Wiersholm > Oslo, Norway > Firm Profile
Wiersholm Offices

DOKKVEIEN 1
PO BOX 1400 VIKA
0115 OSLO
Norway
- Go to...
- Rankings
- Lawyer Profiles
- Additional Tab
Wiersholm > The Legal 500 Rankings
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 SverdrupPractice 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 ØstensenPractice head(s):
Sverre Sandvik; Simen Mejlænder
Other key lawyers:
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 effective‘ Sverre 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
Other key lawyers:
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
Other key lawyers:
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 FougnerPractice head(s):
Christel Søreide
Other key lawyers:
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
Other key lawyers:
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 knowledgeable‘ Elisabeth 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
Other key lawyers:
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 JohnsenPractice 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 GollerPractice head(s):
Morten Goller
Other key lawyers:
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 LianPractice 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
Other key lawyers:
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 ‘excellent‘ Hans Erik JohnsenPractice head(s):
Hans Erik Johnsen; Rune Opdahl; Anne Marie Sejersted; Kai Thøgersen
Other key lawyers:
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
Other key lawyers:
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
Other key lawyers:
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 FougnerPractice 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.
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Ms Eli Aasheim | Partner Eli Aasheim works mainly with employment law. Her practice covers all… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Stig L. Bech | Stig has for several decades been a leading real estate lawyer. He… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Andreas Bullen | Partner Andreas Bullen’s practice includes transfer pricing, international tax law, Norwegian company… | View Profile |
![]() | Kim Hellstrøm Christensen | Kim is a member of Wiersholm’s real estate department. He has over… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Håkon Cosma Størdal | Partner Håkon Cosma Størdal advises on EU/EEA law and is a specialist… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Gunhild Dugstad | Partner Gunhild Dugstad’s practice includes mergers and acquisitions, company law and the… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Sondre Dyrland | Dyrland has many years of experience with the oil and gas industry… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Inge Ekker Bartnes | Partner Inge Ekker Bartnes works mainly with mergers and acquisitions, energy law,… | View Profile |
![]() | Oda Hellenes Ekre | Oda works primarily with public procurement law, contract law and dispute resolution… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Anne Lise Ellingsen Gryte | Anne Lise Ellingsen Gryte practices corporate and securities law with an emphasis… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Georg Abusdal Engebretsen | Partner Georg Abusdal Engebretsen specialises in assisting Norwegian and international enterprises and… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Jan Fougner | Partner Jan Fougner is a specialist on litigation and employment law and… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Atle Gabrielsen | Partner Atle Gabrielsen works primarily with banking and finance issues. He regularly… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Ståle Gjengset | Partner Ståle Gjengset works mainly with providing legal and strategic advice and… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Morten Goller | Partner Morten Goller works with dispute resolution, including litigation and negotiations, in… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Mattias Grieg | Mattias works with shipping and offshore transactions. His main area of practice… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Svein-Helge Hanken | Svein-Helge works primarily with transactions, including purchase and sale of businesses for… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Kristine Hasle | Kristine Hasle is a banking and finance lawyer with particular focus on… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Christian Hauge | Partner Christian Hauge works on the areas of shipping and offshore, with… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Elisabeth Lian Haugsdal | Elisabeth works with competition law, EU/EEA law, state aid law, administrative law… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Harald Hellebust | Partner Harald Hellebust works mainly with transactions, including purchase and sale of… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Magnus Hellesylt | Partner Magnus Hellesylt has special expertise in litigation and dispute resolution, often… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Stephan L Jervell | Partner Stephan L. Jervell works with litigation, dispute resolution and negotiations, and… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Hans Erik Johnsen | Partner Hans Erik Johnsen’s practice includes intellectual property law, broadcasting/media law, technology… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Jarle Kvam | Partner Jarle Kvam works mainly with company law and stock exchange law,… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Tom Rune Lian | Partner Tom Rune Lian works mainly with real estate, with emphasis on… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Kristian Martin Lind | Kristian M. Lind advises clients operating or having interests in the technology,… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Ronny Lund | Partner Ronny Lund works with contract law in general and construction law… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Simen Mejlænder | Partner Simen Mejlænder’s practice focuses on capital market transactions, general company law… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Ståle O. Meleng | Ståle O. Meleng works primarily with commercial properties, with emphasis on transactions,… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Andreas Mellbye | Partner Andreas Mellbye works mainly with transactions in M&A, Private Equity and… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Petter Thomren Moltu | Petter advises on banking and financing. He assists both lenders and borrowers… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Petter Thomren Moltu | Petter advises on banking and financing. He assists both lenders and borrowers… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Thomas G Naalsund | Partner Thomas G Naalsund specialises in dispute resolution and litigation, national and… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Rune Opdahl | Partner Rune Opdahl works mainly with enterprises in the media, technology, e-commerce… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Tone Østensen | Partner Tone Østensen has extensive experience as an advisor in capital market… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Hans Augun Parmann | Partner Hans Augun Parmann specialises in litigation, dispute resolution and contract law,… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Olav Fr Perland | Partner Olav Fr. Perland works mainly with dispute resolution and providing advisory… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Jon Rabben | Jon Rabben assists Norwegian and international clients within the energy sector, and… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Ingjerd Røynås | Partner Ingjerd Røynås works mainly with mergers and acquisitions and in questions… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Karl Even Rygh | Partner Karl Even Rygh works with shipping and offshore transactions, in particular… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Sverre Sandvik | Partner Sverre Sandvik has extensive experience in advising on stock exchange listings,… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Anne Marie Sejersted | Anne Marie works primarily with intellectual property rights (IPR) and dispute resolution… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Magnus Nordøy Snellingen | Magnus primarily works with dispute resolution in company, torts and contract law.… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Christel Søreide | Christel heads Wiersholms employment law team and has extensive experience within employment… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Helge Morten Svarva | Partner Helge M. Svarva has extensive litigation experience from both his time… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Kaare P Sverdrup | Partner Kaare P. Sverdrup works mainly with banking and finance, mortgage and… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Kai Thøgersen | Partner Kai Thøgersen has extensive national and international experience with providing corporate… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Kjersti T Trøbråten | Partner Kjersti T. Trøbråten is a specialist on securities law and framework… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Nicolay Vold | Partner Nicolay Vold works mainly with tax law and company law and… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Theresa Schumacher Walberg | Theresa works with contract law, IT law, data privacy law and intellectual… | View Profile |
International Capabilities
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.
- Banking and finance (including shipping finance)
- Capital markets
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Energy
- EU and competition
- Insurance
- Intellectual property
- Maritime law
- Public procurement
- Real estate
- Tax
- TMT