US-based law firm Mayer Brown has formed an association with Tauil & Chequer (T&C), the Brazil-based practice, to jointly cover local clients. T&C will practice under the name “Tauil & Chequer in association with Mayer Brown,” while Mayer Brown’s Sao Paulo office will continue to practice under its existing name. “Through T&C, Mayer Brown will offer its global clients legal counsel on Brazilian domestic matters governed by Brazilian law and will increase its resources for advising clients with respect to investments in Africa, notably Angola, where many of T&C’s clients have been active,” says Mayer Brown. T&C’s clients will meanwhile gain access to Mayer Brown’s global platform, including an existing Sao Paulo office that advises clients on matters governed by New York and English law, as well as US securities law. Founded in 2001, T&C has approximately 60 lawyers in Rio and Sao Paulo and has an energy and infrastructure sector focus. “Continued growth in the energy and infrastructure sectors is a top strategic priority for Mayer Brown, and T&C’s strength in this market will contribute greatly to our realization of that goal,” says Stephen Hood, partner in charge of Mayer Brown’s Sao Paulo office.