With notable strength in infrastructure-related construction projects and complex disputes, CMS Kluge’s ‘exceptional‘ team acts for major domestic and international contractors, architects and engineering companies on the full range of disputes, projects and contractual mandates. Nicolai Nielsen, Grethe Gullhaug and Samuel Skrunes jointly head up the team and handle advisory and contentious matters. Lars Ivar Nyland attracts praise for his ‘great technical and legal insight’ and is a seasoned construction litigator. Another key name on the contentious front is Espen Nyland, whose broad practice also covers all stages of development projects.
Construction in Norway
CMS Kluge
Practice head(s):
Nicolai Nielsen; Grethe Gullhaug; Samuel Skrunes
Other key lawyers:
Espen Nyland; Lars Ivar Nyland; Arild Skage
Testimonials
‘Lars Ivar Nyland: great technical and legal insight, high capacity and a great capability to communicate.’
‘The people in CMS Kluge have a unique understanding of the construction business. Not only on the legal side of it but also on strategic, economic and technical issues. No other law firms we have worked with have been even close to the high standard that CMS Kluge has delivered.’
‘We experience CMS Kluge as a partner who is always there for us. Regardless of whether we are in a conflict or we need to discuss strategic choices for the company or in the projects, they quickly provide competent teams.’
‘We have the pleasure of working with Espen Nyland and Lars Ivar Nyland. We experience them as unique in terms of preparation and strategy. They have a working capacity and ability to execute that we do not experience elsewhere. We have always felt professionally looked after and the results we have achieved together have ended enormously well.’
‘Arild Skage (partner) has been in charge of CMS Kluge’s work for us. He familiarises himself quickly with technical matters. He is very responsive and has a very good track record in court.’
‘Grethe Gullhaug really knows her work. Intelligent.’
‘Exceptional, passionate people with broad background experience and quick understanding of technical questions.’
‘Espen Nyland is a great individual to work with on a day-to-day basis, with vast background experience and network, very responsive and smart tactical approaches. Excellent tactical planning of court proceedings.’
Key clients
Implenia Norge
Aker Property Group
Bane NOR
StangelandMaskin
MMB
AF Gruppen
Andenæs Eiendom
Seltor
MossIA
Oslo Municipality, Department for Water Supply
Askim Entreprenør
Avantor
DLA Piper
DLA Piper leverages the firm’s global network to assist clients with the full gamut of construction project work, regularly advising leading international clients on matters in Norway. Contentious matters also feature prominently in the group’s caseload, including final settlement disputes, mediation proceedings and liability cases. Helge Neraal leads the team and assists domestic and foreign contractors and developers with the full spectrum of project work, with an emphasis on projects in the infrastructure and energy sectors. Arne Engesæth takes point on high-value disputes, arbitrations, and mediations, while Are Hunskaar has a solid track record of litigating principal construction law cases before the Norwegian Supreme Court.
Practice head(s):
Helge Neraal
Other key lawyers:
Are Hunskaar; Arne Engesæth
Testimonials
‘Strong in complex and polarised cases.’
‘Are Hunskaar remains a very strong litigator.’
‘Helge Neraal is a highly skilled construction lawyer. He is efficient, thorough, and always works to ensure that the client gets the best possible result.’
‘Using each other’s strengths, working well together to the best of the project. Hardworking and extremely knowledgeable. No limits in what they will sort out in order to build a strong case.’
‘Our key point of contact has been Helge Neraal who has through the past years been an outstanding legal support to our firm, always available and flexible to assist in legal evaluation and analysis in collaboration. We would highlight that both flexibility and industry knowledge are of great value to meet the legal challenges we meet within our business.’
‘This practice has a number of individuals who are very qualified in building contract matters, and are good at negotiations between professional parties.’
‘The individuals I have been working with have a good understanding of the clients profession and are good at finding balanced agreements in difficult cases.’
Key clients
Marti Group
IKEA
Sichuan Road and Bridge Group
Betonmast
AIG
Gjensidige
HENT
COWI
OPAK
Tryg
Cloudberry Development
Emerging Acquisitions / Bulk Handling Systems
OX2
HRL Entreprenør
Relog
If
AF Gruppen
Vinpart AS
Valkyrien Utvikling AS
Maskinentreprenørenes Forbund (MEF)
NRC / Bane Nor – PRIME (DAB)
Work highlights
- Represented Betonmast in a principal Supreme Court case related to the question of whether the investigation/rectification of defects is to be considered acknowledgment of liability disrupting the limitation period.
- Represented Marti and Maskinentreprenørenes Forbund (intervener) in a principal Supreme Court case concerning additional remuneration due to increased employer’s tax, and the question of whether the developer is entitled to withhold VAT on the withheld remuneration to cover accrued daily fines.
