Led by Frode Martin Toftevåg, who is ‘a competent employment lawyer, always hands on, and provides clear, timely and very sound advice‘, the employment practice at Arntzen de Besche is praised by clients for its ‘strong knowledge and competence within Norwegian labour law‘. The group has a strong presence in the aviation industry, and experience advising on collective labour law issues. The team is also well-versed in assisting clients from the media sector. Sven Iver Steen specialises in pensions issues, and firm managing partner Håvard Sandnes has expertise in handling business transfer matters. Christian Backe assists with transfers of undertakings, downsizings, reorganisations and whistleblowing issues. The ‘exceptional‘ Knut-Marius Sture is also active in the group.
Employment in Norway
Arntzen de Besche
Practice head(s):
Frode Martin Toftevåg
Other key lawyers:
Christan Backe; Sven Iver Steen; Håvard Sandnes; Knut-Marius Sture
Testimonials
‘Arntzen de Besche is our go to firm for Norwegian employment law advice. Carefully thought out and crafted advice.’
‘Knut-Marius Sture is exceptional – always responsive/available and really understands the needs and pressures of multi-national clients. He is also not afraid to give robust and forward thinking advice.’
‘Frode Martin Toftevåg is outstanding. He understands the client’s needs, often better than the client himself, and goes beyond what anyone can expect to accommodate those needs in a timely fashion. His legal understanding and knowledge is unmatched, with an extraordinary ability to solve issues previously thought unsolvable in the most complex legal areas. He delivers truly exceptional quality, always on schedule, and is quick to respond.’
‘Håvard Sandnes is very professional, very solution oriented, very calm, treating all individuals with respect. Highly skilled.’
‘The team’s strengths are speed of response, quality of the advice and the practicality of it. They never ‘sit on the fence’, and provide clear, concise direction.’
‘All of the individuals in the team are of the highest calibre. It doesn’t matter who you deal with, they are extremely knowledgeable, professional and able to explain the most complex legal issues in the most straightforward way. Moreover, they are exceptionally personable and a real pleasure to work with.’
‘Very good knowledge about employment law and practice.’
‘A competent and professional team with quick response to any questions we may have.’
Key clients
Equinor ASA
Seadrill
SAS Group
Nordic Entertainment Group
The Central Bank of Norway
Widerøe Flyveselskap AS
Vard Group AS
Orkla
DNB Bank
TrønderEnergi AS
Dommerforeningen
Avinor AS
Novartis Norge AS
The Ministry of Finance
Sparebanken Vest
Nettpartner AS
Aviator Airport Alliance AS
Spencer Stuart
Work highlights
- Advising airline carrier SAS on a range of employment law and pension matters, most recently on workforce reductions arising from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Advised the Norwegian Ministry of Finance on an employment matter concerning the appointment of a CEO.
- Advised the Norwegian judges’ organisation on the employment aspects of the reorganisation of the judiciary in Norway.
BAHR
At BAHR, the team recently represented longstanding client Spekter before the Supreme Court in a high-profile case concerning the secondary legal effect of collective agreements on individual employment agreements, concerning the issue as to whether employees are entitled to a wage supplement following a previous collective agreement even after the agreement ceases to apply following a change to the employers’ organisation; practice head Tarjei Thorkildsen led on this matter. Other key practitioners include pension law expert Peter Hammerich, of counsel Geir Gustavsson and private equity specialist Børre Sofus Arnet. Senior associate Hannah Osberg Andresen and associate Agnes Inora Marie Strøm Olsen are also noted.
Practice head(s):
Tarjei Thorkildsen
Other key lawyers:
Peter Hammerich; Børre Sofus Arnet; Geir Mikalsen; Hannah Osberg Andresen; Agnes Inora Marie Strøm Olsen
Testimonials
‘Excellent; service minded.’
‘Great team that helps and assists us a lot. Competent, professional, great cultural fit.’
‘Tarjei Thorkildsen is the best lawyer in his field, very competent and a great adviser. Always “on” and the cooperation works seamless between us. Always good people surrounding him.’
‘The team has a high level of competence with a mix of established and very competent partners and up and coming young lawyers. They have a high level of concern for the client and the clients’ needs that exceed the concrete case.’
‘Tarjei Thorkildsen stands out in the market as one of the most competent employment lawyers, and is our preferred lawyer for big or complicated cases.’
Key clients
The Employer’s Association Spekter
Norwegian Airline
Color Line
Aker ASA
Norsk Luftambulanse
Sporveien Oslo AS
NRK (Norwegian Broadcast Corporation – NRK)
Sport 1
Posten Norge/Bring
NETS
Work highlights
- Providing ongoing litigation services and legal advice to Spekter, one of Norway’s leading employers’ confederations.
Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS
Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS has ‘a very professional and strong employment law team‘ which ‘covers all aspects within the labour law field‘. Gaute Krokann, who heads up the practice, specialises in advising public sector and state-owned companies, as well as private companies, on restructurings, reorganisations, transfers of undertakings and disputes. Kari Gimmingsrud is ‘professional and efficient‘, and handles privacy matters, outsourcings and pensions issues. Lars Kokkvold ‘has solid and strong legal knowledge that stands out‘ and regularly acts for SMEs, while the ‘calm, knowledgeable, and solution driven’ Pål Kvernaas focuses on employee terminations, outsourcings and collective labour issues. Sten Foyn provides ‘strong and reliable advice‘ on contentious employment matters.
