Firms To Watch: Construction

Commercial and construction boutique Advokatfirmaet Negota AS is a key name for construction contracts and assists with onshore and offshore projects for a varied client base. Pål Are Sund leads the group.

Construction in Norway

CMS Kluge

CMS Kluge’s construction practice is notable for its involvement in infrastructure work, acting for some of the largest contractors within the sector across a wide range of mandates including onshore and offshore infrastructure projects, construction litigation and contractual matters. With a strong national offering, the team is spearheaded by the trifecta of Oslo-based Nicolai Nielsen, project disputes specialist Grethe Gullhaug in Stavanger, and Bergen-based Samuel Skrunes, who is a go-to for onshore and offshore project expertise; the group is also able to leverages the firm's global network on cross-border mandates. Elsewhere in the team. Espen Nyland is a construction dispute and PPP specialist.

Practice head(s):

Nicolai Nielsen; Grethe Gullhaug; Samuel Skrunes


Other key lawyers:

Arild Skage; Espen Nyland; Lars Ivar Nyland; Vegar Vatne


Testimonials

‘CMS Kluge provides excellent legal and strategic advice, but really stands out in the way they use their dedication and integrity to handle large and complex legal disputes, making great use of their industry knowledge to maximize value for us as their client.’

‘Espen Nyland has a unique ability to understand the technical aspect of a case. Combined with a very sharp legal mind this is the key to standing as one of the best lawyers in Norway.’

‘Lars Ivar Nyland is unmatched in his ability to handle large and complex legal disputes through litigation and mediation, making use of great industry knowledge and great strategic talents, combined with an impressive team top to bottom.’

‘Deep legal skills, great commercial understanding, provides advice based on likely outcomes rather than their own interests.’

‘For the past few years, we have worked closely with Lars Ivar Nyland and Vegar Vatne. They complement each other and make me and my organisation extremely strong and well-prepared for the main negotiation. During the main negotiations, they are extremely well-prepared and focused all the way to the finish line. In this way, we achieve very good results together with them. They are simply a star team.’

‘Arild Skage takes his time to discuss/elaborate with his client.’

‘The law firm has helped us with several complicated cases as well as with professional advice. The extremely extensive legal knowledge and negotiation skills have meant that we have won all our disputes. They are very flexible with regard to online and physical meetings and show up at short notice.’

‘Samuel Skrunes is our contact person at CMS Kluge. He is an extremely skilled lawyer with enormous knowledge and negotiation skills. He is always available at short notice and has very quickly familiarised himself with complicated disputes and quickly drawn up a negotiation strategy.’

Key clients

Moelven Byggmodul AS


JM Hansen AS


Boreus Eiendom AS


Consto AS


Aker Property Group


Stangeland Maskin AS / Implenia Norge AS


Risa AS


Implenia Norge AS


Bane NOR SF


Oslo kommune vann and avløpsetaten


Kruse Smith Entreprenør AS


Bertelsen & Garpestad AS


Statnett SF


Andenæs Eiendom


Work highlights


  • Acting for Aker Property Group as sole legal adviser with regard to several large-scale building projects, including the Aker Tech House and the Miklagard Resort.
  • Advising Stangeland Maskin and Implenia Norge in relation to the Eiganees Tunnel project.
  • Acting for Fredrikstad Seafoods and Nordic Aquafarms Group in relation to a dispute with Gråkjær.

DLA Piper

The construction practice at DLA Piper has extensive experience within the sector, advising on some of the largest construction projects on mainland Norway. Handling the full gamut of project issues including PPP contract negotiations, matters of liability, ADR, and traditional dispute resolution, the team is go-to counsel for domestic contractors, and also utilises the firm’s global structure to assist international clients with dealings in Norway. Helge Neraal leads the practice and is praised for his ‘high quality and speed’. Arne Engesæth is a highly regarded mediator within the construction space, and Are Hunskaar and Hans Christian Brodtkorb are extensively experienced in construction contract negotiations and dispute resolution. Fredrik Verling is also a key name within the practice.

Practice head(s):

Helge Neraal


Other key lawyers:

Hans Christian Brodtkorb; Arne Engesæth; Fredrik Verling; Are Hunskaar; Ingrid Ruud


Testimonials

‘Responsive, in-depth knowledge of the industry, clear advice.’

‘Hans Christian Brodtkorb is really impressive. He had a great energy, and in depth knowledge of the business. His advice is always commercial and clear. Ingrid Ruud is impressive and is up and coming.’

‘The team of partner Helge Neraal has helped our organisation within a variety of topics the past few years. Always at a high quality and at the speed requested by our side. We are very satisfied with the cooperation and find DLA’s practice excellent.’

‘I will highlight three main points; 1) speed in responsiveness to handle matters at a high pace, when necessary, 2) strong experience within the industry to provide excellent advice on complex topics and 3) international understanding to tackle cross-border cultural differences.’

