Wiersholm > Oslo, Norway > Firm Profile

Wiersholm
DOKKVEIEN 1
PO BOX 1400 VIKA
0115 OSLO
Norway

Norway > Banking and finance (including shipping finance) Tier 1

Wiersholm houses ‘one of the best banking teams in Norway‘, according to clients, which also praise the group as ‘service minded, hands-on, and always solid and practical in its advice‘. Infrastructure and renewable energy financing mandates have been prominent in the team’s recent workload, and the department is well known for representing financial institutions and international and domestic banks in a panoply of financing work. Atle Gabrielsen ‘is highly regarded among his peers‘, and co-heads the practice with insolvency expert Kaare P Sverdrup and Kristine Hasle, who focuses on shipping finance matters. Petter Thomren Moltu is ‘service minded and knowledgeable‘.

Practice head(s):

Kaare P Sverdrup; Kristine Hasle; Atle Gabrielsen

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Extremely high credibility in the banking practice. Excellent advice that can be trusted and followed.’

‘Wiersholm’s team is very knowledgeable and service minded.’

‘Strong skills on issues relating to ship finance and strong teams at partner and associate level.’

‘The team is service minded, hands-on and always solid and practical in their advice.’

‘One of the absolutely best banking teams in Norway.’

‘Atle Gabrielsen – one you can trust and is highly regarded among his peers which makes a difference in a difficult transaction.’

Key clients

SpareBank 1 SR-Bank ASA

DNB Bank ASA

Nordea Bank Abp, Filial i Norge

Maritime & Merchant Bank ASA

ABN AMRO Bank N.V.

Danske Bank A/S

Work highlights

  • Acted as lead counsel to a syndicate of banks with DNB Bank ASA as coordinator and agent regarding the issuance of a €1bn credit facility to Elkem ASA.
  • Assisted the Hurtigruten Group AS with a €50m senior unsecured green bond issuance.
  • Acted as Norwegian counsel to Pioneer Point Capital Partners in connection with the financing of its acquisition of Scanbio Group.

Norway > Capital markets Tier 1

With a reputation for being ‘one of the best capital market teams in Norway‘, the group at Wiersholm fields expertise across the full range of capital markets work, and IPOs and listing mandates have been prominent in the department’s recent workload. Tone Østensen has an excellent track record in advising on public and private transactions, stock exchange law, and securities law, while practice co-head Simen Mejlænder advises international and Norwegian investment banks and issuers on listing processes and IPOs, and practice co-head Sverre Sandvik is ‘extremely experienced and knowledgeable within capital market matters‘. Anne Lise E. Gryte is a key name for equity capital markets work, and also advises on public takeovers.

Practice head(s):

Sverre Sandvik; Simen Mejlænder

Testimonials

‘Sverre Sandvik is an outstanding lawyer. Always available, always wise and pragmatic. The gold standard for the trusted adviser.’

‘You always get top attention and quality.’

‘Sverre Sandvik: Pragmatic and effective, and always provides fantastic client service.’

‘Anne Lise E. Gryte: Very effective and hands on.’

Key clients

ABG Sundal Collier

DNB Markets

Carnegie

Nordea Markets

Arctic Securities

Mowi ASA

Arctic Bioscience AS

SpareBank 1 Markets AS

Flyr AS

Elopak ASA

Norse Atlantic ASA

Volue ASA

Pareto Securities

Integrated Wind Solutions ASA

Western Bulk Chartering AS

Tekna Holding ASA

Rana Gruber ASA

Work highlights

  • Advised Carnegie, JP Morgan and Morgan Stanley as managers on the NOK2.7bn IPO of AutoStore.
  • Acted for ABG Sundal Collier, DNB Markets and Clarksons Platou Securities as joint global co-ordinators and bookrunners in connection with Edda Wind’s NOK875m IPO.

Norway > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1

Wiersholm‘s team is singled out for its ‘longstanding and wide experience within M&A‘, and technology, financial services, renewable energy and aquaculture mandates are key drivers of work for the group. Practice head Harald Hellebust has expertise in acting for private equity funds on transactions, while the ‘highly effectiveSverre Sandvik handles capital markets work, and Kai Thøgersen is a key contact for TMT matters. In mid-2022, Jon Martin Atkinson joined from Arntzen de Besche.

Practice head(s):

Harald Hellebust

Testimonials

‘Deep knowledge of the field and the client’s needs. Always to the point and efficient.’

‘Always pragmatic but professional.’

‘Harald Hellebust – highly competent within M&A. Excellent negotiation skills. Solution oriented.’

‘Sverre Sandvik: extremely deep legal knowledge, and he is a highly effective.’

‘A team with longstanding and wide experience in M&A that can and will contribute to value creation. Available 24/7 and always pragmatic but professional.’

‘Strong client-centric service model, ensuring continuity, proactive handling of tasks, and efficient work processes.’

‘What sets Wiersholm apart from many of its competitors is the breadth of the team, and the quality – from junior associates to partners.’

‘Continuity in the client team ensures competence and smooth/efficient work processes. Strong availability and responsiveness from key partners.’

Key clients

KKR

Hydro

Yara

Kongsberg Gruppen

DNB

Subsea 7

APAX

Swiss Life

SoftBank

Visma

Kistefos

EQT Equity Partners

IK Investment Partners

Longship

Ferd AS

Summa Equity

Kverva/Kverva Management

Orkla ASA

Schibsted

HG Pooled Management Limited

Nordic Capital

Sector Alarm

Procuritas

Multi-Color Corporation (MCC)

Holzweiler Holding AS

Nordax Bank AB

SalMar ASA

Work highlights

  • Assisted Visma AS with its divestment of Visma Custom Solutions to private equity house CVC Advisers.
  • Assisted US company Multi-Color Corporation with its acquisition of Norwegian private limited liability company Skanem AS’ Norwegian and foreign subsidiaries.