- Represented one of the three European consortiums prequalified for the Norwegian PPP project, Rv. 555 Sotrasambandet, with a budget of NOK20bn.
Advokatfirmaet Glittertind AS
The ‘highly competent’ Asbjørn Lyséll Dølvik heads up the practice at Advokatfirmaet Glittertind AS, a boutique construction and litigation firm with notable expertise in large building and infrastructure projects and contentious matters. Acting for clients on the contractor side, the firm has a strong focus on construction contracts and principal disputes. Seasoned litigators Nils-Henrik Pettersson and Peter Vagle have a strong track record in handling major construction cases before the Supreme Court, working alongside managing partner Aron Solheim. The ‘highly skilled’ Therese Kristiansen has notable in-house experience from the industry and handles both construction and public procurement-related issues. At associate level, Christoffer Fleicher and Glumur Hogneson are also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Asbjørn Lysèll Dølvik
Other key lawyers:
Marius Borgen; Christoffer Fleicher; Therese Kristiansen; Knut Solum; Glumur Hogneson; Nils-Henrik Pettersson; Peter Vagle; Aron Solheim
Testimonials
‘This practice has handled very complicated cases, which requires not only knowledge of law, but extreme capability to understand complicated technical matters and enormous amounts of documents. Their knowledge in contracts, and construction, both on the consultancy, the contractor, and the builder’s side, is very wide.’
‘Marius Borgen and Glumur Hogneson come across as confident and experienced, they give good advice in difficult situations.’
‘Marius Borgen stands out as an excellent litigator. Christoffer Fleicher stands out as very knowledgeable and extremely good at writing pleadings in legal proceedings. They are very available and engaged.’
‘Glittertind has a very strong project management team that assists most major contractors in Norway. We have been using Glittertind for many years and greatly appreciate their extensive industry knowledge and ability to engage in complex projects.’
‘Therese Kristiansen is a highly skilled construction lawyer. She has a unique ability to present complex issues in an easily understandable manner and excels at finding pragmatic solutions. Therese comes highly recommended.’
‘Another individual worth highlighting is Knut Solum. Knut assists us with contract drafting and disputes. He is pragmatic, efficient, and possesses an immense work capacity. Knut is an exceptionally skilled litigation attorney.’
‘One of the most, if not the most skilled environments for building and construction law in Norway. They have vast experience with litigating such cases for the court. They also have a commercial understanding when counselling prior to disputes arising, including the stages of contracting and final account. Their team is very down to earth, very talented and always well prepared.’
‘I’ve mainly worked with Asbjørn Dølvik. He is highly competent, has a deep insight into the construction industry and a great commercial understanding. Easy going, well prepared and efficient in all matters.’
Key clients
Skanska
Veidekke
NCC
Implenia
Norconsult
Backe
HI Gruppen (previously Hæhre Isaksen)
Azvi S.A
Leonard Nilsen & Sønner (LLNS)
IF insurance
Kruse Smith anlegg
Bundebygg
Gjensidige insurance
PNC Norge
Marthinsen&Duvholt
Sotra Link Construction
Peab
WK Entreprenør
Probea
Varden
HMC
Work highlights
- Successfully represented EBA (the Norwegian Construction Union) in a principal construction law matter before the Supreme Court of Norway.
- Represented main contractor NCC in one of the biggest rehab construction disputes in Norway.
- Represented main contractor Hæhre in a dispute concerning the construction of two large hydroelectric power plants in northern Norway.
Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS
Counting an impressive group of state-owned entities, public sector bodies and leading Norwegian construction actors as clients, Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS regularly handles major infrastructure projects, large settlement disputes, and tender and contract work across a breadth of sectors, including the railway, road and energy industries. Henning Nordtvedt heads up the team and has extensive expertise in construction litigation, while seasoned expert Johnny Johansen takes point on complex building and infrastructure projects. Arve Martin Hyldmo Bjørnvik specialises in onshore and offshore construction and fabrication projects, while Sofie Komissar is highly recommended for contentious mandates. Other core individuals include seasoned litigators Anne Hesjedal Sending and Andreas Rostveit.
Practice head(s):
Henning Nordtvedt
Other key lawyers:
Johnny Johansen; Andreas Rostveit; Anne Hesjedal Sending; Arve Martin Hyldmo Bjørnvik; Sofie Komissar; Ørjan Foldøy
Testimonials
‘Haavind, is in my opinion, the best construction law firm in Norway. Good capacity with several partners, well familiar with the industry and with an excellent reputation.’
‘Johnny Johansen has great knowledge for giving the right advice in terms of issues regarding construction. Absolutely one of the best lawyers I have worked with.’