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


Work highlights


  • Representing Marti Nordnes in its claims for NOK320m from Statens vegvesen for the Indre Nordnes – Skardalen tunnelling project in northern Norway.
  • Representing one of the three European consortia pre-qualified for the Norwegian PPP project, Rv. 555 Sotrasambandet.
  • Representing Valkyrien Utvikling and Fram Realinvest in a complex final settlement dispute after building and rehabilitation of a shopping centre in Oslo.

Advokatfirmaet Glittertind AS

Boutique firm Advokatfirmaet Glittertind AS maintains a strong focus on construction issues and the related contentious work and is praised for its ‘deep insight into the construction industry’ and ‘great commercial understanding'. The ‘highly competent’ Asbjørn Lyséll Dølvik leads the construction practice, which is known for its specialist expertise in advising contractors on onshore and offshore projects. Nils-Henrik Pettersson and Peter Vagle both maintain an excellent litigation track record, where managing partner Aron Solheim is also notable and praised. Recently promoted partner Knut Solum and Therese Kristiansen are both key individuals in the practice, praised for their ‘to the point and effective’ advice.


Practice head(s):

Asbjørn Lyséll Dølvik


Other key lawyers:

Marius Borgen; Nils-Henrik Pettersson; Peter Vagle; Aron Solheim; Therese Kristiansen; Knut Solum


Testimonials

‘Highly skilled litigation lawyers. Easy going and to the point. Always well-prepared and efficient in all matters.’

‘Therese Kristiansen is a very experienced lawyer. Has the skill to present difficult topics in an easy way.’

‘Knut Solum is an excellent litigation lawyer.’

‘Well known for their experience in handling contract law and final settlement disputes. Deep insight into the construction industry. Have a great commercial understanding.’

‘Asbjørn Lyséll Dølvik – Highly competent within construction law. Has a commercial understanding. Gives operational legal advice.’

‘Our impression of the team is that they’re highly competent and will challenge your views/positions from different angles as to best understand all aspects of the case.’

‘To the point, effective. Excellent commercial knowledge and understanding of building industries.’

‘Knut Solum, Therese Kristiansen and Asbjørn Dølvik. All of them are to the point and effective.’

Key clients

NCC


Implenia


Hent


Backe


VE Anlegg


Kruse Smith


Hæhre


Caverion


Bundebygg


Veidekke


Skanska


BetonmastHæhre


Backe gruppen


AZVI


NCC


WK Entreprenør


Peab


Kruse Smith


LNS


HENT


Probea


Eltel Networks


PNC


Varden


HMC


Norconsult


Bøhmer


Vistal


Aldesa


Isachsen Anlegg


Amundsen Graf


Sotra link Construction


Work highlights


  • Represented NCC in a final account dispute regarding Jordal Amfi.
  • Represented HENT in a disruption dispute against a subcontractor.
  • Represented EBA in a principal Supreme court case regarding sufficient construction time.

Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS

Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS’ construction practice has ‘unique specialist expertise in the contracting area and a large capacity with many skilled lawyers’, making its offering one of the strongest in Norway. Fielding a notable number of expert litigators, the team has also been involved in many of the largest infrastructure projects in Norway, acting for key developers and market players. Henning Nordtvedt heads up the practice and maintains an excellent track record in handling projects for the Norwegian government. The ‘exceptionally goodJohnny Johansen is a go-to person for builders and contractors engaging with large and complex building and infrastructure projects, while Arve Martin Hyldmo Bjørnvik maintains an impressive onshore and offshore construction and fabrication practice. Other noteworthy names in the team include Mikal Brøndmo and Andreas Rostveit.

Practice head(s):

Henning Nordtvedt


Other key lawyers:

Johnny Johansen; Arve Martin Hyldmo Bjørnvik; Mikal Brøndmo; Andreas Rostveit; Emil Litschutin Risbø; Mathias Smith Meyer


Testimonials

‘My experience with this firm is through one representative which was outstanding because of his quick response and good advice and to follow up the cases.’

‘Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS in addition to high legal expertise provide good commercial understanding and are keen to create solutions that provide value for the customer.’

‘I have mainly worked with Arve Martin Hyldmo Bjørnvik, Partner and Emil Litschutin Risbøl, Senior Lawyer. In addition to their high legal and commercial expertise, I have to mention their constant close cooperation with my company and our projects over many years to finding solutions that save time and money.’

‘Highly theoretical and practical competence. Able to establish a productive co-operation with the clients, and also challenge the clients to get the best of the cases.’

‘They have a large and very well-regarded construction law team, probably the best in Norway.’

‘Arve Martin Hyldmo Bjørnvik is a very knowledgeable and forward-leaning lawyer who shows confidence in all situations.’

‘Our experiences with Haavind and Johnny Johansen in particular, is excellent. He is a calm and thorough person with an impressive knowledge and competence. He takes us through complicated issues in a reassuring way and follows up on our needs in a very satisfying way, and as soon as possible. Compared with lawyers from other firms we have used, he is absolutely the best, and he has won several cases for us in court. We give him the highest rank there is.’

