Bech-Bruun > Copenhagen, Denmark > Firm Profile
Bech-Bruun Offices
Gdanskgade 18
2150 Nordhavn
Denmark
Bech-Bruun > The Legal 500 Rankings
Denmark > Banking and finance Tier 1
Domestic deals, asset transactions, real estate finance work, and renewable and other energy project financings are among the core competencies of Bech-Bruun in the banking and finance space. The group is well-known for its robust asset finance practice, particularly handling transactions involving complex structures concerning ships, aircraft, rolling stock and real property. Head of team Thomas Thordal Sevelsted remains a leading practitioner on aviation finance matters, while also devoting much of his practice to complex fund subscription facilities transactions. Of the associates, Jacob Voss Bjerre is another important point of contact for financing work. Morten Krogsgaard departed to join Moalem Weitemeyer in October 2023.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Best team in their field, extremely professional, highly skilled and delivering best in class service.’
‘Thomas Sevelsted, Frederik Benjamin Christensen among the best in their field. They really understand the market, our business and are always available delivering top service and advice.’
‘The Bech-Bruun team, led by partner David Moalem, is extremely competent and knows exactly what the client needs. They are extremely skilled and always deliver high quality advice with a sense of urgency. They demonstrate excellence and deep experience within their area of practice.’
‘David Moalem excels in combining his strong theoretical foundation with a highly pragmatic approach towards his cases. We deeply value David Moalem for his sophisticated advice and for his exceptional business acumen. David Moalem is always available and maintains a very high service level. David Moalem remains one of the absolute best within his area of practice.’
‘The team at Bech-Bruun consistently delivers great value and legal advice to us as a customer by making us aware of problematic components during the documentation, explaining in a simplified and understandable manner (for non-legal professionals) and delivers timely in each aspect. Also, we appreciate the sincere honesty and commercial depth of their knowledge when using them as legal counsel on different banking related documentation.’
‘I have worked with Thomas Sevelsted and Frederik Christensen during multiple transactions and always receive a high-level of service and attention to detail from their side. Things can change quickly, and they are very client-centric in their approach. Further, we also highly value their in-depth legal competencies in constructing new language or advising on reaching the best possible solution for us as their client.’
‘Deep regulatory insight, deep business and operational acumen and understanding.’
‘David Moalem is exceptional in his insight and understanding of the business and regulatory framework. He is also eminent in educating upcoming stars, building a strong team that are allowed to advise on a stand-alone basis.’
Key clients
3i Group Plc
Activum SG
Advent International
AMBU A/S
Blackstone Real Estate Group LP
CASA A/S
Catella
Danica
Danske Bank A/S
EKF Denmark’s Export Credit Agency
Hamburg Commercial Bank
Handelsbanken
JP Morgan
KKR
Lineage Logistics Holding
Nordea Bank
Novo Holdings A/S
PF BankNordik
Royal Unibrew
Savill Investment Management
Scan Global Logistics A/S
Welltec
Strawberry Fields AB
SoLiX Group
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB
Scandinavian Airlines
Work highlights
- Acted as Danish counsel to Hilding Anders International AB in connection with its 100% support and approval from lenders for its proposal to deleverage the balance sheet and strengthen the capital structure for its Europe and Asia business, while exploring strategic options to exit the Askona JV.
- Acted as legal counsel to Perwyn in respect of financing of its acquisition of European Sperm Bank (ESB).
- Acted as legal counsel to One Equity Partner on the financing for its acquisition of a majority interest in pump manufacturer DESMI.
Denmark > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Bech-Bruun remains among the Danish market leaders for corporate, commercial and M&A work and the group’s focuses include advising on private equity transactions, M&A within the energy, life sciences and technology sectors, and complex venture capital work. The ‘very dedicated’ Simon Milthers, Jakob Kristensen and Claus Aagaard Nielsen jointly head up the practice group; Milthers is a highly experienced expert in M&A and company law, while Kristensen is routinely engaged on both buy and sell-side M&A mandates, particularly in the renewable energy space, and Aagaard Nielsen spearheads many of the team’s major domestic and international transactions. Pre-eminent M&A practitioner Jacob Hjortshøj is a leading name for advising private equity funds. Other key names to note include company law expert Søren Kamp Nørbæk, as well as Andreas Nielsen and Christian Eichen, who both arrived from Bruun & Hjejle in January 2023.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Bech-Bruun’s team is very experienced and solution oriented. The process and outcome is in safe hands with this team – also applies when matters are complex and outside the box solutions are required.’
‘Simon Milthers and his team are very dedicated and always very responsive. Simon understands the commercial aspects of the transaction and provides solutions to support them. It is obvious that Simon puts his experience to good use for us, while letting us benefit directly from the full value of his broader team and colleagues.’
‘Mikkel Anker Heegaard is a very hard working and extremely competent senior associate and his performance is consistently confirming his high level of legal skill, while keeping a business acumen mindset in projects.’
‘Great team that is very focused on delivering good service and high quality.’
‘Simon Milthers is a real senior that is a perfect sparring partner. He delivers exceptional advice while being sharp as a knife on the subject and being able to translate it into actionable advice.’
Denmark > Data privacy and data protection Tier 1
The team at Bech-Bruun is known for its ‘deep expertise in all aspects of data protection’ and is praised for offering clients ‘practical, fit-for-purpose legal and compliance counsel’. The team’s advisory work spans the development and implementation of data protection compliance programmes, mock-up inspections, GDPR court cases, international data transfers, security breaches and cybersecurity incidents, among others. Mikkel Friis Rossa heads up the department, and is experienced in GDPR, contesting fines levied by authorities, and international data transfer matters, with particular experience with complex data protection compliance. Managing associate Egil Husum advises both public authorities and private companies on the full array of data protection matters. Charlotte Bagger Tranberg left the firm in January 2023 and Susanne Stougaard departed in February 2024.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Loyal and straightforward. You can count on their best advice without anything being left out. Has a great team working together, so they deliver on deadlines. ’
‘Bech-Bruun’s data privacy team has deep expertise in all aspects of data protection and offers clients practical, fit-for-purpose legal and compliance counsel. The team is keenly focused on client service. The team’s ability to filter out the regulatory ‘noise’ and quickly help clients understand which developments require attention sets the team apart from the competition.’