‘Sofie Komissar responds quickly and very diligently and gives realistic assessments of the legal challenges of a case. She is very competent and always provides useful advice.’
‘Partner Arve Martin Hyldmo Bjørnvik has been a team leader and the primary lawyer for our case. He has an unprecedented work capacity and has been available for the client around the clock. As a client, I am extremely satisfied with his work.’
‘A stand-out partner is Andreas Rostveit.’
‘Anne Hesjedal Sending is an extraordinary lawyer and great to work with. She is very good in both legal and construction aspects and she has handled several major high-profile cases for us. She very quickly understands the case complexities and offers excellent strategies on how to handle the case. She is always available, always ahead and well prepared, making you feel very well represented.’
‘Henning Nortvedt is excellent in the area of construction. He very quickly identifies the core of the case and delivers excellent strategies on how to address the case, both for preparation and for the actual trial/negotiation.’
‘Ørjan Foldøy impressed us with how he managed to structure our very complex case. He always had full control of how every development in the case will affect the outcome. He also showed good understanding of the area of construction.’
Key clients
The Norwegian Public Road Administration
Overhalla Betong AS
Norwegian Directorate of Public Construction and Property
Nye Veier AS
Sporveien AS
Statkraft
Statnett
Viken County Authority
Caverion AS
GK Norge
Work highlights
- Assisted Norwegian Public Road Administration with several matters, including the settlement of a dispute related to E39 Svegatjørn-Rådal.
- Assisted the Norwegian Construction and Property Management Department with several matters.
- Acted for Overhalla Betongbygg AS in a final accounts dispute related to a contract for production and assembly of prefabricated concrete elements for an aquaculture plant.
Arntzen de Besche
Arntzen de Besche fields a ‘very capable’ construction team with broad expertise that spans disruption claims, major onshore and offshore construction projects, and the full spectrum of infrastructure work. The team is jointly overseen by Wenche Maartmann-Moe and Ole Skeidsvoll Moe, based in Oslo and Trondheim, respectively. Maartmann-Moe has extensive experience advising on large infrastructure projects, PPP contracts and disputes, while Moe primarily works with offshore oil, gas, and aquaculture construction projects. Stian Heimdal assists builders and engineers with all phases of construction projects, including hospital, public transportation, and commercial projects. Kjersti Lerkerød joined the team in February 2023, strengthening its mediation and litigation offering.
Other key lawyers:
Kjersti Lerkerød; Kurt A. Elvevoll; Stian Heimdal; Jon Reidar Gresseth; Tor Kristian Lånke
Testimonials
‘Arntzen de Besche’s team on construction law has valuable, practical knowledge and experience from working for and with large engineering and construction corporations. The team works efficiently, providing solid advice and delivering good value for time spent.’
‘We have had the privilege to work with Wenche Maartmann-Moe, Stian Heimdal and Kjersti Lerkerød over the course of the past year. All of these individuals have shown that they provide the highest level of service for their clients, and they are all experts in their respective fields of law. They are easy to communicate with and they provide valuable advice to their clients.’
‘Kjersti Lerkerød: Kjersti has an amazing ability to get the full picture and then see the way to go forward from there. She is structured in her work and communication, and through good leadership makes it easier for the ones around her to know what to do to help the cases forward in the best possible way.’
‘Partner Tor Kristian Lånke is very proactive ensuring the right focus at the right time. He is also very efficient in bringing in other colleagues to add competencies when needed.’
‘Quick and accurate response from Kurt Elvevoll. Always service-minded and highly skilled.’
‘They have very capable lawyers who have a long track record and a lot of knowledge and practice in construction law. They are up to date on developments in the industry, laws and practices in court and court rulings.’
‘Arntzen de Besche’s lawyers are probably the best in Norway when it comes to legal issues connected to hospitals and specialised advice on hospital construction projects.’
‘Jon Gresseth is efficient, and his response time is excellent. His unique insight to the industry means that his legal advice always is to the point.’
Key clients
Sykehusbygg HF
Nye Veier AS
Veidekke Entreprenør AS and subsidiaries
Spordrift AS and subsidiaries
Consto AS and subsidiaries
Nordr Norge AS
St Olavs Hospital
Gaia Salmon AS
Biokraft AS
Norwegian Fishfarming Technologies AS
Pilares Eiendom AS
AGTunnel AS
Fredensborg Fritid AS
Faber Bygg AS
Work highlights
- Advising Nye Veier AS on the construction of four-lane roads in Norway.
- Advising Sykehusbygg on the development and construction of seven hospitals.
- Advising Norwegian Fishfarming Technologies AS in connection with all its projects for Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) facilities with a total value of approx NOK6bn.
