Prevention, risk management and handling of compliance risks
In a world where geopolitical conditions are constantly evolving, technology is developing rapidly and expectations regarding companies’ impact on people, the environment and society are increasing, the assessment of counterparty risk and a company’s own exposure is becoming ever more important. In the wake of serious crises that have affected trust in the business sector both nationally and internationally, authorities have shown greater willingness and ability to regulate and sanction the private sector. Failure to comply with applicable compliance frameworks may result in criminal liability and administrative sanctions, in addition to operational and commercial consequences.
We assist companies in identifying, assessing and managing regulatory and business risks and exposures that may have operational and strategic implications. This includes establishing and further developing robust compliance programmes and training, contract management, and conducting targeted risk assessments within areas such as sanctions, export controls, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering and ESG. At the same time, we support clients when situations arise that require swift and strategic handling.
Decision support for boards and executive management
We advise boards and senior management by providing decision support and assisting in taking proactive steps to minimise uncertainty, protect assets, safeguard reputation and achieve long-term sustainable success. Compliance forms an integral part of the board’s and the CEO’s responsibility for the sound management of the company, and breaches of regulations may give rise to personal liability.
Transactions and contracts
We have extensive experience with compliance due diligence in transactions and also offer Integrity Due Diligence (IDD), which is key to identifying security risks, reputational risks and other factors not typically covered in traditional due diligence processes.
In transactions and investments, non-compliance with various regulatory frameworks, such as sanctions and export control regulations, as well as other compliance risks, may affect valuation, commercial terms and the execution of the transaction. This may, among other things, result in value reductions, regulatory conditions or delays in closing.
A thorough and risk-based compliance review is therefore essential to identify and address such matters at an early stage, reduce uncertainty in negotiations and ensure a stronger decision-making basis for investors and other transaction parties.
Regulatory engagement and communication
We assist in matters and dialogue with supervisory authorities and prosecuting authorities, such as the Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority, The Norwegian Agency for Export Control and Sanctions (DEKSA), the National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (Økokrim) and the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST).
We also provide support with external communications and the strategic handling of matters, including coordination with boards and management, media handling and facilitating effective and trust-building dialogue.
In cases of suspected corruption, financial misconduct, breaches of sanctions regulations or internal guidelines, we assist with internal investigations and assessments to ensure a sound factual basis and reduce legal and commercial risk. This includes securing documentation and gathering facts, managing internal and external communications, engaging with relevant authorities, and implementing corrective measures and improvements to internal procedures. We also assist with crisis management and dispute resolution where matters develop into regulatory or legal proceedings.
Experience from public authorities and complex organisations
Drawing on experience from, among others, the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST), the National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (Økokrim) and multinational companies, our lawyers are well equipped to identify risks and provide advice that extends beyond purely legal issues.
Our approach is risk-based and practical, grounded in the company’s actual risk profile. We assist in identifying the most critical risks and prioritising measures where exposure and potential consequences are greatest. The objective is not only to ensure compliance with current requirements, but to strengthen the company’s ability to manage uncertainty, respond to future developments and concentrate its efforts where they matter most.
