Juris > Reykjavik, Iceland > Firm Profile

Juris Offices

Juris
BORGARTÚN 26
105 REYKJAVÍK
Iceland
Visit website 354 580 4400 354 580 4401

Juris > The Legal 500 Rankings

Iceland > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1

Juris, renowned for its ‘deep expertise in corporate law, combined with an open-minded and solution-driven approach’, assists clients with comprehensive corporate and commercial advice on all aspects of the business, particularly in the fishing, energy, hospitality, technology, and property development sectors. The practice is jointly led by Halldór Jónsson and Andri Árnason, who handle large-scale corporate and development projects, as well as financial regulatory matters. Simon Knight has extensive expertise in both Icelandic and English law and is well equipped to assist both Icelandic and international clients on a wide range of corporate matters across various industry sectors, including infrastructure and energy. Ingvar Ásmundsson is another key member, providing guidance to companies and investors on corporate issues, including offering support to start-ups.

Practice head(s):

Halldór Jónsson; Andri Árnason

Other key lawyers:

Simon Knight; Ingvar Ásmundsson

Testimonials

‘This law firm is unique due to its flexible approach and innovative mindset, particularly in corporate law. Potential clients would appreciate the team’s ability to think outside the box and tailor solutions to complex legal challenges. Compared to other firms, this practice stands out for its dynamic problem-solving skills, commitment to client-centric strategies, and adaptability to diverse situations.’

‘The individuals at this law firm stand out due to their deep expertise in corporate law, combined with an open-minded and solution-driven approach. They differ from competitors by being firm and decisive in their responses, demonstrating exceptional determination to achieve the best outcomes for their clients.’

‘Halldór Jónsson has unparalleled knowledge of corporate structures and regulations, consistently delivering creative, well-grounded solutions to complex issues. Andri Árnason is equally impressive, known for his sharp analytical skills and unwavering commitment to client success.’

Key clients

Kerecis hf.

Kvika banki hf.

Novator Partners LLP

HS Orka hf.

Sikmas ehf.

Ísfélag hf.

Lýsi hf.

Mjólkursamsalan ehf.

Summa Rekstrarfélag hf.

Nýsköpunarsjóður atvinnulífsins

Ice-Group ehf.

wpd international GmbH

Olink Holding AB

Work highlights

  • Advised Ísfélag on its $800m listing on the Nasdaq Main Market.
  • Advised on the sale of Dive is to Icelandia.
  • Advised the management team of Kerecis on its sale to Coloplast.

Iceland > Dispute resolution Tier 1

The ‘competent and efficient team’ at Juris provides litigation support to clients across various sectors, including those involved in the public services and private investment. Renowned for its expertise in managing high-value and complex disputes, the practice excels in property and construction conflicts, administrative law issues, and cases within the banking and financial sectors. Additionally, the partners’ experience with the Icelandic Competition Authority positions the practice as a preferred choice for contentious competition matters. Practice leaders Andri Árnason and Stefán A. Svensson are litigation experts, with Árnason specialising in financial litigation, and Svensson focusing on competition and planning litigation. Andri Andrason is a notable figure in commercial and financial litigation, while Simon Knight serves as a key contact for financial and corporate law matters.

Practice head(s):

Andri Árnason; Stefán A. Svensson

Other key lawyers:

Andri Andrason; Simon Knight

Testimonials

‘Competent and expedite team. Give direct and honest advice based on their experience and knowledge. Have the ability to see both sides of any argument and explain to the client. Always aim for reaching a solution and move forward. Very articulate and well-argued letters and statements.’

‘Simon Knight is a stand-out partner – always attentive and gives excellent advice.’

‘Our company has had the pleasure of working with Juris Law Firm, and we are extremely satisfied with their services. The firm’s legal expertise and professionalism have been instrumental in navigating complex corporate matters. They have consistently provided clear, concise, and practical advice, helping us make informed business decisions.’

‘Stefán A. Svensson has in-depth expertise in various legal fields. He has strong communication skills as well as analytical skills. Stefan‘s attention to detail ensures thorough review of documents, while his problem-solving abilities help navigate complex legal challenges.’