Practice head(s):
Gaute Krokann
Other key lawyers:
Lars Kokkvold; Kari Gimmingsrud; Pål Kvernaas; Sten Foyn
Testimonials
‘In-depth knowledge about the industry and our business. The team respond quickly when support is needed. They use a language that is easy for the customers to understand and deal with.’
‘Pål Kvernaas always responds quickly to our needs, delivering services of high value and quality. He has an unique ability to find ways that leads to solutions, and manage to apply the law into practical use for the customer. He has excellent collaboration and communication skills.’
‘Gaute Krokann always responds quickly. He always provides the necessary resources. We are especially satisficed with his knowledge and valuable experience with all the company specific issues.’
‘Very good communication skills and fantastic service.’
‘The team is the strongest legal team I have been working with. They possess a unique combination of skills combined with a very high level of legal expertise. Their level of competence and capacity for solving cases makes them a very trustworthy and efficient partner.’
‘Lars Kokkvold and Sten Foyn both stand out as truly dedicated and engaged in our business and in helping us solving various legal issues. The way Lars Kokkvold works with customers to ensure that we feel taken care of is truly extraordinary. He follows up beyond expectations which really helps in keeping focus on all matters of business we have besides the legal issues. Sten Foyn’s way of using his profound knowledge to understanding the issue, finding solutions/solving it together with the customer is beyond all other experience with other lawyers in other firm’s. The combination of being to-the-point and sharp with a very respectful manner is truly unique and he comes across as a lawyer that people really listen to.’
‘Haavind provides legal advice based on excellent knowledge of the law and regulation. In addition Haavind provides practical and strategic advice in order not to escalate the conflict.’
‘Very good capabilities in Norwegian labour law, very quick to respond and spot on advice.’
Key clients
Norsk Hydro
Randstad
Equinor
Hurtigruten
Telenor Group
Norwegian Air Shuttle
Posten Norge
ISS Facility Service
Ryanair
Helse Sør-Øst
NHST Media Group
Norges Bank
Forsvaret / The Norwegian Armed Forces
Work highlights
- Assisted Norsk Hydro with the employment aspects of its transaction with Lyse.
- Assisting Norwegian Air Shuttle Group with the planning, preparation and implementation of a large-scale restructuring of the entire Norwegian group, including downsizing measures and temporary lay-offs of several hundred employees.
Advokatfirmaet Hjort
Advokatfirmaet Hjort‘s practice demonstrates ‘excellent employment law knowledge‘, and focuses on advising an employer-side client base encompassing the oil and gas, retail, construction, energy, manufacturing and banking sectors, as well as assisting governmental entities and unions. Litigator Lars Styren heads up the department, and Jens Kristian Johansen is very experienced in handling individual and collective employment law matters. Christopher Hansteen ‘provides top of the line legal advice‘ on pensions matters, and Claude Lenth ‘is an excellent lawyer to work with, providing fast and hands-on advice on all aspects of employment law‘. Firm managing partner Anne Marie Due is a key name for whistleblowing cases, and Alex Borch is highly regarded.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Anne Marie Due; Jens Kristian Johansen; Claude Lenth; Christopher Hansteen; Alex Borch; Einar Engh
Testimonials
‘Hjort has assisted our company in several cases related to labour law and private contractual agreements. The partners and lawyers have a very pleasant, professional and result-oriented approach.’
‘Christopher Hansteen has renowned legal expertise with solid understanding of labour politics as well. He has a unique ability to convey complex legal matters in an understandable and practical manner. He has also a professional and human approach to labour dispute resolution.’
‘Advokatfirmaet Hjort is a highly competent and professional firm.’
‘Engaged – connected – well prepared – good sparring and great interest in the business.’
‘Claude Lenth is a very experienced lawyer with a great level of knowledge. His approach is always positive, with confidence and clear in the objectives.’
‘Jens Kristian Johansen is extremely good at finding solutions in difficult situations. He is highly commercial in his mind set.’
‘Highly competent and very experienced, high quality, always deliver on time, excellent understanding of my business.’
‘The team has the knowledge, is friendly and responds as quickly as possible.’
Key clients
Norske Skog
Schindler
Bravida
Opplysningsvesenets Fond
Boreal
TietoEVRY AS
National Oilwell Varco Norway AS
Odfjell Drilling AS
Nordkraft AS
Privatmegleren AS
Asker og Bærum Brann og Redning
Kunnskapsdepartementet
Helsedirektoratet
SMB Norge
Siemens
EnTur
Hordafor AS
Nobina Norge AS
EFC Norge AS
Schindler
Norsk Sykepleierforbund (Norwegian Nurse Organisation)
The Norwegian Engineers and Managers Association
Bravida
Opplysningsvesenets Fond
Boreal
TietoEVRY AS
National Oilwell Varco Norway AS
Odfjell Drilling AS
Nordkraft AS
Privatmegleren AS
Asker og Bærum Brann og Redning
Kunnskapsdepartementet
Helsedirektoratet
SMB Norge
Siemens
EnTur
Alfa Laval Nordic
AIG Europe S.A.