Norway > Dispute resolution Tier 1

At Wiersholm, the team provides advice to Deutsche Bank regarding ongoing liability claims arising from the enforcement in Norway of a UK ruling against Sebastian Holding; Olav Perland, who is well regarded for his strength in financial and corporate litigation, leads on this matter. Perland co-heads the department with international arbitration expert Stephan Jervell and Thomas G Naalsund, who is admitted to appear before the Supreme Court and has experience in assisting oil and gas sector entities with contentious mandates. Other key practitioners include firm managing partner Morten Goller, who advises on contentious public procurement, tax, competition, contract and construction matters; IP and TMT expert Magnus Hellesylt; and Magnus Nordøy Snellingen, who has expertise in insurance litigation. Managing associate Odin Breidvik is ‘an excellent lawyer and litigator‘.

Practice head(s):

Thomas G Naalsund; Stephan Jervell; Olav Perland

Testimonials

‘Good preparation and involvement.’

‘Strong appearance in court, and excellent litigation handling.’

Key clients

Equinor ASA

DNV

International Business Machines AS (IBM)

Sparebank 1

AIG Europe Limited

AF Gruppen ASA

Skanska Norge AS

BDO AS

Danske Bank AS

Coop Norge SA

Nord-Trøndelag Elektrisitetsverk AS (NTE)

Veidekke ASA

Tesla

Yara International ASA

Bertel O. Steen AS

ABB AS

Kistefos AS

Multiconsult ASA

Rimfrost AS and Rimfrost Technologies AS

Leonhard Nilsen & Sønner AS

Work highlights

  • Successfully defended DNV against a liability claim worth more than NOK15bn, arising from the total loss of the Norwegian Navy frigate KNM Helge Ingstad in November 2018.

Norway > Employment Tier 1

Wiersholm‘s ‘outstanding‘ team has ‘very good knowledge within employment‘ and garners praise for being able to ‘truly understand the client’s perspective‘. Transfers of undertakings, disputes regarding employee dismissals, whistleblowing cases and restructurings have been prominent in the group’s recent workload. Christel Søreide, who heads up the practice, is ‘especially practical, and provides advice that is spot-on legally, but also strategic‘. Jan Fougner is ‘among the very best in his field‘ and is well known for his established strength in acting in investigations. Eli Aasheim has an excellent reputation for her expertise in cross-border employment work, and Ellen Røyneberg is a key name at managing associate level.

Practice head(s):

Christel Søreide

Testimonials

‘High level of service, practical legal advice, strong knowledge in HR law, good knowledge of the business and the client.’

‘Good communication and good cooperation with the client.’

‘Wiersholm’s communication with the client, ensuring strategy-based advice and litigation, is extraordinary.’

‘Responsiveness, availability, very capable, friendly, direct and honest, good discussion partner and trustworthy.’

‘Always available for discussing urgent matters. Able to explain legal aspects in an easy-to-understand manner. Take time to listen and truly understand the client’s perspective.’

‘High competence, good cooperation skills, very good knowledge of legal practice.’

‘Easy to work with, very accessible.’

‘Professional and very pleasant to work with.’

Key clients

Schibsted

Orkla

Statkraft

ABB

Bane Nor

Okea

Lundin Energy

Aller Media

Felleskjøpet

SATS

Fellesordningen for avtalefestet pensjon

Conoco Phillips

DNO

Formue AS

Work highlights

  • Represented the Vestfold and Telemark municipalities in a high-profile investigation related to whistleblowing matters.
  • Representing Bane NOR SF in multiple employment disputes before the Norwegian courts, including a dismissal dispute.

Norway > Energy

The ‘highly dedicated’ team at Wiersholm covers the full breadth of renewable and traditional energy mandates with equal dominance across commercial agreements, project financing work, regulatory issues, transactions and litigation. Acting for a client base of domestic and international clients, the group assists a notable roster of major state-owned renewable energy companies, and E&P companies active on the Norwegian continental shelf. The renewable energy group is jointly led by Inge Ekker Bartnes and Jon Rabben, who focus on transactional and regulatory matters in the wind and hydropower sectors, while Georg Abusdal Engebretsen handles environmental and compliance issues. Sondre Dyrland leads the oil and gas group and excels in petroleum-related matters and Thomas Naalsund specialises in contentious work.

Practice head(s):

Inge Ekker Bartnes; Jon Rabben; Sondre Dyrland

Testimonials

‘Excellent and in-depth knowledge of the Norwegian oil and gas law.’

‘Sondre Dyrland and his team have provided us with high quality advice on different legal aspects within oil and gas law. With his genuine understanding of the system, and honest approach, Dyrland’s advice is highly valued in discussions, also on strategic matters.’

‘Very good teams working together with the customer. Highly dedicated!’

‘Always in position, and bringing a team ready for the challenge.’

Key clients

Aberdeen Standard Life

Akershus Energi AS / Akershus Energi Varme AS

Dalane Energi AS / Dalane Kraft AS / Enida AS

Infracapital, a part of M&G plc

Infranode

Istad AS / Istad Nett AS / Istad Fiber AS

Mainstream Renewable Power Limited

Nord-Trøndelag Elektrisitetsverk AS / NTE Energi AS

Ringerikskraft AS

Skagerak Energi AS / Skagerak Kraft AS

Sogn og Fjordane Energi AS / SFE Produksjon AS

Statkraft AS

Statnett SF

Suomen Voima Oy (SV Vattenkraft AB)

TrønderEnergi AS

Troms Kraft AS

PATRIZIA SE

Norsk Vannkraft AS

Kyoto Group AS

Keppel Infrastructure Trust (KIT)

Kommunal Landspensjonskasse (KLP)

Inherit Carbon Solutions AS

Northern Lights JV DA

Gassco AS

Equinor ASA

ConocoPhillips Skandinavia AS

TotalEnergies EP Norge AS/TotalEnergies S.A.

