Kvale Advokatfirma DA > Oslo, Norway > Firm Profile
Kvale Advokatfirma DA Offices
HAAKON VIIS GATE 10
PO BOX 1752, VIKA
0122 OSLO
Norway
Kvale Advokatfirma DA > The Legal 500 Rankings
Norway > Energy
Kvale Advokatfirma DA ‘commands a broad understanding of the energy sector and energy law‘ and stands out for its extensive expertise in advising leading domestic and international players on the Norwegian Continental Shelf on the full range of transactional, regulatory and contentious issues. On the oil and gas front, Gry Bratvold specialises in international offshore and oil and gas projects, while Yngve Bustnesli attracts praise for his ‘deep knowledge of the petroleum law system in Norway‘. Working alongside them is Andreas Stang Lund, who is the key contact for contentious mandates. Over on the renewables side, the ‘excellent’ Christian Poulsson focuses on regulatory issues and litigation in the hydropower and wind power industries. Per Conradi Andersen takes point on transactions and restructuring work for clients in the electricity sector. Also in the core team is Kristin Ourom, who has extensive expertise in advising on the full range of renewable energy operational and regulatory issues.Practice head(s):
Christian Poulsson; Gry Bratvold; Yngve Bustnesli
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Skilled lawyers with extensive experience from the renewable energy industry. A lot of industry knowledge is required to be able to give good and precise legal advice when you work with electricity and renewable energy so this is very important.’
‘Deep knowledge about the E&P industry. Always quick to help. Rapid response. Solid help when establishing Sales and Purchase Agreements.’
‘Yngve Bustnesli has very good knowledge of the petroleum law system in Norway. Helpful and always interested.’
‘We have worked with Kvale since our first major deal. Kvale is probably the best Norwegian law firm when it comes to understanding the regulatory regime on the Norwegian Continental Shelf and our go-to firm when it comes to regulatory issues.’
‘A lot of knowledge of the energy and especially renewable energy industry. Very competent and quick reacting.’
‘Kristin Ourom knows the energy field, and we are happy to use her as our lawyer.’
‘Excellent team; in general, it commands a broad understanding of the energy sector and energy law. They excel in renewables and electricity. They have a no-nonsense approach, are very pragmatic and just pleasant to work with.’
‘Christian Poulsson is excellent. He combines many years of experience in the field of energy law with a strategic approach and practical knowledge of procedural law. He works very quickly and efficiently.’
Key clients
Alta Kraftlag
aventron
Captiva Capital Management
Hafslund Eco Vannkraft
Energeia
Hallingdal Kraftnett
Hammerfest Energi
Hemsedal Energi
Hålogaland Kraft
Notodden Energi
Saudefaldene
Sykkylven Energi
Stranda Energi
Stryn Energi
Norsk Hydro
Telemark Energi
Tinn Energi
TrønderEnergi
Volue Market Services / Markedskraft
Steindal Kraftverk
Glitre Energi
Syversætre Foss Kraftverk
Gismarvik Vindkraft
Sirdal Kraft
Markåni Kraftverk
Ytre Oppedal Kraftverk
Kjerringnes Kraft
Nettalliansen
Skjåk Energi
Luster Energi
Jæren Energi
Drangedal Energi
Hardanger Energi
Luosterjok Kraftlag
Repvåg Kraftlag
Hålogaland Kraft
Rauland Kraftlag
Svorka Energi
Sunndal Energi
Nord-Salten Kraft
Eidsiva Energi
KUFPEC
Equinor
M Vest Energy
Wintershall Dea Norge
BW Offshore
Pandion Energy
Solution Seeker
EagleBurgmann Norway
CiTECH Energy Recovery Solutions UK
Noble Corporation (formerly Maersk Drilling)
Work highlights
- Advised Pandion Energy on establishing the contractual framework related to the Fenris fields use of Valhall/Hod infrastructure and construction of new shared facilities to be located at the Valhall field as part of the development of the Fenris field.
- Led negotiations on behalf of BW Offshore, with Energía del Pacífico (EDP), for a set of contracts for risers and umbilicals to a liquefied natural gas (LNG)-to-power project at the Port of Acajutla, El Salvador.
- Advised KUFPEC on all aspects of the structured tender process in the $68m sale of its 10% participating interest in the Yme field on the Norwegian Continental Shelf.
Norway > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1
Kvale Advokatfirma DA's fully specialised insolvency and restructuring practice is ‘highly competent‘ and particularly sought after by clients for advice on bankruptcy and judicial restructuring proceedings; the team also assists banks with securing and recovering funds from customers in financial distress. Leading the practice, Stine Snertingdalen is an expert in insolvency and insolvency-related banking and finance mandates. The group also includes Tom Hugo Ottesen, who assists companies and banks with restructuring and refinancing matters; Thomas Piro, who advises on bankruptcy issues; and distressed M&A expert Anne Kjølseth Ekerholt. Bjørn Løtveit, who joined the firm in January 2023 and specialises in financing and collateral issues, and insolvency specialist Erik Torjusen, are also key contacts.Practice head(s):
Stine Snertingdalen
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘By far the best insolvent capabilities in Norway.’
