Described as 'national leaders in the legal domains of data protection and technology', Wikborg Rein is substantially equipped to handle large IT projects and outsourcing, technology M&A deals, and technology IP. The practice is newly led by Leif Eirik Thrane, who brings a wealth of experience in IT outsourcing and contracts. Key figures in the practice include technology law expert Arne Byberg, data protection and digitalisation specialist Gry Hvidsten, and IT contract and procurement expert Rolf Riisnæs. Previous head of practice Lars Erik Steinkjer left the firm in June 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Exceptional legal services, handles all our requests with the utmost professionalism, discretion, and care. Proactive approach, extremely professional, and knowledgeable with the data privacy and technology side.’
- ‘Whenever we require assistance and advice regarding data protection and GDPR, we usually choose to collaborate with Gry Hvidsten. The data protection team possesses strong professional expertise and an impressive ability to understand the needs of our organisation. We find that they are always up to date on developments in data protection legislation, which provides us with great confidence that we comply with current regulations. It is also worth highlighting the team’s deep insight into technological solutions and applications, which makes their advice both highly relevant and practically oriented. We can confidently recommend Gry Hvidsten and her team to others seeking advice on data protection matters.’
- ‘Leif Eirik Thrane is a hands-on lawyer with unique commercial understanding, providing exactly the legal advice you need.’
- ‘Arne Byberg is outstanding, and in a league of his own.’
- ‘They are among Norway's most skilled experts in GDPR, and it shows. In addition, they are service-oriented, efficient, and punctual in their deliveries. They also excel at understanding the client's business and identifying their needs. On top of that, they are friendly and approachable.’
- ‘They are recognised as national leaders in the legal domains of data protection and technology. Moreover, they deliver pragmatic and business-oriented legal advice, tailored to the client’s operational context, without resorting to lengthy or unnecessary theoretical analyses.’
Key clients
- Aker ASA
- Telenor ASA
- Nortura SA
- Cutting Room AS
- NorgesGruppen AS
- Orkla ASA
- Vygruppen AS
- Aker Solutions AS
- Embriq AS
- Storebrand ASA
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Amedia AS
Work highlights
Defending Telenor ASA against the largest GDPR fine ever issued in Norway, in a complex and very principal data protection case of great importance to all large group companies in Norway, which started with a notification of a MNOK 100 fine.
Advised Aker ASA on a high-profile transaction with Open AI and Nscale, establishing artificial intelligence leader Open AI’s first data centre on European soil in Norway.
Advised on the acquisitions of both Crayon and 24SevenOffice, the two largest software transactions in Norway last year.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
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
Leif Eirik Thrane
Other key lawyers
Arne Byberg; Gry Hvidsten; Rolf Riisnæs