Marit Kirkhusmo heads up the dedicated shipping and offshore offering at SANDS, which spans all aspects of shipping-related work, including construction, shipbuilding and charter work, and contentious mandates. Kirkhusmo specialises in financing work in the shipping and offshore sectors and handles sale and leaseback issues, vessel constructions, and dispute resolution mandates for shipowners, brokers, insurance companies, and agents. Guy Leonard, dual-qualified in Norway and England and Wales, has extensive experience advising on project development and vessel chartering issues, with a notable emphasis on LNG floating storage and regasification projects. At associate level, Hallvard Janbu Høyem assists shipowners and shipyards with marine insurance and contractual matters.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘What sets this practice apart is their unwavering dedication to client success. They take the time to deeply understand your unique needs and objectives, tailoring their legal strategies accordingly. Their team's expertise spans a wide range of practice areas, ensuring comprehensive support.'

  • 'SANDS truly shines in their personalised approach and ability to stay ahead of the curve. A resounding 10/10 recommendation!’
  • ‘Guy Leonard is truly exceptional. His leadership and expertise set him apart in the legal field. Guy's ability to grasp complex legal issues and translate them into practical strategies is remarkable.'

  • 'Hallvard Høyem, as an associate working alongside Guy Leonard, embodies the same dedication to excellence. His attention to detail and unwavering commitment to our case's success have been truly impressive. His commitment to delivering results and going the extra mile sets him apart as an outstanding associate.’

Key clients

  • Höegh LNG
  • Gjensidige Insurance
  • Vard Group
  • AKVA Group
  • Eitzen Group, including Camillo Eitzen & Co AS and Eitzen Avanti AS

Work highlights

  • Assisted Eitzen Avanti AS with the acquisition of B-Gas A/S, B-Gas NSG, B-Gas Pelagic and their subsidiaries (collectively, B-Gas) from Bergshav and its partners.
  • Advising Höegh LNG on the charter and delivery of two floating LNG storage and regasification units (FSRUs) for the fast-track LNG import projects at the Wilhelmshaven and Brunsbüttel Ports in Germany.
  • Advising Vard Group on the restructuring of DOF Group, which is a leading Norway-based ship-owning group in the offshore services industries.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Marit Kirkhusmo

Other key lawyers

Guy Leonard, Hallvard Janbu Høyem