‘Great hands-on approach. Good understanding of clients’ commercial reality and needs.’
‘Great commercial insight and pragmatic approach. Bech-Bruun are frontrunners in developing and applying technical solutions to aid privacy compliance.’
Key clients
DIGIT Kommunerne
Salling Group A/S
CNA Insurance
DSV Group
Arp-Hansen Hotel Group
Rockwool International
HI3G
DFDS
GroupM
Jyske Bank
The Zealand Region of Denmark
Pandora
Chr. Hansen Group
The Southern Region of Denmark
Georg Jensen
Sportmaster
Oterra A/S
Nordic Entertainment Group
The Danish Medical Association
Leo Pharma
TDC Net
Work highlights
- Advised DSV Group on a comprehensive and complex Binding Corporate Rules approval process, which took place over four years and involved several EU authorities.
- Appointed as DPO in a comprehensive tender process.
- Representing CNA Insurance in all instances where its customers’ cybersecurity insurance is triggered by a cybersecurity breach.
Denmark > Dispute resolution Tier 1
Bech-Bruun’s large-scale dispute resolution practice is frequently involved in complex, high-profile and cross-border litigation, with noted strength in the full spectrum of commercial disputes, international arbitration and D&O liability cases. Seasoned litigator and ‘class act’ Johannes Grove Nielsen leads the team, with extensive experience across US Chapter 11 and Chapter 15 rules, as well as post-M&A disputes, D&O liability claims, injunction matters and all aspects of shipping and logistics disputes, among others. Pre-eminent practitioner Søren Lundsgaard is known as ‘a beacon in the Copenhagen disputes arena’ and routinely lends his considerable expertise to post-M&A disputes, W&I insurance, D&O liability and professional liability mandates. The ‘technically excellent’ Anne Buhl Bjelke is a go-to name for cases regarding insurance coverage and liability for damages, as well as insurance and re-insurance matters. At associate level, Daniel Myhre Engell is focused on post-M&A disputes.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great team. One of the top teams in town, particularly since Søren Lundsgaard and his team joined. They handle a wide array of disputes in all corners of the business world. ’
‘Anne Buhl Bjelke is very calm and collected with a great focus.’
‘The practice revolves around lead litigator Søren Lundsgaard and the exceptional team around him. He and his team dig very deep into the evidence of the case, turning every stone, which makes them very effective in crafting and executing powerful litigation strategies.’
‘Søren Lundsgaard stands out as an excellent and highly experienced litigator. He is exceptional in cross-examining witnesses and in making the right tactical and strategic choices throughout the litigation process.’
‘Søren Lundsgaard is a beacon in the Copenhagen Dispute Arena. Johannes Grove Nielsen has a very strong presence particularly with insurance clients both domestically and international. Both Johannes and Søren are very experienced litigators and Søren also has a significant history as arbitrator.’
‘Very professional and genuine experts in the insurance industry as well as other aspects of financial services. One of the leading teams in Denmark.’
‘Anne Buhl Bjelke is absolutely first rate – technically excellent and astute in handling counterparts.’
‘Johannes Grove Nielson is a class act and a pleasure to work with. He has a positive can do attitude in even the most challenging circumstances. Camilla Søgaard Hudson is also a key partner in the team.’
Key clients
FSN Capital
Desmi Contracting A/S
Energinet (owned by the Danish Ministry of Energy)
MAN Energy Solutions SE
Hotel Holding ApS
Danske Bank A/S
Kevin Magnussen
Gjensidige Insurance
Alandia
Kai Andersen A/S
Danfoss A/S
ABB A/S
AIG Insurance
Danica Pension, Livsforsikringsaktieselskab
BAIN & COMPANY DENMARK P/S
Alm. Brand Forsikring A/S
Frasers Group PLC
Work highlights
- Representing FSN Capital as the buyer in a three-digit million EUR dispute regarding breach of representations and warranties of a share purchase agreement.
- Representing Danske Bank A/S in litigation filed by a bank customer against Danske Bank A/S on 5 November 2019.
- Representing Lindsay Goldberg in a €340m post-M&A dispute.
Denmark > Employment Tier 1
Bech-Bruun’s employment practice group remains one of the strongest in the domestic market, offering expertise across management restructuring, remuneration policies, including share-based incentive schemes, litigation, mass redundancies, outside counsel investigations, trade secrets infringements and collective bargaining agreements. The group also holds a particular specialism in public sector employment law matters, including the defence of public servants. Practice leader Lise Lauridsen is highly regarded for advising domestic and international companies in relation to reorganisations, protection of trade secrets, outside counsel investigations, whistleblower schemes, hiring and termination of executive-level employees, among others. Of counsel and labour law specialist Morten Ulrich chiefly works with employers, with his practice covering both private and public sector labour matters, as well as pension funds. Sandro Ratkovic is a key contact for cross-border employment matters including protection of trade secrets, business immigration, incentive schemes and collective dismissals.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Sandro Ratkovic is outstanding as a strategic legal adviser. He is clearly one of the best in Denmark in employment law and he has a unique talent for providing business focused legal advise in a clear and timely manner.’
‘Morten Ulrich is an expect in his field. He has great experience and is an excellent litigator, with an overview of all the details of a case and superb judgment.’
‘Bech-Bruun is unique because it is a highly professional and modern law firm. Due to the size and the technical resources of the Bech Bruun, the firm is able to provide specialist knowledge from all areas of law – we therefore feel that we are in very safe hands with our collaboration.’
‘We highly recommend Lise Lauridsen with whom we have a long-standing relationship. We have used the brilliant services of Lise for several years and appreciate her highly qualified expertise, her efficiency and her dedication to our company.’