Resido
Nordic Retail Group
Espira Gruppen
Samlerhuset AS
Norwegian Soccer Coach Association
Samskip
Maersk Drilling
IngerSoll Rand AB
Work highlights
- Assisting TietoEvry AS with a downsizing process, involving over 150 employees.
- Assisting Husqvarna Norge with an ongoing restructuring and redundancy process following the closure of one of the client’s production plants.
Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS
Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS’ practice has ‘high competence with complex employment law matters‘ and ‘delivers a high-quality service every time‘. Stein Kimsås-Otterbech leads the ‘always available, dedicated and effective‘ team, which has notable strength in advising oil and gas sector clients on the full range of employment law issues. Trond Hatland leads the employment team in Bergen, and is regularly instructed on contentious employment mandates. Tron Dalheim is ‘a very experienced employment lawyer, who combines clear advice with a calm and professional style‘. At managing associate level, Ingrid Cathrine Nielsen handles cross-border employment work, transfers of undertakings, redundancies and individual terminations, and Håkon Berge ‘has high integrity and a solution-oriented focus‘. Senior associate Alexandra Refsnes is also a name to note.
Practice head(s):
Stein Kimsås-Otterbech
Other key lawyers:
Tron Dalheim; Ingrid Cathrine Nielsen; Trond Hatland; Håkon Berge; Alexandra Refsnes
Testimonials
‘High competence with complex employment law matters. Strong performance within litigation. Experienced team.’
‘Practical approach.’
‘Trond Dalheim is a very experienced employment lawyer. He combines clear advice with a calm and professional style. He is service-minded and always hands-on, knowing how much work is needed to handle our risks.’
‘Alexandra Refsnes is one of Thommessen’s emerging talents. We are impressed with both her legal skills, good judgement and independent way of solving complex cases.’
‘Advokatfirmaet Thommessen and its team within employment deliver high quality services every time. Always available, dedicated and effective, and aiming for good solutions for its clients.’
‘Håkon Berge has high integrity and a solution-oriented focus. Always available at short notice, supportive, efficient, and clear in his advice.’
Key clients
Equinor ASA
Microsoft Norge AS
B2Holding ASA
Kahoot!
Maersk Drilling Norway AS
Kongsberg Gruppen ASA
NorgesGruppen ASA
Bama Gruppen AS
Yara International ASA
Roche Norge AS
University of Bergen
Vestland county authorities
FH Gruppen AS
Höegh Autoliners Management AS
CGG Services
CapMan Infra and CBRE Caledon
DOF Subsea
Etac AB/Etac AS
Frydenbø AS
Framo AS
Oceaneering AS
Læringsverkstedet
Zalando SE
NVIDIA
Wintershall DEA Norge AS
AS Norske Shell
Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS)
MDE Group AS / MDE Personnel AS
Work highlights
- Assisting global online platform company Kahoot! ASA with all areas of employment law, including global remote working issues.
- Advising Microsoft Norway on the full range of employment law issues, including workforce adjustments and reductions and settlement agreements.
- Assisting Equinor with several employment disputes, including cases of termination of employment.
Wiersholm
Wiersholm‘s practice regularly assists domestic and international clients with employment litigation, whistleblowing cases, restructurings, reorganisations and investigations. The ‘extremely professional, exceptionally skilled and always available‘ team is also well versed in handling the employment aspects of large transactions and M&A deals. Jan Fougner is highly regarded for his extensive expertise in assisting financial institutions and pension funds with contentious mandates, and also acts in investigations. Fougner co-heads the department with Eli Aasheim and Christel Søreide, who clients praise as ‘outstanding partners‘. Managing associate Ellen Røyneberg is active on privacy matters.
Practice head(s):
Jan Fougner; Eli Aasheim; Christel Søreide
Other key lawyers:
Ellen Røyneberg
Testimonials
‘Practical advice, competent, service minded.’
‘Advokatfirmaet Wiersholm AS provides excellent service.’
‘Eli Aasheim, Christel Søreide, are both out standing partners. Ellen Røyneberg is a competent lawyer/associate.’
‘Extremely professional, exceptionally skilled and always available.’
Key clients
Schibsted ASA
ABB AS
International Business Machines
Aller Media AS
DNB
Widerøe Ground Handling AS
BDO AS
Felleskjøpet Agri SA
SATS AS
Fellesordningen for avtalefestet pensjon
Conoco Phillips
Summa Equity
Work highlights
- Assisted Hurtigruten ASA with an investigation arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Advised Arcus ASA on the employment aspects of its cross-border merger with Finish Altia to form the company Anora Group Plc.
CMS Kluge
CMS Kluge has ‘deep knowledge of employment matters‘ and the department is well known for handling instructions from public sector clients, and regularly assists private companies with the whole spectrum of employment work. Practice head Marco Lilli specialises in employment litigation, workforce reductions and transfers of employees. Johan Krabbe-Knudsen advises oil and gas clients on internal investigations, restructurings and cross-border transfers of undertakings, and Anders Stenbrenden focuses on employment litigation. Nina Gundersen Sandnes is a key name for pensions law matters, Nils Kristian Lie is experienced in working time arrangements and collective agreements, and Ole André Oftebro has expertise in whistleblowing cases.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Johan Krabbe-Knudsen; Nina Gundersen Sandnes; Anders Stenbrenden; Nils Kristian Lie; Ole André Oftebro
Testimonials
‘The combination of superior knowledge of the law and and the use of strategic and polite procedure. The tactical skills.’