Lundin Norway AS

Chrysaor Norge AS

Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy (MPE)

OKEA ASA

DNV-GL Group AS

CapeOmega AS

DNO ASA

Bangchak Corporation PCL

Concedo ASA

North Sea Infrastructure AS / PKA AIP A/S

Danske Bank A/S

BNP Paribas

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB

Nordea Bank Abp, filial i Norge

ING Bank N.V.

Work highlights

  • Assisted TrønderEnergi in respect of the recently announced partnership with HitecVision – a highly innovative deal which includes the establishment of a new jointly owned renewable energy business with substantial ownership in large hydro, wind power and downstream assets.
  • Assisted Keppel Infrastructure Trust (KIT) together with Keppel Corporation Limited on the €160m investment in a portfolio of existing and pipeline onshore wind energy assets across Norway, Sweden and the UK sponsored by Fred.
  • Assisting the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy (MPE) as sole legal adviser on its full-scale carbon capture storage project (CCS).

Norway > EU and competition Tier 1

Wiersholm‘s department houses a ‘solid team of experts in complex competition law matters‘. The ‘very knowledgeable and experienced‘ team continues to handle high-profile abuse of dominance claims and merger control issues; investigations, EU and EEA law and state aid matters also remain key areas of instruction for the group. Department head Håkon Cosma Størdal is ‘highly skilled‘, ‘very engaged‘ and ‘knows the ins and outs of competition law‘. Thomas Naalsund and Stephan Jervell are key contacts for litigation and public procurement issues. The ‘very knowledgeableElisabeth Lian Haugsdal, who made partner in January 2023, is well known for advising on damages actions, restrictive practices and abuse of dominance claims. Senior associate Edvard Hamer Rojahn and associate Elisabeth Torkildsen are key names to note.

Practice head(s):

Håkon Cosma Størdal

Testimonials

‘Highly skilled team. Very practical sense. Good availability. Nice people to work with.’

‘Håkon Cosma Størdal – highly skilled, very good knowledge of competition law and how to handle both large and small competition law issues.’

‘Elisabeth Lian Haugsdal – highly skilled.’

‘Edvard Hamer Rojahn – highly skilled associate and pleasant to work with.’

‘Excellent knowledge on Norwegian and EU competition law and process. Agile and client minded.’

‘Håkon Cosma Størdal has full understanding of all relevant aspects of competition law. Very engaged, easy to communicate with and holds very high standards in all work done.’

‘Solid team of experts in complex competition law matters.’

Key clients

Altor Funds

DNB

Bertel. O. Steen

Coop Norge SA

Felleskjøpet SA

Hurtigruten ASA/ Hurtigruten AS

IK Investment Partners

JCDDecaux

The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy

Schibsted ASA

Telenor Norge AS

Veidekke ASA/Seby AS

Bravida

Mowi ASA

Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Kistefos AS

Visma AS

Hafslund ASA

Statnett SF

Sector Alarm Holding AS

EQT

The Norwegian Heart and Lung Patient Organisation (LHL)

Statkraft

Santander Consumer Bank

SB1 Markets

Vipps

Netfonds Holding

Summa Equity

Veidekke Entreprenør AS

Skanska Norge AS

Entur AS

Boreal Norge AS

Den Norske Opera og Ballett

Torghatten ASA

ABB AS

Discovery Communications Europe Limited

Bastø Fosen AS

Viking Redningstjeneste Topco AS

Anora (Former Arcus ASA)

Widerøe’s Flyveselskap AS

Norwegian Banks’ Guarantee Fund

Braathens Regional Airlines (BRA)

Ticket

Algeco Holdings B.V

EQT

Strawberry AS

The Ministry of Trade, Industries and Fisheries

The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy

Nordic Capital

AF Gruppen

Multiconsult

Trønderenergi ASA

Work highlights

  • Acting as lead counsel to Vipps and DNB Bank on a merger filing, relating to the contemplated merger between Vipps, MobilePay and Pivo.
  • Representing Coop Norge SA in an ongoing investigation by the Norwegian Competition Authority, concerning alleged anti-competitive practices within the grocery sector.
  • Acting for Schibsted ASA in ongoing litigation arising from its disputed acquisition of Nettbil.

Norway > Insurance Tier 1

The key strength of Wiersholm’s insurance practice lies in its extensive knowledge of insurance law and regulatory issues. The firm regularly acts on behalf of policyholders and insurance companies on a wide range of insurance matters and assists clients with matters involving the Norwegian and foreign supervisory authorities. The team also has competencies in insurance litigation and arbitration proceedings and often represents major international clients in industry leading liability dispute settlements.  The team is jointly led by recently promoted partner Magnus Nordøy Snellingen, regulatory expert Kjersti Trøbråten and litigator Olav Fr Perland; shipping specialist Christian Hauge is also an active member of the team. Former group head Hans Kenneth Viga-Gerhardsen moved to an in-house role in 2022.

Practice head(s):

Magnus Nordøy Snellingen; Kjersti Trøbråten; Olav Fr. Perland

Other key lawyers:

Stian Endre; Christian Hauge

Testimonials

‘Wiersholm’s insurance practice has an in-depth knowledge of the local market and provides accurate, helpful advice on insurance regulatory topics.’

‘Olav Perland and Magnus Snellingen provide an excellent service. They are professionally strong and able to explain complicated questions in a simple way.’

‘Wiersholm is a highly competent law firm with people skills, transparent billing and amazing collaboration.’

‘Stian Endre provides insightful advice on complex topics in the insurance regulatory field and is responsive to our need for timely advice where required.’

‘The team has excellent service with quick responses and solid assessments. Stian Endre is a great adviser.’

‘Stian Endre is a service-minded and extremely knowledgeable legal adviser, who is always analytical in his reasoning and to the point in his advice.’

‘Skilled lawyers who quickly get to the core of issues.’

‘The friendliness and professional approach were highly appreciated.’