‘The team distinguishes itself through its strategic approach, deep legal expertise, and client-focused service. They really understand the business context of disputes. The team’s strong collaboration and responsiveness make them a reliable partner.’

‘Simon Knight stands out due to his expertise, proactive communication, and dedication to client success. He combines strategic insight with practical advice, consistently guiding the client toward the best outcomes. I’ve especially valued his problem-solving skills and ability to provide clear, actionable solutions.’

Key clients

Icelandic Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs

Landsbankinn hf.

Kvika banki hf.

University of Iceland

Íslandsbanki hf.

Gamma Capital Management hf.

Work highlights

  • Advised Landsbankinn hf. regarding the legality of variable interest rates in consumer mortgages.
  • Advised Huginn regarding the legality of distribution of mackerel fishing quotas.
  • Advised the Icelandic State Broadcaster against claims arising out of its investigative journalism.

Iceland > Real estate and construction Tier 1

Juris advises clients across various industries on real estate and construction matters, including residential, commercial, and energy sector projects, lease issues, and planning matters. A significant case the practice has been involved in is managing force majeure issues in construction contracts while assisting the Icelandic state with the acquisition of all residential properties in Grindavík after volcanic activity made the town uninhabitable. Practice leader Halldór Jónsson handles residential construction projects, including the development of formerly industrial zones into new mixed-use residential, commercial, and retail zones. Hildur Þórarinsdóttir, who was promoted to the partnership in May 2024, focuses on the procurement of construction contracts and related disputes, while key associate Sigrún Magnúsdóttir is also a noteworthy contributor to the practice.

Practice head(s):

Halldór Jónsson

Other key lawyers:

Hildur Þórarinsdóttir; Sigrún Magnúsdóttir; Simon Knight

Testimonials

‘Good knowledge and very professional.’

Key clients

Icelandic Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs

Reykjavík Energy (Orkuveita Reykjavíkur)

Reykjavík Fibre Network

Veitur Utilities

ON Power

Carbfix

Work highlights

  • Advised Skuggi on its residential real estate development projects.
  • Advised Samtök fjármálafyrirtækja (Finance Iceland) on the financing of the purchase of all residential housing in the town of Grindavík.
  • Advised Innviðir fjárfestingar II on its purchase of the Seltjörn nursing home.

Iceland > Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 2

Juris provides a comprehensive range of services, advising across all areas of banking and finance, with a particular focus on transactions, regulatory matters, and project finance mandates. This includes large-scale financing projects across various sectors, including the fishing, shipping, energy and hospitality spaces, and property development issues. The practice is co-led by Halldór Jónsson, Andri Árnason, and Sigurbjörn Magnússon. Árnason specialises in tax litigation and has significant experience in banking and financial regulatory matters. Hildur Þórarinsdóttir advises on financial regulatory issues and GDPR within the context of financial business, and Ingvar Ásmundsson is recommended for debt financing mandates.

Practice head(s):

Halldór Jónsson; Andri Árnason; Sigurbjörn Magnússon

Other key lawyers:

Hildur Þórarinsdóttir; Ingvar Ásmundsson

Key clients

Kvika banki hf.

KvikaÍslandsbanki hf.

KvikaÍsfélag hf.

Work highlights

  • Advised HS Orka on its $290m senior debt financing.
  • Advised Samtök fjármálafyrirtækja (Finance Iceland) on the financing of the purchase of all residential housing in the town of Grindavík.
  • Advised Landsbankinn hf. in cases regarding the legality of variable interest rates in consumer mortgages.

Iceland > EEA and competition Tier 2

Juris provides specialist advice to large corporations and commercial clients on competition law, as well as handling cross-border projects finance work involving EEA issues, state aid considerations, GDPR obligations, and EEA agricultural policy. The practice is co-led by Andri Árnason, who is one of the leading Icelandic litigators in the field of competition law, and Stefán A. Svensson, who is well versed within both transactional and contentious competition and other EEA matters, such as EEA financial and consumer law. Hildur Þórarinsdóttir was promoted into partnership in May 2024.