‘Great team and great members. Well organised, informed and go the extra mile to resolve cases.’
‘All the partners involved have shown good abilities to prioritise the most important issues, give concrete and clear advice, and make the necessary risk assessments during the project.’
‘I have worked with Kvale’s insolvency and restructuring team for several years, and have been assisted by a small but highly competent team, mainly consisting of three partners and one associate. I am very impressed with their ability to be quick, precise and cost-effective in their advice. Our case has not been very large or high-profile, but I have always felt prioritised and well taken care of. I am particularly impressed by the availability of the partners.’
‘Stine Snertingdalen is probably the best within her field of expertise. A pleasure to work with, provides high-quality advice and is easy to communicate with.’
‘Tom Hugo Ottesen is still active and plays an important role with his vast experience.’
‘Erik Torjusen and Stine Snertingdalen are both highly skilled, always positive and ready to assist both in small and big cases. Great people skills combined with high quality work make them great in their field.’
‘We have mainly been assisted by the partners Anne Ekerholt and Stine Snertingdalen and in this area, they have really impressed me. Their availability has been very good throughout the time we have received assistance with our case.’
Key clients
The bankruptcy estate of Flyr
The bankruptcy estate of AG Installasjon
The bankruptcy estate of A-K Maskiner and subsidiaries
Optin Bank (winding up)
The bankruptcy estates of Norske Skogindustrier and other companies in the Norske Skog company group
The bankruptcy estates of the Vita company group
Collector Bank
Danske Bank
DNB Bank
Eksfin/Eksportfinansiering Norge (formerly GIEK)
Sparebank 1 SR-Bank
The bankruptcy estate of IMSK
Contexo reconstruction
Axxis Geo Solutions reconstruction
The bankruptcy estate of Aker Brygge Trading
The bankruptcy estate of Top-Toy Norge (Toys ‘R Us retail chain)
The bankruptcy estate of ØPD
The bankruptcy estate of Norhard and other group companies
The bankruptcy estate of NP Group
The bankruptcy estate of Miris
The bankruptcy estate of Jisco Alumina Norway
The bankruptcy estate of REC Wafer Norway
Nordic Trustee
Collector Bank
Work highlights
- Handling the bankruptcy estates of Norske Skogindustrier and several of its subsidiaries in a large and complex bankruptcy.
- Handled the bankruptcy estate of Flyr and advised on its agreement with leasing companies from the UK, the US and Ireland, which required the estate to engage several employees from the company and approval from the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority.
- Handling the bankruptcy estate of A-K Maskiner and its subsidiaries, appointed by the court as bankruptcy trustee in June 2022.
Norway > Dispute resolution Tier 2
Under the leadership of Per Conradi Andersen, Kvale Advokatfirma DA handles a broad range of contentious mandates across a diverse list of industries, including the shipping, life sciences, insurance, and energy sectors. Lilly Kathrin Relling is recommended for her expertise advising on large cross-border disputes, while Andreas Stang Lund takes point on disputes in the financial services, oil and gas, and consumer products sectors. At senior associate level, the ‘clever and promising’ Alexander Daae is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Per Conradi Andersen
Other key lawyers:
Lilly Kathrin Relling; Alexander Daae; Andreas Stang Lund; Marie Vaale-Hallberg
Testimonials
‘The team is extremely client-focused and adopts a problem solving approach to address challenging legal issues.’
‘I recommend Lilly Kathrin Relling.’
‘Responsive, practical, commercially savvy and ability to think out of the box.’
‘Alexander Daae is a clever and promising trial lawyer.’
‘Very happy with the team, they are pleasant to work with and deliver great services.’
‘Andreas Stang Lund: Experienced litigation lawyer, quick thinker and make solid legal analyses. Always to the point.’
‘Intelligent, proactive and hands on, highly skilled, strong commercial understanding and pleasant to work with.’
‘Both Andreas Stang Lund and Marie Vaale-Hallberg have a fast understanding of complex matters and they are time efficient to the clients best interest. And they are also nice to work with.’
Key clients
ABB
Danske Bank
INEOS E&P Norge
EIka Gruppen
Eltek
Hydro
MAN Truck & Bus
GlobalConnect
Rockville Technologies
Telia
Telia Norway
West Oil Tools
Bilia
Viatris
Synthon
Siemens
Sandoz
Unilever
The Norwegian Authors’ Union
Bankruptcy estate of IM Skaugen SE
Jacaranda Eiendom
Norway > EU and competition Tier 2
Lauded by clients for its ‘excellent professional expertise and industry understanding’, Kvale Advokatfirma DA handles merger clearances, infringement claims, and abuse of dominance cases for a strong group of clients in the telecoms, media, grocery, and life sciences sectors. Practice head Kristin Hjelmaas Valla handles merger clearance, cartel and leniency processes, and compliance work, while Robert Lund takes point on state aid and public procurement cases; state aid forms a core pillar of work for the group. The ‘elite‘ Gjermund Mathisen joined the group and has extensive in-house experience from the EFTA Surveillance Authority.Practice head(s):
Kristin Hjelmaas Valla
Other key lawyers:
Gjermund Mathisen; Robert Lund; Hermann Solheim
Testimonials
‘Insight in market and business issues, coupled with strong legal competence.’
