News and current topics from various practice areas and industries

Hjort has been acting as legal representative in a case before the Supreme Court concerning the interpretation of the transitional provisions in the 2019 Inheritance Act. The main question was whether a testator who, prior to the entry into force of the current Inheritance Act, had given gifts to several of his heirs, could validly decide that the gifts should be deducted from future inheritance even after the current Inheritance Act came into force.

The Supreme Court recently handed down a ruling in HR-2025-1115-A (Rambøll), which provides further clarification on the conditions that must be met in order for so-called tort-based claims to be brought in contractual relationships, and how these claims relate to contractual liability. This article reviews case law and summarises the legal situation.

On 3 June 2025, the Standing Committee on Justice of the Norwegian Parliament (Stortinget) submitted its recommendation regarding the new Public Administration Act. The new Act will soon be enacted by the Parliament.

The establishment of data centers is a highly debated topic among policymakers, municipalities, and industry stakeholders in Norway. The recent judgment from the Court of Appeal (LB-2024-139780), which addressed the interpretation of Hadsel Municipality’s zoning plan, has brought new legal questions to the forefront.

The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet) has clarified that there will be an in-creased focus on systematic HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) management and the safeguarding of wage and working conditions in the coming years. This means that all businesses should expect more frequent inspections, additional guidance measures, and stricter sanctions for regulation breaches.

We are proud to welcome Managing Associate Sarah Marie Didriksen to our Real Estate and Construction Law practice area. Sarah’s appointment further enhances our expertise in real estate law, particularly in the field of planning and building law.

The Ministry of Climate and Environment has proposed amendments to the Marka Act (Markaloven), which governs the forested and hilly areas—collectively known as “Marka”—surrounding Oslo and its neighboring municipalities. These areas, often referred to simply as “Marka,” are vital for outdoor recreation, biodiversity, and as a natural buffer for the capital region. After more than 13 years with the Marka Act, which applies exclusively to these protected zones, we support the Ministry’s initiative to make necessary adjustments that will ensure the law remains clear, effective, and user-friendly while upholding its original purpose.

Many family-owned enterprises hold significant value in commercial real estate. These may be properties that have been in the family for generations or have been developed by the most recent generation. At some point, the owner must consider whether the business should be transferred to the next generation or realized through a sale.

The Norwegian government has recently published a consultation proposal for new national planning guidelines on land use and mobility, sparking debate about a potential ban on cabin (vacation home) development in vulnerable natural areas.