Key clients

Insr Insurance Group ASA

Brannkassene i Norge (Norwegian Fire insurers)

AIG Europe S.A

AIG Europe UK Limited

Folksam Omsesidig Sakforsakring

BDO AS

Mowi ASA

DHL Global Forwarding (Norway) AS

Danske Bank

Codan Forsikring NUF (recently merged with Tryg Forsikring)

AXA XL Insurance SE

QBE Europe SA/NV

Gjensidigeforeningene (Møretrygd, Nordlys, Tromstrygd og Bud & Hustad)

Gjensidige Forsikring

Fremtind Forsikring AS

Sparebank1 Østlandet

Work highlights

  • Assisted INSR Insurance Group ASA with Norway’s largest insurance restructuring, consisting of numerous portfolio sales, correspondence with the NFSA and over 50 disputes with insurance intermediaries, plus a large number of negotiations.
  • Represented Sparebank 1 Østlandet in a dispute with a consumer regarding the bank’s liability for unauthorised payment transactions caused by third party fraud.

Norway > Intellectual property Tier 1

Wiersholm has a solid track record in handling the full range of IP work for clients drawn from the aquaculture, IT, media, pharmaceuticals, retail, construction, offshore and renewable energy sectors. The practice is jointly led by Hans Erik Johnsen, who is highly regarded for his expertise in advising media and sports sector entities and regularly handles marketing and trade mark matters; the ‘very diligent and detail-orientedAnne Marie Sejersted, who specialises in contentious patent work and acts for pharmaceuticals, offshore and energy sector entities; and Rune Opdahl, who has expertise in assisting technology, pharmaceuticals, media and retail companies with contentious and non-contentious trade mark, patent and copyright matters. Managing associates Dina Brask and Kristiane Aarvik are additional names to note.

Practice head(s):

Hans Erik Johnsen; Rune Opdahl; Anne Marie Sejersted

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Focused on details and strategic considerations.’

‘They are extremely dedicated, with knowledge and insight. They are exceptionally friendly.’

‘Deep knowledge of the IP area. Fast and to the point advice.’

‘Anne Marie Sejersted is very diligent and detail oriented. Dina Brask is capable in strategising and quickly assessing multiple scenarios.’

‘I worked closely with partner Anne Marie Sejersted. She had a strong interest in the big picture encircling the specific dispute.’

Key clients

SkandiaEnergi

Visma AS

Monster AS

Schibsted ASA

Altibox AS

Gyldendal ASA

Silva Green Fuel DA

Ino Drift AS (Intersport)

Aller Media Group

Orkla ASA

Novamedia Norsk Postkodelotteri AS

Discovery Networks Norway AS

Selvaag AS

Avarn Security Group AS

Work highlights

  • Represented multiple internet service providers before the Supreme Court in long-running litigation concerning alleged illegal file-sharing.
  • Successfully defended Silva Green Fuel in patent litigation brought against the client by LTL; the court ruled that the client’s production method for biofuel would not infringe LTL’s patent.

Norway > Maritime law Tier 1

Fielding a ‘professional team with devoted individuals’, the shipping practice at Wiersholm continues to be a pillar in the firm’s expertise. Ship and rig owners, banks, financial advisers, and service companies all trust the ‘skilled, service minded, and fast’ practitioners in the team. Straddling both transactional and contentious work, the team has extensive experience in vessel sales and purchases, building projects, other asset-based transactions, and marine insurance issues. The team is co-led by Kristine Hasle, who is a ship finance and offshore transactions expert, and Karl Even Rygh, who has extensive expertise in new build and conversion projects, sale and leaseback transactions, and M&A deals. Christian Hauge is also recommended, particularly for shipping and insurance dispute resolution.

Practice head(s):

Karl Even Rygh; Kristine Hasle

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Professional team with devoted individuals.’

‘Skilled, service minded and fast.’

Key clients

Hurtigruten AS

Siem Industries

SFL Corporation (previously Ship Finance International)

DNV

Golden Ocean Group

Frontline Limited

Archer Limited

Avance Gas Holding Ltd.

Viking Supply Ships

Awilhelmsen

MPC Container Ships ASA

NYK Lines

Western Bulk Chartering AS

Polarcus Limited

Sinoceanic Shipping AS

Arendals Dampskibsselskab AS

OSM Maritime Group

Flex LNG

DESS Aquaculture Shipping

Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA (EMGS)

Østensjø Rederi

Møretrygd

Tromstrygd

Nordlys Forsikring

Bud og Hustad Forsikring

Wilh. Wilhelmsen

Lindblad Expeditions

Maersk Supply Service

Seatankers

ADS Crude Carriers

J. Lauritzen Singapore Pte

Statnett SF

Work highlights

  • Acted as lead counsel for SFL Corporation Ltd in connection with their purchase of three Suezmax oil carriers from Trafigura and four LR2 oil tankers from Frontline, and the subsequent chartering out of the vessels to Trafigura pursuant to time charterparties.
  • Successfully defended classification society DNV in a NOK15bn damages claim from the Norwegian state following the total loss of the frigate Helge Ingstad.
  • Represented Flex LNG Ltd. in a $320m sale and leaseback transaction for the financing of the vessels “Flex Courageous” and “Flex Constellation”.

Norway > Public procurement Tier 1

At Wiersholm, firm managing partner Morten Goller heads up the team, which ‘leads in the field of public procurement‘. The group is well known for providing ‘constructive and responsible advice‘ across the spectrum of complex procurement matters to an established client roster of contracting authorities and suppliers. Contentious mandates remain a key driver of work for the department. Stephan Jervell is a public procurement specialist, and Thomas G Naalsund is ‘one of the top lawyers within the discipline of public procurement and dispute resolution‘. Managing associate Oda Hellenes Ekre is ‘a rising star‘ and ‘always delivers at the highest level‘.

Practice head(s):

Morten Goller

Testimonials

‘High level of professionalism, dedication and commitment.’

‘The team is always welcoming, happy to contribute and seems to really enjoy working together. Morten Goller’s exceptional experience and skills can not be left unmentioned.’

