João Encarnação

João is a partner and heads the Firm's Intellectual Property practice and Notarial Services.

He has over 20 years of experience advising clients on a broad range of IP matters. João was the first chairman of the Macau Recognised Group of Asian Patent Attorneys and has been repeatedly recognized as a leading IP lawyer by IP Stars and WTR 1000, among other directories.

He represents domestic and international clients across industries such as luxury retail, technology, e-commerce, gaming, pharmaceuticals, and hospitality. His experience includes advising on the prosecution and enforcement of applications for trademarks, designs, patents, copyrights, and other intellectual property rights, as well as on the development of IP strategies, brand collaborations, licensing and technology transfer.

João has extensive first-chair trial experience and a notable track record on high-stakes intellectual property and technology disputes. His experience also includes advising on emerging IP rights stemming from developing new technologies such as AI, NFTs, digital art and e-contracts.

João coordinates the Notarial Services team which handles the full range of notarisations and certifications required under Macau law, particularly concerning the sale and purchase of real estate property (pre-sale and ownership transfer), real estate acquisition financing, notarial certifications affirmations and sworn statements.

He is a founding partner of the firm and currently serves as a member of MdME’s Board of Directors.