‘Bech-Bruun’s employment law practice delivers their assistance with an attention to detail while keeping the eye on the ball and with an uncompromising understanding of the need for practical and pragmatic use of their advice. The advice is delivered with the appropriate sense of urgency and an in-depth knowledge of the legal details across the entire team that gives confidence that you always receive the best advice.’
‘Sandro Ratkovic’s practical experience and wide knowledge of both national and international employment law in combination with being forthcoming and readily available to meet our needs is not often found. His advice is direct and to the point and gives an impression that no stones are left unturned.’
‘Morten Ulrich has lots of experience and knowledge. Very good at building up the defence, and processing in court.’
‘Lise Lauridsen is the top employment lawyer in Denmark. She is extremely knowledgeable and has a very practical touch, making her expert advice and support invaluable to clients. Sandro Ratkovic is a great lawyer, always available, providing invaluable support at all times.’
Key clients
Finansforbundet (the Danish Financial Services Union)
Tandlægeforeningen (the Danish Dental Association)
DoorDash, Inc.
ActivumSG Capital Management Ltd.
Copenhagen Municipality
Region Zealand (Region Sjælland)
Bruun Rasmussen
Blast
LÆGERNES PENSION
A.P. Moller Holding
The municipality of Helsingør
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Lønmodtagernes Garantifond
Region Nordjylland
The Royal Danish Household
Work highlights
- Represented A.P. Moller Holding, the parent company of the A.P. Moller Group, with its acquisition of Maersk Supply Service, a leading provider of global marine services and project solutions to the energy sector.
- Conducted an outside counsel investigation for Helsingør Kommune with the purpose of investigating the lord mayor’s behaviour towards a number of employees in the municipality’s whistleblower team.
- Assisted Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) with the acquisition of a major Danish biogas project, expected to be one of the largest plants in Europe, from Anaergia. Anaergia originally acquired and began construction on the Tønder project in late 2021 and injected the facility’s first biomethane into Danish pipelines in November 2022.
Denmark > Energy Tier 1
Bech-Bruun’s full-service energy department has extensive knowledge within the solar and wind industries and is highly specialised in other renewable energy mandates including power-to-X and carbon capture projects. The team also provides advice on large-scale energy infrastructure projects, and matters in the utility and oil and gas sectors, covering transactional, regulatory and contentious work. Johan Weihe leads the team and has significant experience in regulatory matters in the energy and public sectors, including advising on the liberalisation of the waste-to-energy sector as well as carbon capture projects. Per Hemmer is a key name in all areas of energy law, while Rania Kassis focuses on regulatory and contractual mandates.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Bech-Bruun has advised my company for the last ten years, and I have always been impressed by their knowledge and ingenuity. They have an in-depth knowledge of their respective areas and always offer valuable solutions to our challenges.’
‘They always focus on developing the client’s business – and not only focusing on solving legal issues.’
‘Johan Weihe has a very deep understanding of both the international and national context according not only to law but also to business opportunities.’
‘Capabilities of the team are high.’
Key clients
Vestforbrænding
Energinet
ARC – I/S Amager Ressourcecenter
Mitsui & Co., Ltd.
REFA
Nordværk
Shamaran
Dansk Affaldsforening
Encavis
Vattenfall
TotalEnergies
Argo
Energi Viborg
BayWa.re
A.P. Møller Holding
Fjernvarme Fyn
Evida
Bornholms Energi & Forsyning
KK Wind Solutions
Work highlights
- Advised Argo, the municipally owned waste and energy company, regarding the liberalisation and incorporation of the waste-to-energy plant and other waste management activities.
- Assisting Vestforbrænding in relation to the planning of a large-scale CCS project, including participation in the CCUS tender.
- Assisted Mitsui & Co., Ltd. with the acquisition of 49% ownership shares in a Power-to-X project (304MW solar plant in Kassø and the associated 52MW e-methanol facility).
Denmark > EU, competition and public procurement Tier 1
Bech-Bruun’s EU and competition practice group works across a wide range of industry sectors, including transport, media and entertainment, energy, waste, pharmaceuticals, payment solutions, agriculture, infrastructure and retail. The group frequently acts as merger clearance counsel on significant corporate transactions, as well as handling major procurement mandates including contentious procurement proceedings. Practice head Jesper Kaltoft is an expert within competition law, EU law, merger control and public procurement issues. Experienced litigator Peter Stig Jakobsen is a go-to name for EU, competition, public procurement, contract and state aid issues. Jakobsen comes recommended for his ‘ability and competence to explain extremely complex legal matters also to people without legal background’.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I have always been impressed by their knowledge and ingenuity. They have an in-depth knowledge of their respective areas and always offer valuable solutions to our challenges.’
‘Peter Stig Jakobsen’s ability and competence to explain extremely complex legal matters also to people without legal background or competences is far beyond what I have seen with other lawyers and barristers.
‘Peter Stig Jakobsen has a distinct ability to understand the business of the client and to assess when to stop and when to carry on – always having the clients objective in clear focus. ’
‘Business acumen, up to date and pragmatic approach.’
Key clients
Scania
City & Harbor
KIA
Danfoss
I/S Vestforbrænding
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark
Elbit Systems Ltd.
Energi Danmark A/S
Ahlsell Group
FK Distribution A/S
Quooker
Jyske Bank
KK Wind Solutions
VINordic
Verisure
Lomax
Cowi
Magasin du Nord (Th. Wessel & Vett)
HAY
Clever
Statens Naturhistoriske Museum (Københavns Universitet)
AEVEX Aerospace
Boehringer
Work highlights
- Assisted I/S Vestforbrænding, Denmark’s largest waste management and energy company owned by nineteen municipalities in the Copenhagen area and Northern Zealand, in relation to the largest CCS project in Danish history.
- Assisted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark with all Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) related procurement procedures.
- Represented more than 1,000 electricity customers and wholesalers who have filed a lawsuit against Elsam (now Ørsted) with claim for damages of more than DKK 4 billion due to Elsam’s abuse of a dominant position by charging unreasonably high prices from 2003 to 2006.