‘The team offers a combination of excellent professional expertise and industry understanding with practical advice.’
‘Kristin Hjelmaas Valla and her team have provided proactive and highly appreciated support and advice in complex, high-profile cases of great importance for the company. Their services and advice have been relied on with success in both long-term projects and separate cases.’
‘Extremely knowledgeable and probably one of the best in Norway in this field. I worked with Robert Lund and Gjermund Mathisen.’
‘Kvale has assisted us with several state aid legal issues. They are very professional and the deliveries have been very good.’
‘We have received particularly good assistance from Gjermund Mathisen. His solid background in state aid and experiences from ESA have been very valuable. He responds quickly and works efficiently.’
‘Gjermund Mathisen: outstanding knowledge of the EU law, including the bureaucratic procedures. An elite academic and legal practitioner who is also able to convert the academics into applicable and “to the point” advice.’
‘Kristin Hjelmaas Valla: One of the most efficient lawyers dealing with competition cases in Norway and for merger cases in particular. Hermann Solheim: Understands cases really quickly.’
Key clients
Telia Norge
Hydro
Pfizer
Tine
Visa Europe
Vigmostad & Bjørke
Barilla
Coca Cola European Partners Norge
GlobalConnect
DLF (the Grocery supplier’s association)
NHO Mat og Drikke (FoodDrinkNorway)
Grønnegata 21
Kirkeveien 72
Mano
Nortura
Elkjøp Nordic / Currys
Ministry of Trade and Industry
Lerum
DNB Bank
Diplom-IS
Bilia
Tradesolution
The Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS)
The Coastal Shipowners Association (Kystrederiene)
Innovation Norway
Work highlights
- Advising Vigmostad & Bjørke on its appeal against the Norwegian Competition Authority’s investigation and infringement decision, finding it participating in an anti-competitive agreement with other book publishers.
- Advising Elkjøp Nordic on the ongoing investigation by ESA (EFTA Surveillance authority).
- Working for several parties involved in the Boligbygg case, a large state aid lawsuit filed by the Municipality of Oslo relating to the so-called ‘housing construction scandal’.
Norway > Intellectual property Tier 2
The ‘effective and thorough‘ Marie Vaale-Hallberg heads up Kvale Advokatfirma DA’s intellectual property offering, which attracts praise for its ‘unique‘ industry knowledge. The group has notable expertise in advising leading food and beverage companies on trade mark matters, counting leading Norwegian agricultural cooperatives Tine and Nortura among its clients. The team also has a presence in the tech industry, as well as the life sciences and offshore sectors. Ingvild Hanssen-Bauer takes point on contentious matters and has a strong track record in advising on patent litigation in the pharma space.Practice head(s):
Marie Vaale-Hallberg
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is directed by Marie Vaale Hallberg, who is a leading expert with regard to food law.’
‘Marie Vaale-Hallberg: effective and thorough, gives high-quality advice and is an excellent communicator. Marie is an excellent adviser in much more than IPR, in particular with regard to general, commercial agreements within our industry. She also deserves to be recommended with regard to dispute resolution with regard to IPR in commercial matters.’
‘What makes Kvale’s IP team unique is the in-depth knowledge of the industry. In addition, Kvale’s team delivers fast and is very pleasant to work with.’
‘Marie Vaale-Hallberg is my go-to lawyer for IP and marketing law issues. She has very good knowledge of the industry, delivers fast, and knows the relevant law.’
‘Kvale’s IPR team has a strong background in intellectual property law. This includes excellent knowledge and expertise in patents, trade marks, copyrights, trade secrets, and related areas. Kvale tailors its services to meet its clients’ specific needs, including personalised strategies, regular communication, and a commitment to achieving our objectives as a client.’
‘Marie Vaale-Hallberg has a deep understanding of intellectual property law and combines her skills with a commercial mindset. She has the ability to think critically and find creative solutions to legal challenges. It is easy to work with her and she understands the clients’ needs.’
Key clients
Viatris
TwoDay
Einride
Brødrene Ekornes Industri
Compusoft
Elkjøp/Dixons Carphone
Teqball Holding
Mills
Pfizer
Jaguar Land Rover
Altibox
Unilever
Nortura
Sandoz
Renolit
Telia
Universal Music
TINE
Ferring
Diplom-Is
Car-Freshener Corporation
Orifarm
Kreativt Forum
Ridestore Holding
The Lovesac Company
M Vest Water
Owkin
Work highlights
- Representing Viatris in revocation and infringement proceedings in relation to Biogen’s patent for a method of treating multiple sclerosis.
- Acting as main legal advisers on all aspects of intellectual property for TINE.
- Advising MVW on a global patenting strategy and on technology acquisitions, in and out-bound intellectual property licensing, R&D agreements, distribution arrangements and contentious matters.