Practice head(s):

Andri Árnason; Stefán A. Svensson

Other key lawyers:

Finnur Magnússon; Þórarinn Þorgeinsson; Hildur Þórarinsdóttir

Testimonials

‘I have worked a lot with the amazing team at Juris. I have to say that I could not be happier with their services.’

‘The service at Juris is always very professional, their work is thorough and with out exception, exceptional. They have a great eye for details, are very professional and always quick to respond to any issues. They are “all in” with every matter.’

‘If given a grade, they get ten out of ten.’

‘Finnur Magnússon is our main lawyer and has been for around 20 years. Alongside him, I mostly work with Þórarinn Þorgeinsson, and these two are a great team. They complement each other and see matters from different perspectives but with discussion and reason, coming to a solution.’

‘I highly value their work and am thankful for having such a great team looking out for our interest.’

‘Juris’ legal team has comprehensive knowledge of the EEA agreement as well as legislation in the EEA member countries. The team has a lot of resources to work on cases quickly and efficiently, and their analyses are more comprehensive and detailed than at other firms I have worked with. They are a highly professional and solution-oriented team.’

‘I have mostly worked with partner Finnur Magnússon, and specialist Þórarinn Þorgeirsson. They are highly dedicated to their work and always deliver high-quality analyses and legal guidance. The work has been very beneficial and enjoyable. Honesty, trust, and positive attitude characterises the cases they have worked on.’

Key clients

Arion Bank hf.

Landsbankinn hf.

Kvika banki hf.

Work highlights

  • Advised Landsbankinn hf. in cases regarding the legality of variable interest rates in consumer mortgages.
  • Advised Olink Holding on Icelandic merger control in its acquisition by Thermo Fisher Scientific.
  • Advised Mjólkursamsalan on Iceland’s draft new agricultural policy.

Iceland > Maritime and transport Tier 2

Juris, which is renowned for its ‘deep sector knowledge’, has strong focus on the fishing industry, handling matters related to fishing quotas and aquaculture; the team also advises on investments in research and technology to advance the maritime sector. The practice is jointly led by Sigurbjörn Magnússon, who is well versed in advising companies in the fishing sector on their operations, and Finnur Magnússon, who supports maritime and transport companies on all aspects of their business.

Practice head(s):

Sigurbjörn Magnússon; Finnur Magnússon

Testimonials

‘The Maritime and Transportation Practice Team at Juris stands out for their deep sector knowledge and practical understanding of complex matters. Their expertise in handling a wide range of maritime disputes and transactions, combined with their efficient, client-focused approach, sets them apart from competitors.’

Key clients

Eimskip Ísland hf.

InstaVolt

Eksportfinansiering Norge

Work highlights

  • Advised Ísfélag on its $800m listing on the Nasdaq Main Market.
  • Advised Huginn in a case regarding the legality of distribution of mackerel fishing quotas.
  • Advised Hvalur hf. in submissions to the Icelandic Parliamentary Ombudsman.

Iceland > Restructuring and insolvency Tier 2

Juris offers clients comprehensive guidance across all aspects of restructuring and insolvency law. The practice is co-led by Andri Árnason, who is noted for his experience in the contentious and financial aspects of restructurings and insolvency work, and Halldór Jónsson, who frequently serves as company liquidator and has substantial expertise in restructuring matters.

Practice head(s):

Andri Árnason; Halldór Jónsson

Key clients

Summa Rekstrarfélag hf.

Samtök fjármálafyrirtækja (Finance Iceland)

Sikmas ehf.

Work highlights

  • Advised Samtök fjármálafyrirtækja (Finance Iceland) on the financing of the purchase of all residential housing in the town of Grindavík.
  • Advised Sikmas ehf. on a group reorganisation and restructuring.

Iceland > TMT and IP Tier 3

The ‘very supportive’ practice at Juris assists a broad range of clients, from start-ups to market leaders, on a variety of TMT and IP issues, handling matters in relation to constitutional and human rights, such as journalistic and media freedom and freedom of expression. Andri Árnason and Stefán A. Svensson jointly lead the practice; Árnason represents clients in the media and telecoms sectors, and Svensson focuses on freedom of expression cases and other human rights work.