Denmark > Information technology Tier 1
Bech-Bruun comes highly recommended for its ‘expert knowledge combined with high level of pragmatism and commercial understanding’ in the IT arena. The team’s core work encompasses the entire spectrum of IT matters, including IT system development and supply agreements, software licensing and IT operational services agreements concerning traditional hosting and outsourcing services, alongside emerging technologies such as IoT, AI and blockchain media and formats, such as SaaS-, IaaS- and PaaS-based IT services. Niels M. Andersen advises on public and private procurement, outsourcing, transfers, licence agreements and due diligence arising out of transactions in the IT sector. Andersen co-leads the department with Mikkel Friis Rossa who is an expert on matters which involve data protection and cybersecurity, including marketing and complex digital transformation projects. Joachim Nydam Bjerregaard handles contractual and regulatory issues pertaining to IT and telecommunications.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Expert knowledge, combined with a high level of pragmatism and commercial understanding.’
Key clients
Microsoft
Samsung
Energinet
JYSK A/S
RelateIT
Royal Unibrew
Accenture
Region Zealand
DeiC (Danish e-infrastructure Cooperation)
Danish Foreign Ministry
JYSKE BANK A/S
NRGI
Euro Cater A/S
Georg Jensen A/S
Work highlights
- Acquired the operation of Svenske Handelsbanken in Denmark, which was closed on 1st of December 2022.
- Advised DeiC on the drafting of new contracts within supercomputer development, capacity sharing contracts between Danish Universities, and contracts for the participants in the Danish Research Network. The work involved advising on international treaties and agreements e.g. SatCOM RDA (Research Data Alliance), Danish Node, LUMI Supercomputing, NORDUnet etc.
- Advising Bunker Holding Group, one of the leading bunker oil providers in the world, on the implementation of NIS2 (cybersecurity) within the global group, including rendering advice on related IT security.
Denmark > Insurance Tier 1
Bech-Bruun ‘combines a broad knowledge of insurance law with excellent client service’, and is well-regarded for its advice on a full range of insurance disputes, with experience in litigation concerning professional indemnity, D&O, all-risks insurance, product liability, marine insurance, personal injury, workers’ compensation, life insurance and coverage disputes. Anne Buhl Bjelke leads the team and is praised for her ‘unique expertise in the insurance field, with deep knowledge of insurance law and experience advising insurance companies’. Experienced litigator Søren Lundsgaard advises on policy conditions and assists in disputes between policyholders and insurance companies. Camilla Søgaard Hudson specialises in insurance law, with particular expertise in the maritime sector, and handles insurance claims, litigation and international arbitration.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Camilla Søgaard Hudson; Søren Lundsgaard; Arianna Svardal-Stelmer; Camilla Søbjerg Nielsen
Testimonials
‘The competence and experience of the team is outstanding.’
‘Anne Buhl Bjelke has a unique expertise in the insurance field, with deep knowledge of insurance law and long experience advising insurance companies.’
‘Camilla Søbjerg Nielsen delivers high-quality advice.’
‘The BB insurance team combines a broad knowledge of insurance law with excellent client service, resulting in clear and useful legal advice.’
‘Søren Lundsgaard is a great lawyer, very strategic and smart.’
‘Anne Buhl Bjelke leads her team thoughtfully and they work well together.’
‘Arianna Svardal-Stelmer is very committed and structured. She has an incredible amount of knowledge of insurance matters.’
‘Søren Lundsgaard is approachable and knowledgeable, with a reassuring presence in pressured environments.’
Key clients
American International Group (AIG)
Amager Ressource Center I/S (ARC)
ATP
Atradius
P/F Betri Trygging
City of Aarhus
Codan
CNA Hardy
Danica
Danske Bank
Enstar EU
FM Insurance
GARD
Gjensidige Forsikring
HDI-Gerling Verzekeringen N.V.
Howden Insurance Brokers AB (part of Hyperion Group)
JT3 Klima A/S
Live Nation
Lloyd’s
Marsh
Protector Forsikring
QBE Insurance
Santander Insurance/Santander Life Insurance
SKULD
Swedish Club
Topdanmark Forsikring
Tryg Forsikring
Tryggingamiðstöðin hf
UK Defence Club
Vejdirektoratet
Velliv
Work highlights
- Represented Danica Pension in a litigation filed by one of Danica Pension’s business customers, an employer, regarding a large company pension scheme concerning more than 1,000 employees.
- Advising Norwegian insurance company Gjensidige, covering all major areas of the insurance company’s claims and dispute resolution.
- Representing Danske Bank, one of the largest financial institutions in the Nordics, in a pending court case regarding a special pension scheme from the 1970s which is subject to statutory law.
Denmark > Intellectual property Tier 1
The team at Bech-Bruun has in-depth knowledge of IP, exemplified by Claus Barrett Christiansen, who leads the trade mark and design practice. Other key names include Mikkel Friis Rossa, who heads the data protection team; Martin Dræbye Gantzhorn, who heads the life science and healthcare practice group; and Klaus Ewald Madsen, who leads the patent litigation team. Jeppe Brinck-Jensen is a new addition to the team and regularly acts as a litigator in intellectual property proceedings; Dan Bjerg Geary's practice includes transactional work, and licensing issues across a range of industries; Senior associate Sisse Langberg Lassen is another key member of the team.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The practice has a highly specialised team in the field of intellectual property rights.’
‘The team has a unique ability to combine their legal and technical skills with their in-depth commercial understanding of the industries in which they advise – in particular the life sciences industry. This enables them to provide highly valuable advice.’
‘Martin Dræbye Gantzhorn has an exceptionally good understanding of the legal and regulatory matters of the life science industry and the healthcare sector and what drives companies within this field. This makes him an excellent trusted advisor for such businesses and thus preferable to other advisors.’
‘Jeppe Brinck Jensen is very helpful, intelligent, and pragmatic. I would certainly recommend him to others.’
