
DLA Piper’s construction team oversees the full lifecycle of construction projects, with particular expertise in professional liability disputes. Practice head Live H. Sjøli works closely with international contractors, developers, and consultants on construction contracts and dispute resolution. Arne Engesæth is noted for his work as a mediator and arbitrator on complex disputes, and Are Hunskaar has extensive experience in contract drafting, risk management, and dispute resolution. On the transaction front, Hallvard Bjørhovde Karlsen is a key name, advising on high-value projects.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- We would especially like to highlight lawyer Arne Engesæth, who, with his broad and extensive experience and impressive knowledge of construction law, is undoubtedly one of the leading figures and true pioneers in the construction and civil engineering industry. He has been a trailblazer for mediation in major construction projects, and his groundbreaking work has contributed greatly to value creation for all parties involved, saving countless parties from lengthy and burdensome legal disputes. Lawyer Arne Engesæth has been a central driving force in the development of the mediation field, and our company has found that his expertise and leadership have been absolutely crucial to achieving favorable, negotiated results. We can safely say that without Arne Engesæth, we would not have enjoyed the same success in our largest and most demanding construction disputes.
- DLA Piper law firm distinguishes itself with solid and long-standing experience, as well as unique in-depth knowledge in both contract law and construction. The firm boasts a number of experienced senior lawyers in construction law, who are truly among the most knowledgeable and recognized experts in the industry. DLA Piper is a large firm, with an impressive breadth and depth of expertise, from which our company has benefited. The lawyers at DLA Piper have provided invaluable assistance in mediation cases, and thanks to their extraordinary efforts and dedication, we have managed to resolve extremely complex construction disputes – cases that would likely have ended in protracted and resource-intensive court proceedings without their support.
- ‘The individuals we have worked with stand out for their exceptional professionalism, clarity, and ability to quickly understand complex matters within our industry. They combine deep legal insight with a practical and solution-oriented mindset that makes collaboration both efficient and enjoyable.’
- ‘We highly commend this team for its outstanding expertise and innovative approach. The team consistently demonstrates a sharp commercial mindset, ensuring that legal strategies are not only sound but also aligned with clients’ business objectives. Their efficiency in handling complex matters stands out, enabling timely and predictable outcomes that clients can rely on with confidence.’
- ‘Really good team, Fredrik Kleivan Solberg and Are Hunskaar have clearly worked together for several years. They demonstrate high professional competence, but also "street knowledge" and "court knowledge", which is important to highlight our perspectives. Also friendly and easy to cooperate with.’
- ‘We have worked with Are Hunskaar and Hallvard Bjørnhovde Karlsen. Hunskaar clearly stands out for his long-standing experience advising various consulting engineering firms. He is highly strategic and has a strong ability to combine legal expertise with commercial insight, which makes his advice both practical and actionable.’
- ‘Clients consistently benefit from Live Sjoli’s efficient approach and clear communication, which creates a strong sense of predictability and trust throughout the legal process.’
- ‘What makes this practice truly unique is the combination of deep legal expertise and genuine client understanding. The team quickly familiarised themselves with our industry and context, delivering precise and relevant advice from day one. They are not only highly skilled professionals but also genuinely pleasant to work with — responsive, transparent, and honest in their communication.’
Key clients
- Bravida
- Gjensidige
- Eiffage Genie Civil
- Melbye
- COWI
- Citycon
- Agri Eiendom
- Norconsult
- Bane Nor
- NRC – PRIME (DAAB)
- Statens Vegvesen
- Skanska
- Nordomatic
- OPAK
- HRL Entreprenør
- Relog
- Maskinentreprenørenes Forbund
- Tryg
- IKEA
- AFRY
Work highlights
Acting on Project-Integrated Mediation (PRIME) between Statens Vegvesen and Skanska on the NOK 4.6 billion E102 Fornebukrysset–Strand infrastructure project.
Represented Boligenergi AS and Gjensidige Forsikring ASA in a NOK 100 million construction dispute in the Court of Appeal. The dispute arose from subsidence damage linked to the drilling of 36 energy wells.
Represented Kongsberg skisenter and its parent company AS Parks in a high-value construction dispute against Doppelmayr Scandinavia AB.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Stian Heimdal
Practice head
Live H. Sjøli
Other key lawyers
Arne Engesæth; Are Hunskaar; Hallvard Bjørhovde Karlsen; Fredrik Kleivan Solberg