Norway > Maritime law Tier 2
Kvale Advokatfirma DA advises domestic and international clients in the offshore, oil and marine insurance industries on the full spectrum of shipping issues, spanning charterparties, casualties, marine insurance, and contentious work. The ‘excellent‘ Kristian Lindhartsen leads the team and has a focus on marine insurance work, including coverage disputes, direct-action matters, and various marine casualties. Jostein Moen is the name to note for transactions and restructurings in the shipping sector, while ‘master tactician’ Lilly Kathrin Relling handles charterparties, building contracts, and contentious work.Practice head(s):
Kristian Lindhartsen
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Kvale has a very collaborative environment and the lawyers think outside the box with regularity. They have provided valued guidance over the years and become a go-to source for assistance in Norway.’
‘Kristian Lindhartsen is excellent.’
‘Kristian Lindhartsen and Lily Relling are the standout partners on the team. They work very well together and bring high value to the work before them. Kristian leaves no stone unturned in considering legal strategy. Lily is a master tactician in executing a plan with precision.’
‘Responsive, practical, understand the clients’ needs.’
Key clients
Havila
Fearnlys Offshore
Bourbon Offshore Norway
Viking Engineering
GIEK
SR-Bank
First Marine
Brit Syndicate 2987
Nørresundby Rederi & Shipping af 2017
Vilma Oil
Hardangerfrakt
Clarksons Platou
Kongsberg Maritime
Statnett SF
Solution Seeker
WR Berkley Insurance (Europe)
Lancashire Insurance
Eagle Burgmann Norway
AOS Lifter
Compagnia Italiana di Navigazione
BW Offshore
Norway > Offshore construction and shipbuilding Tier 2
Noted for its strength in shipping disputes, Kvale Advokatfirma DA acts for large oil companies, shipyards, and shipping companies and advises on the full range of offshore and shipping issues both domestically and cross-border. In 2022, the firm opened an office in Tromsø, strengthening its presence along the northern coast of Norway. Practice head Kristian Lindhartsen focuses on charterparty agreements and insurance disputes in the sector, and Gry Bratvold has extensive experience advising on international offshore projects, while Yngve Bustnesli takes point on transactions and projects on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. For building, subsea, drilling and seismic contracts, Lilly Kathrin Relling is the key contact.Practice head(s):
Kristian Lindhartsen
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Gry Bratvold is solution oriented and her experience working both externally and in-house makes her able to provide practical advice and work directly with non-law clients.’
‘Responsive, pleasure to work with, skilled.’
‘I recommend Kristian Lindhartsen and Lilly Kathrin Relling.’
Key clients
Havila
Fearnlys Offshore
Bourbon Offshore Norway
First Marine
Brit Syndicate 2987
Nørresundby Rederi & Shipping af 2017
Vilma Oil
Hardangerfrakt
Clarksons Platou
Kongsberg Maritime
Noble Corporation (formerly Maersk Drilling)
Statnett SF
Solution Seeker
WR Berkley Insurance (Europe)
Lancashire Insurance
Eagle Burgmann Norway
BW Offshore
Iberdrola Renovables
Norway > TMT Tier 2
Digitalisation projects for prominent telecoms, media, and technology companies feature prominently in the workload of Kvale Advokatfirma DA’s TMT practice. Per-Kaare Svendsen oversees the team and has a broad practice advising on outsourcing and software acquisitions, as well as telecoms disputes, while Jens Christian Gjesti specialises in cybersecurity, data protection, and GDPR issues; the latter is another core pillar of work for the team. Lars Trygve Jenssen handles corporate and M&A work for clients in the technology and media sectors, while Ingvild Hanssen-Bauer is recommended for contentious mandates.Practice head(s):
Per-Kaare Svendsen
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The combination of cutting-edge legal expertise, solid industry knowledge and commercial understanding make Kvale able to contribute to a successful transaction process.’
‘A huge shout out to Ingvild Hanssen-Bauer.’
‘The team consist of highly competent individuals. They succeed in giving us attention despite our small size. They grow with the customer, and have valuable connections in other global regions.’
‘They succeed in working in an informal, but still very dedicated and effective way. The assignments are delivered quickly and with good accuracy regarding the problems they are expected to solve.’
Key clients
Telia
GlobalConnect/HomeNet
Microsoft
Pfizer
TINE
Compusoft
Elkjøp/Dixons Carphone
IKEA
Bilia
Plyo
Fantefilm
Risma
Ayfie
Jaguar/Land Rover
Franzefoss Gjenvinning AS
Home Owners National Association
Work highlights
- Represented Telia in a follow-on claim against Telenor for unlawful wholesale mobile tariffs.
- Acted for GlobalConnect in a dispute with Bane Nor regarding rights of way.
- Advised Ayfie on the use of ChatGPT for private datasets.
Norway > Banking and finance (including shipping finance) Tier 3
Fielding a ‘continuously available and hands-on’ team, Kvale Advokatfirma DA‘s banking and finance offering acts for large financial services clients on complex refinancing and restructuring transactions. The ‘super attentive‘ Hillevi Torngren Myhre heads up the practice and handles a broad range of financing transactions, including bond loan, derivate, and structured product work, in addition to financial regulatory matters. Stine Snertingdalen is praised for her ‘huge depth of talent and expertise‘ in insolvency-related banking finance matters, as well as her broad experience advising on the full range of refinancing structures. At associate level, Stephanie Brungot is recommended for acquisition financing work.Practice head(s):
Hillevi Torngren Myhre
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Kvale team has been continuously available and hands-on in our projects. They have demonstrated a solution-oriented approach and dedication to progress. Hillevi Torngren Myhre has handled matters delicately and professionally, her team displaying great collaboration and communication skills throughout the transaction.’