‘Haavind is unique in the way that you always feel especially important when you contact them. They are always available. It is never a question of them not having time to help you.’

Key clients

The Norwegian Public Road Administration


Gråkjær


Norwegian Directorate of Public Construction and Property


Nye Veier


Sporveien


Statkraft


Statnett


Viken County Authority


Caverion


GK Norge


Work highlights


  • Successfully assisted GK Norge with its final settlement dispute with HENT following the construction of the Munch Museum in Oslo.
  • Successfully assisted with several large infrastructure projects on behalf of the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, including, i.a., E-39 outside Bergen, Ryfast-project in Stavanger.

Arntzen de Besche

With a strong national presence, Arntzen de Besche’s construction offering is distinguished by its advice on major onshore and offshore projects, which benefits from the firm’s full-service capabilities to handle a full project life cycle; recent work includes handling financings, planning issues, proposals, contract negotiations and final settlement disputes. The practice is co-led by Trondheim-based Ole Skeidsvoll Moe and Oslo-based Wenche Maartmann-Moe, who primarily work with offshore oil and gas and aquaculture projects, and PPP contracts and litigation respectively. Stian Heimdal is praised for his ‘extraordinary understanding of the construction industry‘.


Practice head(s):

Wenche Maartmann-Moe; Ole Skeidsvoll Moe


Other key lawyers:

Stian Heimdal; Jon Gressethl; Tor Kristian Lånke; Jacob Knudsen


Testimonials

‘Quick to answer questions and plan agreed work. Very good availability. Professionally skilled, extensive reference experience.’

‘We were taken good care of from the start. Needed immediate help and got it. Came up with good suggestions for different ways of solving our case. They put in new assets whenever we needed it and worked whenever we/our case needed it.’

‘The responsible lawyer was very good at adapting to our case and both understand our position but also help us look at other points of view, so we could handle the risk in each matter. The senior lawyer was very hard-working and had good knowledge of our industry and ways of solving a case.’

‘Have had a close and good relationship with Stian Heimdal in several cases. He is reflective, accessible and gives good and relevant feedback. Follows up on what has been agreed at the agreed time. A lawyer from whom we have benefited greatly.’

‘AdeB has a wide range of first class lawyers in their construction team.’

‘Ole Skeidsvoll Moe is my trusted adviser in all matters pertaining to projects and construction. He is an excellent lawyer with relevant industrial experience and knowledge.’

‘Tor Kristian Lånke is extremely good at asking me the right question and preparing me to make a good case, or sometimes drop the case if my answers don’t stick. After talking to him, I always think he raises my bar of smart thinking.’

‘Partner Stian Heimdal has excellent legal skills within construction and contract law. He has extraordinary understanding of the construction industry, which is of great value for the clients. He also has excellent legal skills in areas adjacent to construction law. He always seeks to find the best overall solution for the client, and he is creative and open-minded in his approach. Heimdal is efficient, and his advice is always excellent and well-founded. His great legal skills and his extraordinary understanding of construction projects, together with his warm personality, makes him a preferred lawyer within construction law.’

Key clients

Sykehusbygg HF


Nye Veier AS


Veidekke Entreprenør AS and subsidiaries


Spordrift AS and subsidiaries


Nordr Eiendom AS


Biokraft AS


Stor-Oslo Eiendom AS


AART Architects NO AS


AGTunnel AS


St Olavs Hospital


Borg Havn Eiendom IKS


Gaia Salmon AS


Sola kommune


Klepp commune


Faber Bygg


Sørmarka Flerbrukshall IKS


Work highlights


  • Advising Sykehusbygg HF in relation to several new hospital development projects in Norway, including Sjukehuset Nordmøre og Romsdal, Radiumhospitalet, St. Olavs Hospital – Øya and Akerhus Universitetssykehus.
  • Advising Nye Veier AS on the construction of four-lane roads in several projects in Norway.
  • Advising Norwegian Fishfarming Technologies AS on all projects for Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) facilities, a land-based aquaculture facility.

BAHR

BAHR is well versed at handling both infrastructure development projects and complex contractual disputes related to construction projects. Particularly strong at advising on infrastructure projects, the team handles some of Norway’s high-profile public projects, including the high-speed railway Follo Line Project, and various water projects for Oslo municipality. The practice is co-led by onshore construction specialists Sam E. Harris and senior associate Sofie Komissar; the latter has extensive experience in design and engineering contracts. Jan Einar Barbo is also a key figure in the team for contracts and dispute relating to complex projects.

Practice head(s):

Sam E. Harris; Sofie Komissar


Other key lawyers:

Jan Einar Barbo; Halvor Mathisen


Testimonials

‘Jan Einar Barbo is highly skilled.’

‘Competence and response time.’