‘Morten Goller is the leading lawyer in Norway in the field. He has full command of the field of public procurement, but is also a fantastic litigator.’

‘The client service is second to none. The lawyers show great commercial awareness and commercial understanding, and they always put the client’s interests first. The team is always very efficient. They have proven to always give us good value for money.’

‘Managing partner Morten Goller has extraordinary knowledge and understanding of all aspects of the public procurement rules and the practical sides of both the tendering process and the procurement process. He has excellent knowledge of all relevant judgements/decisions in Norway and in the EU. Further, he has excellent legal skills in areas adjacent to the law and regulations of public procurement. He also shows great knowledge of the client’s business and always understands the need of the client. His expertise within the discipline of public procurement is second to none, and the same counts for his expertise within dispute resolution.’

Oda Hellenes Ekre has excellent knowledge and understanding of all aspects of the public procurement rules and regulations. She has excellent understanding of the client’s business and always puts the client’s interest first. She is very efficient, and her advice is always excellent and well-founded.’

Thomas G Naalsund has excellent knowledge of all aspects of the rules and regulations and all relevant judgements/decisions in Norway and in the EU. He is very efficient and his advice is always excellent.’

Key clients

Hurtigruten Group AS

The Ministry of Industry and Petroleum (MPE)

BMO Tunnelsikring AS

Veidekke Entreprenør AS

Veidekke Industri AS

Skanska Norge AS

Boreal Norge AS

Torghatten Nord AS

Statnett SF

ResMed Norway AS

Egencia Norway AS

Norske Tog AS

Harstad municipality

EveryMatrix Software Ltd.

Sotra Link

ABB AS

Norway > Real estate Tier 1

Wiersholm‘s ‘very skilled’ and diverse team is able to give ‘precise advice’ on various matters in relation to commercial, corporate and residential real estate projects, including acquisitions, financings, developments, restructurings and divestments. The team works on a variety of projects for high-profile clients, and Tom Rune Lian specialises in transactions and structurings within commercial real estate. Ståle Meleng works mainly with business premises, with an emphasis on transactions and development projects, while Stig L. Bech leverages his notable experience on transactions and property developments.

Practice head(s):

Tom Rune Lian; Ståle Meleng; Stig L. Bech

Testimonials

‘Highly competent, always available and service minded. Great track record but knows how to create new solutions that fits their clients.’

‘Tom Rune Lian is extremely service minded and competent – makes us fully trust that the quality of the advice is top notch.’

‘Strongly competent and covers all areas of interest for my company. In my opinion, by far the best company within complex real estate matters in our region.’

‘Ståle Meleng – an outstanding knowledge of practical use of Norwegian law within all areas of real estate challenges. Excellent negotiator.’

‘All associates are competent and gives valuable input in demanding processes.’

‘The team is very skilled in real estate law and always willing to support when needed. The individuals complete each other so that both the theoretical side and the practical side are covered in a good way.’

‘The team is very available at all times. They are quick into the issue, and they are rapid and their responses are easy to use. They give precise advice on legal issues, and are also a well-informed discussion partner in business related issues.’

‘They’re not just the best when it comes to legal questions, but also have the knowledge about political processes that can affect us as a business.’

Key clients

AB Invest AS

Agri Eiendom AS

Arcus Gruppen AS

AS Apotekernes Hus

Aspelin Ramm AS

Axer Eiendom AS

Bane NOR Eiendom AS

BentallGreenOak

Bonum Utvikling AS

Carnegie AS

Condovita AS

Coop Norge Eiendom AS

DNB Næringseiendom AS (REIM)

Ferd Eiendom AS

Fritzøe Eiendom AS

Herøya Industripark AS

Höegh Eiendom AS

Host Hotelleiendom Norge AS / Flying Elephant AS

Innovasjonsparken / Smedvig Eiendom AS

Jotne Eiendom AS

Linstow Eiendom AS

Miliarium Bolig AS

Nordisk Renting AB / Natwest

Norwegian Property ASA

Oslo Pensjonsforsikring AS

Pareto Alternative Investments AS

Pareto Securities AS

RSV Invest AS

Steen & Strøm AS

Stor-Oslo Eiendom AS

UNION Gruppen AS

Vika Project Finance AS

Fredensborg Bolig

Work highlights

  • Advised AS Apotekernes Hus on the sale of NAF Gårdene, a large portfolio of real estate valued at approx. NOK2.2bn.
  • Assisted SVG Property AS and Pareto Securities AS (as facilitator) with the establishment of SVG Property AS, a new real estate company in the Stavanger region, and with SVG Property AS’ acquisition of Ankerkvartalet, Herbarium Stavanger and Hinna Park Eiendom.
  • Advised Skanska Commercial Development Norway on the sale of Paralell, a new built office building at Løren, valued at NOK750m.

Norway > Tax Tier 1

The tax group at Wiersholm has been kept busy advising Equinor on multiple transfer pricing cases, focusing on transfer pricing issues concerning intra-group transfers of natural gas liquids; Andreas Bullen, who is ‘exceptional on transfer pricing‘, leads on this matter. Restructurings and tax litigation are other key pillars of expertise for the team. Practice head Bettina Banoun has expertise in tax litigation, international tax, corporate tax and EU tax, and firm managing partner Morten Goller is ‘great on strategy‘, while transactional mandates are prominent in Nicolay Vold‘s workload. At senior associate level, Håkon Marius Mørch and Erling Selen are names to note.

Practice head(s):

Bettina Banoun

Testimonials

‘Andreas Bullen is knowledgeable, practical and responsive.’

‘Great competence.’

‘Professionally skilled, respond quickly, always pleasant.’

‘Very high technical knowledge. Very good on disputes.’

‘Best in town on property tax.’

‘Morten Goller; Very service-focused and great on strategy. Andreas Bullen; Exceptional on transfer pricing.’