‘Claus Barrett Christiansen’s team certainly knows what it is talking about when it comes to defending or building up an enforcement case.’
‘Claus Barrett Christiansen, who is one of the most brilliant and knowledgeable partners I have ever worked with, leads a team of litigators highly skilled in design, trademark and copyright laws.’
‘Sisse Langberg is a tremendous lawyer when it comes to finding out the bulletproof legal argument that will defeat any counterpart.’
Key clients
Zealand Pharma
Jaguar Land Rover
Lindt & Sprügli AG (Chocolat)
FIFA
Hilfiger
A.P. Møller Maersk Holding
Hewlett-Packard Enterprise
SONY
IKEA
The Lundbeck Foundation
Perwyn
Mercedes Benz
Merck Sharpe & Dohme (MSD)
Work highlights
- Represented Maersk owned KK Wind Solutions in the acquisition of the controller and controller business of Vestas Wind Systems A/S and establishment of joint technology development activities.
- Representing the Danish innovator peptide-based pharmaceuticals research and development company Zealand Pharma A/S in proceedings before the Danish Maritime and Commercial High Court relating to allegation of misappropriation of trade secrets and breach of contract.
- Represented Novo Holdings A/S, a leading global life sciences investor, with the multibillion DKK acquisition of Ellab.
Denmark > Real estate and construction
Bech-Bruun retains its position among the Danish market leaders across both construction and real estate work. On the construction side, the team has a strong track record in undertaking major public and public-private partnership construction projects, especially complex and high-profile infrastructure projects, as well as handling a range of associated disputes that arise from such projects. On the real estate front, the practice is known for its involvement in landmark developments and logistics transactions, with noted strength in the hotel sector. Jens Hjortskov and Torben Brøgger head up the department out of Copenhagen and Aarhus, respectively; Hjortskov is an expert in construction matters, procurement law and project development work, while Brøgger advises construction consortiums and public authorities on PPP issues. Pre-eminent practitioner Claus Berg has over 30 years of experience in litigation and arbitration in the field of construction law, professional liability claims, and public tender disputes. Steen Puch Holm-Larsen and Sven Frode Frølund left the firm to join Gorrissen Federspiel.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
CPH City and Port Development
NCC Danmark
Rambøll Danmark A/S
Danica Ejendomsselskab
Arkitema
Region Zealand
COWI A/S
Aarhus Municipality
Southern Denmark Region
Northern Denmark Region
Central Denmark Region
Nordkranen
Rizzani de Eccher
Odense Letbane P/S (Odense Light Rail)
Hovedstadens Letbane I/S (The Greater Copenhagen Light Rail)
Universal Robots A/S (owned by Teradyne, Inc)
Herlev Municipality
AP Ejendomme A/S
Strawberry Hospitality Group
PFA Pension
Blackstone Real Estate Group L.P.
Nordic Real Estate Partners (NREP)
BlackRock
Pimco Prime (Allianz) Real Estate GmbH
Mirastar Real Estate Investment Management Europe
Cibus Nordic Real Estate
Lægernes Pension
PensionDanmark
Savills Investment Management
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. Inc.
Mileway
Catella Residential Investment Management
Aberdeen Standard Investments
Panattoni
InterContinental Hotels and Resorts (IHG)
Patrizia AG
VGP Group
COPI Group
Work highlights
- Assisted Universal Robots A/S in relation to the acquisition of a land plot from Odense Municipality in Odense, Denmark, as well as the negotiation and conclusion of an agreement with NCC Danmark A/S for the construction of new state of the art offices.
- Assisting CPH City and Port Development, PensionDanmark and Nordkranen in relation to the planning and building of Kronløbsøen, a new artificial island in Nordhavnen in Copenhagen Harbour with three story underwater parking, office space and apartments.
- Assisting CPH City & Port Development with the development of a new district in Copenhagen – Lynetteholmen – consisting of an artificial island located in Copenhagen Port.
Denmark > Shipping and transport Tier 1
Bech-Bruun acts on prominent mandates in the sector, handling both wet and dry shipping matters including bunker disputes, S&P and refinancing work, alongside contentious matters. The group also fields a dedicated cross-border insolvency shipping team in order to handle large-scale and complex insolvencies in the shipping industry. Practice group head Johannes Grove Nielsen comes highly recommended as ‘a clear leader in his field’ and is an expert in damages, commercial disputes and insolvency matters. Nielsen has also recently spent time representing shipping lines and crew management companies in relation to the Russian-Ukrainian War. ‘Superstar’ Camilla Søgaard Hudson advises on the full spectrum of maritime, transport and insurance law.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Johannes Grove Nielsen is a hands-on and solution-oriented shipping lawyer.’
‘Leading team in Denmark with exceptional international capabilities. First-class knowledge, not only in shipping law, but all legal aspects related to shipping, such as environmental regulation and its impact on shipping. As part of Denmark’s leading full service firm, the team is capable of advising on all aspects of business law for their shipping clients.’
‘Johannes Grove Nielsen is not only an exceptionally good shipping lawyer, he is also very good at taking into account the business aspects and to tailor his advice accordingly. Number one in Denmark.’
‘Camilla Søgaard Hudson is clearly the best of the younger generation in the market.’
‘Johannes Grove Nielsen is a clear leader in his field.’
‘Exceptional team and first-class service.’
‘Johannes Grove Nielsen is with no doubt the leading figure in the country, a true eminence in the field and the first port of call in Denmark.’
‘Camilla Søgaard Hudson is a superstar.’
Key clients
MAN Energy Solutions
GARD
Remontowa Shiprepair Yard
SKULD
Kuehne & Nagel A/S
A.P. Møller-Mærsk A/S
Monjasa
Codan Insurance
ADM
Oxymat A/S
Evergreen Marine Corporation (Taiwan) Limited
MS Amlin Marine
Hamborg Offshore AHT “Pegasus” GmbH & Co
Tryggingamiðstöðin hf (“TM”)
Work highlights
- Representing Evergreen Marine Corporation in a matter before the Danish High Maritime and Commercial Court against Maersk A/S and others.
