Gjelsten Herlofsen Advokatfirma AS‘s dedicated maritime practice stands out for its strength in shipping litigation. The group handles a high level of marine insurance cases under the leadership of Frithjof Herlofsen, who is a specialist in shipping and marine insurance disputes. Fellow practice head Gaute Gjelsten offers clients ’workable solutions for the most complex legal issues’ with experience handling marine and offshore claims. Other key names include seasoned litigator Børge Alsvik and Christian Bjørtuft Ellingsen, who joined in January 2024 from Advokatfirmaet Simonsen Vogt Wiig and handles contentious and non-contentious shipbuilding and repair contracts.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Christian Bjortuft Ellingsen has much knowledge about transportation law and he is also very kind and proactive.’
‘Gaute Gjelsen is a stand-out practitioner in the Norwegian market for shipping and maritime law - probably the strongest lawyer in the region.’
‘Two of the highest regarded shipping partners in Norway set up this practice, they have had a healthy growth in resources since then and are large enough to handle the biggest and most complex shipping disputes.’
‘Gaute Gjelsten has "been there and done that" and is offering outstanding service. His structured approach to complex disputes is second to none in the market.’
‘Christian Bjørtuft Ellingsen is very easy to work with. He immediately comprehends even complex issues and tackles them in the best manner. Great skills as litigator too.’
‘In-depth knowledge and understanding of our business and they provide swift and clear advice on complex matters.’
‘Frithjof Herlofsen is a very good lawyer with great analytical skills who can digest complex facts and provide actionable advice in a short period. He is confident and he is an excellent litigator.’
‘Gaute Gjelsten is the very best and most experienced maritime litigation lawyer in Norway. He has a unique mind which is always a step ahead in terms of finding workable solutions for the most complex legal issues.’
Key clients
- Assuranceforeningen Gard
- Assuranceforeningen Skuld
- Alandia Insurance
- Norwegian Hull Club
- If Insurance
- Norsk Hydro ASA
- Yara International ASA
- Markel Marine & Energy Insurance
- QBE Insurance
- Zurich Insurance
Lawyers
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Practice head
Gaute Gjelsten; Frithjof Herlofsen
Other key lawyers
Børge Alsvik; Christian Bjørtuft Ellingsen