
Noted for ‘technical legal expertise with a pragmatic approach’, Advokatfirmaet Hjort provides advisory and dispute services to public project owners, contractors, and developers. Aslak Førde leads the group, and his practice sits at the intersection of construction and contract law. Finn Magne Prydz combines his knowledge of construction with his expertise in dispute resolution, while Ailu Gaup Stadigs acts for public and private sector clients. Aleksander Bergby Henriksen and Martin Steinnes both assist with construction disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The individual (Ailu Stadigs) I worked with truly stood out for his professionalism, dedication, and deep understanding of both the legal and commercial aspects of our case. What made him different from competitors was his ability to combine legal precision with a pragmatic, solution-oriented mindset. He was not only technically strong, but also an excellent communicator and strategic advisor. I particularly valued his responsiveness, clarity in communication, and ability to remain focused under pressure. His collaborative style fostered trust and made the process feel like a true partnership. One of the most impressive aspects of working with Stadigs was his efficiency and fast response time. He consistently delivered high-quality advice and documentation within tight deadlines, which was crucial in a fast-moving and high-stakes situation. His ability to act swiftly without compromising on quality made a real difference. His ability to anticipate challenges and guide me through complex negotiations was impressive.
- Advokatfirmaet Hjort’s construction practice has been highly responsive and client-focused. The team combines deep knowledge of Norwegian construction law with practical commercial understanding and has consistently provided strategic, cost-effective advice. They are proactive in identifying potential issues before they arise and have introduced efficient ways of managing cases, saving us both time and resources. We have been impressed by their collaborative approach—partners and associates work seamlessly together, and they readily involve specialists from other departments (e.g., tax, employment, technology) where necessary to deliver comprehensive solutions tailored to our needs. The firm encourages diversity and continuous professional development, and they use technology tools to streamline communications and document handling.
- I am extremely satisfied with the legal team’s support throughout a complex dispute regarding the final settlement with a contractor. What truly sets this practice apart is their combination of deep legal expertise, strategic thinking, and a highly collaborative approach. Potential clients should know that this team excels in navigating disputes with precision and professionalism. Their responsiveness and ability to communicate complex legal matters in an accessible way made a significant difference. Compared to other firms I’ve worked with, this team stands out for their dedication, strategic thinking, and client-focused mindset. Overall, I would highly recommend this team to anyone facing legal challenges in the construction or real estate sector. Their integrity, competence, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident at every stage.
- They are always there for us and are practically 'always' available when we need them. We currently use five different lawyers from the firm, each with their own area of expertise. Their advice and legal briefs are always excellent.
- Both cases require much more than knowing the paragraphs of law, and both Mrs. Zimmerman and Mr. Gaup Stadigs have shown strategic and tactical skills that have given both cases positive outcomes for our company. Both of them are easy to work with and are very knowledgeable and professional.
- We have had the privilege to work with both Ailu Gaup Stadigs and Liv Zimmerman of Advokatfirmaet Hjort. They have both been assisting us on complex real estate and construction issues. Both are very professional and skilled, and we are very satisfied with their work.
- Our collaboration with the law firm Hjort is excellent, as they provide very good legal advice tailored to our needs. They always deliver on time and to our utmost satisfaction. They assist us in resolving disputes and ensure a good outcome every time. They have been of great help in a difficult case.
- Partner Finn Magne Prydz has been outstanding in guiding us through complex construction matters. He stands out for his deep subject-matter expertise and ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear and practical way. He is always available and engaged, and his proactive approach ensures we are connected with the right colleagues at Hjort to address specific issues as they arise. Finn is solution-oriented, commercially aware, and genuinely invested in achieving the best outcomes for our business. Working with him and the wider team has given us confidence that our legal needs are in highly capable hands, and his guidance has saved us both time and money.
- ‘The lawyers from Hjort who have assisted us are both highly skilled and very solution-oriented. They have a strong ability to accurately understand the challenges and provide sound and practical advice.’
- ‘ Ailu Gaup Stadigs has a unique ability to view the case from multiple perspectives and is skilled at discussing the real issues early in the process, ensuring that unnecessary time is not wasted.’
Key clients
- Sykehusbygg HF
- Peab AS
- KLP Eiendom AS
- Gjøvik municipality
- Consto AS
- The University of Oslo
- Store Landfall AS
- Oslo Entreprenør AS
- Nedre Romerike Vann- og Avløpsselskap IKS
- Avinor AS
- NGO Kvartalet AS
- Stavanger Utvikling KF
- Selvaag Bolig ASA
- Mekonomen AS
- Trysilhusgruppen AS
- Nannestad municipality
- Ullensaker municipality
- Gjemnes municipality
- Steinar Myhre AS
- Implenia Norge AS
Work highlights
Appointed legal PRIME member for Nye Veier/JV Skanska Syltern on the NOK 2.2 billion E6 Berkåk–Vindåsliene highway, providing project‑integrated mediation and dispute avoidance.
Represented Oslo Entreprenør AS on factory conversion and final‑account disputes, recovering nearly 80% in settlement against Bane Nor Eiendom and managing a separate subcontractor dispute set for court mediation.
Advised the University of Oslo on multi‑party, cross‑border fire damage claims arising from Domus Medica, securing a June 2025 settlement with substantial insurer payments.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head
Aslak Førde
Other key lawyers
Finn Magne Prydz; Ailu Gaup Stadigs; Aleksander Bergby Henriksen; Martin Steinnes
