Criminal Defence and Cybercrime Lawyer in Portugal

Strategic Criminal Defence in Portugal and Across Borders

António Falé de Carvalho provides experienced, strategic and discreet criminal defence to individuals, company directors and foreign nationals involved in criminal investigations or proceedings in Portugal.

With more than 33 years of continuous practice dedicated to Criminal Law and Sentence Enforcement Law, António Falé de Carvalho represents clients from the earliest stage of an investigation through questioning, pre-trial proceedings, trial, appeal and the enforcement of criminal sentences.

The practice operates throughout mainland Portugal, the Azores and Madeira, providing assistance in Portuguese and English.

Facing arrest, questioning or criminal proceedings in Portugal? Contact us for confidential legal assistance.

Telephone: +351 211 451 635
Email: falecarvalhoadvogados@gmail.com

WLA Corridor Leader for Southern Europe

Cyber Crime & Criminal Law

António Falé de Carvalho Associados has been appointed World Law Alliance Corridor Leader for Southern Europe in Cyber Crime & Criminal Law.

This institutional role positions the firm as a point of contact in Portugal for international and cross-border criminal matters, particularly cases involving cybercrime, technology-related offences, electronic evidence, financial transactions, extradition and cooperation between authorities in different jurisdictions.

As Corridor Leader, the firm contributes to the coordination of legal assistance involving Portugal and trusted independent professionals in other countries.

For international clients, foreign lawyers and families seeking assistance in Portugal, this provides direct access to a Portuguese criminal defence practice with extensive experience and established international connections.

International Legal Network

The practice combines its role within World Law Alliance with its participation in IR Global, an international network of independent legal and professional advisers.

These international relationships enable the firm to coordinate legal assistance when a criminal matter involves more than one country, while remaining the client's principal criminal defence contact in Portugal.

International coordination may be required when a case involves:

• A client arrested or detained in Portugal;
• A foreign investigation connected with Portugal;
• Evidence or witnesses located in another jurisdiction;
• Electronic information held by an international service provider;
• Financial transactions passing through different countries;
• Extradition or a European Arrest Warrant;
• International seizure or freezing of assets;
• Parallel criminal proceedings;
• Requests for mutual legal assistance;
• International judicial and police cooperation;
• Cross-border cybercrime or financial crime.

Each lawyer or professional involved remains independent and is responsible for the legal work performed in the relevant jurisdiction.

Trusted International Connections

Through World Law Alliance, IR Global and established professional relationships, the firm can coordinate with trusted independent lawyers and advisers in several jurisdictions.

Europe

• Spain: Madrid and Barcelona;
• France: Paris;
• United Kingdom: London;
• Italy: Rome and Milan;
• Germany: Berlin and Frankfurt;
• Luxembourg: Luxembourg City;
• Switzerland: Geneva and Zurich.

Portuguese-Speaking Jurisdictions

• Brazil: São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasília;
• Angola: Luanda;
• Mozambique: Maputo;
• Cape Verde: Praia.

Middle East

• United Arab Emirates: Dubai and Abu Dhabi;
• Saudi Arabia: Riyadh;
• Qatar: Doha.

Where assistance is required in another jurisdiction, the firm can seek to identify an appropriately qualified independent lawyer through its international professional network.

One Point of Contact in Portugal

International criminal proceedings often require decisions to be taken quickly in several jurisdictions.

António Falé de Carvalho can act as the principal point of contact for the Portuguese part of the case and, where necessary, coordinate with foreign lawyers, digital-forensics specialists, financial advisers, translators and other independent professionals.

This approach allows the client to receive a coherent strategy while ensuring that legal work in each country is performed by professionals qualified in the relevant jurisdiction.

