Showcasing an ‘ability to work constructively with municipalities and other stakeholders', Ellex Klavins’ practice covers the full spectrum of real estate matters in both the private and the public sector due to relations with the government and municipalities, with work ranging from development to transactions and disputes. The group at large is well versed in construction law, particularly construction contracts. Ivars Pommers heads up the group, a versatile practitioner within real estate and construction, whose work in 2025 increasingly involved real estate transactions with tax-structuring elements. Elsewhere, Ilga Gudrenika-Krebs is described by one client as a ‘true virtuoso in real estate transactions’, and Inese Freivalde has deep expertise in construction contracts.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Ellex's Latvian team is highly business oriented, i.e focused on assisting the client's commercial interests.'
- ‘Ilga Gudrenika-Krebs is a true virtuoso in real estate transactions. All details of our transaction were handled wisely, independently and very efficiently, it was a great pleasure to work with her. Early on, we understood the negotiations were in good hands, thanks to Ilga we got terms better that we had expected, yet she skilfully avoided any "deal breaking" situations. Ilga's personality created a negotiating climate on a constant positive and professional note, which smoothly moved the process forward until the final closure.’
- ‘The team was genuinely interested in achieving the best solution. They delved into every nuance and impressed with their operational efficiency, bringing in specialists from relevant legal fields when needed.’
- ‘The specialists' difference from competitors lies in the fact that their goal is to achieve the best possible result. We highly value their ability to listen to the client's needs and to very accurately explain what is possible and what is not. They do not create false hope.’
- ‘Ellex’s real estate and construction team is highly proactive and solution-oriented. Their ability to work constructively with municipalities and other stakeholders makes them a reliable partner for large-scale developments.’
- ‘The individuals we work with stand out for their proactive attitude, accessibility, and support during negotiations. They are precise in legal matters but also anticipate risks and propose workable solutions early. Their responsiveness and ability to integrate into the client’s team sets them apart from competitors.’
Key clients
- Blackstone
- IKEA Latvian franchise holder SIA Paul Mason Properties/SIA Verus Praedium
- SIA Leifar
- Eastnine
- VIG Fund
- Swedbank AS
- Luminor
- Bonava
- YIT
- Orkla
- Depo
- Kesko
Work highlights
Advising HOF ehf (Iceland) on closing a deal with Inter Ikea Group for the sale of Ikea retail business in the Baltics.
Advised Lords LB on development of a multifunctional office/retail/hotel development Preses Nama Kvartāls in Riga.
Advising Agricultural Services Cooperative Society LATRAPS on concluding an agreement with Pfeifer & Langen International B.V. on the development of ASNS Ingredient pea protein isolate plant in Jelgava.
Lawyers
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Leading associates
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Practice head
Ivars Pommers
Other key lawyers
Ilga Gudrenika-Krebs; Inese Freivalde