‘Deep knowledge of employment law matters with the ability to give good guidance in complex matters.’
‘Marco Lilli has a deep knowledge of employment law, and he is impressive in providing initial “to the point” legal guidance on the basis of limited factual information.’
‘Johan Krabbe-Knudsen’s direct support on labour and employment has always be quick, practical and accurate.’
‘Very professionally skilled and attentive.’
‘The CMS Kluge team members with whom I worked directly are very professional, thinking out of the box, coming up with solutions, explaining the legal backgrounds in details as for a non-legal professional, highlighting the risks.’
‘Very flexible, very supportive, available on short notice, providing feedback in due time, very professional in the feedback provided, deep knowledge in our area.’
‘Ole André Oftebro is very up to date in the employment-field; he is quick to respond; and his advice and presentations are easy to understand. He also seems eager to deliver value for money.’
Key clients
Electrolux Home Products Norway AS
Eplehuset AS
Hesselberg Group
Innovation Norway
The Norwegian Rail Directorate
Keolis Norge AS
Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation
The Norwegian Police Directorate
Work highlights
- Assisting the Norwegian Rail Directorate with the employment aspects of the outsourcing of Norwegian rail transport, involving transfers of employees.
- Assisted Electrolux with a reorganisation process, involving a workforce reduction.
- Defending the Hesselberg Group in disputes brought by employees, including litigation arising from a downsizing.
Homble Olsby advokatfirma AS
Boutique employment firm Homble Olsby advokatfirma AS stands out for its ‘in-depth competence and extensive experience in the field‘. The firm operates as part of Littler Mendelson, P.C.‘s global group, and acts as the group’s coordinator in the Nordics. Ole Kristian Olsby, who ‘gives pragmatic advice‘, jointly heads up the practice with the ‘very committed‘ Runar Homble, who has extensive expertise in advising on disputes arising from whistleblowing cases, redundancies and reorganisations. Trond Erik Solheim ‘has a solid, fundamental understanding of pensions rights and presents his knowledge very clearly‘, while Tore Lerheim ‘is very thorough and experienced‘, and regularly advises on pension law. Merete Furesund focuses on collective labour matters.
Practice head(s):
Ole Kristian Olsby; Runar Homble
Other key lawyers:
Trond Erik Solheim; Tore Lerheim; Merete Furesund
Testimonials
‘Homble Olsby has good knowledge of the Norwegian labour law and a cost saving pragmatic approach for the long run.’
‘Trond Erik Solheim’s expertise in employment law is significant.’
‘Tore Lerheim is very thorough and experienced. He is also good at finding solutions that enable us to close cases in a satisfactory way.’
‘The team is very friendly and efficient, and has the level of speciality that means that they grasp the key issues at hand very fast, and is cost efficient for us.’
‘Runar Homble, Trond Erik Solheim and Merete Furesund have all demonstrated friendliness, efficiency and are highly dependable. Always keeping timelines and very to the point in deliveries.’
‘The team is very attentive to our needs and provides practical, to-the-point legal advice.’
‘Merete Furesund is highly skilled and experienced within the field of employment law. She responds quickly, is good at understanding what we are asking for and provides useful advice. Her extensive experience with employment related issues and the knowledge and understanding of our company makes her a valuable discussion partner in complicated cases. Furesund is very service-minded and pleasant to work with. She also has very good people skills and is highly appreciated in our company.’
‘They are service-oriented and available when needed.’
Key clients
Crystal Acquisition Company Limited
Dalema Group
Elkjøp Nordic AS / Elkjøp Norge AS
Fjellinjen AS
GK Norge
Globalization Partners Ltd
Gnist Group
Iyuno Media Group
Kaffebryggeriet AS
Lily Hospitality Group AS
NEP Norway AS
Norwegian Air Traffic Controllers Association
Norwegian Sea Rescue Society (Redningsselskapet)
Postnord AS
RiskPoint AS
Saipem Drilling Norway AS
The Norwegian Police Union
The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT)
Work highlights
- Advising Elkjøp Group on a broad range of employment and pension law matters, within Norway and and on an international basis.
- Providing ongoing assistance to NATCA, Norwegian Air Traffic Controllers Association, on all individual and collective labour law matters concerning both the association and its members, including advising on a major temporary lay-off process.
- Providing employment advice to all the companies in the Dalema Group, including assisting with a restructuring.
Advokatfirmaet Schjødt
Advokatfirmaet Schjødt‘s full-service employment practice has a strong track record in assisting with the employment aspects of transactions and restructurings. Department head Martin Jetlund focuses on pensions work, transfers of undertakings and international mandates, and Magnus Lütken specialises in advising on the employment aspects of transactions and restructurings, as well as handling litigation. The client roster includes companies in the aviation, oil and gas, financial services and technology sectors. Senior associate Marie Hagberg is active on pension matters and redundancy cases. Trond Stang has left the firm.
Practice head(s):
Martin Jetlund
Other key lawyers:
Magnus Lütken; Marie Hagberg
Testimonials
‘Very fast and practical answers.’