BAHR
BAHR’s construction practice maintains a strong track record in both onshore and offshore construction mandates, handling a high volume of development projects, infrastructure mandates, and complex contractual disputes. Sam E. Harris oversees the practice and focuses on contentious onshore construction and real estate work, while Jan Einar Barbo has significant experience advising on a broad range of contract issues for clients in the energy sector. The team is supported by a strong group of associates, including litigator Halvor Mathisen, the renewable energy-focused Marianne Myklebust, and Inglin Sognnæs, who advises on contractual and advisory issues relating to offshore construction projects. Sofie Komissar left the firm in 2023 and is now at Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS.
Practice head(s):
Sam E. Harris
Other key lawyers:
Halvor Mathisen; Jan Einar Barbo; Marianne Myklebust; Inglin Sognnæs
Testimonials
‘BAHR is an outstanding law firm with top-notch legal advice.’
‘Halvor Mathisen provides excellent advice and is a perfect sparring partner. Thinking out of the box and developing ideas characterises his way of working. Responsiveness is very high.’
Key clients
Aker Solutions ASA
Aker ASA
Statsbygg
Sporveien AS
Bane Nor SF
Hafslund Oslo Celsio AS
Oslo municipality, Department of Water and Sewage
AVA Eiendom AS
Steen & Strøm AS
Work highlights
- Acting as legal counsel for Bane NOR under a framework agreement, including assisting with various matters arising from the ‘Follobane-project’.
- Advising Oslo municipality’s Department of Water and Sewage on a major c. NOK30bn project for a new Oslo water supply.
- Assisting Hafslund Oslo Celsio AS, a company owned by Hafslund Eco, Infranode and HitecVision, with the development of a several NOK billion future carbon capture plant as an addition to its existing waste-to-energy treatment plant in Oslo.
Advokatfirmaet Føyen AS
With notable strength in advising clients in the road and infrastructure sectors, Advokatfirmaet Føyen AS routinely assists public sector entities, including builders, landowners and municipalities, with PPP structures, contracts, and operational issues across all phases of development projects. The ‘outstanding’ group is headed up by Stede Georg Nilsen, who handles both contentious and non-contentious mandates relating to transport and infrastructure projects. Seasoned litigator Per Gustav Lilleaasen handles a high volume of construction cases, acting for both local authorities and private companies. Thomas Oskar Strömbom has particular expertise in assisting with the planning, tendering and contract phases of projects.
Practice head(s):
Stede Georg Nilsen
Other key lawyers:
Karl Marthinussen; Per Gustav Lilleaasen; Thomas Oskar Strömbom
Testimonials
‘The team has a great ability to balance efforts to ensure high-quality results without wasting resources. They have a very strong knowledge of the construction industry and are able to give excellent advice re complex issues.’
‘Stede Nilsen remains our preferred adviser on complex and strategically important issues.’
‘They stand out in regard to quality and response time. I have used several leading law firms over the years, and Føyen stands out and is today my clear first choice.’
‘I have in particular used Stede G. Nilsen and Karl Marthinussen. They are both experienced and knowledgeable, and they deliver a service which is outstanding, also compared to other leading firms. They lead their teams in the different cases in a thorough and professional way so that the mix between lead lawyers and associates who do groundwork is always perfect.’
‘In short, these guys are outstanding.’
‘Per Gustav Lillaasen and his team were highly qualified.’
‘Per Gustav Lilleaasen and his team had a good attitude, and gave good advice.’
Key clients
Asker Entreprenør AS
Asker og Bærum Boligbyggelag
Aspira AS
Backe Prosjekt AS
Bjørn Gruppen AS / Jessheim Vest Bolig og Næring AS
BMO Entreprenør AS
Boligpartner AS
Bravida Norge AS
Biltema Real Estate Norway AS (former Buffin Real Estate Norway AS)
C.J.R Renewables
Contexo AS (X Anlegg AS)
COWI AS
DNB Bank ASA
Drammen Eiendom KF
ELECNOR S.A
Fabritius gruppen AS
Hallmaker Group
Hathon Eiendom AS
Hellvik Hus Romerike AS
HR Prosjekt AS
Icopal AS
Inhouse Geoteknik AB
JM Norge AS
Laugstol AS
Mapei AS
Moderne Byggfornyelse AS
Movar IKS
Municipality of Aurskog Høland
Municipality of Bamle
Municipality of Bodø
Municipality of Drangedal
Municipality of Fredrikstad
Municipality of Indre Østfold
Municipality of Hamar
Municipality of Horten
Municipality of Kragerø
Municipality of Kåfjord
Municipality of Lørenskog
Municipality of Oslo
Municipality of Porsgrunn
Municipality of Sandnes
Municipality of Siljan
Municipality of Skien
Municipality of Volda
Municipality of Ås
Nedre Romerike Avløpsselskap IKS
Nittedal Eiendom KF
Norwegian Public Roads Administration (All Regions)
NSW Arkitektur AS
Nye Veier AS
Oslo Bygginnredning AS
Peyma Entreprenør AS
Rubb AS
Sintef Group
Staticus Norge AS
Stavanger Utvikling KF
Storegga Entreprenør AS
Studentsamskipnaden Oslo
Sønnico AS
The Robbins Company
Troms County Municipality
Tryg Garanti NUF
Viken County Municipality
VHV Algemeine Versicherung AG
Voksenkollen Utvikling AS
WSP Engineering Norge AS
Ø M Fjeld AS
VS Element AS
Hillevågsveien 59-63 AS
Raven Management AB
Bærum Byggmonterin AS
Work highlights
- Representing the Norwegian Public Roads Administration in a NOK462m dispute against Swiss contractors, Marti IAV Solbakk DA, regarding the building of the Ryfylke-tunnel on Rv. 13 in Rogaland County.