- Representing Hamborg Offshore AHT “Pegasus” GmbH & Co in litigation relating to the arrest of the vessel PEGASUS in the port of Aalborg, which resulted in the High Court of Western Denmark setting aside the arrest.
Denmark > Tax Tier 1
Bech-Bruun is well known for its coverage of the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious tax matters and specialisation across different tax areas, covering financial services and M&A taxes, tax disputes and indirect tax mandates, especially VAT issues. Leading the ‘highly skilled’ team is Thomas Frøbert, who often assists Danish and international companies, charitable institutions, NGO’s and political organisations with various tax issues, with focus on VAT and other indirect tax work. Jesper Buus is experienced in providing tax advice on complex cross-border M&A transactions, while Birka Wendy Mouritzen excels in VAT work.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘What sets Bech-Bruun apart is their unwavering commitment to client-centric solutions, blending legal expertise with a deep understanding of clients’ industries and needs.’
‘Thomas Frøbert is a very strong practitioner, supported by a good team, especially Jesper Buus. They are very responsive and understand what we need and think about the drivers of our business.’
‘Thomas Frøbert is technically very able and extremely responsive.’
‘The team at Bech-Bruun is comprised of highly skilled and specialised professionals, each excelling in their respective fields. Their strengths lie in their collaborative approach, fostering a culture of teamwork and knowledge sharing.’
‘Thomas Frøbert is a highly skilled tax lawyer who always delivers accurate work and always within the set deadline. He anticipates scenarios in advance like a professional chess player and delivers reliable and pragmatic solutions.’
‘I know Thomas Frøbert as an outstanding adviser and as a very skilled tax lawyer.’
Key clients
A.P. Møller Mærsk
Total S.A.
Total Energies Danmark A/S
Scan Global Logistics
Danske Bank
Schneider Group
Broadcom
J.P Morgan
Certa Insurance
Nokia
Svenska Handelsbanken
Experian
Takeda Group
Danish Family Business Network “Vækst i Generationer”
Danish Agriculture & Food Council
Kiloutou
Gefion Group
Aarhus Kommune, Herning Kommune, Kalundborg Kommune
SYBO Games
Workday, Inc.
Work highlights
- Representing Total E&P Danmark A/S and A.P. Møller – Mærsk A/S in a transfer pricing case before the Eastern High Court.
- Advising Vækst i Generationer in relation to Danish Government legislation regarding reduced taxation of succession of Danish family owned businesses.
- Assisted the shareholders and management of SYBO Games with the sale of all their shares to Miniclip, a Tencent subsidiary.
Denmark > Capital markets Tier 2
Adept at both equity and debt transactions, Bech-Bruun has a strong history acting on domestic offerings, public-to-private transactions and regulatory issues, including EU Market Abuse Regulation; the group also has noted expertise in the full range of listed transactions, including handling buybacks, combined rights and market issuances for listed financial entities. Capital markets and regulatory expert David Moalem jointly leads the department with Steen Jensen, who is recommended for takeover bids and P2P transactions.Practice head(s):
Key clients
Jyske Bank
SGL International A/S / SGL Group ApS
P/F BankNordik
Ahsell AB
H Lundbeck A/S
Danske Bank
JP Morgan
Nordea
Novozymes A/S and Chr. Hansen Holding A/S
Green Hydrogen Systems
Work highlights
- Advised Jyske Bank on its acquisition of Handelsbanken and Statshypotek in Denmark.
- Acted for SGL International A/S and Skill Bidco/SGL Group in connection with a bookbuilding and the successful placement of a €750m bond issuance, and a related DKK750m RCF with Jyske Bank.
- Acted for the issuer in connection with Faroe Islands’ BankNordik’s SEK300m new senior non-preferred notes via the debt capital markets and the listing of the notes on Nasdaq Copenhagen in October 2022.
Denmark > Environment Tier 2
The large-scale team at Bech-Bruun represents both government entities and leading corporate clients on the full-suite of matters, with noted expertise in major infrastructure projects and high-profile environmental disputes at all levels of the Danish court system. Public and environmental law expert Jacob Schall Holberg leads the team and frequently acts for states, regions, municipalities and private companies. Hanne Mølbeck is the go-to name in the department for infrastructure projects, regularly representing public construction authorities and infrastructure owners.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The strength of the team is the solid overall hands-on experience with other similar environmental cases in Denmark.’
‘The collaboration between Jacob Schall-Holberg and Dorte Kirkeskov Carlsson serves the client well. They make a great duo.’
Key clients
Femern A/S
Energinet
Metroselskabet I/S
Odense Letbane P/S
Hovedstadens Letbane (The Greater Copenhagen Light Rail)
By & Havn
The Municipality of Lejre
M. Goldschmidt Holding A/S
Ny Valby Byggemodning P/S
Ny Valby Udvikling A/S
Municipality of Aarhus
Vattenfall
MT Højgaard Projektudvikling A/S
HOFOR Vind A/S
Work highlights
- Advising state-owned company Femern A/S on the environmental and public law issues relating to the €7bn project that will ultimately lead to the construction of the longest immersed tunnel in the world.
- Assisting Energinet (the Danish national electricity and natural gas transmission system operator) with all environmental matters in connection with the Baltic Pipe Project, which aims to improve the transmission of natural gas from Norway to Poland, Denmark, Sweden, the Baltic countries, and central and eastern regions of Europe.
- Acting for Metroselskabet on all legal issues arising from the Cityringen project and the associated metro line expansion projects.
Denmark > Insolvency Tier 2
Bech-Bruun’s cross-border insolvency experience sees the team undertake work across various jurisdictions, including Germany, Greenland and China, on behalf of a client list that counts major domestic banks, government funds, international lenders and debtor clients including Danish corporates. Practice head Anders Hoffmann Kønigsfeldt advises on all issues related to insolvency law, in addition to reorganising and restructuring of businesses with financial difficulties. Troels Tuxen is a key player when it comes to company restructurings, acting as trustee in bankruptcy estates, out of court suspension of payment procedures and creditor arrangements.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They are available on short notice and provide excellent advice. Their insolvency portal is easy to use when filing a claim in a bankrupt estate.’