‘Hillevi Torngren Myhre is super attentive and quick. Combines great legal skills with practical and solution oriented advice.’
‘Many lawyers with different backgrounds. Complementary subject areas in one place.’
‘Solution oriented. Service minded and very good communication skills.’
‘All of the partners I’ve worked with have extensive restructuring experience and are capable of managing complex restructuring transactions.’
‘They bring truly deep expertise and a willingness to play a hands on role in guiding companies through complex and challenging processes. The people on the team were the differentiator here – top talent with great ability to work with an executive team and bring them along in the process.’
‘Stine Snertingdalen has a huge depth of talent and expertise. Her availability and work style is fantastic and she has a hugely positive impact on the outcome of the process. On top, she is a superb practitioner. Goal oriented, commercially astute and very direct in her advice.’
Key clients
DNB Bank
Collector Bank
Collector Bank, Norway branch
Danske Bank
Nordea Bank
Arctic Securities
Nordic Trustee
EksFin (Export Finance Norway)
Nordic Mining
Sparebank 1 SR-bank
SpareBank 1 Østlandet
Sparebanken Møre
Skue Sparebank
Valdres Sparebank
Sogn Sparebank
Melhusbanken
Agder Sparebank
Gordon Brothers
Work highlights
- Advising Nordic Mining and its subsidiary Nordic Rutile on a financing package of $270m in total, to be used for construction of the first new mine in Norway in circa 40 years. The financing package consists of a combination of convertible loan, bond loan, royalty agreement and equity.
- Advising a shipowner as borrower in respect of a NOK1bn ship financing arranged by a syndicate of banks and the Norwegian export credit agency.
- Advising a European private equity company on its acquisition financing of a Norwegian company in the bitcoin business.
Norway > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 3
The corporate team at Kvale Advokatfirma DA is ‘highly qualified in the transactions area‘ and advises across a wide range of sectors. The practice is led by Anne Kjølseth Ekerholt, who specialises in handling transactions for corporations. Thomas S Farhang is an ‘excellent lawyer and an M&A star’, who frequently advises on cross-border issues, and M&A specialist Øystein Løken has ‘exceptionally good commercial understanding‘, particularly in the natural resources, retail and TMT sectors. The group also includes transactional lawyer Marius L Andresen, M&A specialist Kristin Nyhus Halvorsen, who particularly advises on issues relating to the hospitality industry, Carl Christian Marthinussen and Odd-Terje G Elde.Practice head(s):
Anne Kjølseth Ekerholt
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is highly qualified in the transactions area and able to give understandable and to-the-point advice. They have several areas of expertise and are able to swiftly involve colleagues and advise across several legal areas when needed.’
‘With their local affiliations, Kvale understand what it’s like to be a Northern Norwegian company, working on a national and international stage.’
‘Very hands on. Gives practical advice and leads the M&A process in a very professional manner.’
‘The team is diverse in areas of expertise and has extensive experience across various industries and scenarios.’
‘The Kvale M&A team is a joy to work with. Highly responsive with good legal advice and a strong commercial focus.’
‘Thomas Farhang is one of kind. He is an excellent lawyer and an M&A star.’
‘Odd-Terje G Elde has an exceptionally good commercial understanding and is capable of approaching issues from various angles, beyond just focusing on the legal aspects. This leads to productive discussions and can, for example, result in structuring a transaction in a favourable manner or drafting agreements that are beneficial for the client.’
‘I highly recommend Carl Christian Marthinussen. Always available, commercially minded and a great problem solver.’
Key clients
Danske Bank
DNB Bank
Elkjøp Nordic (Dixons Carphone)
Höegh Autoliners
NES Global Talent
Mærsk Drilling
Greif
Philips Lighting Holding
Koninklijke Philips
Eniro
Nordic Mining
Fearnley Offshore
Bourbon Offshore
Norsk Telegrambyrå (NTB)
Viatris
Ramstad Bil
Avallon
Lian Group
Tine
Sparebank 1 Markets
Clarksons Platou Securities
Vow
Bilia
Axxelerator
Solon Eiendom
Iberdrola
DN Media Group
Takst-Forum Holding
Wenaasgruppen
AquaCon
Solar
Work highlights
- Advised Wenaas Hotel Russia on the sale of its Russian hotel portfolio to Cosmos Hotel Group.
- Advised Bilia Norge on numerous transactions, including the sale of its Oslo Volvo dealers to Volvo Car Stor-Oslo.
- Advised Bluewater Private Equity on its sale of Techouse to Triton Partners.