Key clients

Equinor group

Fred. Olsen/Bonheur

Kistefos AS

Orkla

Ferncliff Group

Salmar/Kverva

Dynea Industrier

Petter Olsen-Group

Yara International ASA

Canica

Ramme Eiendom Petter Olsen

Norway > TMT Tier 1

Wiersholm‘s ‘practical and commercially-minded‘ team is ‘very knowledgeable‘ on all aspects of TMT, and regularly assists global technology companies with data privacy issues and digitalisation work. Big data issues, IT contracts and public procurement mandates are other key drivers of work for the group. The ‘excellentHans Erik Johnsen shares leadership of the department with M&A expert Kai Thøgersen; Anne Marie Sejersted, who advises a client base of offshore, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals and maritime sector entities on a range of technology matters; and data protection and privacy specialist Rune Opdahl. Managing associate Theresa Schumacher Walberg and senior associate Fredrik Wiker are other key practitioners.

Practice head(s):

Hans Erik Johnsen; Rune Opdahl; Anne Marie Sejersted; Kai Thøgersen

Testimonials

‘Hands-on and pro-active advisers, with excellent business and commercial understanding.’

‘Rune Opdahl has deep privacy knowledge.’

‘Rune Opdahl is a stand-out partner with his commercial mindset and practical approach to all issues. He also has a great understanding of risk-based approaches and does not hesitate to be clear with the client when the client needs to adjust their practices.’

‘The Wiersholm TMT team is by far the most practical and commercially minded team. They understand what you need and the format you need it in for further internal use, so they make your job as General Counsel easier. They also come up with solutions, alternatives and compromises.’

Key clients

Hurtigruten

SATS

Monster / A Nice Company

Visma

Orkla

Gyldendal

Kyndryl

Work highlights

  • Assisting a telecoms company with the procurement of 5G network frequencies.
  • Assisting Norwegian production company The Global Ensemble Drama with all negotiations with Netflix, including media-related issues.

Norway > Construction Tier 2

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

Practice head(s):

Hans Augun Parmann

Other key lawyers:

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

Testimonials

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

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

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

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

Key clients

Equinor ASA

AF Gruppen

Veidekke

Skanska

Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy (MPE)

Leonhard Nilsen & Sønner AS

Macquarie Corporate Holdings Pty Limited

WeBuild S.p.A

SK Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd.

Sotra Link AS

Thales

Work highlights

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

Norway > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2

Shipping and offshore restructuring matters are a core area of strength for Wiersholm‘s team, which is also highly regarded for its expertise in handling multi-jurisdictional restructuring work. The group is advising Nordic Trustee and multiple bondholders on the large-scale restructuring of DOF ASA and its subsidiary DOF Subsea. Department head Ståle Gjengset assists financial institutions and investment banks with financial restructurings, and Kristine Hasle has a solid track record in handling offshore and shipping-related restructurings. Financing expert Petter Thomren Moltu is also a key name to note.

Practice head(s):

Ståle Gjengset

Testimonials

‘Experience and expertise across the board.’

Key clients

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries/The Kingdom of Norway

Polarcus Limited

Siem Offshore Inc.

DNB Bank ASA

Sparebank 1 SR-Bank ASA

Altor Equity Partners

Olympic Subsea ASA

Nordic Trustee AS

Viking Supply Ships A/S

Archer Limited

Norway > Offshore construction and shipbuilding Tier 2

The offshore construction and shipbuilding practice at Wiersholm is multi-disciplinary in nature, covering a variety of shipping mandates, including work relating to cruise and expedition vessels, tankers, LNG and container vessels, car carriers, and fish farming industry vessels, acting for domestic and international companies. Areas of strength for the group include litigation and arbitration proceedings, bolstered by the firm’s well-recognised dispute resolution team. Karl Even Rygh is a newbuild and conversion project expert, and Kristine Hasle excels in financing mandates. Christian Hauge and Helge Morten Svarva are both dispute resolution specialists, focusing on shipping insurance and offshore construction claims respectively. Debt financing and restructuring matters are the purview of Atle Gabrielsen, and oil and gas offshore construction projects are Sondre Dyrland’s area of expertise. Managing associate Mattias Grieg is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Karl Even Rygh; Kristine Hasle; Helge Morten Svarva

Key clients

Hurtigruten AS

Siem Industries

DNV

Golden Ocean Group Limited

Frontline Limited

Archer Limited

Avance Gas Holding Ltd.

Viking Supply Ships

Awilhelmsen

MPC Container Ships ASA

NYK Lines

Western Bulk Chartering AS

Sinoceanic Shipping AS

Arendals Dampskibsselskab AS (ADS)

OSM Maritime Group

Flex LNG Ltd

Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA (EMGS)

Østensjø Rederi

Møretrygd

Tromstrygd

Nordlys Forsikring

Bud og Hustad Forsikring

Wilh. Wilhelmsen

Lindblad Expeditions

Maersk Supply Service

Seatankers

ADS Maritime Holding Plc

J. Lauritzen Singapore Pte. Ltd

Statnett SF

Pareto Securities AS

Equinor ASA

ConocoPhillips Skandinavia AS

The Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy

SFL Corporation Ltd

ABB Group Ltd

DESS Aquaculture Shipping AS

Moss Havn KF (the port authority of Moss)

Liberty Mutual Insurance SE

The Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries

Work highlights

  • Advising the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy as sole legal adviser on its full-scale carbon capture and storage project (CCS).
  • Successfully defended classification society DNV from a NOK15bn damages claim from the Norwegian state following the total loss of the frigate Helge Ingstad.
  • Assisted SFL Corporation with a tender for two newbuild car carriers to be chartered to Volkswagen on long term charter parties.

Norway > Regulatory, compliance and investigations Tier 2

Wiersholm’s ‘team-oriented’ and ‘service-minded’ practice handles all aspects of compliance work, ranging from the preparation and implementation of compliance programs to performing due diligence on acquisition targets. The practice’s specialisms encompass ESG issues, anti-corruption work and whistleblowing regulations, and the practice has also seen an increase in work relating to sustainability and human rights mandates. Jan Fougner excels in corporate penalty and crisis management work, and Georg Abusdal Engebretsen's practice entails compliance issues and private investigations across a number of practice areas. Helene Bogen is the key name at senior associate level.

