Law Firm TEGOS (Formerly TGS Baltic)

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Anu Kirss is an experienced lawyer specialising in employment law, corporate law, data protection, and the energy sector. International legal directories recognise her as a “calm and precise lawyer” known for her fast response times and innovative approach. With over 15 years of experience, Anu advises clients on both individual and collective employment relations, including management contracts, business secrets protection, and issues related to mergers, acquisitions, and company restructuring. She has represented clients in complex employment disputes and has been a member of the Employment Law Committee of the Estonian Bar Association since 2017. Anu also has deep expertise in data protection and privacy law, guiding clients through General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance, conducting audits, and delivering training. In the energy sector, Anu has over 10 years of experience advising electricity, gas, and heat companies on energy market issues, price coordination procedures, and disputes with regulators. She has assisted clients with network operator service areas, cogeneration plants, wind farms, and renewable energy issues. Recently, Anu has advised several international gas companies on their activities in Estonia.

Triinu Järviste

Triinu Järviste is a leading competition law specialist, praised for her ability to approach antitrust issues from a broader economic perspective. She advises clients on all aspects of competition law, including criminal proceedings, merger control, and competition law claims in civil courts. Triinu has significant experience in state aid matters, representing both grantors and recipients in proceedings before the European Commission and national courts. She has helped several public entities navigate state aid audits and ensure compliance. With deep expertise in regulatory sectors such as electricity, gas, post, water management, electronic communications, and transport, Triinu advises clients on issues including price regulation, renewable energy support systems, and network-related matters. She is a member of the Competition Law Committee of the Estonian Bar Association and lectures on competition law offences at the University of Tartu.

Kedli Anvelt is a counsel specialising in dispute resolution and insolvency law. She represents clients in complex civil disputes, including bankruptcy, reorganisation, financial litigation, and criminal proceedings related to economic offences. Kedli is recognised for her extensive experience in evidentially complex and precedent-setting cases, making her a trusted representative in high-stakes court proceedings. As the firm’s insolvency law expert, she advises on all aspects of insolvency, including cross-border issues, restructuring, and refinancing. She also plays a key role in the field, serving as head of the bankruptcy committee in Estonia’s first precedent-setting management company insolvency case. Kedli is known for her dedication, cheerful nature, and deep commitment to her work.

Helmut Pikmets is renowned for resolving complex tax matters with speed, clarity, and strategic foresight. He advises on all areas of tax law, including M&A, restructurings, and transactions, with clients ranging from Orlen Estonia and Swedbank to Michelin and Turkish Airlines. He has led landmark cases before the Estonian Supreme Court – most notably the Sylvester share transfer dispute, the largest tax case in Baltic history – as well as a constitutional challenge on fuel tax bonds. Helmut also represents clients in criminal tax proceedings and has appeared before the European Court of Human Rights.

Ingeri Luik-Tamme

Ingeri Luik-Tamme is one of Estonia’s leading experts in healthcare and pharmaceutical law, with over 20 years of specialised experience. She advises clients on establishing healthcare providers, designing medical services, and handling sensitive data protection matters (including the use of AI) in the sector. Her expertise covers pharmaceutical development projects, clinical trials, and advising international companies on regulatory issues such as licensing, advertising, and pricing. Ingeri also represents healthcare providers in patient compensation disputes and leads GDPR compliance projects for organisations processing large volumes of personal data. She is a frequent speaker and trainer, having delivered seminars both in Estonia and internationally on medical law and healthcare regulation. Since 2019, she has been a member of the Estonian Committee on Bioethics and Human Research.

Dr. Leonid Tolstov is an accomplished litigator and corporate advisor, representing clients in disputes related to shareholder relations, management liability, and corporate transactions. He has successfully argued landmark cases at all court levels, including the Supreme Court, and is known for helping resolve complex conflicts through negotiation. A dedicated academic, he lectures on non-contractual obligations at the University of Tartu and has published widely in both local and international journals. His doctoral thesis explored the liability of directors towards company creditors. Leonid also serves on the Supervisory Board of Estiko, a major Estonian real estate developer.

