A Family of Jurists

Legacy

Memories of a family deeply connected to the Law and to Madeira's public life — in photographs and stories.

Maria João with her father, Comendador Rui Nepomuceno
01

Maria João with her father, Comendador Rui Nepomuceno

Dr. Rui Nepomuceno — a Madeiran lawyer, politician and historian — was Maria João's pupil-master and her greatest professional reference. From him she learned that law is practised with rigour, independence, courage and respect for people.

Comendador Rui Nepomuceno with his daughters, Maria João and Filipa
02

Comendador Rui Nepomuceno with his daughters, Maria João and Filipa

In the Nepomuceno family, the Law spans generations: Filipa Nepomuceno is currently serving her second term as President of the Deontology Council of the Madeira Bar Association.

Maria João with her sister, Filipa Nepomuceno
03

Maria João with her sister, Filipa Nepomuceno

Between the two sisters, the Law is — beyond a profession — a lifelong bond. Filipa Nepomuceno is serving her second term as President of the Deontology Council of the Madeira Bar Association.

The swearing-in of Filipa Nepomuceno's second term
04

The swearing-in of Filipa Nepomuceno's second term

Maria João with her sister at the most recent swearing-in ceremony (Tomada de Posse) of Filipa Nepomuceno as President of the Deontology Council of the Madeira Bar Association — her second consecutive term leading the council.

Dra. Maria João Nepomuceno in her robes
05

Dra. Maria João Nepomuceno in her robes

At her sister's swearing-in, Maria João wore her lawyer's robes — the same attire in which, for more than 30 years, she has defended families in Madeira's courts.

With the Bastonário of the Portuguese Bar Association
06

With the Bastonário of the Portuguese Bar Association

Maria João with the Bastonário (President) of the Portuguese Bar Association at the swearing-in of her sister, Filipa Nepomuceno, at the Madeira Regional Council.

The Nepomuceno sisters with their father, Comendador Rui Nepomuceno
07

The Nepomuceno sisters with their father, Comendador Rui Nepomuceno

Maria João and Filipa with their late father — the lawyer, politician and historian who passed on to them the love of the Law and the duty to serve with integrity.