Key clients

Aker Solutions ASA/Aker ASA /Akastor ASA /Aker BP 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


  • Advising Statsbygg in connection with the NOK6bn project for the construction of the new National Museum in Oslo.
  • Advising Bane NOR under a framework agreement, assisting them with various matters related to construction projects.
  • Assisting Oslo municipality with an infrastructure project regarding the construction of a new water supply for Oslo.

Advokatfirmaet Føyen AS

Praised for its ‘fast and highly qualified advice relating to all phases of construction contracts’, Advokatfirmaet Føyen AS is trusted by builders, landowners and public sector clients for its construction expertise, particularly in relation to road and infrastructure projects and PPP contracts. The team also maintains a strong contentious practice, advising on disputes of all types. The practice is spearheaded by Stede Georg Nilsen, praised for his ‘brilliant legal mind combined with a solid understanding for business and the construction market’. Thomas Oskar Strömbom has ‘extensive knowledge and an analytical mindset’ and is a go-to individual for early phase building projects as well as major disputes. Per Gustav Lilleaasen and Vera Hovelsen are both also highly recommended.

Practice head(s):

Stede Georg Nilsen


Other key lawyers:

Vera Hovelsen; Thomas Oskar Strömbom; Per Gustav Lilleaasen


Testimonials

‘Føyen assists municipalities by providing ongoing advice in complicated and large scale infrastructure projects and has considerable experience and knowledge of partnership contracts and turn-key contracts. We have collaborated with Føyen for a long time and the company is characterised by highly qualified and quick responses and feedback to issues and disputes that require extra attention.’

‘Thomas Strömbom obviously possesses great knowledge of all aspects of construction law, but the most important thing is that he constantly seeks and finds the practical solutions. It is very easy to work with him.’

‘We have a very good experience with Føyen as a provider of legal services for our construction projects. The team helps us quickly with good, clear answers that are easy to understand. The same people follow the projects from start to finish, which is a strength for us. The collaboration with Føyen has consistently been very good.’

‘We have used Vera Hovelsen and Thomas Oskar Strömbom as prominent partners. They have been proactive and solution oriented when they have worked for us. We have had great communication throughout the processes that helped us to find mutually good solutions.’

‘The Føyen team is known for providing fast and highly qualified advice relating to all phases of construction contracts. It is clear that the firm has a high level of knowledge in working with the issues that major public developers regularly encounter. The company is able to staff its teams with qualified resources who are always ahead and who see solutions that others do not see.’

‘In particular, we would like to highlight lawyer Thomas O. Strömbom and his colleagues. Mr Strömbom has an impressive ability to find strategically correct solutions to complex issues. This lawyer has great knowledge and an energy that we do not see in others.’

‘Føyen has assisted us for several years with various construction law issues. The team is always available and responds quickly to all types of assignments. The team consists of resources that complement each other and ensures that all aspects of the case are taken good care of. In addition, they have an infectious good mood.’

‘Thomas Strömbom has extensive knowledge and an analytical mindset. He is genuinely interested in the projects he gets involved in. Nothing is left to chance and he appears very well prepared. We have had great pleasure in discussing various contract law issues with Mr Strömbom over the years.’

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


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 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 Ullensaker


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


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 international architecture consulting group COWI, in successfully settling a dispute with Skanska Norge AS regarding alleged faults in the design of the new NOK2500m National Public Security Centre outside of Oslo (Politiets nasjonale beredskapssenter).
  • Advising Norwegian Public Roads Administration on three PPPs for the construction of key road infrastructure, including advising on the preparation of the bid procedures and negotiations with qualified bidders.

Advokatfirmaet Grette AS

Advokatfirmaet Grette AS’ practice maintains a successful track record in contentious construction disputes, as well as advising on building projects, infrastructure issues and developments. The team, led by infrastructure and fabrication contract expert Anders Myhre, is bolstered by litigation expert Øystein Myre Bremset. Solfrid Aga and Kaj Marsh Duesund were both recently promoted to partner, and are adept at transport and infrastructure developments, and infrastructure public procurement processes respectively. Line Wefald is also noted for her litigation expertise, particularly acting for contractors.

Practice head(s):

Anders Myhre


Other key lawyers:

Øystein Myre Bremset; Line Wefald; Marius Svendsvoll Langnes; Solfrid Aga; Kaj Marsh Duesund


Key clients

Norwegian Public Road Administration


Avinor AS


Sykehusbygg HF


Olav Thon Gruppen ASA


Bravida Norge AS


HENT AS


Moelven Industrier ASA and subsidiaries


BIR AS


Vestland County Council (Hordaland Fylkeskommune) – Bybanen in Bergen


Innlandet County Council (Innlandet Fylkeskommune)


Nye Veier AS


HAB Construction AS


Nettpartner AS


Vedal AS


Roadworks AS


Leonhard Nilsen & Sønner AS (LNS)


Westad Industrier AS (Klinger Group)


Hywer AS (Brødrene Dahl AS)


One CO AS


Parat Halvorsen AS


FORCE Technology AS


Servi AS


Høegh Autoliners AS


Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI)


Novenco AS Novenco Building & Industry


Momek Group AS Momek Oilfield Services AS


Momek AS Moemek TechTeam AS Momek Services AS


NEAS Energy A/S


Sandvik AB


Tyco Fire Protection Products


Dräger Group


Oceanteam ASA


MAATS Tech Ltd.