Peeter Viirsalu

Peeter Viirsalu specialises in intellectual property, insolvency, construction, and real estate law. Recognised by Legal 500 for his professionalism and responsiveness, he is appreciated by clients for his clear, honest advice and swift turnaround. In insolvency, Peeter primarily represents bankruptcy trustees and creditors, advising on bankruptcy proceedings and disputes. He also provides guidance on intellectual property matters, including copyright, trademarks, and licensing. As an experienced litigator, Peeter has represented clients in public interest civil law disputes and construction, commercial, and contract law disputes. He has led several high-profile legal audits, including for Eesti Energia, Port of Tallinn, and the City of Tallinn. Peeter serves as the National Correspondent for INSOL Europe and has published articles on bankruptcy and reorganisation. He has lectured at the University of Tartu since 2010 and given seminars for major companies such as Swedbank, Nordea, and SEB Bank.

Triin Kaurov is highly praised for her dispute resolution work, both in litigation and at the pre-court stage. With extensive experience in administrative and civil matters, Triin has advised clients on day-to-day business activities and in making strategically important decisions. Her expertise spans various sectors, including electronic communications, electricity, postal services, water regulation, waste management, and public procurement. Triin has represented both entrepreneurs and public authorities, providing legal advice on complex legislative matters, permits, licensing requirements, and enforcement issues. She has notably represented 24 Estonian municipalities in a Supreme Court constitutional review of the Administrative Reform Act and has challenged forced mergers in Estonia. Triin has also drafted key legal analyses, including on the transposition of European Commission directives into Estonian legislation and the constitutionality of the Administrative Reform Act. In employment law, Triin has broad experience, having worked as an HR lawyer and advised on employment contracts, confidentiality agreements, non-competition clauses, and occupational health and safety disputes. She has also represented clients in complex employment-related cases.

Merli Mäesalu has extensive experience in constitutional and administrative law, with a strong focus on dispute resolution. She represents clients in court, particularly in matters related to planning, construction, environmental law, and state liability. Merli has advised both public authorities and private companies, including in EU aid proceedings, licensing processes, and disputes with various supervisory bodies. Her background at Tallinn Administrative Court has given her valuable practical insight into challenging administrative decisions. Merli has also conducted academic research in litigation and continues to support clients in complex administrative procedures.

Dmitri Teplõhh

Dmitri Teplõhh specialises in advising clients on white-collar crime and tax matters. With extensive experience in criminal law, Dmitri previously worked at the Northern District Prosecutor’s Office, where he supervised criminal proceedings as a District Prosecutor and handled cases related to taxation. He advises clients on value-added tax (VAT), customs matters, and represents them in criminal and misdemeanour proceedings related to white-collar crimes.

Recognised by Legal 500, Chambers & Partners, Best Lawyers, and IFLR as a leading expert, Kadri is known for her pragmatic, quick, and solution-oriented approach. With extensive experience in commercial and corporate law, M&A, private equity, and venture capital, Kadri Kallas advises strategic investors, private equity funds, and growth companies on investments, joint ventures, mergers, and acquisitions. She has also worked at the London office of a major US-based law firm.

Martti Peetsalu

Martti Peetsalu is a leading expert in shipping and transport law, recognised by prestigious international directories for his practical, diligent, and responsive approach. Clients appreciate his analytical, pro-active, and commercial mindset, comparing his strategic thinking to that of a chess player—always thinking several steps ahead. With extensive experience in shipping law, Martti has litigated landmark cases, particularly in ship arrest issues, shaping Estonia’s reputation for having an efficient legal system and strong maritime case law. He has also handled cases involving road carriers, freight forwarders, forced vessel sales, cargo claims, and issues related to the carriage of goods and passengers by air. Martti has successfully represented clients in significant Supreme Court cases concerning shareholder disputes, company division, and board member liabilities, which have shaped Estonian case law. He has also gained valuable experience in rail carriage and railway infrastructure charges. He has further honed his expertise at Dabelstein & Passehl (Arnecke Sibeth Dabelstein), a law firm specialising in the transport sector. Martti also serves on the national revision committee on national defence law and co-authored analyses on court procedures in a state of emergency.

