Paulo Mertz Focaccia
Managing Partner

Paulo Mertz Focaccia

Languages
  • Portuguese
  • English
Social media

Paulo M. Focaccia, a distinguished legal professional, is one of the founding partners of FAS Advogados, where he currently serves as the managing partner. 

With two decades of comprehensive experience in Civil and Business Law, Paulo has established himself as a trusted advisor to a diverse portfolio of national and international companies. His expertise spans across multiple industries, including Communication, Advertising, Technology, Finance, Pharmaceuticals, Chemistry, Healthcare, and Transportation, where he consistently delivers strategic legal counsel tailored to the unique challenges of each sector.

Paulo holds a specialization in Corporate Law from the Brazilian Institute of Capital Markets (IBMEC) in São Paulo, a testament to his deep understanding of corporate structures and governance. Committed to continuous learning and professional development, he has further honed his leadership skills by participating in extension courses and postgraduate programs at two of the world’s most prestigious institutions: Harvard University and Fordham University. These programs, focused on leadership for professional service firms, have equipped him with advanced insights into managing complex legal operations and fostering organizational growth.

Memberships & Roles

  • Member of the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB)
  • Invited Advisor to the Promotional Marketing Association
  • Director of the Promotional Legislation Study Group (GELP)

Awards & Rankings

  • LACCA Approved 
    Lawyer - 2025
     
  • Análise Advocacia
    Recognized as one of the most admired lawyers in Brazil  - 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 
     
  • Leaders League:
    Data Protection - 2024
    Startup & Inovation - 2024
    Technology - 2024
    Banking and Finance: Regulatory and Opinions - 2025
     
  • Legal500
    Banking and Finance - 2025
     
  • Leaders League: Top Decisores
    Managing Partner - 2024

Education

  • 2003 - Bachelor's degree in Law
  • 2005 - LL.M in Corporation Law from Ibmec
  • 2014 - Specialization in Law from Harvard University 
  • 2021 - Certification in Structural Issues in Law Firm Management from Fordham University