Green Yard AS


Rapp Bomek


Specto Remote


Norsk Energi


MIP Miljøkraft AS


Consto AS


OBOS Prosjekt AS


Bjarke Ingels Group A/S


Kraftmontasje AS


The Norwegian Parliament (Stortinget)


JI Bygg AS


Infranord AS


Svevia Norge AS


Alento AS


Baneservice AS


NRC Group ASA


Work highlights


  • Representing HENT AS in a dispute against Frogn Municipality in connection with the construction of a new swimming facility and the rehabilitation of a sports hall in Frogn Municipality.
  • Advised the Norwegian Public Road Administration on the tender process for Rv. 555 The Sortra Connection, a PPP project valued at €2.3bn.
  • Acting for Elekro-Kontakten AS in a Supreme Court dispute against Backe Stor-Oslo.

SANDS

Capable of advising on all stages of the construction project life cycle, SANDS’ practice has extensive expertise in rail, road, and air infrastructure projects as well as PPP projects, acting for a mixture of domestic, regional and international clients. Bergen-based Alf Johan Knag leads the team, which is praised as ‘diligent’ and able to ‘carefully consider consequences, with an eye for detail’. Frode Henning Antosen heads up the Trondheim office, advising on construction projects in the aquaculture and energy industries, and Vidar Johnsen is trusted by major international clients with matters in Norway. Tor Anthon Christiansen is also a key individual for cross-border projects.


Practice head(s):

Alf Johan Knag


Other key lawyers:

Frode Henning Antosen; Vidar Johnsen; Corinne Silden Stephensen; Tor Anthon Christiansen; Ingrid Eriksen


Testimonials

‘SANDS is first of all solution-oriented, but their people are also highly skilled in litigation.’

‘Highly skilled team, not only on an overall level but also in every single detail. Impressed about how they have managed to look and assess my case from several different angels. Always working and delivering within the time limits. Challenging me as a client in order to obtain the full picture of the case, very high skills in mapping both the week and strong parts of the case.’

‘Reliable, very competent, neutral in their advice, very competent in both the law area and understand our subject area very well. This comment applies to Frode Henning Antonsen and Ingrid Eriksen.’

‘I have used SANDS on several cases where we need advice. We have experienced that we receive advice that is well-founded and quality assured.’

‘Sands is a large firm, yet a firm that handles their clients with a personal touch. A suitably experienced team is assigned to the case, a course is plotted weighing pros and cons of various strategies. Well thought out processes and workflows on appropriate timelines. Efficient and to the point.’

‘Corinne Silden Stephensen is the partner on our case. Corinne is a highly efficient and structured professional. I feel that our best interest is at all times prioritised by Corinne, yet the approach and advice is sober, insightful and carefully considers the possible outcomes of a strategy. Knowledgeable and thorough on legal matters.’

‘I think the team excels at being goal-oriented and creative in its approach. They are solution-oriented and have a humble approach that can help mitigate contradictions, especially when it comes to dispute resolution.’

Key clients

AF Gruppen ASA


Asplan Viak AS


Aktieselskapet Oslofjorden Eiendom


Baneservice AS


Billingstadsletta 13 AS/Conceptor AS


BMO Elektro


Cloudberry Develop AS


Consto Øst AS


Consto Anlegg Nord AS


Elecnor S.A.


Frogn Municipality


Gunvald Johansen AS


Helse Stavanger HF/Nye Stavanger Universitetssjukehus


Kongeveien Eiendom AS/Canica AS


Krüger Kaldnes


LAB Entreprenør


Leonhard Weiss GmbH & Co KG (Germany)


Linjemontage AS


Nordland Forbinde


OneCo Elektro AS


Ottar Dvergsdal AS


Peab Anlegg AS


Pizzarotti


Rambøll


Romarheim AS


Sandefjord Lufthavn


SA. PI. NOR SALINI IMPREGILO – PIZZAROTTI ANS


Selvaag Prosjekt AS


Tomt 680 AS


SV Betong


Vedal Entreprenør


Webuild (formerly Salini Impregilo)


YIT Infra Norge AS


Ålesund Municipality


Work highlights


  • Representing Frogn Municipality in a €45m dispute against HENT AS.
  • Advising international joint venture Nordland Forbinde as one of two partners pre-qualified for the E10 Hålogalandsvegen PPP road project with an estimated cost value of €1.8bn.
  • Representing Italian international joint venture SA. PI. NOR SALINI IMPREGILO – PIZZAROTTI ANS (SaPiNor) in the execution of the €370m railway contract for the Nykirke-Barkåker parcel.