Recognised as a leading Corporate and M&A expert, Sander Kärson is valued for his forward-thinking, solution-driven approach. As Managing Partner, he plays a key role in the firm’s transactional work and regularly advises local and international investors on cross-border matters. He contributes to legislative development through his work with the Ministry of Justice’s audit committee and has co-authored authoritative commentaries on suretyship and guarantees. He also lectures on contract law, company law, and M&A at the University of Tartu.

Described by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 as “extremely knowledgeable” and “widely respected,” Paul Varul is often referred to as the father of Estonian bankruptcy law. He advises on all areas of private law, with deep expertise in insolvency and contract law, and has acted in numerous high-profile disputes, including international arbitration in Stockholm, London, and Washington. He is also a respected arbitrator and expert witness in global proceedings. Paul was a principal drafter of the Estonian Bankruptcy Act and chairs the Ministry of Justice’s Insolvency Law Expert Commission. A member of the International Insolvency Institute and INSOL Europe, he also co-authored the European Common Frame of Reference and led the drafting of Estonia’s Law of Obligations Act, Commercial Code, and Civil Code General Part as Chair of the Private Law Commission.

Recognised as a leading expert in banking and finance, Kirsti Pent is known for her efficiency and innovative solutions. With 16 years of experience, she specialises in advising financial institutions on regulatory matters, capital raising, and financing transactions. Kirsti’s expertise includes helping clients navigate the Estonian Financial Supervision Authority’s licensing process, responding to regulatory inquiries, and guiding clients through remote and on-site inspections. She is also experienced in drafting standard contracts and providing strategic advice on financing.

Elina Varendi specialises in banking, finance, and IT law, with a particular focus on fintech, start-up funding, and alternative financing. She has advised on numerous bond and loan financing transactions across Estonia and the Baltic region, and guided clients through admission to trading facilities. Elina has in-depth experience with licensing processes before the Estonian Financial Supervision Authority, supporting both local and international institutions. Her work also includes setting up innovative fund management structures and advising on regulatory matters for crowdfunding and AML compliance. In the IT-law space, she regularly assists clients with privacy policies, software licensing, and digital compliance.

A civil and cross-border disputes expert, Chirag Mody specialises in arbitration, litigation, and complex matters such as board liability, construction, finance, tech, libel, and bankruptcy. Known for his deep legal insight and business-first mindset, he is regularly praised by clients as a “stellar litigator” with “exceptional acumen” (Legal 500). He has acted in major proceedings before domestic and international courts and arbitration panels, and often serves as an arbitrator himself. A respected academic, Chirag has taught civil procedure, contract law, and legal argumentation at the University of Tartu for over a decade. He has also been honoured in prestigious international moot court competitions, including Telders and Vis Moot.

Sergei Jegorov focuses on corporate taxation, advising clients on tax risk assessments and corporate restructurings. His daily work covers value-added tax, excise duties, and income tax matters, often involving cross-border elements. Sergei has extensive experience representing clients in disputes with tax authorities. He has also been involved in high-profile cases, including proceedings against companies and their directors. He frequently handles complex tax matters with broader legal or constitutional implications.

Mirko Kikkamägi

Mirko Kikkamägi has extensive international experience and specialises in mergers and acquisitions, private equity, venture capital, and corporate law. He is actively involved in the start-up sector, advising on early-stage investments and supporting founders as they grow their businesses. Mirko has served as in-house counsel at Swedbank and gained international experience at the Frankfurt office of Clifford Chance, where he focused on financing transactions across Central and Eastern Europe, Southeastern Europe, and Turkey. His expertise includes investment-grade deals, leveraged and real estate finance, export finance, and transactions in developing markets.

