Department profile
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP

Corporate/M&A (International Firms)

Global Guide 2026 : Brazil

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Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Corporate/M&A (International Firms) - Brazil

Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton maintains a long-standing and highly respected presence in Brazil. Its São Paulo and New York teams are frequently hired by Brazilian firms negotiating assets abroad, and by international companies investing or divesting in Brazil. In addition to the New York-based firm's widely respected cross-border capabilities, Cleary's team has accumulated formidable knowledge of the Brazilian market and maintains an enviable portfolio of top transactions in the country.

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Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Cleary Gottlieb represented Ontex Group NV in the sale of its Brazilian business activities to Softys.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The firm combines deep technical knowledge with strategic vision. Cleary Gottlieb has complete command of transnational structures and articulate creative solutions even in the most challenging contexts.

    Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

  • What distinguishes Cleary Gottlieb is its unique combination of technical excellence and integrated global practice. The department stands out for its in-depth knowledge of complex and cross-border transactions.

    Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

  • Cleary Gottlieb is uniquely skilled, combining intellectual creativity, technical precision, and strategic pragmatism - all of which are key to tackling the most sophisticated subjects in the market.

    Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Jeffrey S Lewis
    Jeffrey S Lewis

    Jeffrey S Lewis

    Jeffrey S Lewis leads some of the most prominent cross-border transactions. The New York-based partner is seasoned in Brazil-related matters and is a known and respected figure in the market.

    • I would highlight Jeffrey as a great partner to our company. He is a true expert and is closely involved in our affairs.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

    • Jeffrey is our main partner and we interact often with him. He is a very hands-on lawyer.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

    • Jeffrey Lewis is a true M&A ace, consistently demonstrating deep knowledge, agility and an exceptional ability to successfully conduct complex negotiations.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal
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  • Juan G Giráldez
    Juan G Giráldez

    Juan G Giráldez

    Juan G Giráldez has a prolific M&A practice, handling a number of high-value deals. São Paulo-based, he is also noted for his handling of joint ventures and sales and acquisitions.

    • Juan is a very seasoned lawyer. He brings outstanding business perspectives, taking risk into consideration so that his clients are not exposed.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

    • Juan G Giráldez is exceptional and extremely versatile. He confidently masters M&A and capital markets matters with a high level of technical expertise, agility and attention to detail.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

    • He has always demonstrated an ethical, helpful and pro-deal character, combined with technical knowledge and practical experience in complex issues. Juan is an impeccable lawyer.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal
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  • Francisco L Cestero
    Francisco L Cestero

    Francisco L Cestero

    Francisco L Cestero, also known as Paco, is a key member of Cleary Gottlieb's respected São Paulo office. He is frequently seen handling high-value mergers and acquisitions and is noted by market participants for the variety of his corporate practice.

    • Francisco is a lawyer who navigates the Latin American legal landscape - including Brazil - very naturally. He also transits the legal dynamics of Europe and the United States well.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

    • Paco is a trusted legal partner of our company. He is available, highly professional and brings exceptional expertise. His broad perspective and well-rounded knowledge make him an invaluable asset.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal

    • Francisco Cestero truly shines, especially in restructuring and insolvency matters. His expertise, quick thinking and dedication make him a standout professional and a significant asset to the team.

      Corporate/M&A (International Firms) respondentGlobal
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Ranked Individuals at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP (3)

Brazil

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP has rankings in the following guides

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