Under the leadership of Lars Erik Steinkjer, the ‘highly skilled’ team at Wikborg Rein is singled out for its ’ability to push things forward’ across IT projects, data protection work, technology M&A, intellectual property issues, and contentious matters. The team saw several additions in 2024: Leif Eirik Thrane is well-versed in IT outsourcings, technology contracts, and technology M&A; Arne Byberg is a key contact for IT contracts; Isak Mendoza has proven experience in IT outsourcing projects; and Mathias Hauglid is an expert in AI technologies. The new members of the team work alongside Gry Hvidsten, who is recommended for data protection mandates, and Rolf Riisnæs, who is a key contact for IT contracts and procurements. At associate level, Wegard Kyoo Bergli regularly assists with the implementation of new technologies and regulatory matters. Hannah Beyer Olaussen departed from the team in March 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Leif Eirik Thrane is excellent. His commercial mindset and in-depth knowledge make it easy to choose him every time. Isak Mendoza is a next-generation star within IT-related contracts.’
‘The team is highly skilled with the ability to push things forward. Easy communication and to get in contact with.’
‘Gry Hvidsten gave the case full attention and contributed very much in the best interest of the client. This includes commercial aspects of the problem, not limited to the legal issues.’
‘Wikborg Rein has strong expertise in TMT across several key areas. They have extensive experience handling challenges related to digitalisation and innovation, keeping a close eye on industry trends to deliver relevant and timely guidance.’
‘We are extremely satisfied with Gry Hvidsten's expertise in TMT. Her deep understanding of technology, media, and telecommunications, combined with her knowledge of the legal framework and practical approach, has been invaluable for our projects. Gry consistently provides clear, effective advice and demonstrates a strong commitment to our needs.’
‘We are very pleased with Wegard Kyoo Bergli's expertise. His strong understanding of TMT issues and his practical, solution-oriented approach have been a great asset for us. His responsiveness and dedication make him a valued partner in navigating the complexities of our projects.’
‘The team complemented each other well and worked systematically on the problem. Good competence.’
‘Partner Gry Hvidsten is very skilled, both in the letter of the law and also in applying it in a good and practical way. Her strong in-house background makes her very solution-oriented and capable of providing practical and useful advice and support.’
Key clients
- Telenor ASA
- NorgesGruppen AS
- Orkla ASA / Orkla IT AS
- Vygruppen AS (formerly the Norwegian State Railways)
- Aker Solutions AS
- Embriq AS
- Storebrand ASA
- Norges Bank (Norway’s Central Bank)
- Electric Way AS (Sulland-gruppen)
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Work highlights
- Assisted Aker Solutions with its full-scale Schrems II project related to AKSOʼs global IT-systems.
- Assisting Embriq AS with its contract in Denmark by which Embriq will deliver its data capture and analytics software to the Danish energy market.
- Advised software security company BI Builders AS on the sale of assets to Avito Analytics AS.
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
Lars Erik Steinkjer
Other key lawyers
Leif Eirik Thrane; Arne Byberg; Isak Mendoza; Mathias Hauglid; Gry Hvidsten; Rolf Riisnæs; Wegard Kyoo Bergli