- Acting for Nye Veier AS on the initial contract design phase for the company’s first two road construction contracts for the design and construction of a new section of the E6 road near Trondheim, and for a section of the E39 southwest of Kristiansand.
- Representing X Anlegg AS in a case against the County Municipality of Innlandet, regarding building of a 13km parcel of county road (fylkesvei) 33 with an estimated value of around NOK260m.
Advokatfirmaet Grette AS
Acting for contractors, state-owned entities and developers in the infrastructure, renewable energy and aquaculture industries, Advokatfirmaet Grette AS’ construction practice advises on the full range of contentious and advisory matters relating to wind power, road infrastructure, and onshore energy project developments. Construction disputes feature prominently in the group’s recent caseload, with the team representing a high volume of contractors in disruption-related claims. Practice head Anders Myhre leverages his in-house experience in the construction industry to advise on all stages of contract implementation. Øystein Myre Bremset takes point on contentious issues, while managing partner Line Wefald is recommended for both construction disputes and project work.
Practice head(s):
Anders Myhre
Other key lawyers:
Øystein Myre Bremset; Line Wefald
Key clients
Norwegian Public Road Administration
Avinor AS
Sykehusbygg HF
Bravida Norge AS
HENT AS
BIR AS
Vestland County Council – Bybanen in Bergen
Innlandet County Council (Innlandet Fylkeskommune)
Nye Veier AS
HAB Construction AS
Nettpartner AS
Vedal AS
Roadworks AS
Norwegian Geotechnica Institute (NGI)
Otera Infra AS
Consto AS
Kraftmontasje AS
Infranord AS
Alento AS
NRC Group ASA
Work highlights
- Successfully represented HENT AS, the main contractor, in a major dispute against the builder, Frogn Municipality, in connection with the construction of a new swimming facility and the rehabilitation of a sports hall in Frogn Municipality.
- Acting as legal adviser to Sykehusbygg HF on establishing a new local hospital in Drammen.
- Acting as legal adviser to Arctic Seafarm on project strategy and contract negotiations in relation to a planned NOK2bn onshore fish farm project.
SANDS
SANDS’ construction offering spans all stages of the project lifecycle, handling contractual, contentious, and corporate issues for both private and public sector clients in the industry. Alf Johan Knag, in Bergen, oversees the team and handles risk analysis, project planning, and contractual mandates. Litigator Vidar Johnsen focuses on EPC contracts and PPP structures, as well as final settlement disputes and claims handling for clients in the industry. In Trondheim, Frode Henning Antonsen specialises in contract law and assists contractors, builders and suppliers. Eirik Birkelund and Corinne Silden Stephensen attract praise for their dispute resolution expertise.
Practice head(s):
Alf Johan Knag
Other key lawyers:
Corinne Silden Stephensen; Eirik Birkelund; Vidar Johnsen; Frode Henning Antonsen
Testimonials
‘Very competent and very good knowledge about our firm and the sector where we operate.’
‘Creative and accurate in the work of getting the facts out and come up with good suggestions for solutions for process and progress.’
‘Vidar Johnsen – very good in litigation and licensing.’
‘Corinne Silden Stephensen: She has a humble approach and seeks to find sound arguments that speak for us.’
‘SANDS has a strong team within construction law. I value the fact that they have professionals with in-depth knowledge in all of their regional offices. This gives us excellent advice locally and it makes the daily interactions where they can show up and meet our project managers where they are so much easier to handle.’
‘Eirik Birkelund (partner) has excellent knowledge of construction law and litigation. When it comes to groundsworks he is in a league of his own.’
