal

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GFDL Advogados
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 2018
15 people in their team
Portuguese
English
French
Hungarian
Romanian
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
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...
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Vieira Rocha - Advogados
Porto, Portugal

Founded in 2016
English
Vieira Rocha - Advogados is a distinguished law firm committed to delivering comprehensive legal services across a diverse range of practice areas. The firm's expertise encompasses Labor Law, Commercial and Corporate Law, Credit Recovery, Insolvency and Corporate Recovery, Criminal Law, Real Estate...

Founded in 2018
English
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...
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...
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...
Porto, Portugal

English
LAW-ACE ADVOGADOS is a distinguished law firm located at 1131 Avenida da Boavista in Porto, Portugal. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across various practice areas, catering to a diverse clientele. Their team of experienced attorneys is committed to delivering tailored solutions that...
Lima Gonçalves & Associados
Funchal, Portugal

Founded in 1989
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
LIMA, GONÇALVES & ASSOCIADOS, RI  was born in 1989, distinguishing itself for being the first law firm to be incorporated in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.Founded on the initiative of Distinguished Lawyer Dr. Rui Lima, name of reference, currently the LGA has several associates and...

Founded in 1992
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Castanheira, Almeida, Pereira, Mateus Ferreira & Associates, Law Firm, LLC is a law firm with its head office in Coimbra. It was founded in 1992 and registered at the Bar Association under number 32/92. It uses as a distinctive element the acronym CAPA - Law Firm, LLC, and it is currently...
Lexidy Law Boutique
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 2015
200 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Lexidy StoryAs a young lawyer in Madrid, Fede was struggling to break into the city’s legal hegemony. His first job as a newly-minted lawyer was anything but. He actually sold insurance for a large Spanish brand while application after application was rejected. Herein lies the fundamental issue...
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About Project Finance Law in Portugal

Project Finance is a specialized area of financial law focused on funding large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects, such as energy plants, transportation networks, and public-private partnerships (PPPs). In Portugal, Project Finance has played a crucial role in developing the country's infrastructure, especially in sectors like renewables, transportation, and water management. The legal framework is designed to facilitate cooperation between public authorities, private investors, and financial institutions, ensuring projects are structured in a way that limits exposure and assigns risks appropriately.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer specializing in Project Finance in Portugal can be critical for several reasons. Legal expertise ensures compliance with complex regulatory requirements and helps structure deals to minimize risks. You might need a lawyer if you are:

  • Forming a consortium or joint venture for a major infrastructure project
  • Negotiating project agreements with public bodies or financial institutions
  • Structuring debt and equity financing
  • Securing governmental permits or concessions
  • Negotiating with lenders, sponsors, and contractors
  • Managing risks related to construction, operation, and revenue generation
  • Facing disputes or needing to resolve contractual issues
  • Complying with environmental and planning regulations

Local Laws Overview

Project Finance in Portugal operates within a well-defined legal framework. Key aspects include:

  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): The Portuguese state and public authorities often collaborate with private partners through PPPs, governed by the Public Contracts Code.
  • Environmental Regulation: Projects must comply with licensing procedures, environmental impact assessments, and sustainability requirements enforced by national authorities.
  • Security Structures: Financing is commonly structured so that lenders have direct recourse to the project's assets and revenues, often including step-in rights and assignment of key contracts.
  • Banking and Financial Regulation: The Portuguese Central Bank and other regulators oversee financial institutions and certain aspects of project financing arrangements.
  • Taxation: Issues such as VAT, stamp duty, and tax incentives must be examined when structuring project finance deals.
  • Dispute Resolution: Commercial and contractual disputes may be subject to arbitration or the Portuguese courts, depending on the agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Project Finance?

Project Finance is a method of funding long-term projects using a non-recourse or limited-recourse financial structure, where repayment is primarily from the project's cash flow, not the sponsors' assets.

Which sectors in Portugal use Project Finance the most?

The most active sectors include renewable energy, transportation (such as roads and ports), water infrastructure, and social infrastructure like hospitals and schools.

What legal documents are crucial in a Project Finance deal?

Key documents include loan agreements, concession contracts, shareholder agreements, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts, operation and maintenance (O&M) agreements, and security documents.

How are risks typically allocated in Project Finance transactions?

Risks are usually allocated among project stakeholders based on expertise and risk tolerance. Construction risks may be borne by contractors, operational risks by operators, and political or regulatory risks by public authorities.

Do I need government approvals for a Project Finance deal?

Yes, many projects require multiple governmental permits and approvals, especially for environmental compliance, construction, operation, and any sector-specific licenses.

Are there incentives for investing in infrastructure projects in Portugal?

Portugal offers several incentives, including tax benefits and EU funding opportunities, especially for projects aligned with sustainability goals or located in less developed regions.

What is the typical term for a Project Finance loan in Portugal?

Terms vary depending on the sector and project, but loans often extend from 10 to 25 years to match the project’s expected cash flow and lifecycle.

Can foreign investors participate in Project Finance projects?

Yes, foreign investors are welcomed and actively participate in Portuguese Project Finance deals, subject to compliance with Portuguese law and relevant sectoral regulations.

How do lenders secure their interests in a Project Finance structure?

Lenders usually obtain security interests in project assets, step-in rights, assignments of contracts, and pledges over shares or receivables to protect their investments.

Where can I seek help if a dispute arises during a project?

Disputes are often resolved through arbitration or litigation in Portuguese courts, depending on the contractual provisions. Legal counsel can advise on the most suitable route for resolution.

Additional Resources

  • Direção-Geral do Tesouro e Finanças (DGTF): The Directorate-General for Treasury and Finance oversees PPPs and major state projects.
  • Agência para o Investimento e Comércio Externo de Portugal (AICEP): This agency supports foreign investment and can provide guidance on regulatory processes.
  • Ordem dos Advogados: The Portuguese Bar Association can direct you to specialized legal professionals.
  • Banco de Portugal: The central bank supervises financial and banking regulations related to project finance.
  • Entidade Reguladora dos Serviços Energéticos (ERSE): For energy sector projects, this regulator provides guidance and oversight.
  • Associação Portuguesa de Concessionárias de Infraestruturas Rodoviárias (APCOA): For highway and transport infrastructure concerns.

Next Steps

If you are planning to engage in a Project Finance venture in Portugal or have encountered a legal challenge, the following steps are recommended:

  • Identify the specific area or issue related to your project (financing, contracts, regulatory compliance, etc.)
  • Gather all relevant documentation, such as project proposals, contracts, and correspondence
  • Consult with a lawyer specializing in Project Finance to assess your options and legal requirements
  • Prepare a list of questions and objectives you want to achieve in your initial meeting
  • Engage with relevant governmental bodies or agencies early in the process to streamline regulatory approvals
  • Consider ongoing legal support throughout the project lifecycle to prevent and manage disputes or compliance issues

Early legal advice is often key to the success of complex Project Finance structures, minimizing risks and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

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 Project Finance, 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.