Practice head(s):

Jan Fougner; Georg Abusdal Engebretsen

Other key lawyers:

Helene Bogen; Anne Katrine Ramstad; Erlend A. Methi

Testimonials

‘Client focused and strong commitment for solving their tasks. Strong environmental knowledge and practical solutions.’

‘Experience, service level and confident, no-nonsense advice.’

‘Full attention from the whole team in order to find different solutions. Impressive knowledge about the topic.’

‘Anne Katrine Ramstad has been available 24/7. She has shown great interest to help us out in order to keep our business going as usual. What makes the team different from other competitors is definitely their interest to find out how things can be done.’

‘The work Wiersholm has been doing for us has been very complex. The work has also been of very high importance and has attracted a lot of attention and engagement. Wiersholm has handled all of this with extreme levels of competence, loyalty and professionalism.’

‘Wiersholm is very team-oriented, and I think what makes them unique compared to other law firms is how they include us, the client, as a genuine part of their team.’

‘They are incredibly professional in their work with clients, always delivering high-quality material with great efficiency and enthusiasm. The whole Wiersholm team displays expertise, experience and a genuine interest in their clients.’

‘Service-minded, solution-oriented and strong follow up are areas we appreciate with Wiersholm. They always find time to support us, even in hectic periods.’

Key clients

Bane NOR AS

Equinor ASA

Hurtigruten AS

Schibsted ASA

Skagerak Kraft

ABB

The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Celsa Armeringsstål AS

Huhtamaki Oyj

Norsk Industri

Work highlights

  • Conducted a major investigation concerning alleged compliance and governance breaches across various jurisdictions in the world in SOS Children’s Villages.
  • Advised The Coronavirus Commission (an independent commission established by the Norwegian Government) on the Norwegian Covid-19 measures regarding quarantine hotel and entry restrictions, including in relation to potential legal issues arising from the European Convention on Human Rights as well as relevant EU legislation.
  • Provided extensive legal and strategic advice to Huhtamaki in relation to one of Norway’s largest potential clean-up projects in a polluted river in Norway.

Norway > Fishing and aquaculture Tier 3

Wiersholm’s fishing and aquaculture team ‘know how the market works’, advising medium and large-sized businesses across a range of matters, including cross-border M&A, IPOs, licensing matters, financings and operational issues. Following the opening of the new Trondheim office to better serve seafood clients, the group’s expertise is praised as ‘priceless’ by clients. Svein-Helge Hanken leads the team following his promotion to partner, and has strong commercial and transactional experience. Sverre Sandvik is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Svein-Helge Hanken

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘I think the team is strong and has been very constructive in our recent engagements.’

‘Sverre Sandvik is very solution-oriented, more than competitors. Svein-Helge Hanken is calm in critical situations.’

‘They provide rational and commercial advice as the team are very close to the industry and know how the market works, which is priceless from a client perspective as it smooths the process.’

‘Their availability, professionalism, experience and knowledge of the aquaculture market.’