‘The team is made up of people with different skills who complement each other very well. They are forward-thinking and aggressive and are able to combine their legal skills with a great understanding of the purpose and function of construction projects.’
‘Committed and knowledgeable personnel, who are also pleasant, accommodating and solution-oriented who deliver at the agreed time.’
Key clients
AF Gruppen ASA
Gunvald Johansen AS
Krüger Kaldnes AS
YIT Infra Norge AS
Elecnor S.A.
Nordland Forbinde
Consto AS
Peab Anlegg AS
Joint Venture SA. PI. NOR SALINI IMPREGILO – PIZZAROTTI ANS
Work highlights
- Advised AF Gruppen on a €200m project by Oslo municipality.
- Advising the international JV SA. PI. NOR SALINI IMPREGILO – PIZZAROTTI ANS on the full execution of the contract with Bane Nor for the Nykirke-Barkåker parcel.
- Advising Baneservice on a €100m railway project NBF14 Nygårdstangen – Bergen – Fløen for the National Railway Agency (Bane Nor).
Selmer
Under the joint leadership of Mads Fuglesang and Johannes Meyer-Myklestad, the construction practice at Selmer assists large-scale domestic developers and technical subcontractors with infrastructure projects, onshore construction work, and contentious issues. Fuglesang takes point on contract negotiations and claims management, while Meyer-Myklestad is the name to note for contentious work, ably assisted by Sindre Larsen. Svein Sulland left the team in July 2023.
Practice head(s):
Mads Fuglesang; Johannes Meyer-Myklestad
Other key lawyers:
Sindre Larsen
Testimonials
‘We value greatly having Selmer as our very trusted external legal adviser. Their service stands out in terms of professional advice, their ability to provide sound advice and services on anything to do with Norwegian legislation, on-time and on budget.’
‘I would particularly mention Mads Fuglesang as our long-time main senior contact (major litigation, general company legal support), strongly regard his sound and professional support.’
‘Partner Johannes Meyer-Myklestad and senior lawyer Sindre Larsen are, in addition to being great people that I enjoy working with, very intelligent and wise lawyers. When in a dispute, it gives me and my team great confidence that they are representing us.’
‘Selmer is efficient and delivers quickly and is a good sparring partner.’
‘We are working closely with partner Johannes Meyer-Myklestad who was the reason we decided to work with Selmer. Highly knowledgeable about the industry and we consider him an important part of our team.’
‘They have specialist expertise in most areas and a contact person who coordinates and can guide you towards the lawyers who have the expertise you need.’
‘Good professional expertise in specific areas, follow-up, consultation.’
Key clients
Oslo Pensjonsforsikring
Aspelin Ramm
Storebrand
Møller Eiendom
Harbitz Torg
Løvenskiold Eiendom
Bertel O Steen Eiendom
Wesselkvartalet
A Bygg
Gulbrandsen & Olimb
EVR Norge
Vedal
Bravida
Degree of Freedom
Con-Form
Contiga
VVS Norge Prosjekt
The Roxel Group
Alliero
Alstom
LINK Arkitektur
NRC Norge
Entreprenørforeningen Bygg og Anlegg (EBA)
Work highlights
- Represented Con-Form in two construction disputes against WK Entreprenør regarding the Harbitz Torg project; and a case before Borgarting Court of Appeals concerning a final account dispute for a construction project on Oksenøya in Bærum municipality.
- Acted for LINK Arkitektur AS in a mediation with HENT AS relating to the detail design of a health facility.
Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS
Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS assists its clients throughout all stages of complex construction projects. Under the leadership of Jacob F Bull, an experienced arbitrator with a focus on energy, real estate and infrastructure-related construction mandates, the team attracts praise for its ‘consistently high availability and quality‘. Svein Aage Valen takes point on construction disputes from the firm’s Bergen office, while Kristine Hyldmo Bjørnvik has a strong track record representing clients in onshore and offshore construction disputes. At associate level, the ‘fantastic’ Henrik Fabian Torgrimsby and Alexander Stulien, praised for his ‘exceptional’ construction project experience, are other key names to note.
Practice head(s):
Jacob F Bull
Other key lawyers:
Henrik Fabian Torgrimsby; Alexander Stulien; Kristine Hyldmo Bjørnvik; Svein Aage Valen
Testimonials
‘Thommessen’s construction team is particularly strong on industrial knowledge and the ability to focus on the real business needs of the clients.’
‘Henrik Torgrimsby has been fantastic in terms of his legal counsel. He is pragmatic and solution orientated.’
‘Jacob Bull has outstanding knowledge on the valuable combination of construction law and industry experience.’