Key clients
Tryg
TietoEVRY
Euronext
Aker
Cermaq
Polaris Media
Airbus
Transocean
HitecVision
ExxonMobil/Esso Norge
Work highlights
- Advised TietoEVRY on a multi-jurisdictional transfer of undertakings process following the sale of its oil and gas software business to Aucerna.
- Advised Tryg on all employment aspects in relation to the client’s acquisition of RSA Group.
- Providing ongoing employment law advice to a fishing company.
Advokatfirmaet Selmer AS
Pensions law expert André Istad Johansen heads up Advokatfirmaet Selmer AS‘ employment team, which is noted for its ‘deep knowledge within the area combined with strong commercial orientation‘. Cross-border work is a core pillar of strength for the group, and restructurings, employment-related M&A matters, transfers of undertakings and whistleblowing claims are key areas of instruction. Hans Jørgen Bender is ‘a clever, pragmatic and to-the-point lawyer and adviser’, and Are Fagerhaug regularly handles restructuring and downsizing mandates.
Practice head(s):
André Istad Johansen
Other key lawyers:
Hans Jørgen Bender; Are Fagerhaug
Testimonials
‘Hans Jørgen Bender is a clever, pragmatic and to-the-point lawyer and adviser. He gives street-smart and practical advice even in the most complex matters, rather than providing arguments for different solutions. Every HR manager should have a lawyer like Hans Jørgen Bender to rely on when needed.’
‘Hans Jørgen Bender gives exceptionally good advice. He is clear, straightforward and provides excellent guidance. His background gives him impact in negotiations as he is very good at reading people and situations. Hans Jørgen Bender will always be my first choice for an adviser in labour law.’
‘Hans Jørgen Bender is very commercial-oriented and is always available on short notice.’
‘Selmer’s service level is outstanding. They are always available whenever we need their expertise in ongoing cases.’
‘In-depth knowledge. Business oriented. Service minded.’
Key clients
XXL
Link Mobility Group
Swisslog
Statkraft
Norges Fiskarlag
Statnett
Pexip
Sopra Steria
Colosseum Dental Group
Scandi Standard
CEPI
Azets
Canon
Addtech Group
Aberdeen Standard Investments
Gjensidige
Technip FMC
Magseis Fairfield
Mesta
Papyrus Norge
Wolt
Work highlights
- Assisting Pexip with the employment law aspects of its global expansion in multiple jurisdictions, including advising on the transfer of employees.
- Represented Norges Fiskarlag in an investigation related to whistleblowing matters, involving claims of an alleged breach of Norwegian whistleblowing rules.
- Advised Statkraft on the employment aspects of the transfer of part of its windmill operations in central Norway, which involved a transfer of undertakings.
Advokatfirmaet Simonsen Vogt Wiig
Noted as ‘excellent in the area of labour law‘, Advokatfirmaet Simonsen Vogt Wiig‘s employment practice has a solid track record in handling employee terminations, whistleblowing cases, transfers of undertakings, restructurings, downsizings and reorganisations, and disputes regarding employee dismissals. Practice head Lill Egeland is ‘always available and responsive‘, with ‘very good judgement‘. Bergen-based Trine Lise Fromreide is ‘a good discussion partner‘, and senior associate Trond Erik Kvalsnes advises on collective and union agreements. Marianne Kartum moved to Advokatfirmaet LAG, and Thomas Talén joined from Deloitte Advokatfirma AS.
Practice head(s):
Lill Egeland
Other key lawyers:
Trine Lise Fromreide; Trond Erik Kvalsnes; Thomas Talén
Testimonials
‘Great knowledge & experience in a wide range of areas and the ability to communicate well, also taking business specific challenges into consideration.’
‘Lill Egeland is a star.’
‘Lill Egeland and her team are distinctly professional, responsive and service-minded – they help you all the way through in a personal and pleasant way. No issue is too big and no issue is too little. The service delivered by SVW has always been excellent and with a personal touch that they are highly valued by.’
‘Industry knowledge combined with solid academic knowledge. Availability. Good judgement.’
‘Their expertise in the field, their concrete and excellent suggestions to solving problems related to restructuring and their soft but clear approach. In particular, partner Trine Lise Fromreide stands out in this regard.’
‘Lill Egeland is a very valuable partner that knows how to give professional advice with a practical angle.’
‘They are super available and responsive, highly knowledgeable and really tuned in to the issues that we are facing.’
‘Thomas Talén has a strategic mind and excellent communication skills.’
Key clients
Baker Hughes
Egmont
Elkjøp
Go-Ahead
Helse Vest RHF
Hewlett-Packard
Klarna
Mars Norge
Norsk Wavin AS
Orona
Oslo Metropolitan University
PepsiCo
Pinsemenigheten Evangeliehuset Egersund
Schlumberger Norge AS
Telia
The Municipality of Bærum
The University Hospital of Northern Norway
TietoEvry
Velde Industri AS
Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
Videotel Marine International
Work highlights
- Providing ongoing employment law advice to Helse Vest RHF and its subsidiaries, and recently assisted the client with a dismissal dispute.
- Acting for Velde Industri AS and its subsidiaries in employment litigation.
- Assisted Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS with compliance matters regarding the election of employee members to the Board of Directors.