Work highlights

  • Advised Salmar ASA on entering into a partnership with Aker ASA to create world leading offshore farming operations.
  • Advised Norway Royal Salmon (NRS) on the offers from each of Salmar ASA and NTS ASA to acquire all the shares of NRS, the completion of NTS’ acquisition of a majority of the shares in NRS, as well as NRS’ subsequent acquisition of all shares in Salmonor AS.
  • Represented the European ship owners affected by the Norwegian cod quota regulation for 2021, which granted the ship owners a smaller quota in the waters off Svalbard than what has customarily been given since the Fisheries Protection Zone around Svalbard was established.
PhotoNamePositionProfile
Eli Aasheim photoMs Eli AasheimPartner Eli Aasheim works mainly with employment law. Her practice covers all…
Stig L. Bech photoMr Stig L. BechStig has for several decades been a leading real estate lawyer. He…
Andreas Bullen photoMr Andreas BullenPartner Andreas Bullen’s practice includes transfer pricing, international tax law, Norwegian company…
Kim Hellstrøm Christensen photo Kim Hellstrøm ChristensenKim is a member of Wiersholm’s real estate department. He has over…
Håkon Cosma Størdal photoMr Håkon Cosma StørdalPartner Håkon Cosma Størdal advises on EU/EEA law and is a specialist…
Gunhild Dugstad photoMs Gunhild DugstadPartner Gunhild Dugstad’s practice includes mergers and acquisitions, company law and the…
Sondre Dyrland photoMr Sondre DyrlandDyrland has many years of experience with the oil and gas industry…
Inge Ekker Bartnes photoMr Inge Ekker BartnesPartner Inge Ekker Bartnes works mainly with mergers and acquisitions, energy law,…
Oda Hellenes Ekre photo Oda Hellenes EkreOda works primarily with public procurement law, contract law and dispute resolution…
Anne Lise Ellingsen Gryte photoMs Anne Lise Ellingsen GryteAnne Lise Ellingsen Gryte practices corporate and securities law with an emphasis…
Georg Abusdal Engebretsen photoMr Georg Abusdal EngebretsenPartner Georg Abusdal Engebretsen specialises in assisting Norwegian and international enterprises and…
Jan Fougner photoMr Jan FougnerPartner Jan Fougner is a specialist on litigation and employment law and…
Atle Gabrielsen photoMr Atle GabrielsenPartner Atle Gabrielsen works primarily with banking and finance issues. He regularly…
Ståle Gjengset photoMr Ståle GjengsetPartner Ståle Gjengset works mainly with providing legal and strategic advice and…
Morten Goller photoMr Morten GollerPartner Morten Goller works with dispute resolution, including litigation and negotiations, in…
Mattias Grieg photoMr Mattias GriegMattias works with shipping and offshore transactions. His main area of practice…
Svein-Helge Hanken photoMr Svein-Helge HankenSvein-Helge works primarily with transactions, including purchase and sale of businesses for…
Kristine Hasle photoMs Kristine HasleKristine Hasle is a banking and finance lawyer with particular focus on…
Christian Hauge photoMr Christian HaugePartner Christian Hauge works on the areas of shipping and offshore, with…
Elisabeth Lian Haugsdal photoMs Elisabeth Lian HaugsdalElisabeth works with competition law, EU/EEA law, state aid law, administrative law…
Harald Hellebust photoMr Harald HellebustPartner Harald Hellebust works mainly with transactions, including purchase and sale of…
Magnus Hellesylt photoMr Magnus HellesyltPartner Magnus Hellesylt has special expertise in litigation and dispute resolution, often…
Stephan L Jervell photoMr Stephan L JervellPartner Stephan L. Jervell works with litigation, dispute resolution and negotiations, and…
Hans Erik Johnsen photoMr Hans Erik JohnsenPartner Hans Erik Johnsen’s practice includes intellectual property law, broadcasting/media law, technology…
Jarle Kvam photoMr Jarle KvamPartner Jarle Kvam works mainly with company law and stock exchange law,…
Tom Rune Lian photoMr Tom Rune LianPartner Tom Rune Lian works mainly with real estate, with emphasis on…
Kristian Martin Lind photoMr Kristian Martin LindKristian M. Lind advises clients operating or having interests in the technology,…
Ronny Lund photoMr Ronny LundPartner Ronny Lund works with contract law in general and construction law…
Simen Mejlænder photoMr Simen MejlænderPartner Simen Mejlænder’s practice focuses on capital market transactions, general company law…
Ståle O. Meleng photoMr Ståle O. MelengStåle O. Meleng works primarily with commercial properties, with emphasis on transactions,…
Andreas Mellbye photoMr Andreas MellbyePartner Andreas Mellbye works mainly with transactions in M&A, Private Equity and…
Petter Thomren Moltu photoMr Petter Thomren MoltuPetter advises on banking and financing. He assists both lenders and borrowers…
Petter Thomren  Moltu  photoMr Petter Thomren Moltu Petter advises on banking and financing. He assists both lenders and borrowers…
Thomas G Naalsund photoMr Thomas G NaalsundPartner Thomas G Naalsund specialises in dispute resolution and litigation, national and…
Rune Opdahl photoMr Rune OpdahlPartner Rune Opdahl works mainly with enterprises in the media, technology, e-commerce…
Tone Østensen photoMs Tone ØstensenPartner Tone Østensen has extensive experience as an advisor in capital market…
Hans Augun Parmann photoMr Hans Augun ParmannPartner Hans Augun Parmann specialises in litigation, dispute resolution and contract law,…
Olav Fr Perland photoMr Olav Fr PerlandPartner Olav Fr. Perland works mainly with dispute resolution and providing advisory…
Jon Rabben photoMr Jon RabbenJon Rabben assists Norwegian and international clients within the energy sector, and…
Ingjerd Røynås photoMs Ingjerd RøynåsPartner Ingjerd Røynås works mainly with mergers and acquisitions and in questions…
Karl Even Rygh photoMr Karl Even RyghPartner Karl Even Rygh works with shipping and offshore transactions, in particular…
Sverre Sandvik photoMr Sverre SandvikPartner Sverre Sandvik has extensive experience in advising on stock exchange listings,…
Anne Marie Sejersted photoMs Anne Marie SejerstedAnne Marie works primarily with intellectual property rights (IPR) and dispute resolution…
Magnus Nordøy Snellingen photoMr Magnus Nordøy SnellingenMagnus primarily works with dispute resolution in company, torts and contract law.…
Christel Søreide  photoMs Christel Søreide Christel heads Wiersholms employment law team and has extensive experience within employment…
Helge Morten Svarva photoMr Helge Morten SvarvaPartner Helge M. Svarva has extensive litigation experience from both his time…
Kaare P Sverdrup photoMr Kaare P SverdrupPartner Kaare P. Sverdrup works mainly with banking and finance, mortgage and…
Kai Thøgersen photoMr Kai ThøgersenPartner Kai Thøgersen has extensive national and international experience with providing corporate…
Kjersti T Trøbråten photoMs Kjersti T TrøbråtenPartner Kjersti T. Trøbråten is a specialist on securities law and framework…
Nicolay Vold photoMr Nicolay VoldPartner Nicolay Vold works mainly with tax law and company law and…
Theresa Schumacher Walberg photoMs Theresa Schumacher WalbergTheresa works with contract law, IT law, data privacy law and intellectual…

A client-centred international focus 

Our international approach is set up to best serve our clients’ needs, with a strong relationship-focused network, and lawyers with significant international experience. We assist Norwegian-headquartered companies with establishing a presence overseas and we assist foreign companies operating in or seeking to establish a presence in Norway. We often use our extensive international network of law firms and partners, which covers more than 100 jurisdictions and is the result of systematic work and long-term relationships. The network consists exclusively of top tier firms, and is managed closely by our international committee. 

Our experience 

From our base in Oslo, we assist our clients wherever they are or want to go in the world. We advise Norwegian companies on a wide range of international matters, cooperating seamlessly across borders and ensuring our clients receive a clear and consistent interface. We ensure they are up to date with international best practice and trends of importance to Norwegian-headquartered businesses. We also regularly assist foreign companies in Norway, and have in-depth experience with matters before the EFTA Court and the European Court of Human Rights. 

Our people 

Many of our lawyers were educated in or have work experience from significant jurisdictions outside Norway, with a significant number also having current overseas practicing qualifications (such as for England, the US, Germany, Sweden and Denmark)Their international competence gives us a natural ability to build cross-border bridges and makes us a preferred legal advisor in cross-border transactions or matters. Many of our lawyers have also been on secondments to international law firms and we regularly host international secondments in return.