Who We Are
We understand that working with a law firm can sometimes be complex, unpredictable and overwhelming. We focus on simplifying the work for our customers and become their partner in addressing the legal issues together — welcome to our person-first approach.
how we work
Vaia’s lean team enables us to adapt our internal processes
to give a personalised service to each of our clients.
We do not believe in one size fits all.
Vaia established a structured process that helps reduce bureaucracy while ensuring that Malta is the right jurisdiction for the proposed project. We take a personal approach with all our clients and seek to establish a long-term relationship that allows us to safeguard the interests of our clients and follow regulatory compliance.
Understanding the project and discussing the Maltese legal framework while ensuring Malta’s suitability.
Mapping out the way forward in line with the client’s required deliverables.
Confirming eligibility of the project and applicant while also embarking on our onboarding process.
Initiation and progression of the project.
Conclusion of the project in the time frame agreed to with the client.
Our Team
At Vaia Legal, our strength lies in our people. As a boutique law firm, we combine specialised legal knowledge with a client-focused approach.
Our team brings together diverse expertise across corporate, aviation, maritime, and regulatory law, allowing us to provide tailored solutions to a wide range of legal matters. With a shared commitment to professionalism, clarity, and efficiency, we work collaboratively to support our clients with reliable, high-standard legal service.
An experienced aviation and maritime lawyer helping international clients navigate regulatory, transactional, and ownership matters in Malta.
Legally qualified (LL.B., Brazil) professional supporting the firm’s legal processes, compliance, and contract management with precision.
An organised and proactive office administrator ensuring smooth daily operations and strategic business support at Vaia Legal.
We understand that working with a law firm can sometimes be complex, unpredictable and
overwhelming. We focus on simplifying the work for our customers and become their partner in
addressing the legal issues together — welcome to our person-first approach.
Seasoned Lawyer, specializing in Maritime and Aviation Law, having graduated from the University of Malta in 2013. Experienced in yacht and aircraft sale and purchase transactions as well as ownership structures, customs importations, and registration. Successfully assisted several companies in acquiring a Maltese Air Operator’s Certificate, as the key link between the applicant and local authorities, while also consulting on regulatory matters.
Specialties: Commercial Agreements, Sale and Purchase Transactions for Vessels and Aircrafts, Regulation of Aircraft Customs and VAT Status, Importation and Registration matters, AOC applications, Ownership structures and others
Proud member of the Chamber of Advocates, Malta Business Aviation Association, Malta Maritime Law Association and the Advocacy Committee of the European Business Aviation Association.
Giovana Cauchioli joined Vaia Legal as a Legal Administrator, bringing a strong background in legal operations and compliance. She graduated with a Bachelor of Law degree from Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie in 2019 and was admitted to the Brazilian bar in the same year. With several years of experience in litigation and general contracts, Giovana has developed a solid understanding of legal frameworks and regulatory processes.
Her professional experience covers various legal sectors, allowing her to provide valuable support in legal administration, contract management, and compliance-related matters. Throughout her career, she has refined her ability to assist in structuring efficient legal processes and ensuring that regulatory requirements are met.
At Vaia Legal, Giovana plays a key role in facilitating legal operations, ensuring that the firm’s work is carried out smoothly and efficiently. Her analytical approach, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence contribute to the firm’s ability to deliver high-quality legal services to its clients.
As the Office Administrator at Vaia Legal, Valeriia ensures that the firm’s operations run smoothly and efficiently. She specializes in administrative coordination, office management, and business support, allowing the legal team to focus on delivering top-tier services to clients.
Holding a degree in Marketing from Kyiv University, she brings strong organizational and communication skills to her role. Since moving to Malta in 2022, she has been actively involved in office administration, supporting the firm with structured processes and strategic planning. Her ability to anticipate operational needs and implement effective solutions makes her an invaluable part of the Vaia Legal team.
Dr. Ciantar-Barbara is an experienced lawyer specialising in corporate and commercial law. She graduated with a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Malta in 2012 and went on to obtain a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Corporate and Commercial Law from Queen Mary, University of London in 2014.
With over a decade of experience at a leading Big Four firm, Dr. Ciantar-Barbara has advised a wide range of local and international clients on complex company law matters. Her practice covers all stages of a company’s lifecycle, including formation, continuation, restructuring, cross-border mergers and divisions, acquisitions, and liquidations. She also assists clients with their day-to-day corporate governance and compliance obligations, including beneficial ownership requirements and statutory reporting.
In addition to her core focus on corporate law, Dr Ciantar-Barbara has handled various employment law matters, offering guidance on issues such as employment contracts and workplace policies.
Proud member of the Chamber of Advocates and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners.