How to choose a lawyer in Portugal?
The legal services market in Portugal is growing and becoming increasingly competitive, driven by factors such as economic growth, increased investment, and changes in the legal landscape.
Law firms in Portugal offer a wide range of legal services, including corporate and commercial law, banking and finance, tax, real estate, intellectual property, and labour law. There are also a growing number of firms that specialize in niche areas.
A growing number of smaller firms are attracting clients by offering competitive pricing and a more personalized approach to legal services.
Portuguese benefits from the country’s favourable tax regime and its position as a gateway to other markets in Europe and South America. In recent years, Portugal has also become a hub for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services, such as arbitration and mediation.
Selecting a Portuguese lawyer to represent you can be challenging if you do not have a good recommendation.
Key factors to consider when choosing a law firm in Portugal include:
1. Practice Areas: Look for a law firm that specializes in the areas of law relevant to your needs. For example, if you need assistance with tax law, look for a firm with a strong track record.
2. Experience: Consider the level of experience of the lawyers at the firm. A firm with a history of success in handling similar cases is a good sign that it can deliver results for you.
3. Reputation: Research the law firm’s reputation in the legal community and among clients.
4. Communication: Ensure that the firm is easy to communicate with and that they are responsive to your needs. Look for a firm that is transparent in its communication and provides regular updates on the progress of your case. Make sure that the law firm is able to speak your language and understands your business.
5. Fees: Consider the firm’s fees, and ensure that you understand the billing process and payment terms. Look for a firm that is transparent about its fees and charges.
6. Availability: Ensure that the lawyers at the firm are available when you need them, especially if you are dealing with a pressing legal issue.
7. Ethics: Ensure that the firm operates with integrity and adheres to ethical standards. A firm with a solid ethical reputation will give you peace of mind knowing that your legal matter is in good hands.
Selecting a real lawyer in Portugal
In Portugal, choosing a good lawyer is important; your lawyer will play a critical role in protecting your legal rights and interests. A competent lawyer can provide guidance and advice and implement your legal strategy.
In addition to technical knowledge, the trustworthiness and reputation of your legal representative in Portugal are also important. It’s essential to avoid conflicts of interest when selecting a lawyer in Portugal.
A conflict of interest occurs when a lawyer’s representation of a client is materially limited by the lawyer’s own interests or the interests of another client. Conflicts of interest can compromise a lawyer’s ability to represent their client effectively and may lead to liabilities for the client.
To avoid conflicts of interest, you should fully disclose the relevant facts and circumstances to your lawyer and carefully consider their past representation of other clients. If you suspect a conflict of interest exists, you should raise the issue with your lawyer and consider finding another legal representative.
In Portugal, legal professions include two categories: Advogado and Solicitador.
The Advogado is a qualified lawyer, enrolled with the Portuguese Bar Association, and can represent clients regarding all legal matters, including court proceedings, regardless of type and value.
Law practice requires a Law degree, passing the Portuguese Bar exam, and enrollment with the Portuguese Bar Association. In addition, legal advisory or representation provided by non-registered advisors constitutes a punishable criminal offence and creates several risks for the clients.
About GFDL Advogados
GFDL Advogados is a Portuguese boutique law firm based in Lisbon, Portugal, composed of highly skilled advisors and lawyers with international experience.
We have the privilege of working with a select group of clients spanning a wide geographic range that continues to grow through our global platform.
We are experienced in all aspects of doing business and investing in Portugal and other Portuguese-speaking jurisdictions. We have close working relationships with law firms across the world, thus allowing us to combine intellectually rigorous work with unique insights into business and cultural practices at a local level.
Our lawyers are often engaged to provide comprehensive legal advice for business and private clients across several industries. We are engaged by a broad array of clients seeking innovative and solid solutions in traditional and disruptive business areas.
In addition to technical solutions, we strive to know and understand the detail of our client’s businesses and understanding the several vectors that influence their industries and markets. Our clients usually present complex needs, attractive projects and challenging requirements.
Feel free to contact us.