Mari Anne Rohtla

Mari Anne Rohtla is a recognised expert in market regulation. She has advised hundreds of international and local businesses on navigating complex regulatory landscapes, helping ensure compliance and mitigate legal risks. Her deep knowledge of EU law, combined with a passion for the food and retail sectors, makes her a trusted adviser on matters ranging from advertising and product labelling to supply chain and consumer protection. With extensive experience in regulatory proceedings and litigation, Mari Anne is also a go-to adviser on ESG and broader compliance issues.

Olger Kaelep advises credit institutions, fintech and crowdfunding companies, insurers, payment service providers, and fund managers on a wide range of legal matters. Known for his calm and thorough approach, Olger has played a key role in various major projects, including cross-border mergers in the financial sector. Olger has also advised clients on copyright and intellectual property issues. From experience in a leading bank as a credit lawyer and later in a managerial role, he has in-depth knowledge of credit and collateral contracts, as well as complex financing deals.

Described by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 as “extremely knowledgeable” and “widely respected,” Paul Varul is often referred to as the father of Estonian bankruptcy law. He advises on all areas of private law, with deep expertise in insolvency and contract law, and has acted in numerous high-profile disputes, including international arbitration in Stockholm, London, and Washington. He is also a respected arbitrator and expert witness in global proceedings. Paul was a principal drafter of the Estonian Bankruptcy Act and chairs the Ministry of Justice’s Insolvency Law Expert Commission. A member of the International Insolvency Institute and INSOL Europe, he also co-authored the European Common Frame of Reference and led the drafting of Estonia’s Law of Obligations Act, Commercial Code, and Civil Code General Part as Chair of the Private Law Commission.

Peeter Viirsalu

Peeter Viirsalu specialises in intellectual property, insolvency, construction, and real estate law. Recognised by Legal 500 for his professionalism and responsiveness, he is appreciated by clients for his clear, honest advice and swift turnaround. In insolvency, Peeter primarily represents bankruptcy trustees and creditors, advising on bankruptcy proceedings and disputes. He also provides guidance on intellectual property matters, including copyright, trademarks, and licensing. As an experienced litigator, Peeter has represented clients in public interest civil law disputes and construction, commercial, and contract law disputes. He has led several high-profile legal audits, including for Eesti Energia, Port of Tallinn, and the City of Tallinn. Peeter serves as the National Correspondent for INSOL Europe and has published articles on bankruptcy and reorganisation. He has lectured at the University of Tartu since 2010 and given seminars for major companies such as Swedbank, Nordea, and SEB Bank.

Dr. Leonid Tolstov is an accomplished litigator and corporate advisor, representing clients in disputes related to shareholder relations, management liability, and corporate transactions. He has successfully argued landmark cases at all court levels, including the Supreme Court, and is known for helping resolve complex conflicts through negotiation. A dedicated academic, he lectures on non-contractual obligations at the University of Tartu and has published widely in both local and international journals. His doctoral thesis explored the liability of directors towards company creditors. Leonid also serves on the Supervisory Board of Estiko, a major Estonian real estate developer.

Triin Kaurov is highly praised for her dispute resolution work, both in litigation and at the pre-court stage. With extensive experience in administrative and civil matters, Triin has advised clients on day-to-day business activities and in making strategically important decisions. Her expertise spans various sectors, including electronic communications, electricity, postal services, water regulation, waste management, and public procurement. Triin has represented both entrepreneurs and public authorities, providing legal advice on complex legislative matters, permits, licensing requirements, and enforcement issues. She has notably represented 24 Estonian municipalities in a Supreme Court constitutional review of the Administrative Reform Act and has challenged forced mergers in Estonia. Triin has also drafted key legal analyses, including on the transposition of European Commission directives into Estonian legislation and the constitutionality of the Administrative Reform Act. In employment law, Triin has broad experience, having worked as an HR lawyer and advised on employment contracts, confidentiality agreements, non-competition clauses, and occupational health and safety disputes. She has also represented clients in complex employment-related cases.