‘Alexander Stulien comes with exceptional practical experience from construction projects, in addition to a very strong knowledge of construction law.’
‘Consistently high availability and quality in running project support.’
‘Jacob F. Bull is very knowledgeable and great to work with.’
‘Jacob Bull: knowledge of our industry, and expertise on EPC contracts.’
‘Knowledge, straight to the point.’
Key clients
The Norwegian Public Road Administration / Statens Vegvesen
Bane NOR SF
Vestland Fylkeskommune
FREYR
Zephyr AS
Lyse Produksjon AS
The Norwegian Coastal Administration (Kystverket)
Odal Vindkraftverk AS/Akershus Energi Vind AS
Elvia AS
Sira-Kvina Kraftselskap DA
Watrium Eiendom AS
Mustad Eiendom AS
Agder OPS Vegselskap AS
Jølstra Kraft DA
Work highlights
- Assisting FREYR with its multi billion USD project development activities in Norway, Finland and in the US.
- Assisting Bane NOR with various matters related to the Follo line infrastructure project.
- Representing Vestland County Authority in a comprehensive dispute against contractor YIT Infra Norge AS concerning the road project “FV 556 – Hjellestad”.
Wiersholm
Hans Augun Parmann heads up Wiersholm’s construction offering, which advises clients on tender processes, contract negotiations, project executions and contentious mandates. The group has particular expertise in advising on large highway PPPs, with Parmann being a key contact here. Ronny Lund handles contractual, administrative and procurement issues related to offshore and onshore construction projects, working alongside Sondre Dyrland; the two also handle contentious mandates in this space.
Practice head(s):
Hans Augun Parmann
Other key lawyers:
Morten Goller; Oda Hellenes Ekre; Ronny Lund; Sondre Dyrland
Testimonials
‘Competent team which is a good sparring partner when it comes to the balance between the practical problems of the case and the legal side. Also, alert to the soft issues in dealing with people and their differences.’
‘High social intelligence combined with excellent knowledge have given us trust and reassurance that the case is in good hands.’
‘Especially Morten Goller, Ronny Lund and Oda Hellenes Ekre are extremely competent lawyers, and truly trusted advisers. They stand out as very service-minded and with a good market understanding.’
‘To the point, excellent commercial understanding, flexible approach.’
‘Very solution-oriented, good at listening and coming up with proposals.’
Key clients
Equinor ASA
Veidekke Entrepenør AS
Skanska
Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy (MPE)
Leonhard Nilsen & Sønner AS
Macquarine Corporate Holdnings Pty. Limited;
Sotra Link AS
Thales
Work highlights
- Advised the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy on the full-scale carbon capture and storage project of approximately NOK25bn.
- Advised Sotra Link AS and its shareholders on all aspects of its successful tender to the Norwegian state for the construction and operation of the new Rv. 555 highway ‘Sotrasambandet’ outside the city of Bergen.
- Advised Skanska on all aspects of its successful tender to the Norwegian state for the construction and operation of the new E10/Rv. 85 Public Partner Partnership (PPP) Project (‘E10 Hålogalandsvegen’).
Wikborg Rein
With strength in dispute resolution, Wikborg Rein acts for a diverse group of clients that includes international construction companies, local authorities and public sector entities. Marius Egeberg and Ola Nisja jointly lead the team; the ‘extremely professional’ Egeberg focuses on contentious mandates, while Nisja attracts praise for his ‘incredibly strategic approach’. The group also has a solid presence on Norway’s west coast, with Kristoffer Lerum leading the Bergen office. Lars Erik Schjeide has specialised expertise in building and construction contracts; ‘skilled negotiator’ Christian Cederkvist is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Marius Egeberg; Ola Nisja
Other key lawyers:
Lars Erik Schjeide; Christian Cederkvist; Kristoffer Lerum
Testimonials
‘Within construction law, Wikborg Rein has a young and up-and-coming environment with skilled lawyers. The team delivers quickly and with very good advice on all phases of a construction case.’
‘Marius Egeberg is a highly qualified construction lawyer with a good professional foundation. Very fast and good follow-up of all cases.’
‘The team is led by Ola Nisja, who has an incredibly strategic approach and is highly diplomatic, yet fierce in execution. His associate, Christian Cederkvist, is early in his career already a skilled negotiator, thinking strategically and working independently.’
‘I find Wikborg Rein quite engaged in all the cases and, when compared to other firms, I find that they go into a high level of detail.’
‘Marius Egeberg is extremely professional.’
‘High quality and efficiency in every part we need. A multi-skilled law firm with focused employees in every area we need. The way they orchestrate the different capabilities is impressive.’
