Article by Luís Pedro Cabral - Lawyer at International Atlantic Services

As part of our ongoing commitment to showcasing the dedication and professionalism that define our organization, this edition of our newsletter offers an inside look at the daily routine of Luís Cabral, one of the lawyers within our legal department. Through this feature, we aim to provide a clearer understanding of the structure, discipline, and client-focused approach that guide our work.

Beginning the Day: Preparation, Team Interaction and High-Focus Work

I arrive at the office shortly before 9:00 a.m. and begin each day with a period of structured preparation. During these first moments, I review all emails received from clients, without yet responding, in order to assess the full scope of matters requiring attention. This allows me to identify urgent issues, establish priorities and design a strategy for the workday ahead. Mid-morning, I take a brief coffee break, usually accompanied by colleagues, which offers an opportunity to strengthen professional relationships, align perspectives and contribute to a collaborative work environment. Upon returning to my desk, I dedicate the remainder of the morning to the most demanding tasks on my schedule. I intentionally reserve this time for matters that require deeper legal analysis, heightened concentration or more strategic reflection, ensuring they are approached with the precision and consistency they require at a time when focus is at its peak.

Lunchtime as a Moment of Team Connection

Lunch is usually taken with the team at a nearby restaurant, providing a welcome pause in the workday and an opportunity to step briefly outside the intensity of our professional responsibilities. Beyond the practical break it affords, this moment holds particular value for the cohesion of our department. It is a time for informal exchange, where colleagues share perspectives, discuss ongoing challenges and reflect on the work being carried out, often in a more relaxed and open manner than the structure of the office naturally allows.

These interactions strengthen interpersonal relationships, foster mutual support and contribute to a positive team dynamic. They also create an environment where ideas can flow more freely, and where a shared sense of purpose is reinforced. In a profession that demands constant coordination, precision and collective problem-solving, maintaining a strong and unified team is indispensable - and these moments of connection over lunch play a meaningful role in sustaining that unity.

The Afternoon: Client Engagement and End-of-Day Organization

The afternoon is generally dedicated to direct communication with clients, whether through video conferences or in-person meetings whenever feasible. This aspect of my role is particularly rewarding, as it allows for a deeper understanding of each client's circumstances, expectations and personal context. Establishing rapport and cultivating trust are fundamental to the legal services we provide, and these interactions help strengthen the foundation of each professional relationship.

Regardless of how demanding the day may be, I ensure that all pending tasks are duly addressed before leaving the office. I then proceed to organize the work to be handled on the following day. Reviewing outstanding matters and refining priorities ensures that each new morning begins with clarity, structure and purpose. This routine is essential to maintaining consistency, preventing delays and ensuring that our workflow remains aligned with the needs of our clients.

Maintaining Balance After Working Hours

Following the workday, I typically engage in physical activity, such as going to the gym or playing football, both of which help maintain balance and alleviate the pressures of the profession. Later in the evening, before resting, I make a point of staying informed by watching political programs and current affairs debates. Remaining up to date with national and international developments is something I consider particularly important for contextualizing the legal environment in which we operate.

The Meaning of Being a Lawyer in Our Organization

Being a lawyer within this organization entails a combination of technical rigor, ethical commitment, and attentive client service. It means contributing to a team that values excellence, professionalism, and human connection, both internally and externally. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth, strengthening the purpose that underpins our collective mission.