Global Insights | Discussing Spencer West Portugal with Sónia Alexandra Ferreira

Spencer West continues its international growth with the launch of its new Portuguese office, led by founding partner Sónia Alexandra Ferreira. International Business Director Michael Parker sat down with Sónia to discuss this exciting new chapter for the firm.

Michael: Sónia, welcome to Spencer West! We’re delighted to announce our expansion into Portugal with you at the helm. Could you tell us a bit about your professional background?

Sónia: Thank you, Michael. I’m a Portuguese lawyer with more than two decades of experience in legal practice. I obtained my law degree in 1998 and became a member of the Portuguese Bar Association in 2002. Throughout my career, I’ve specialised in corporate law and real estate, providing expert legal counsel to both private and corporate clients with a focus on practical solutions to legal challenges.

Michael: What attracted you to Spencer West specifically?

Sónia: Spencer West’s commitment to excellence, client-focused approach, and collaborative culture align perfectly with our core values. The firm combines legal expertise with a pragmatic style, which is the ideal mix of being highly competent and easy to work with. This partnership enhances our ability to provide strategic, high-quality legal services while maintaining the personal attention our clients expect.

Michael: Could you give us an overview of the current legal market in Portugal?

Sónia: The Portuguese legal market is at an exciting turning point, driven by the country’s growing appeal for foreign investment, business expansion, and high-net-worth individuals. Portuguese businesses are increasingly seeking to diversify beyond national borders, and we’re ideally positioned to support them with both local expertise and international reach.

Portugal is also emerging as a dynamic hub for the IT and technology sector, attracting significant investment in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and fintech. Our combined expertise positions us well to support companies in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Michael: What makes Portugal strategically important for international business?

Sónia: Portugal is a key gateway for international business, with strong trade links to the EU, Africa, and Latin America, particularly in Portuguese-speaking countries. The country offers a competitive corporate tax structure with numerous Double Tax Treaties, EU harmonisation, and special tax incentives for qualified individuals. These factors, combined with programs like the Golden Visa, make Portugal extremely attractive for businesses looking to establish a European presence.

Michael: What are your key priorities for developing Spencer West in Portugal?

Sónia: We have three core objectives: expanding our international reach, enhancing client services, and positioning the firm as a leader in key growth sectors.

We aim to leverage Spencer West’s global community to provide seamless support for both international clients entering Portugal and Portuguese companies expanding abroad. We’re committed to maintaining the highest standards while ensuring a pragmatic, business-focused approach.

We also recognise Portugal’s dynamic markets in both innovative sectors like technology and traditional areas such as real estate and private wealth. Our goal is to support clients with expert legal guidance across these diverse fields.

Michael: Can you tell us about the team you’re bringing to Spencer West?

Sónia: I’m joined by two exceptional partners. Benjamim Barreira dos Santos specialises in tax and corporate law, combining legal expertise with business perspective from his background as a tax consultant.

Dulce Valada de Sousa, a member of the Portuguese Bar since 1997, focuses on Civil, Labour, Family, and Heritage Law. As a certified mediator, she brings valuable conflict resolution skills to her practice. Together, we form a well-rounded team capable of addressing a wide range of legal needs.

Michael: Thank you, Sónia, for sharing these insights. We’re excited about the opportunities this expansion brings.

Sónia: Thank you, Michael. We’re looking forward to contributing to Spencer West’s continued success.