Norway > Employment Tier 3
The employment team as Kvale Advokatfirma DA is ‘very strong‘ and advises on a wide range of employment-related issues, including investigations, HR mandates and downsizings. Team head Jan-Erik Sverre is an expert in employment law, discrimination claims and civil procedure. The group also includes Monica Gjerde Sperre, who is especially sought after for her expertise in seafarer-related employment matters; and Mari Verling, who advises on both collective and individual employment law. Other recommended practitioners include Pernille Brusdal and Anette Plassen.Practice head(s):
Jan-Erik Sverre
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent teamwork and seamless collaboration. Kvale is our privacy expert. Whether it’s whistleblowing or GDPR website cookie-compliance, they deliver the right experts. We feel 100% safe and secure in our collaboration, which enables us to focus on our own core business. Kvale is approachable, flexible, agile – and fast, adapting to our fast paced world, turning business opportunities into remarkable results.’
‘Their recommendations always have a good and solid combination of legal evaluation and practical approach, based on their broad experience and good insight in the best practice.’
‘Competent and service-minded firm.’
‘The labor law expertise at Kvale is strong and provides us with the assistance we need.’
‘The lawyers quickly familiarise themselves with our issues and provide advice with clear descriptions of how to solve challenges related to labour law and personnel issues.’
‘Mari Verling appears to be a very professionally skilled person. She has exceptionally good insight into all parts of working life – and quickly finds practical solutions to all problems. She is very efficient – and responds extremely quickly to all inquiries. As a customer, you feel that you are very important, even though there may be insignificant things that you need help with. Her pleasant and welcoming nature means that you feel a great degree of security in the matters she is involved in.’
‘Kvale is particularly strong in team management procedures. They have the right and very capable people grouped in working teams that perform in a very agile and precise way. I was particularly pleased to see Mari Verling and Jan-Erik Sverre performing at a high level constantly across several months.’
Key clients
The National Federation of House Owners in Norway/Huseiernes Landsforbund (Huseierne)
The Norwegian Institute of Public Health
The Norwegian Health Network
Vestfold and Telemark County Municipality
The Railway Directorate
Eidsiva Group
Lerøy Havfisk
MMC First Process
IKEA
Ervik & Sævik Group
Work highlights
- Advised the Norwegian Institute of Public Health on an extensive and complex reorganisation and downsizing process.
- Advised Eidsiva Group on a number of employment-related matters, including, among others, international postings of employees, agreements for the hiring of workers, reorganisations, collective matters and pension issues.
- Advised MMC First Process both nationally and internationally on, among other matters, dismissals, negotiations with unions, reorganisations and downsizings.
Norway > Fishing and aquaculture Tier 3
Under the leadership of the ‘extraordinary’ Rode S. Rønning-Hansen, Kvale Advokatfirma DA routinely handles the full spectrum of issues relating to the industry from its offices in Oslo, Tromsø and Ålesund. Henrik Grung is the key name for corporate and M&A matters, while Monica Gjerde Sperre handles aquaculture and fishery-related shipping and maritime matters. Senior associate Jørgen Blix Nicolaysen is also recommended for regulatory frameworks relating to wild-caught fish.Practice head(s):
Rode S. Rønning-Hansen
Other key lawyers:
Monica Sperre; Henrik Grung; Jørgen Blix Nikolaysen
Testimonials
‘Highly skilled with knowledge of the industries in the area.’
‘Henrik Grung is a dedicated lawyer, with excellent understanding of the legal and business aspects of the industry. A skilled negotiator and a superb lawyer.’
‘Monica Sperre – very attentive to customer needs, takes her work and the client very serious, well prepared.’
‘Rode S. Rønning-Hansen has a unique combination of experience and skills needed for our operation. The combination of legal knowledge of a complex regulatory industry, the understanding of fishing boats and their operation, together with good understanding of our business, and how it all comes together, is most likely unmatched by his competitors.’
Jørgen Blix Nikolaysen’s in-depth knowledge on the legal framework for “wild catch”, enables him to quickly respond to our requests. The level of his knowledge, how he responds and communicates, is highly valued and the recommendation is well deserved.’
‘Rode S. Rønning-Hansen is extraordinary. His combination of legal, financial, commercial, and strategic skills must be unrivalled.’
‘Hands on team. Skilled. Know the industries in the area.’
‘Very strong business acumen beyond the legal issues. Great knowledge of and relationships in local business environment in relevant communities where we are involved.’
Key clients
Andfjord Salmon
Nordlaks group
Nergård group
Insula group
Myre Fiskemottak
SUFI
Polar Seafood Norway
Eco Seafood
Fiskernes Agnforsyning
Kråkøy Holding
Normar IV
MMC First Process
Coldwater Prawns of Norway
ABS
Fjordlaks
Karlsøybruket
Intership
Rostein
Nordic Wildfish
Ervik Sævik
Nils Sperre
Nye Giske Havfiske
Nordnes
Selstad
Kystrederiene
Pareto
Fearnley
Krikar (Grimsholm Holding)
Berg Partner Havbruk
Calanus
Sjømatbedriftene
West Atlantic
Lofoten Viking
Bergtun Fiskeriselskap
Smart Fishing
Nor Seafoods
Prestfjord
Andenes fiskeriselskap
Work highlights
- Advising listed company Andfjord Salmon on the development of its land-based salmon aquaculture plant, for which the company has successfully secured circa NOK1.3bn in financing.
Kvale Advokatfirma DA > Firm Profile
The firm: Kvale is a commercial law firm that has been advising the Norwegian and international business community since its establishment in 1985. After consistent organic growth over almost four decades, the firm today counts over 100 lawyers.