Key clients
BundeBygg AS
Oslo District of Sport Activities and Bækkelaget Sports club
Hinna Park Utvikling AS
Tanke Svilands gate 30-36 AS
Base Property AS
Entra ASA
Pynteneset Eiendom AS
MossIA ANS
Lerøy Midt AS
Glitre AS
Arbo Entreprenør AS
Work highlights
- Acting for Entra ASA in a dispute with the contractor Veidekke over the final settlement in a project concerning the refurbishment of the Law Faculty Building in Oslo in a NOK600m building project.
- Acted for MossIA ANS in a dispute with a subcontractor – 4Service Landanlegg AS – regarding payment for the establishment and management of facilities for workers in a major railway development project in Moss where MossIA ANS is the main contractor.
- Representing Hinna Park Utvikling in a building project Valhall in Stavanger.
Bull & Co Advokatfirma AS
Bull & Co Advokatfirma AS stands out for its specialised railway, road, and tunnel projects offering. The ‘very attentive and capable’ Thor Wessel oversees the team and advises on large infrastructure projects as well as offshore-related installations, while Bjørn Erik Mørkved is the name to note for construction disputes. At associate level, Andreas Dysthe is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Thor Wessel
Other key lawyers:
Bjørn Erik Mørkved; Andreas Dysthe
Testimonials
‘The team at Bull & Co is very versatile with experts in fields that are relevant to our operations. They are agile, and you will never have to wait long to get the assistance needed.’
‘Very good collaboration.’
‘Thor Wessel and Andreas Dysthe – We work with both people and value the good collaboration and great competence in the issues addressed.’
‘Thor Wessel, our main contact at Bull & Co, is very attentive and capable of bringing in the right people to make sure we get sound legal advice.’
‘Hands-on partner follow up.’
‘Thor Wessel is excellent at guiding clients in their best interest.’
Key clients
Aurstad Tunnel
Baneservice
Bedre Blokk
Betonmast (and subsidiaries)
BundeBygg
Byggaksess
Endúr
Hent
Mapei
Marti Tunnelbau
Mesta
Posten Norge
Ragn Sells
Sparebank 1 Forsikring
Uno-X Forsyning
Vestre
Østlandske Vei og Betong
Work highlights
- Representing HENT in a bifurcated court dispute opposite SalMar over construction of the ‘InnovaNor’ salmon processing facility.
- Assisting Baneservice AS with the national ERTMS-project (European Rail Traffic Management System), where Baneservice is rebuilding the Norwegian national rail signalling system.
- Representing Uno-X in litigation resulting from the construction of an oil tanker terminal in Mo i Rana in North Norway.
Advokatfirmaet Hjort
The ‘brilliant‘ Aslak Førde oversees the construction team at Advokatfirmaet Hjort, which stands out for its expertise in contentious mandates. Førde, whose broad practice spans both contract and construction matters, works primarily with contentious matters, representing contractors, builders, suppliers and developers in a range of disputes. Also in the core team are seasoned litigators Finn Magne Prydz and Ailu Gaup Stadigs. The team also includes managing associates Aleksander Bergby Henriksen and Julie Kjeldseth, who assist with contract negotiations and construction disputes.
Practice head(s):
Aslak Førde
Other key lawyers:
Julie Kjeldseth; Aleksander Bergby Henriksen; Ailu Gaup Stadigs; Finn Magne Prydz
Testimonials
‘Hjort has a strong construction law team. Competent lawyers well-versed in construction law who understand the industry.’
‘Aslak Førde is a brilliant litigation lawyer. Trustworthy and efficient. Aleksander Bergby Henriksen must also be mentioned as a strong talent within the business.’
‘Julie Kjeldseth shows solid knowledge of the industry and delivers great work.’
‘We are very satisfied with the legal and factual work and assessments of lawyer Ailu Gaup Stadigs.’
‘Very effective lawyer who gives me exactly what I need and does not “overdo” things. Very quick response every time I have a new topic I want to discuss.’
Key clients
Troms og Finnmark fylkeskommune
Peab AS
Store Landfall AS
Oslo Entreprenør AS
Avinor AS
Mekonomen AS
Trysilhusgruppen AS
Verkís HF
Ullensaker kommune
Gjemnes kommune
Steinar Myhre AS
Implenia Norge AS
Stavanger Utvikling KF
Norsk Wavin AS
Hellerudhaugen Eiendomsutvikling AS
Danfo AB
Nedre Romerike Vann- og Avløpsselskap IKS
Work highlights
- Assisted Troms and Finnmark Fylkeskommune with a major legal dispute raising several questions regarding the interpretation of construction contract agreements.
- Acting for Store Landfall AS in a dispute with the turnkey contractor in connection with the development of residential and commercial premises in Drammen as a result of alleged unforeseen ground conditions.