Selmer

The construction practice at Selmer is singled out by clients for its leadership, with Mads Fuglesang and Johannes Meyer-Myklestad praised as ‘energetic and enthusiastic lawyers with an exceptional knowledge base’. Onshore construction work, particularly contentious issues, are a key area of expertise from the team, and large-scale developers and technical subcontractors trust the team with major, complex projects across Norway. Svein Sulland has extensive expertise across all project stages and is particularly adept in disputes. For matters related to public procurement processes, Karen Anne Rekkedal is the go-to name.


Practice head(s):

Mads Fuglesang; Johannes Meyer-Myklestad


Other key lawyers:

Svein Sulland; Karen Anne Rekkedal; Astrid Stenersen


Testimonials

‘The Selmer team (consisting of Johannes Meyer-Myklestad and Astrid Stenersen) was really well-balanced; one having the role of a good-natured investigator with an impressive hunch for high level strategies and possible ways forward, and the other being the calm, structured and analytic force driving the work of documentation and argumentation forward.’

‘Selmer has provided a very strong support in terms of legal advice on many current business aspects. The collaboration is outstanding, and quality of service is exceptional. Selmer has very extensive legal competence which is invaluable and complements our in-house expertise very well.’

‘Mads Fuglesang is very appreciated for his strong experience working with the industry, his sound advice on legal matters and the ability to analyse and present complicated legal topics in order for the management to understand the core of the matter and take sound business decisions.’

‘They are trustworthy with a lot of integrity, which are highly appreciated attributes in a legal firm. Both Johannes Meyer-Myklestad and Astrid Stenersen master the art of balancing when to be supportive and when to challenge the client’s perspectives. This ability ensures effective discussions, and at the same time lays the ground for a sound strategy in court/negotiations.’

‘Work extremely well together as a group – by far Norway’s best construction law team. Everyone work for each other to provide the best possible result for us as a client.’

‘Johannes Meyer-Myklestad is always available for us and have a truly exceptional way of understanding our challenges and finding new angles to solve them. His understanding of the law is beyond anyone else we have worked with. He is also a great leader of his team – always putting on the resources we need – not more, not less.’

‘The collaboration with Selmer has been unique. They are professionally skilled and have good collaborative skills. They are also adept at connecting with professional environments that complement their own knowledge. They ensure that they have a good overview of the matters and always attend work meetings well-prepared.’

‘The team is led by partners Mads Fuglesang and Johannes Meyer-Myklestad, who come across as energetic and enthusiastic lawyers with an exceptional knowledge base. They are internationally oriented, and we have cooperated with them on several occasions.’

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 Group


Contiga


VVS Norge Prosjekt


The Roxel Group


Alliero


Alstom


LINK Arkitektur


NRC


Entreprenørforeningen Bygg og Anlegg (EBA)


Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS

Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS’ construction practice is noted for its ‘excellent team’ and expertise in the real estate, infrastructure and renewable energy sectors. From project preparation to execution and completion, the team handles a broad range of Norwegian public infrastructure projects and disputes. Onshore and offshore construction expert Jacob F Bull leads the department. Dispute resolution specialists Kristine Hyldmo Bjørnvik and Svein Aage Valen are go-to individuals for both public and private sector clients. Managing associate Henrik Fabian Torgrimsby and senior associate Alexander Stulien are also both recommended.

Practice head(s):

Jacob F Bull


Other key lawyers:

Ellen Karina Sødal Marstad; Svein Aage Valen; Henrik Fabian Torgrimsby; Alexander Stulien; Kristine Hyldmo Bjørnvik


Testimonials

‘The Thommessen team made an excellent bridge to the UK lawyers on our project. They manage to simplify without sacrificing the necessary security for all parties involved.’

‘The Thommessen team have the best knowledge for complicated construction projects due to their vast experience in this field and are excellent in their way of understanding the client problem and finding good and solid solutions for the relevant legal documents. PPP projects are very complicated contract wise, and the Thommessen team have given us better legal advice than we have got from our London lawyers. The Thommessen team have consisted of Jacob F Bull and lead partner and Ellen Karina Sødal Marstad as support. Both have given us the best advice.’

‘Good industrial knowledge, good availability. Associates are guided by partners in a good manner. Thommessen have good collaboration tools for sharing documents between clients and lawyers.’

‘They catch the problems quickly and are quick at giving a first-hand judgement of a problem. The individuals have good know how from different industries and are good at transferring knowledge on how to solve issues from parallel problems into our cases. They are good at follow up.’

‘Thommessen has assigned an excellent team and individual insight and skills in strategy, selection of fit for purpose contract formats, participation in internal planning and decision processes, contract development and negotiations and evaluations.’

‘Thommessen is super effective, pragmatic and full-service cooperation partner in complex construction and industrial projects. Fully recommended in all aspects of advice related to the Norwegian construction and industry sector.’