Criminal Defence Practice Areas

Cybercrime and Technology-Related Offences

The practice provides criminal defence in investigations and proceedings involving:

• Unlawful access to computer systems or online accounts;
• Unlawful interception of communications or data;
• Interference with computer data or systems;
• Computer-related forgery;
• Computer fraud and online financial fraud;
• Phishing and smishing;
• Fraudulent bank transfers;
• Misuse of payment cards or payment data;
• MB WAY-related fraud;
• Identity theft and misuse of access credentials;
• Online extortion, threats and harassment;
• Misuse or unlawful disclosure of confidential information;
• Cyber-enabled economic and financial crime;
• Investigations involving social media or digital platforms;
• Encrypted communications and messaging applications;
• Seizure and forensic analysis of electronic devices.

The final legal classification depends on the specific facts, evidence and alleged conduct. Terms such as "phishing" or "identity theft" may correspond to different criminal offences under Portuguese law.

Digital Evidence and Computer Forensics

Electronic evidence can be decisive in criminal proceedings. However, the connection between a person and an IP address, account, device or online transaction does not automatically establish criminal responsibility.

The defence may need to examine:

• How the electronic evidence was identified and collected;
• Whether access to the data was lawfully authorised;
• The scope and proportionality of searches and seizures;
• The integrity and authenticity of the information;
• The preservation of the chain of custody;
• Whether another person could have accessed the account or device;
• Whether the technical analysis supports the prosecution's conclusions;
• Whether relevant exculpatory evidence was preserved;
• Whether the evidence was obtained in Portugal or abroad;
• Whether international cooperation procedures were respected.

Where appropriate, the defence may coordinate with independent digital-forensics experts to assess the technical evidence and challenge incomplete or unsupported conclusions.

Phishing, Smishing and Payment Fraud

Phishing commonly involves fraudulent emails, messages or websites designed to imitate a bank, public authority, company or trusted individual.

Smishing uses similar methods through text messages or messaging applications. These schemes may attempt to obtain passwords, banking credentials, payment information or authorisation for fraudulent transactions.

Investigations in Portugal may involve:

• Fraudulent bank transfers;
• Online banking credentials;
• Payment cards and payment data;
• MB WAY transactions;
• Accounts used to receive or transfer funds;
• Cryptocurrency transactions;
• The alleged recruitment of money mules;
• Computer fraud;
• Computer-related forgery;
• Unlawful access;
• Money laundering.

The practice represents clients accused of organising or carrying out fraudulent activity, as well as individuals investigated for receiving, transferring or withdrawing money allegedly connected with an online fraud scheme.

Economic and Financial Crime

Criminal defence is also provided in matters involving:

• Fraud and aggravated fraud;
• Tax and customs offences;
• Money laundering;
• Corruption;
• Misappropriation and breach of trust;
• Insolvency-related offences;
• Document forgery;
• Payment and banking offences;
• Corporate criminal liability;
• Criminal investigations involving company directors;
• Freezing and seizure of bank accounts or assets.

These cases frequently involve extensive documentary evidence, financial records, electronic communications and international transactions.

Business Crime and Internal Investigations

The practice assists individuals, directors and companies in criminal matters arising from business activity.

Legal assistance may include:

• Representation of directors and senior executives;
• Assessment of potential criminal exposure;
• Response to searches and seizures;
• Preparation for questioning;
• Analysis of corporate documentation;
• Coordination with financial and technical experts;
• Internal fact-finding and criminal-risk assessment;
• Defence of legal persons in criminal proceedings;
• Coordination between criminal, regulatory and civil proceedings.

Corruption and Public-Sector Crime

Representation is available in proceedings concerning:

• Active and passive corruption;
• Undue receipt of an advantage;
• Influence peddling;
• Misconduct involving public officials;
• Economic participation in business;
• Abuse of power;
• Related money-laundering and financial offences.

Every case requires detailed examination of the alleged benefit, the conduct attributed to each person, the available communications and the connection between the evidence and the alleged criminal purpose.

Serious and High-Profile Criminal Cases

António Falé de Carvalho has experience in complex criminal proceedings and cases receiving significant media attention.