The firm’s lawyers offer experience and specialist competence across all key areas of commercial law. It assists national and international clients in both the public and private sectors, whether they are major enterprises, medium/small businesses or enterprising private individuals.
Kvale is best known for representing and advising many of Norway’s largest enterprises with their most important legal matters and cases. Kvale consistently provides impactful representation and presentations of cases that involve highly complex facts, demanding matters of law, substantial values at risk and the need for in-depth knowledge of the sector.
Areas of practice
Intellectual property: Kvale has extensive experience advising Norwegian and international clients in relation to protection of intellectual property rights, including patents, trade marks, design rights, company names and copyright.
Corporate law: Kvale assists in all aspects of corporate matters. The firm advises on corporate form and structure, organisation of businesses and frequently acts as counsel to management and directors.
Oil, gas and renewable energy: Kvale provides regulatory and contractual advice related to the exploration, development, production and cessation of petroleum activities, and also assists in matters related to hydro power, wind power and other renewable energy sources.
Building and construction: Kvales experienced lawyers assist oil and gas companies of different sizes and nationalities on a day to day basis, as well as assisting with counselling, representation, negotiation and litigation.
IT and telecoms: Kvale supplies a high volume of top tier advice to key telecom and other sector companies with regulatory issues, sector-specific market regulation, data protection, contracts, transactions and interaction with the authorities. Within the IT sector, Kvale provides high end advice with IT agreements, including those relating to the development and purchase of software and software based systems, outsourcing- and operating agreements and consultancy agreements.
Competition and EU: Kvale’s EU/competition law group has expertise in national and EC competition law and related disciplines as well as public procurement law. The group’s work includes merger notifications to the European Commission and the Norwegian Competition Authority, appeals, cartel investigations, compliance programmes, public procurement and general advice on all aspects of national and EC competition law. Kvale is regularly involved in major high profile competition law cases.
Media and marketing: Kvale provides advice in relation to unfair competition from current and former employees, contracting parties and competitors, whether in relation to breach of confidentiality, improper solicitation of employees, suppliers or customers, misuse of intellectual property/know how and copying/counterfeiting.
Litigation and dispute resolution: Kvale’s lawyers have extensive experience in litigating very major and complex civil actions through the ordinary courts, as well as before national and international courts of arbitration. The firm handles cases of all sizes, but its strength lies in its vast experience in handling very major and complex cases, whether relating to the oil and gas industry, patents, telecom, corporate matters, tax or other fields.
Employment and pensions: Kvale’s comprehensive and high profile practice covers all questions related to employment laws and regulations. The firm’s lawyers have extensive experience in court proceedings within this field. The firm’s advice and assistance includes matters such as restructuring, workforce reductions, company acquisition or handling of individual conflicts.
Tax and accounting: Kvale is well respected for its boutique tax dispute and litigation practice. The firm’s tax practice is comprehensive and can offer high quality advice covering most business sectors.
Banking and finance: Kvale supplies services that cover all aspects of financial transactions, from the initial structuring, to drafting of finance documents and finally closing of financial transactions. The firm is particularly recognised for restructuring debt, enforcement of securities, ship finance and specialist competence within the savings bank field. Building on the firm’s leading position within technology, the firm has also developed strong fintech competence. Kvale clients are major integrated banks, savings banks, bond trustees and export credit institutions as well as major and SMB borrowers.
Restructuring, insolvency proceedings and credit security: Kvale is one of the most sought after Norwegian law firms in the fields of corporate reorganisation, debt restructuring proceedings and insolvency proceedings. The firm represents banks, financial institutions and other creditors in issues related to insolvency and credit security. Kvale’s team of experienced bankruptcy trustees are frequently appointed by the Probate Courts in major bankruptcies.
Corporate/M&A: Kvale has a strong focus on its corporate and M&A practice. The experienced team of lawyers advise national and international companies within all areas of corporate law and M&A. Kvale has experience from some of the largest multinational M&A cases in Norway.
Food law: Kvale provides comprehensive advice within food and feed law. The firm assists large Norwegian and Foreign Companies in all questions related to the food law.
Public law: Kvale assists local governments, public enterprises and private parties on the entire width of administrative law and of the remaining issues within public law.