‘Jacob F. Bull together with senior associate Ellen Karina Sødal Marstad are very knowledgeable and strategic, providing accurate advice and great help on short notice. Furthermore extremely pragmatic, trustworthy and pleasant to work with.’

‘Exceptional insight in business and technology. The support from Thommessen team is spot on to the core problems.’

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)


Midtfjellet Vindpark AS.


Bremangerlandet Vindpark AS


Lutelandet Energipark AS


Odal Vindkraftverk AS/Akershus Energi Vind AS


Elektrizitätswerk Stadt Zürich (EWZ)


Eidsiva Energi AS


Elvia AS


Sira-Kvina Kraftselskap DA


Watrium Eiendom AS


SEB


Universitetet i Bergen


Glastad Farsund AS


Neptune Properties AS


Mustad Eiendom AS


Agder OPS Vegselskap AS


Green Investment Group


Austri Vind


Vardar


Tonstad Vindpark AS


Jølstra Kraft DA


Westcon Yards AS


Haram Kraft AS


Fjellboveien Eiendomsinvest AS


Borgestad ASA / Borgestad Properties AS


Work highlights


  • Advising FREYR on its construction of Norway’s first large-scale battery cell production plant, including a Customer Qualification Plant and the large-scale factory, Giga Arctic.
  • Representing Vestland County Authority in a comprehensive dispute against contractor YIT Infra Norge AS concerning the road project, FV 556 – Hjellestad.
  • Representing the Norwegian Coastal Administration in a dispute against Consto Anlegg Nord AS and Multiconsult AS.

Wiersholm

Praised for its ‘commercial approach, straight to the point advice and clear communication’, Wiersholm’s construction practice advises on the full spectrum of issues related to contract negotiations, tender processes, and dispute resolution, particularly relating to large-scale infrastructure projects. The firm excels at the intersection of public procurement and construction law, with recent highlights involving many of Norway’s highway projects. The team is led by Hans Augun Parmann, and Ronny Lund and Sondre Dyrland are both well regarded in the space, excelling in both onshore and offshore construction projects.

Practice head(s):

Hans Augun Parmann


Other key lawyers:

Ronny Lund; Sondre Dyrland; Helge Morten Svarva; Andreas Brekke


Testimonials

‘Possibly one of the best law firms in Norway. Very commercial approach, straight to the point advice and clear communications. Always available. The firm puts the client’s interest first.’

‘Good listening skills and very results oriented. Know the substance and communicate clearly and effectively.’

‘The team is very dedicated, and follows up our case in a professional manner.’

‘Easy to reach, and they have time to discuss relevant matters. Clear and precise communication.’

Key clients

Equinor ASA


AF Gruppen


Veidekke


Skanska


Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy (MPE)


Leonhard Nilsen & Sønner AS


Macquarie Corporate Holdings Pty Limited


WeBuild S.p.A


SK Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd.


Sotra Link AS


Thales


Work highlights


  • Assisted Sotra Link Consortium with all aspects of its tender to the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) for the construction and operation of the new Rv. 555 PPP project (Sotrasambandet).
  • Assisting The Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy as sole legal adviser with its full-scale carbon capture and storage project (CCS).
  • Representing Veidekke Entreprenør AS in a dispute against its subcontractor Alf Brekken & Sønner AS relating to the construction of part of the transnational E10 highway in Lofoten.

Wikborg Rein

Wikborg Rein’s construction practice is noted for its dispute resolution expertise and is strong in contentious work in the road, rail, and tunnel sub-sectors; the team is also building a portfolio in aquaculture projects. Marius Egeberg heads up the practice and is an experienced construction litigator, as is Ola Nisja. Projects and developments in the south and western part of Norway are handled by Kristoffer Lerum in Bergen, including commercial buildings and residential developments. Senior lawyer Lars Erik Schjeide is a key name for contractual work.

Practice head(s):

Marius Egeberg


Other key lawyers:

Ola Ø Nisja; Kristoffer Lerum; Lars Erik Schjeide


Testimonials

‘We are very happy with the performance and flexibility of Wikborg Rein team. They have been involved in quite technically complicated issues. They have involved seniors and juniors in an efficient manner to reduce costs for us and also to provide both capacity and competences needed for the issues at hand. We are also very happy with their ability to give clear recommendations and answers to our tasks. Collaboration has been very good, where our requests for meetings and schedules have been satisfactorily met, according to our needs.’

‘Partner Marius Egeberg has been involved in all the matters at hand, and he is very competent to manage his team and supplement specific competences where needed.’

