From Friday 16th to Saturday 17th May

The 2025 World Link for Law Conference brought together members and guest speakers from across the globe for two days of engaging presentations, future-focused conversations, and collaborative sessions.

Held in the vibrant heart of Lisbon, the event combined legal insights with rich networking opportunities, all within the contemporary setting of the Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel.

Friday 16th May

Keynote and Expert Presentations:

• Compliance in the Banking Sector - Dr. Pedro Gonzalez, CCO at Banco Santander
  Pedro opened with a compelling session on the evolving landscape of banking compliance. He covered risk management, organizational structures, the role of the compliance function, and key challenges in the field.
• Non-Performing Loans: A Regional Perspective - Dr. João Boullosa, Duo Capital, Lisbon
  João provided an insightful overview of the Non-Performing Loans (NPL) market, along with background on DUO Capital. He explained when a loan is classified as non-performing, who the typical investors and buyers are, and walked through the key stages of a transaction. He also discussed how pricing is determined, the common challenges involved, and the potential benefits.
• Corporate Sustainability in the Global Value Chain - Marilena Bacci, Dolce Lauda, Frankfurt
  Marilena broke down the corporate sustainability obligations and walked attendees through the global value chain process for both EU and non-EU countries. Her presentation highlighted how firms can assist their clients, expected timelines, and clarified the responsibilities and protections for all involved parties.
• Resolving Cybersquatting Disputes: A Practical Guide - Jonathan Cohen, 3CS Solicitors, London
  With cyber disputes on the rise, Jonathan Cohen shared his firsthand experience representing clients before the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). He discussed cybersquatting, the definition and registration of domain names, the role of ICANN, and common pitfalls. Jonathan also outlined key strategies for protecting and defending intellectual property in the digital space.
• Interactive Group Discussions: “Trump-Proofing” Your Clients’ Businesses - Led by Bernard Colas, Affilia Legal, Montreal
  This dynamic session encouraged members to engage in collaborative discussions and develop innovative solutions to address the challenges posed by the current commercial context relating to U.S. tariffs, counter-tariffs, and anti-DEI requests.Members were divided into small groups and tasked with assembling an ideal legal team to analyse a given scenario. Working collaboratively, each group developed creative legal solutions and strategic approaches. They then presented their findings, along with the reasoning behind their team choices and proposed actions.
• Novello Group Presentation - Sabrina Leung, Affilia Legal, Montreal
  Sabrina led an exciting update on the Novello Group’s long-term plans, with a focus on ensuring succession and fostering cross-generational engagement in members firm by actively involving younger legal professionals, maintaining membership through tailored activities, increasing referrals and boosting participation by organising engaging activities at annual and regional conferences.
• Novello Group Private Meeting – Chaired by Sabrina Leung, Affilia Legal, Montreal
  A hybrid session brought Novello Group members together for an open discussion.

Group Dinner at Palácio Chiado

The group spent an unforgettable evening at the magnificent Palácio Chiado, a venue celebrated for its rich history and striking architecture. Guests enjoyed a delightful dinner accompanied by drinks, followed by a lively and entertaining World Link for Law fun quiz to round off the night.

Saturday 17th May

Sessions:

World Link for Law Strategy Session - Facilitated by Rachel Tombs, Executive Consultant
Rachel shared the results of the member surveys and facilitated strategic group discussions centred on key priorities: strengthening collaboration, boosting visibility, and driving digital innovation.

Special Interest Group Roundtables

Members participated in focused discussions on:

• Arbitration
• Tax Law
• Mergers & Acquisitions

Each SIG outlined actionable goals, including webinars, shared resources, and proposed joint client initiatives.

Annual General Assembly

The formal World Link for Law Annual General Assembly took place Saturday late morning, where key updates were shared, and voting on new initiatives and board matters were conducted.

Afternoon Group City Excursion by Tuk Tuk

The group embarked on an exciting city excursion by Tuk Tuk, with each group collected from the hotel in Lisbon and accompanied by a dedicated tour guide. Winding through the city's vibrant streets and historic neighbourhoods, they enjoyed a fun and immersive way to experience Lisbon’s rich culture, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems

Group Dinner at Palácio Solar dos Presuntos

The group gathered for a memorable dinner at Palácio Solar dos Presuntos, a renowned Lisbon restaurant known for its high end Portuguese cuisine. Served in a warm, family style setting, guests enjoyed a beautifully curated menu featuring the restaurant’s renowned seafood and fish dishes, all while surrounded by striking aquatic tanks filled with giant lobsters.

Sunday 18th May

Day trip to Cascais & Sintra

The group explored some of the most iconic locations just outside Lisbon on a coach tour. Visiting the fairy-tale town of Sintra and the Sintra National Palace with Quintra da Regaleira and the famous initiation well. The group had the opportunity to take in the stunning views from Cabo da Roca and soak up the coastal charm of Cascais with its scenic promenades and gardens. Guided by a local expert, they discovered the rich culture and history of Portugal, with time to enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine along the way.