The practice provides defence in matters involving:

• Murder and offences against life;
• Serious bodily harm;
• Domestic violence;
• Sexual offences;
• Drug trafficking;
• Organised crime;
• Weapons offences;
• Kidnapping and unlawful detention;
• High-profile criminal investigations.

Media attention must never replace the presumption of innocence or interfere with the client's right to a fair trial. Every case is handled with discretion, strategic preparation and respect for professional confidentiality.

Arrests, Detention and Urgent Criminal Assistance

Prompt legal intervention can be decisive when a person has been arrested, summoned for questioning or subjected to a search.

Assistance may include:

• Contact with police and prosecuting authorities;
• Attendance during questioning;
• Assistance at the first judicial interrogation;
• Applications concerning release or coercive measures;
• Challenges to pre-trial detention;
• Response to searches and seizures;
• Protection of procedural rights;
• Contact with relatives, consular authorities or foreign lawyers;
• Preparation of an immediate defence strategy.

Clients should obtain legal advice before providing statements or making decisions that may affect their position in the proceedings.

Pre-Trial Detention and Coercive Measures

The practice has particular experience in matters concerning pre-trial detention and the protection of the rights of detained persons.

Legal assistance includes:

• Preparation for the first judicial interrogation;
• Opposition to pre-trial detention;
• Applications for less restrictive measures;
• Review and challenge of coercive measures;
• Appeals concerning detention;
• Assessment of the legal requirements for continued detention;
• Protection of the defendant's procedural and fundamental rights.

Pre-trial detention is not a criminal conviction. A detained person retains the presumption of innocence and the right to an effective defence.

Extradition and European Arrest Warrants

The practice represents clients in extradition proceedings and cases involving European Arrest Warrants.

Assistance may include:

• Urgent representation following arrest;
• Examination of the warrant or extradition request;
• Assessment of the grounds for opposition;
• Analysis of fundamental-rights concerns;
• Applications for provisional release;
• Appeals against surrender or extradition decisions;
• Coordination with lawyers in the requesting country;
• Communication with relatives and consular authorities.

These proceedings are subject to short procedural deadlines, making early legal intervention particularly important.

International and Cross-Border Investigations

Cross-border criminal investigations may involve several legal systems, law-enforcement authorities, financial institutions and technology companies.

The practice provides Portuguese criminal defence and international coordination in cases involving:

• Mutual legal assistance;
• European investigation mechanisms;
• Evidence obtained abroad;
• International arrest requests;
• Extradition and surrender proceedings;
• Cross-border financial investigations;
• Electronic evidence held outside Portugal;
• International asset freezing;
• Parallel proceedings in different countries.

Through WLA, IR Global and trusted professional relationships, the firm can coordinate with independent lawyers in the relevant jurisdictions.

Criminal Defence for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals involved in Portuguese criminal proceedings need clear information about their legal status, rights and the practical consequences of the investigation.

Legal assistance is available in English and may include:

• Explanation of Portuguese criminal procedure;
• Representation during questioning and court hearings;
• Assistance following arrest at an airport or border;
• Contact with relatives and consular authorities;
• Assessment of detention and coercive measures;
• Trial preparation and representation;
• Appeals;
• Extradition or European Arrest Warrant proceedings;
• Coordination with lawyers in the client's home country.

The practice acts throughout mainland Portugal, the Azores and Madeira.

Criminal Trials and Appeals

Representation is provided throughout all stages of Portuguese criminal proceedings, including:

• Investigation;
• Pre-trial judicial proceedings;
• Criminal trial;
• Appeals to the Courts of Appeal;
• Appeals to the Supreme Court of Justice, where legally admissible;
• Constitutional issues, where applicable;
• Sentence enforcement;
• Applications concerning prison conditions and prisoners' rights;
• Proceedings before the European Court of Human Rights, where the relevant requirements are met.

Every defence strategy is prepared according to the evidence, procedural history and individual circumstances of the client.

Sentence Enforcement and Prisoners' Rights

António Falé de Carvalho has extensive experience in Sentence Enforcement Law and the protection of prisoners' rights.