‘Troels Tuxen and his team are thorough, fast and keep to the deadlines.’
‘Michael Serring is extremely skilled and has provided excellent advice in a major annulment case.’
‘The firm is a leader in the field of insolvency law and is absolutely among the best in the country. They are always instrumental in helping us to achieve a successful outcome.’
‘Anders Hoffmann Kønigsfeldt and Anders Hauge Gløde are highly skilled and experienced in all aspects of insolvency law. They were able to quickly grasp the complex issues involved in our cases and develop a sound legal strategy.’
Key clients
Danske Bank A/S
Nordea Bank Denmark A/S
Sydbank A/S
Nykredit A/S
Rejsegarantifonden (The Danish Travel Guarantee Fund)
Jyske Bank A/S
Sparekassen Kronjylland A/S
ATP
Lønmodtagernes Garantifond (The Employee Guarantee Fund)
Vækstfonden (The Danish Growth Fund)
Work highlights
- Acting as co-administrator of Adsbøll Entreprise A/S (and several companies in the group) in bankruptcy.
- Acting as co-administrator of Frida Forsikring Agentur A/S in bankruptcy which acted as agent for insurance companies selling legally required real estate insurance policies and subsequently handled claims for the insurance companies.
- Acted as restructurer in a highly successful and speediest financial restructuring of one of Denmark’s top fashions houses, Minimum A/S.
Denmark > Media and entertainment Tier 2
Bech-Bruun’s media and entertainment group possesses the bandwidth to handle the entire breadth of matters concerning social media, TV, film, music, gaming, entertainment, and rights administration, among others. Licensing matters, dispute resolution and transactional work are core specialisms of the ‘strong team’. ‘Outstanding expert’ Niels M. Andersen lends his extensive knowledge to all types of matters concerning IT, telecoms, technology and commercial contracts, as well as entertainment, film and music. Andersen jointly heads up the team alongside M&A specialist Claus Aagaard Nielsen, who is noted for his expertise in high-end transactions in the fashion, e-commerce and pharmaceutical industries, and the TMT and energy sectors.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Niels M. Andersen is super.’
‘The Bech-Bruun team is very responsive and provides high quality services.’
‘Niels M. Andersen is an outstanding expert.’
‘A strong team with access to relevant resources that can support our business.’
Key clients
Various performing artists
Samsung
HI3G
Microsoft
Alchemist
Motion Picture Licensing Company (MPLC)
CBS (Film studio)
UIP (Film studio)
Viaplay Group
Kvadrat
Work highlights
- Providing ongoing legal assistance to Viaplay Group (recently renamed from Nordic Entertainment Group/NENT – listed in Stockholm), including in respect of media and entertainment, corporate matters and M&A, competition law, commercial agreements and GDPR matters.
- Providing ongoing legal assistance to Samsung relating to entertainment including Samsung TV, Galaxy mobile phones, platforms and other entertainment related matters.
- Representing large US film studios such as Disney, Paramount, MIRAMAX and Universal.
Denmark > Telecoms Tier 2
Bech-Bruun’s telecoms practice group advises clients on the full breadth of mandates in the sector, and benefits from its close connection to the firm’s IT and data protection practice. Niels M. Andersen leads the team and has extensive experience in advising Danish and foreign enterprises on all types of issues concerning IT, telecoms, technology and commercial contracts as well as transactions related to these fields. Joachim Nydam Bjerregaard has a particular focus on the correlation between technology and commercial issues.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Energinet
Samsung
HI3G
Microsoft
Blackwood Seven
Motion Picture Licensing Company (MPLC)
Odsherred Efterskole
Accenture
Nordic Entertainment Group AB (NENT) (listed)
Jyske Bank
Trackunit A/S
DeiC
Work highlights
- Advised Samsung on all the aspects of the launch and marketing of Galaxy Mobile Phones, TV-products and other related products including marketing, distribution agreements, advertising campaigns etc.
- Advising MPLC in relation to the new Danish Bill on copyright regarding transmission rights, public performance and streaming, based on tele transmissions.
- Represented Odsherreds Education Center in a court case against XDC regarding the termination of service and leasing agreements on network services and equipment in the education centre.
Greenland > Foreign firms Tier 2
Bech-Bruun utilises its energy and mining sector expertise to advise clients on obtaining mineral resource licenses, public law issues and matters arising from energy and infrastructure projects. The practice has a diverse client roster including the Government of Greenland and government-owned entities, private companies, foreign corporates and local municipalities. Johan Weihe, who is head of the firm’s Greenland energy department, has extensive knowledge of mineral resource law and public issues in Greenland; he works closely with Per Hemmer and the duo are noted for their energy sector and climate knowledge, which is focused on renewable energy projects and regulatory issues.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Government of Greenland
NunaGreen A/S
SIKUKI Nuuk Harbour A/S
Nukissiorfiit
KAIR International A/S
Kommune Kujalleq
AirGreenland A/S
Work highlights
- Advised NunaGreen A/S on the corporate structure, tender process, financing and construction of an expansion of the hydropower plant in Nuuk and a new hydropower plant in Qasigiannguit and Aasiaat.
- Advised SIKUKI Nuuk Harbour A/S on the expansion of the industrial harbour in Nuuk.
- Advised Nukissiorfiit on the public tender of the technical adviser regarding the expansion of the Hydropower Plant in Nuuk, called Buksefjorden Vandkraftværk.
Bech-Bruun > Firm Profile
Firm overview: Bech-Bruun is a full-service law firm with highly skilled and experienced lawyers in all commercial practice areas. The firm provides value-adding legal advice and services to a large sections of the Danish corporate and public sectors, as well as global enterprises. With 570 experienced and highly specialised employees, of which 60 are partners, we are among Denmark’s leading full-service law firms and one of the largest in the Nordics. From our offices in Copenhagen and Aarhus, we advise on all aspects of corporate and commercial law, providing tailored, interdisciplinary and value-adding solutions based on in-depth industry knowledge.