Key clients

Entra ASA


China Communications Construction Company Norway AS


Hinna Park Utvikling AS


Lærdal Finans AS


Smedvig Eiendom AS


Øgreid AS/Ineo AS


Kvia Entreprenør AS


Lerøy Midt AS


Base Property AS


Norgesgruppen ASA


Work highlights


  • Advised Entra ASA on several projects, including the construction of the new Law Faculty Building in the Oslo city centre.
  • Advising China Communications Construction Company on the project E39 Rogfast Boknafjorden Sør for contract E03 with The Norwegian Public Roads Administration.
  • Acting for NorgesGruppen ASA in a dispute with AF Gruppen over the final account following the completion of the construction of a large factory facility.

Bull & Co Advokatfirma AS

Bull & Co Advokatfirma AS’ construction team advises both builders and contractors on real estate developments, commercial projects, and road maintenance and tunnel projects. Bjørn Erik Mørkved and Thor Wessel jointly lead the practice, which is trusted by clients involved in residential and commercial construction projects.

Practice head(s):

Bjørn Erik Mørkved; Thor Wessel


Other key lawyers:

Runar Hansen


Testimonials

‘Bull & Co was very forthcoming on our request to help immediately with the legal side of a large and complex construction issue. They hit the ground running, made sure to get all the facts by scheduling interviews with the relevant people and did so in a professional and polite manner. It felt reassuring to seek help from Bull.’

‘The case was handled by Thor Wessel and Runar Hansen. Both have been immediately available for contact, and more importantly, they have been excellent at informing us when there was an evolution that we needed to be aware of.’

Key clients

Arkitekt Nils Haugrud


Betonmast (and subsidiaries)


BundeBygg


Byggaksess


Endúr Maritime


HENT


Marti Tunnelbau


Mesta


Sameiet Badebakken


Stiftelsen Betanien


Tordenskioldsgate 2


Vestre


Østlandske Vei og Betong


Work highlights


  • Advising Swiss Marti Tunnelbau regarding the construction of a water supply plant for the city of Oslo, with significant claims and counterclaims.
  • Assisting HENT AS in a comprehensive dispute with the Municipality of Oslo (UBF) involving a vast number of claims and counterclaims following the construction of Hasle skole (a primary school in Oslo).
  • Assisting HENT AS in a dispute following the high-profile construction project “Dovrekvartalet” in Lillestrøm outside Oslo.

Advokatfirmaet Hjort

With an ‘exceptional combination of legal expertise and business skills’, the construction group at Advokatfirmaet Hjort stands out for its expertise in complex construction projects, real estate transactions, and litigation. Aslak Førde leads the ‘forward-thinking’ practice and focuses on contract negotiations and disputes; other key names include former practice head Liv Zimmermann and Finn Magne Prydz, who is active in contentious work. At the non-partner level, senior associate Aleksander Bergby Henriksen is also recommended for work involving construction projects. Ailu Gaup Stadigs, who has notable experience in settlement disputes relating to construction projects, joined the team from Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS.

Practice head(s):

Aslak Førde


Other key lawyers:

Liv Zimmermann; Finn Magne Prydz; Aslak Førde; Erik Gjævenes; Ailu Gaup Stadigs


Testimonials

‘Always client focused and service minded. Strong legal knowledge. Very good – to the point and practical advice. Excellent sparring partners on how to approach legal uncertainty. The lawyers show great strategic awareness and commercial understanding.’

‘Finn Magne Prydz: very knowledgeable and updated on all legal developments within construction. Gives clear advice and guidance in difficult questions. He has the exceptional combination of legal expertise and business skills, thus understanding the client’s need for both strategic and legal advice.’

‘The strength of Hjort is the people.’

‘The assessments have been delivered on time and with clear conclusions/recommendations. We would like to highlight Erik Gjævenes and Liv Zimmermann as good partners.’

‘Liv Zimmermann is a very skilled person, who makes the people around her even better. Erik Gjævenes, is professionally very good. Has done an outstanding job for us.’

‘Small, but strong team. Hidden secret within the industry. Clear and honest advice.’

‘Aslak Førde is the prime example on how a lawyer should work. Always well prepared and focused on how to solve any issue for his clients.’

Key clients

Avinor AS


Peab AS


Verkis HF


Oslo Entreprenør AS


Trysilhusgruppen AS


Implenia Norge AS


DnB AS


Handelsbanken AS


Hallgruppen AS


Statnett


Stian Brenden Maskinservice AS


Enviro Entreprenør AS


Anlegg og Granitt Salten AS


Troms og Finnmark fylkeskommune


Construction City Cluster


Roar Jørgensen AS


Overhalla Betongbygg AS


Betongelementforeningen


KB Blikk AS


Norsk Wavin AS


Romerike Hus AS


Norsk Stålforbund


Consto AS


Loe Betongelementer AS


Work highlights


  • Represented Peab AS in a dispute with Horten municipality related to the building of Sentrum school.
  • Assisted M3 Anlegg AS, its bankruptcy estate, and DnB in an extensive final settlement dispute pertaining to the road construction project in Bodø municipality.
  • Acting for Troms and Finnmark fylkeskommune in a final settlement dispute with Tecto Entreprenør AS.