Wikborg Rein
Headed up by Simen Lium, the employment practice at Wikborg Rein advises on all aspects of employment law and acts for a variety of clients, including aquaculture, retail, energy and financial services businesses. The team is very experienced in advising on the employment aspects of large transactions, transfers of undertakings and reorganisations, and is equally adept at handling high-profile employment disputes. Bergen-based Fredrik Gisholt focuses on downsizings, individual terminations and whistleblowing cases. Jan Backer is well known for his expertise in pensions law and executive dismissal cases. Senior lawyer Kjersti Borgen is ‘very efficient, always extremely well prepared and ready to help out‘.
Practice head(s):
Simen Lium
Other key lawyers:
Fredrik Gisholt; Jan Backer; Kjersti Borgen
Testimonials
‘The team is very professional, qualified and service minded. Their response is timely and thorough.’
‘Simen Lium is outstanding in his focus and follow up with our company. The advice he provides is well grounded and thorough.’
‘Mr. Lium delivers sound counselling in all matters presented to him.’
‘Jan Backer has very good knowledge of the Norwegian labour law, and gives very good advice in cases. He communicates well and is easy to work with. His written presentation is very good.’
‘The overall level of service is excellent, with quick response times and strong industry knowledge. The team is very good at advising when the position is unclear.’
‘Simen Lium and Kjersti Borgen have both got an solution-oriented approach. Simen is very service minded and has an enormous knowledge of employment law.’
‘Wikborg Rein – I find them very competent and knowledgeable and easy to work with. I always get solid support and quick delivery of services.’
‘Simen Lium is our contact. I am confident that I get proper and solid support when I ask for help and assistance. Simen Lium is easy to work with, calm and trustworthy. His advice have never proven wrong and what I value the most is his timeliness and his ability to make things simple.’
Key clients
Vygruppen
Transocean
Norgesgruppen
Øgreid AS
Norsk Hydro
Norsk Gjenvinning
Yara
The Wilhelmsen Group
Norges Bank
Eidsiva Energi
Work highlights
- Assisted Transocean with a reorganisation and downsizing process in Norway, as part of a global cost reduction process.
- Assisted Norsk Hydro ASA with the employment aspects of its divestment of the Rolled Products business to KPS, an American investment fund.
Deloitte Advokatfirma AS
Deloitte Advokatfirma AS’ team provides ‘a first-class service‘ to global corporations on a wide range of employment law issues. International employment matters are a core strength for the group, which also fields expertise in restructurings, transfers of undertakings, pensions and social security work, and GDPR-related issues. Practice co-head Gro Forsdal Helvik is ‘very skilled‘ and is sought after for her experience in cross-border employment matters, whistleblowing cases and pension law. Practice co-head Bjørn Ofstad is a key contact for privacy-related matters. Thomas Talén moved to Advokatfirmaet Simonsen Vogt Wiig in August 2021.
Practice head(s):
Gro Forsdal Helvik; Bjørn Ofstad
Testimonials
‘Proactive team.’
‘Gro Forsdal Helvik is highly qualified.’
Key clients
TechnipFMC
Max Bögl
Handelsbanken NUF
The Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV)
Norwegian Nuclear Decommissioning (NND)
Norconsult AS
Megaflis AS
Work highlights
- Providing ongoing global employment law advice to TechnipFMC relating to its global employees.
- Providing ongoing employment law advice to MegaFlis, including assistance with temporary lay-offs and redundancies.
- Providing ongoing assistance to Norwegian Nuclear Decommissioning regarding the transfer of business from a private foundation to a public body.
Advokatfirma DLA Piper Norway DA
At Advokatfirma DLA Piper Norway DA, the team provides ongoing employment advice to car company Møller Mobility Group, and recently assisted the client with a reorganisation and downsizing process, which affected over 100 employees in Norway. The group reported an increase in restructuring and reorganisation mandates, and continues to assist with the employment aspects of transactions. Department head Per Benonisen stands out as ‘a true expert‘ in the area, with expertise spanning whistleblowing issues, contractual matters and transfers of undertakings. Kaja Kaarby is very experienced in advising on individual and collective employment issues. Associate Anniken Sjøvold handles employment agreements. Berit Reiss-Andersen left the firm in August 2021.
Practice head(s):
Per Benonisen
Other key lawyers:
Kaja Kaarby; Anniken Sjøvold
Testimonials
‘Always customer focused. Great knowledge and a trusted partner.’
‘Per Benonisen is a very experienced lawyer, whom we have used for several years. He always gives advice which is commercial and correct. Great person and understands our business well.’
‘Per Benonisen is a true expert, and he does not only handle the law issues, he handles the people concerned by it. Both sides of the table acknowledge his wisdom and ability to solve issues. He is extremely service-minded, and always available no matter how busy he is.’
‘Everyone I have been in contact with at DLA Piper have been exceptionally professional. They provide sound and good advice, and are always available at short notice.’
‘The team is very professional and always reachable.’
‘DLA has highly professional and skilled lawyers that work with integrity.’