Our 11 practice groups include:
- Banking and finance
- Dispute resolution
- Employment and labour
- Energy
- EU and competition
- IP and technology
- IP and trademark
- Real estate and construction
- Restructuring and insolvency
- M&A corporate
- Tax
Offices
Copenhagen (head office)
Gdanskgade 18
2150 Copenhagen
Denmark
Aarhus
Værkmestergade 2
8000 Aarhus C
Denmark
T +45 7227 0000
F +45 7227 0027
E info@bechbruun.com
W https://www.bechbruun.com/
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Banking and finance | Thomas Thordal Sevelsted | tts@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3604 |
Capital markets | Steen Jensen | sj@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3346 |
Chinese desk | Jingjing Su | jsu@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3341 |
Commercial contracts | Dan Bjerg Geary | dbg@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3640 |
Company law | Steen Rode | rode@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3313 |
Corporate compliance and investigations | Thomas Munk Rasmussen | tmr@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3355 |
Dispute resolution and litigation | Johannnes Grove Nielsen | jgn@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3377 |
Employment and labour | Lise Lauridsen | llau@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3635 |
Energy and cleantech | Per Hemmer | phe@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3550 |
Energy and cleantech | Johan Weihe | jhw@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 34 53 |
EU and competition | Jesper Kaltoft | jek@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3569 |
Financial analysis and valuation | Claus Bjørn Galbo-Jørgensen | cgj@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3696 |
FinTech | David Moalem | dmm@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3324 |
Insolvency and restructuring | Anders Hoffmann Kønigsfeldt | ahk@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 35 53 |
Intellectual property rights | Martin Dræbye Gantzhorn | mdg@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3636 |
Intellectual property rights | Claus Barrett Christiansen | clb@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3633 |
Life science and medico | Martin Dræbye Gantzhorn | mdg@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3636 |
Mergers and acquisitions | Steen Rode | rode@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3313 |
Personal data protection | Mikkel Friis Rossa | mif@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3359 |
Public law and environment | Per Hemmer | phe@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3550 |
Real estate & construction | Jens Hjortskov | jeh@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3444 |
Shipping and insurance | Johannes Grove Nielsen | jgn@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3377 |
Tax | Thomas Frøbert | thf@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3433 |
Technology, media and telecommunications | Claus Barrett Christiansen | clb@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3633 |
Technology, media and telecommunications | Niels M. Andersen | nma@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3406 |
Data Privacy and GDPR | Mikkel Friis Rossa | mif@bechbruun.com | +45 7227 3359 |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 325 Number of employees : 571Languages
The Scandinavian languages English Spanish French German Chinese CroatianMemberships
TerraLex World Law Group (WLG) TAXANDOther
Other offices : AarhusDiversity
Diversity and inclusion are an essential part of Bech-Bruun’s DNA. We have set a clear direction for our work with diversity and inclusion in the coming years. We want to be able to attract and retain a diverse employee composition at all levels, which is why we have launched a number of initiatives within the different phases of working life that our employees go through. In 2020, we set two ambitious diversity targets towards 2025 and 2030 respectively:
- By 2025, every third new partner should be a woman.
- From 2025 and up to 2030, half of them should be women.
Achieving our diversity goals in 2025 and 2030 is important, but more diversity can’t stand alone. We also need to realise the potential of becoming a more inclusive workplace. With our strategy for diversity and inclusion towards 2025, we have therefore decided to step up the pace and do even more. We do this both as a workplace for our more than 550 employees and as a player in the industry, where diversity and inclusion remain a major challenge.
Bech-Bruun’s strategy for diversity and inclusion towards 2025
Towards 2025, we have chosen to prioritize five focus areas to ensure the goal of increased diversity and inclusion in Bech-Bruun. The five focus areas we will be working on in the coming years are:
Flexibility: We believe that greater work-life flexibility may contribute to more employees experiencing that they are able to combine working at Bech-Bruun with whatever else they want to spend time on. We are all different and naturally have different preferences in terms of how we want to live and work. We will be working with flexibility in three areas in particular: pregnancy, maternity and working hours and place of work.
Talent development: We aim to have a recurring and more inclusive dialogue about the professional personal and career development of every individual employee. This dialogue is first and foremost secured by changing our concept for appraisal interviews.
Recruitment: Over the next couple of years, we will review our overall recruitment process to ensure that it optimally supports our need to be able to attract the top talents of the legal profession.
Career paths: A key component of our talent development is creating more openness about the different career paths available available at Bech-Bruun. In particular, we need to ensure greater openness about the partner role and the path to becoming a partner.
Mentoring scheme: Over the next couple of years, we will build a mentoring scheme for employees of Bech-Bruun, which is intended to contribute to more effective career development.
International Capabilities
Today, the need for legal services often crosses country borders. Such need calls for prompt access to professional legal advice of a high quality in different jurisdictions. We have built a unique, global network of leading law firms for cross-border legal assistance.
We are members of the World Law Group, Taxand and TerraLex – three international networks of independent law firms with members in more than 100 countries. This means that we are at all times capable of drawing on the skills and knowledge of leading experts across the world.
An increasing number of our clients are non-Danish and international enterprises and organisations. Accordingly, we have a strong international focus. We are experts in Chinese, German, Greenlandic, English and EU law and have set up a Chinese and a German Desk.
Many of our lawyers have worked abroad, for instance with law firms in our international network.
To ensure that we remain updated on international trends and market potential we have established an international committee, dealing with our international relations and business development.
- Banking and finance
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Data privacy and data protection
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Energy
- EU, competition and public procurement
- Information technology
- Insurance
- Intellectual property
- Real estate and construction
- Shipping and transport
- Tax
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Capital markets
- Environment
- Insolvency
- Media and entertainment
- Telecoms
Firm Rankings
- Greenland > Foreign firms