Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS advises clients on transactional support, M&A, real estate VAT issues, and individual tax matters. The practice is jointly led by Espen Nordbø, a cross-border tax specialist, and Jannicke Knudtzon Rokkan, a VAT expert.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Espen Nordbo is a no-nonsense lawyer, with a pragmatic approach to transactional issues.’
- ‘They often identify simpler solutions for us than our auditor does, which is exactly what we need. As a small organisation handling complex issues, we depend on finding the best and most efficient path to our goals. The Haavind team clearly works well together, and it is evident to us which individuals hold specific expertise.’
- ‘What truly sets the team apart is its ability to combine technical excellence with a personalised agile service model on taxation. The team is particularly strong in Norwegian taxation and cross-border transactions, with a reputation for being both strategic thinkers and execution-focused partners. They are very clear on their answers and capable of anticipating challenges as major differentiators.’
- ‘Compared to other firms, they are very flexible and know the needs of their clients perfectly. Espen Nordbø is our key person and has understood our business and concrete needs. He demonstrates that the team has a specialised advantage in taxation and possesses unique skills not commonly found in other firms. He offers a personalised service, improved execution speed, and more responsive problem-solving.'
- ‘Great knowledge about laws and regulations that apply to our relevant industry - the aquaculture industry in Norway. Genuinely interested in our cases and great availability. Good diversity in different fields relevant to tax and aquaculture law.'
- ‘I worked with Espen Nordbø, who was exceptional. He listened well, understood the situation, and designed a pragmatic solution that worked for all parties, based on his deep expertise and commercial awareness. It was efficient, empathetic, and personal. He was extremely knowledgeable, understood from the first conversation, and immediately knew the path to take to get to a workable solution that could be implemented straight away.’
Key clients
- Telenor ASA
- Acciona Infraestructuras
- Ghella ANS
- Indra Sistemas SA
- Nordlaks AS
- Nova Sea AS
- Sjølyst Utvikling AS
- Renewables Norway
- Hafslund ASA
- Norsk Hydro ASA
- VOICE Norge AS
- Savencia Fromage & Dairy SA
Work highlights
Advised ODDO BHF on whether two French AIFs would be regarded as tax transparent or opaque when investing in a Norwegian fund structured as a non-disclosed partnership.
Represented a Spanish-Italian JV in successfully appealing a denial of input VAT deductions on employee accommodation and transport costs for a major Norwegian project.
Advised Renewables Norway and its members on promoting both tax and VAT law reforms to boost investment in renewable energy.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Espen Nordbø; Jannicke Knudtzon Rokkan