Legal assistance may include:

• Conditional release;
• Temporary leave from prison;
• Sentence calculation;
• Transfer between prison establishments;
• Disciplinary proceedings;
• Access to healthcare;
• Contact with family members;
• Protection of fundamental rights;
• Transfer of sentenced persons between countries;
• Challenges relating to the enforcement of prison sentences.

Why Choose António Falé de Carvalho?

• More than 33 years dedicated to Criminal Law;
• Experience in complex and high-profile cases;
• WLA Corridor Leader for Southern Europe in Cyber Crime & Criminal Law;
• Participation in World Law Alliance and IR Global;
• International professional connections;
• Defence from investigation through trial and appeal;
• Experience in extradition and cross-border proceedings;
• Particular knowledge of pre-trial detention and prisoners' rights;
• Assistance to Portuguese and international clients;
• Representation throughout Portugal;
• Direct, discreet and individualised legal assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am summoned for questioning in Portugal?

Obtain legal advice before attending or providing a statement. It is important to understand your procedural status, the subject of the investigation and your rights.

What should I do if my computer or mobile phone has been seized?

Do not attempt to alter, delete or remotely access the device. A lawyer should examine the legal basis and scope of the seizure and assess the available procedural response.

Can an IP address identify the person responsible for an offence?

An IP address may be relevant evidence, but it does not necessarily establish who carried out a particular action. The complete technical and factual context must be examined.

Can the firm coordinate with a lawyer in another country?

Yes. Through World Law Alliance, IR Global and established professional relationships, the firm can seek to coordinate with appropriately qualified independent lawyers in other jurisdictions.

Does the firm represent foreign nationals?

Yes. Assistance is available in English to foreign nationals involved in criminal investigations, arrests, extradition proceedings or trials in Portugal.

Does the practice operate outside Lisbon?

Yes. Legal representation is provided throughout mainland Portugal, the Azores and Madeira.

Confidential Criminal Defence in Portugal

If you are under investigation, have been arrested, received a summons, or require legal assistance concerning a criminal case in Portugal, contact António Falé de Carvalho.

Early legal advice can be essential to protect your rights, preserve relevant evidence and define an appropriate defence strategy.

Lisbon Office

Rua Fialho de Almeida, No. 14, 2nd Floor
1070-129 Lisbon
Portugal

Telephone: +351 211 451 635
Email: falecarvalhoadvogados@gmail.com

Criminal defence throughout mainland Portugal, the Azores and Madeira.

Portugal - Europe Criminal Lawyers

António Falé de Carvalho was awarded the title:

What Is Phishing?

Phishing is a type of online scam where attackers pretend to be trusted organizations or people to trick you into taking harmful actions. These messages often arrive as emails, text messages, or pop‑ups that look legitimate, urging you to click a link, open an attachment, or share personal details. They frequently use urgent language, fake security alerts, or tempting offers to lower your guard and make you respond quickly. In the end, the real purpose of phishing is to steal sensitive information such as passwords, financial data, or other private details.

Portuguese Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing a criminal case in Portugal requires fast, strategic, and discreet legal support. An experienced Portuguese criminal defence lawyer provides urgent assistance from the first moment of arrest or police contact, protecting fundamental rights and building a strong defence from day one.

Legal services cover arrests and police detention, representation in interrogations, pre-trial hearings, and full defence in criminal trials before all Portuguese courts. Assistance is also available in complex extradition proceedings, European Arrest Warrants, and cross-border investigations.

The focus is on clear communication, realistic advice, and proactive defence strategies in cases such as fraud, financial crime, drug offences, violent crime, cybercrime, and white-collar investigations. Every case is handled with strict confidentiality and meticulous preparation of evidence, witnesses, and legal arguments.

Urgent support is available for arrests at airports, police stations, and border controls, ensuring immediate contact with authorities and rapid intervention. Foreign nationals receive guidance in English and support throughout the entire Portuguese criminal justice process, from first questioning to final judgment and appeal.