Morais Leitão is a leading Portuguese law firm headquartered in Lisbon. The firm’s history dates back to 1992, when António Pinto Leite founded J. Galvão Teles, Bleck, Pinto Leite, which later became part of the inception of the current firm. Morais Leitão operates internationally through the Morais Leitão Legal Circle, a network of associated law firms. The firm has market-leading capabilities in Portugal, achieving top-tier rankings across all ranked practice areas.
Highlights
The firm advised ING Bank and
novobanco on the €80.1 million real estate acquisition finance provided to an LCN SPV for the acquisition of a portfolio of almost 50 supermarkets and subsequent partial syndication of the credit to novobanco.
The firm notably advised EDP - Energias de Portugal and
SU ELETRICIDADE on securitisation of the tariff deficit for 2024 and the non-recourse sale of the tariff deficit for a total amount of €1.1 billion.
Testimonials
2025
“Morais Leitão advised us on a complex refinancing operation involving both a syndicated loan and a bond issue. Their assistance covered the full legal structuring of the transaction, the negotiation and drafting of finance documents, regulatory and listing requirements, and coordination with multiple stakeholders, including banks, bondholders, and regulators. The transaction required a deep understanding of both banking and capital markets law, as well as the tight orchestration of multiple workstreams.” -Capital markets: Structured finance and securitization
“Morais Leitão demonstrated exceptional technical expertise in banking and finance law, combined with a strong understanding of the practical and commercial dimensions of the transaction. The team is highly experienced in structuring sophisticated financing arrangements and provided clear, solution-oriented advice throughout. We particularly valued their ability to manage complexity under tight timelines and their constructive, hands-on approach when dealing with counterparties. Their reputation and credibility in the market also contributed positively to the process.” -Capital markets: Structured finance and securitization
“They have a holistic view of the three areas I mentioned, with very dedicated and extremely talented professionals.” -Restructuring and insolvency
“Knowledge, performance, and availability — they are great.” -M&A
“Availability, experience, a multidisciplinary team, and strong knowledge.” -M&A
“I value Morais Leitão’s extensive expertise, which consistently translates into practical and strategic advice. Their proactiveness stands out, as the team anticipates issues and often presents solutions before problems fully emerge. They are highly responsive, collaborative, and efficient, demonstrating a clear commitment to the client. By combining a strong track record with technical precision and a business-oriented mindset, they are a valuable partner for high-stakes and cross-border matters.” -Project finance
“Filipa Morais Alçada is an exceptionally skilled lawyer with deep expertise and a highly practical approach to negotiations. She adds significant value to large, complex deals requiring close coordination across multiple law firms and jurisdictions.” -Project finance
“Filipe Lowndes Marques has a strong business mindset and an exceptional ability to understand the client’s strategic objectives and risk profile. He ensures these are effectively reflected and safeguarded in contractual arrangements.” -Project finance
“Gonçalo Fleming understands our needs well and finds appropriate solutions.” -Restructuring and insolvency
“Maria Soares do Lago knows the client and the industry sector very well, and therefore always presents solutions aligned with the client’s main needs.” -Capital markets: Structured finance and securitization
“Eduardo Paulino understands client needs and meets deadlines accordingly. He is great. He combines knowledge, experience, availability, and responsiveness.” -M&A