Shipping: Kvale provides regulatory and contractual advice related to financing, construction, operation and management of vessels and offshore units.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Employment and pensions | Jan-Erik Sverre | ||
Banking and finance | Hillevi Torngren Myhre | ||
Banking and finance | Stine D. Snertingdalen | ||
Corporate M&A | Marius L Andresen | ||
Corporate M&A | Anne Kjølseth Ekerholt | ||
Building and construction | Fredrik Frøshaug | ||
Competition and the EU/EEA | Kristin Hjelmaas Valla | ||
Competition and the EU/EEA | Robert Lund | ||
Intellectual property | Ingvild Hanssen-Bauer | ||
Intellectual property | Marie Vaale-Hallberg | ||
IT and telecoms | Per-Kaare Svendsen | ||
IT and telecoms | Lars Trygve Jenssen | ||
Media and marketing | Lars Trygve Jenssen | ||
Media and marketing | Marie Vaale-Hallberg | ||
Food law | Marie Vaale-Hallberg | ||
Public law | Christian Stang Våland | ||
Oil, gas and renewable energy | Yngve Bustnesli | ||
Litigation and dispute resolution | Andreas Stang Lund | ||
Litigation and dispute resolution | Per Conradi Andersen | ||
Restructuring, insolvency and investigations | Tom Hugo Ottesen | ||
Restructuring, insolvency and investigations | Stine D Snertingdalen | ||
Corporate | Øystein Løken | ||
Corporate | Thomas S Farhang | ||
Tax | Christian Wahl | ||
Tax | Steinar Nundal | ||
Shipping | Kristian Lindhartsen |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Mr Per Conradi Andersen | Mr Per Conradi Andersen has worked as a lawyer since 1995. He… | View Profile | |
Mr Marius L Andresen | Mr Marius L. Andrese has more than 20 years of experience within… | View Profile | |
Gry Bratvold | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Jens Brede | Mr Jens Brede has since 1988 worked with legal issues related to… | View Profile | |
Mr Yngve Bustnesli | Mr Yngve Bustnesli has in-depth knowledge of the oil & gas industry,… | View Profile | |
Mr Alexander Daae | Alexander Daae is a Senior Associate in Kvale’s litigation and dispute resolution… | View Profile | |
Janne Kaada Erichsen | Senior lawyer | View Profile | |
Maria Esbensen | Senior lawyer | View Profile | |
Mr Thomas Farhang | Partner | View Profile | |
Ms Monica Gjerde Sperre | Monica Gjerde Sperre is specialised in employment law, crew law and dispute… | View Profile | |
Jens Christian Gjesti | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Lasse Hagen | Lasse Hagen has 30 years of experience within the shipping and offshore… | View Profile | |
Ms Ingvild Hanssen-Bauer | Ingvild Hanssen-Bauer is specialized within intellectual property rights, with a particular focus… | View Profile | |
Mr Lars Trygve Jenssen | Mr Lars Trygve Jenssen assists in general business law, with main focus… | View Profile | |
Ms Lilly Kathrin Relling | Partner | View Profile | |
Ms Anne Kjølseth Ekerholt | Anne Kjølseth Ekerholt is specialized in transaction advisory services for big clients,… | View Profile | |
Mr Kristian Lindhartsen | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Øystein Løken | Mr Øystein Løken has more than 15 years of experience with corporate… | View Profile | |
Robert Lund | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Carl Christian Marthinussen | Carl Christian Marthinussen provides legal assistance in corporate law with emphasis on… | View Profile | |
Mr Gjermund Mathisen | Gjermund primarily practices in the areas of competition law, state aid and… | View Profile | |
Mr Jostein Moen | Jostein Moen heads Kvale’s Corporate M&A department. He works mainly with transactions,… | View Profile | |
Hillevi Myrhe | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Steinar Nundal | Mr Steinar Nundal works mainly with regular counselling and transaction counselling to… | View Profile | |
Mr Tom Hugo Ottesen | Tom Hugo Ottesen Heads Kvale’s restructuring, insolvency and investigation team. He has… | View Profile | |
Ms Kristin Ourom | Kristin Ourom advices in general business law, with emphasis on energy, corporate,… | View Profile | |
Mr Thomas Piro | Mr Thomas Piro has long experience as a lawyer in the field… | View Profile | |
Mr Christian Poulsson | Mr Christian Poulsson har 20 years of experience within renewable energy (hydro,… | View Profile | |
Ms Marte Roen | Senior lawyer | View Profile | |
Haakon Schiøtz | Senior associate | View Profile | |
Mr Arne Seemann Berg | Mr Arne Seemann Berg has substantial experience as a lawyer and renders… | View Profile | |
Stine Snertingdalen | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Gunnar Stake-Larsen | Gunnar Stake-Larsen has long and extensive experience in guiding companies within trade,… | View Profile | |
Mr Andreas Stang Lund | Andreas Stang Lund is specialized in civil litigation and dispute resolution, with… | View Profile | |
Mr Christian Stang Våland | Mr Christian Stang Våland is a highly experienced litigator. He also provides… | View Profile | |
Mr Per-Kaare Svendsen | Mr Per-Kaare Svenden is an internationally recognized TMT-expert and skilled negotiator. He… | View Profile | |
Sindre Svendsen | Associate | View Profile | |
Mr Jan-Erik Sverre | Mr Jan-Erik Sverre works primarily within employment law, procedure and legal matters… | View Profile | |
Mr Erik Torjusen | Senior lawyer | View Profile | |
Ms Marie Vaale-Hallberg | Marie Vaale-Hallberg is specialized in intellectual property law, in addition to having… | View Profile | |
Kristin Hjelmaas Valla | Partner | View Profile | |
Ms Mari Verling | Mari Verling is specialized in employment law and regularly assists both Norwegian… | View Profile | |
Sunniva Viken | Senior associate | View Profile | |
Mr Christian Wahl | Christian Wahl has substantial experience in national and international taxation and corporate… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 100Languages
English French German the Scandinavian languages- Energy
- Insolvency and corporate recovery