Energy & Natural Resources: Mining: Brazil

Championed by peers and clients alike, Virgilio Cezar de Moraes Borba is one of the most experienced mining lawyers in Brazil. "He has incredible knowledge of Brazilian mining law and its practical implications," say sources.

Senior partner Carlos Vilhena has been in charge of the mining practice for decades. He is unanimously praised by sources as "a go-to figure for discussing sector trends."

Adriano Drummond Trindade performs an of counsel role at the firm. "His knowledge of the sector is exceptional and he is excellent at drafting contracts," enthuse sources.

Carlos Americo Ferraz e Castro heads up the mining practice and has worked in the sector for more than 20 years. "He's an extremely accomplished lawyer and a great colleague," say peers.

Pedro Aguiar de Freitas worked at Vale before joining the firm and is best known for his work on the transactional side of the sector. Sources regard him as "an excellent lawyer who certainly knows his way around the industry."

Clients are very positive about Pedro Andrés Garcia, saying: "He's prompt, sharp, intelligent and very organised, which adds up to excellent service."

This firm is based in Minas Gerais and is therefore geographically close to the heart of the industry. The team presently works for a mix of domestic and international clients, and offers a strong combination of corporate and regulatory expertise. The main contact for clients is Fernando Azevedo Sette.

Marcelo Mendo Gomes de Souza now heads the mining practice at the firm and is regarded as "an extremely accomplished lawyer and a great mining expert." His reputation is expected to carry the firm safely through a transitional period, although market commentators await further developments following the departure of founding partner and environment specialist Ricardo Carneiro.