Key clients
Møller Mobility Group
Geelmuyden Kiese
Discovery Networks Norway
Compass Group
Dentsu Norge
Spotify
Sony Music Entertainment Norway
Skretting
AIG
HeidelbergCement
Betonmast
Making waves
Advokatfirmaet Føyen AS
Marianne Klausen heads up Advokatfirmaet Føyen AS‘ practice, which has a solid track record in representing clients from the arts and entertainment industries, and is equally adept at assisting technology, retail and public sector companies with a broad range of employment matters. Downsizings, transfers of undertakings and reorganisation mandates have been prominent in the group’s recent workload. Preben Haugmoen Mo regularly assists with investigations, Lars Skotvedt focuses on litigation and reorganisations, and the ‘incredibly skilled‘ Anniken Astrup ‘provides advice that is of high quality and to the point‘.
Practice head(s):
Marianne Klausen
Other key lawyers:
Lars Skotvedt; Anniken Astrup; Preben Haugmoen Mo
Testimonials
‘Anniken Astrup is incredibly skilled, she knows her profession, she is accurate and very effective. I get answers very quickly and she is always helpful and service-minded, more than I expect when I otherwise ask for service.’
‘It is a strong, professional team, assisting both employer and employees in employment matters, varying from individual cases to more complex redundancies.’
‘Anniken Astrup is extremely efficient.’
‘The firm is skilled in labour law problems.’
‘The company has broad expertise. They have good advisers who have integrity and are professionally strong.’
‘Anniken Astrup has extensive expertise and sees the difference in concluding an agreement rather than wanting a long-term “fight”. She’s the best lawyer I’ve ever met in employment law.’
‘Always good service, concrete and clear replies. Always on time and available for the client.’
‘Marianne Klausen: efficient, available and strong communication skills.’
Key clients
The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet
The National Museum
Intersport Norway Drift AS
The Norwegian Police Federal Union
Statens Vegvesen, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration
Accenture AS
Clear Channel Norway AS
Bouvet ASA
BMI/Icopal Norge AS
Snøhetta Group
REEL International SA
Work highlights
- Advising REEL International on the employment aspects of its purchase of part of GE Power Norway AS, including the transfer of employees and establishment of a new Norwegian subsidiary.
- Advising retail company Intersport on multiple large-scale downsizings and individual terminations.
- Advising the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet on all employment-related issues, including negotiating settlement agreements and assisting with a reorganisation process.
Kvale Advokatfirma DA
Led by Nicolay Skarning, the team at Kvale Advokatfirma DA continues to handle large restructurings, downsizings and collective and individual employment issues for clients in the media, retail, oil and gas and shipping sectors. Skarning has extensive experience in advising on collective agreements, and Jan-Erik Sverre focuses on transfers of undertakings, pension law issues, dismissal cases and whistleblowing claims. Monica Gjerde Sperre specialises in assisting shipping companies with a broad range of employment law issues. Senior associate Pernille Brusdal is also a name to note.
Practice head(s):
Nicolay Skarning
Other key lawyers:
Jan-Erik Sverre; Monica Gjerde Sperre; Pernille Brusdal
Key clients
DNMF
Hegnar Media
Lerøy Havfisk
Havila Kystruten
Jets/Jets Vacuum
IKEA Norway/IKEA International
Incita
The National Teachers Union
ABCHus
Caverion Norge
KGK Retain Industries
Monday Production
PostNord Strålfors
JELD-WEN Norge
Business Norway
SANDS
The ‘solution-oriented‘ team at SANDS counts employment disputes and investigations as core areas of strength, and has been kept busy acting for clients in the energy, retail, construction and healthcare sectors. Per Ragnar Bronken, who heads up the practice, regularly advises clients on large restructurings, downsizings and senior management dismissals. Other key individuals include Espen Johannessen and Henning Heitmann, who garners praise for his ‘deep knowledge of employment law‘.
Practice head(s):
Per Ragnar Bronken
Other key lawyers:
Henning Heitmann; Espen Johannessen
Testimonials
‘They are always available and collaborate extremely well across the whole team, involving other relevant competence when relevant for the case, and they are well-coordinated across their different offices throughout the whole country of Norway.’
‘Henning M. Heitmann is outstanding with regard to efficiency and strategic skills. in addition to his deep knowledge of employment law and related subjects. We always receive advice in due time and with relevant explanations if needed.’
‘Henning M. Heitmann is always solution-oriented and helps us reach our commercial goals as efficiently as possible without ending up in long discussions or proceedings.’
Key clients
AstraZeneca Norway
Aleris
Stokke
Rambøll
Asplan Viak
Brækhus Advokatfirma DA
Brækhus Advokatfirma DA is very experienced in assisting international and domestic companies and labour unions with the whole spectrum of employment matters. Practice head Eirin Simonsen is well-versed in advising on reorganisations, litigation and downsizing processes, with a notable focus on the retail sector. Johan Hveding has expertise in pension law and contentious employment issues. Senior associate Renate Heggelund is another key name to note.
Practice head(s):
Eirin Simonsen
Other key lawyers:
Renate Heggelund; Johan Hveding
Testimonials
‘Quick and swift response. Knowledgeable. Very practical solutions and support.’
Bull & Co Advokatfirma AS
Bull & Co Advokatfirma AS‘ department has established strength in advising clients from the healthcare, technology and life sciences sectors on a wide range of mandates, encompassing collective bargaining agreements, restructurings and reorganisations, employment contracts, pension issues and temporary lay-offs. Senior associate Jørgen Burdal leads the team, in which Anette Mellbye and Kåre Bjørlo are key practitioners.
