Article by Miriam Sequeira - Lawyer, International Atlantic Services

Working in law, especially in the field of immigration and investments, means embracing the dynamics of processes and maintaining close relationships with clients. Although I am based in the Lisbon office, once a month I travel to Porto to closely monitor cases and strengthen ties with clients and partners. These days are always special, as they bring a different routine and new energy to my work.

Starting the Day: The 6 AM Train

The day begins very early. Before dawn, I head to the station to catch the 6 AM train to Porto. This journey, though long, is also a moment of productivity and preparation. With my laptop open and a coffee by my side, I take the opportunity to review pending cases, respond to emails, and organize the meetings I will have throughout the day.

Arrival in Porto: A Fast-Paced Rhythm

I arrive in Porto around 9 AM and head straight to the office, where the local team welcomes me with updates on ongoing cases. The day is intense and structured to maximize my physical presence: meetings with clients, document reviews, and sometimes in-person assistance with key appointments, such as engagements with authorities or banking institutions.

Each client has a unique story, and my presence in Porto allows me to better understand their needs and expectations. This proximity is essential to ensuring that processes move forward efficiently and that any obstacles are swiftly resolved.

Midday: Meetings and Fieldwork

In the afternoon, the schedule remains packed. In addition to working with clients, I also take advantage of these trips to meet with local partners and ensure that all stakeholders involved in the processes are aligned. Practicing law is also about managing expectations, anticipating challenges, and ensuring that everything progresses within the established timelines.

If time permits, I like to take a quick break for a coffee and soak in a bit of Porto’s atmosphere. These moments help recharge my energy for the rest of the day.

Returning to Lisbon: Wrapping Up the Day on the Move

At the end of the day, I head back to the station to catch the train back to Lisbon. The return journey is a time for reflection and review of the day’s events. I do a final email check, organize upcoming tasks, and sometimes, I finally get a chance to unwind a bit before arriving home.

Despite its intensity, these days in Porto are crucial for strengthening client relationships and ensuring that every case is handled with the utmost care and attention.

In law, every day is different, but it is these experiences that make the work so rewarding. In the end, what matters most is ensuring that clients feel supported, that processes flow smoothly, and that every step in their immigration or investment journey is taken with security and confidence.

I look forward to my next workday in Porto and to continuing to make a difference in the lives of those who trust in our services.