Practice head(s):

Andri Árnason; Stefán A. Svensson

Testimonials

‘The Juris Team has been very supportive to us as IT/FinTech developers. They have backed us up in a good way and have explained legal terms and legal processes in such a way that we as Tech people understand well what needs to be done.’

Key clients

Fyrirtækjamiðstöð Íslands

Ísfélag hf.

Árvakur hf.

Míla hf.

RÚV ohf.

Outcome kannanir ehf.

Work highlights

  • Advised the Icelandic State Broadcaster in cases regarding press freedom.
  • Advising Outcome kannanir on the development of its online voting system for corporate meetings.

Juris > Firm Profile

The firm: Juris as it is known today was created as a result of three waves of mergers between 2006 and 2011 involving the practices of some of Iceland’s leading lawyers. The origins of the firm, however, date back to 1953, ranking Juris among Iceland’s more venerable law firms.

Many of Juris’ clients are long-standing, with relationships dating back decades, a testament to Juris’ uncompromising standards and its prompt, practical and commercially focused advice.

As Icelandic and global society has changed, Juris has been responsive and adapted to meet the changing needs of its clients. During the COVID-19 pandemic we were active in advising our clients on their rights and obligations associated with the pandemic as well as on their options to adapt their businesses and contracts. We are also active in assisting clients with matters related to climate change and energy transition.

Areas of practice: Juris concentrates on commercial and financial matters. We are the only Icelandic law firm with native Icelandic and English lawyers working together in Reykjavík,  with the result that our cross-border work is a major strength and we are able to provide seamless cross-border legal advice, benefiting clients in terms of expertise, accessibility and cost.

A number of the firm’s lawyers have previously worked in-house at major organisations with the result that we are familiar with the workings of business and understand its needs and priorities. Juris advises on a wide range of issues involving Icelandic and English law including new project finance developments which, among many other issues, require us to consider and advise on environmental law and tax, other corporate and financing transactions, M&A and investment work, including from overseas, as well as AML/ATF, data protection, general commercial and contract law work. The firm is also recognised as Iceland’s leading firm in dispute resolution, as well as competition issues, both contentious and non-contentious, and restructuring and insolvency.

Our clients operate in a variety of sectors, including banking and finance, resources (including fishing and energy), hospitality, infrastructure, telecommunications and technology, property development and construction.

Main Contacts

Department Name Email Telephone
Banking and Finance Simon Knight [email protected]
Banking and Finance Vífill Harðarson [email protected]
Competition and Regulatory Hólmfríður B. Sigurðardóttir [email protected]
Competition and Regulatory Stefán A. Svensson [email protected]
Constitutional and Administrative Edda Andradóttir [email protected]
Constitutional and Administrative Finnur Magnússon [email protected]
Construction Edda Andradóttir [email protected]
Construction Halldór Jónsson [email protected]
Corporate and Commercial Lárus Blöndal [email protected]
Corporate and Commercial Simon Knight [email protected]
Dispute Resolution Stefán A. Svensson [email protected]
Dispute Resolution Finnur Magnússon [email protected]
Property Andri Andrason [email protected]
Property Vífill Harðarson [email protected]
Restructuring and Insolvency Bjarni Aðalgeirsson [email protected]
Restructuring and Insolvency Halldór Jónsson [email protected]

Meet The Team(s)

Solicitor Profiles

Photo Name Position Profile
Vífill Harðarson photo Mr Vífill Harðarson Partner. View Profile
Simon Knight photo Mr Simon Knight Partner. View Profile
Katherine Nichols photo Ms Katherine Nichols Consultant. View Profile

Staff Figures

Number of lawyers : 21

Languages

English
Icelandic
other Scandinavian languages

Other

Contacts : Simon Knight ([email protected])
Contacts : Finnur Magnússon ([email protected])
Contacts : Stefán A Svensson ([email protected])
Contacts : Vífill Harðarson ([email protected])

Diversity/Community


At Juris we know that a diverse team increases collaboration and creative approaches to problem solving, enabling us to provide an exceptional service to all of our clients. Our commitment to inclusion extends to every race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.