Practice head(s):
Jørgen Burdal
Other key lawyers:
Anette Mellbye; Kåre Bjørlo
Key clients
Amesto Group
Aprila Bank
Fellesforbundet
N3Zones Group
Oustøen Country Club
Posten Norge/Bring
SAP Norge
Stadler Bussnang
SYNLAB Group
Work highlights
- Advising N3Zones on the full range of employment law issues.
- Acting as longstanding employment law counsel to Posten Norge.
- Advising Amesto AccountHouse on a range of employment law matters, including contractual negotiations.
Advokatfirmaet Ræder AS
Advokatfirmaet Ræder AS‘ team is ‘highly skilled in employment law‘, with expertise in restructurings, whistleblowing matters, pensions law, transfer of undertakings and collective wage agreements. The group is acting for technology company Tag Sensors in a dispute with the client’s former CEO concerning the CEO’s summary dismissal. Practice head Siri Falch-Olsen is ‘fearless‘, ‘efficient’ and ‘always available‘, with established expertise in handling major whistleblowing cases. Ragnhild Nakling, who joined from Advokatfirmaet Storeng, Beck & Due Lund (SBDL) AS in March 2021, is ‘an excellent employment and litigation lawyer, and has outstanding legal expertise‘.
Practice head(s):
Siri Falch-Olsen
Other key lawyers:
Ragnhild Nakling
Testimonials
‘Strong and experienced team on employment law. Accessible and easy to work with.’
‘Ragnhild Nakling and Siri Falch-Olsen are both very experienced employment lawyers with in-depth knowledge of employment law, good at strategic assessments, and both good contributors to amicable solutions.’
‘Ragnhild Nakling has outstanding social skills in assisting clients who are experiencing various types of crisis within the the field of employment law.’
‘Always very flexible and the collaboration is great.’
‘Always meet you with a smile, and always explain the situation and how to proceed in a simple way.’
‘Excellent legal skills combined with a highly service-minded team that has an outstanding ability to understand the key questions of the subject matter and to identify the client’s needs. They work cost efficiently.’
Key clients
Frontline Management AS
Taxi Depot AS
Colliers International AS
Dolphitech AS
Pickatale AS
Netcompany AS
Cookie Information A/S
Rjukan Næringspark KS
Tag Sensors AS
Work highlights
- Represented Frontline Management AS before the Oslo District Court in a case concerning the alleged unlawful dismissal of an employee, involving alleged breaches of data protection.
Advokatfirmaet Storeng, Beck & Due Lund (SBDL) AS
Erik Råd Herlofsen heads up the practice at Advokatfirmaet Storeng, Beck & Due Lund (SBDL) AS. The group has ‘high-quality knowledge‘ encompassing a wide spectrum of non-contentious and contentious employment issues, and has particular expertise in acting for public sector clients. Nils H Storeng is highly regarded for his extensive experience in employment law, and focuses on whistleblowing cases. Thomas Braut Svendsen is an experienced litigator, and Arve Due Lund has expertise in advising on reorganisations and redundancies. Håkon Andreassen and Thor-Arne Wullum are other key practitioners. Ragnhild Nakling moved to Advokatfirmaet Ræder AS in March 2021.
Practice head(s):
Erik Råd Herlofsen
Other key lawyers:
Nils H Storeng; Arve Due Lund; Thomas Braut Svendsen; Håkon Andreassen; Thor-Arne Wullum; Kari Bergeius Andersen
Testimonials
‘They are always quick and very thorough.’
‘A team that always works for your best interests. Combines great legal capabilities with sound judgement and value based approach.’
‘They are very competent when it comes to labour law.’
‘Arve Due Lund is very qualified and competent. He answers very quickly.’
‘They are good at utilising the entire team’s expertise in relation to the customer’s needs. They complement each other so that the customer experiences always having the “best” in the field on their case.’
Key clients
Reitan Convenience AS
A/S Norske Shell
PEAB AS
Bertel O. Steen AS
Arvato Finance AS
Pareto Securities AS
Willis Towers Watson AS
Assa Abloy Entrance Systems AS
BRAV AS
Neptune Software AS
Santa Maria Norge AS
Valvoline Oil AS
NCC Industry AS
WSP Norge AS
Carl Zeiss AS
HR NORGE
Regnskap Norge AS
OsloMet – Storbyuniversitetet (Oslo Metropolitan University)
Norges Idrettshøgskole (Norwegian School of Sport Sciences)
The Directorate of Integration and Diversity (IMDi)
Bauer Media AS
Ramudden AS
The Norwegian Dental Association (NDA)
Stena Recycling AS
Nordre Follo Municipality
GRID-Arendal
NordicInfu Care AB NUF
Sparebank 1 Østlandet
Opplysningen 1881 AS
Akershus Eiendom AS
Tolga Kommune
Bedriftshelsetjeneste AS
Tynset kommune
FairWind AS
NORDIC — OFFICE OF ARCHITECTURE
ENVATEC AS
Arkitekthøgskolen i Oslo (Oslo School of Architecture and Design)
FIAS AS / Fjellregionen Interkommunale Avfallsselskap AS