Regulatory and Governmental Affairs
All development projects depend on a complex framework of public decisions, permits, and licences—often issued across several levels of government. In many cases, regulatory processes conclude with decisions made by elected political bodies.
Navigating this landscape requires a combination of in-depth knowledge of regulatory procedures and a sharp understanding of political decision-making. Public authority is never exercised in isolation—political discretion invariably plays a role. Decisions are typically grounded in extensive preparatory work and involve a broad spectrum of stakeholders, each with a right to be heard. A sound grasp of procedural rules, institutional responsibilities, and both formal and informal channels enables strategic engagement and timely influence.
At Arntzen, we understand how government processes function—what drives them, and what it takes to achieve successful outcomes. Our team includes professionals with backgrounds in both local and central government, equipping us to advise on major development initiatives as well as individual cases.
Our recent work includes advising clients on a range of complex and strategically important matters, such as:
- OKEA AS – Advised on the electrification of the Draugen and Njord platforms.
- Norge Mineraler AS – Assisted in assessing the regulatory framework for an industrial development project.
- Private clients – Represented before the Oslo District Court and the Borgarting Court of Appeal in a landmark case concerning the legal interpretation of land designated for "industrial" use—specifically, whether such a designation permits only the production of physical goods.
- Various clients – Acted in several compulsory purchase cases involving the construction of critical public infrastructure, including litigation relating to compensation valuation.
