Establishment and structuring
We assist with the establishment and structuring of Family Offices, including the selection of an appropriate legal structure and jurisdiction. Whether the family is seeking a straightforward Norwegian model or an international structure, we help identify solutions that support the family’s objectives in terms of governance, tax efficiency and flexibility.
Family governance
We advise on the design of family governance frameworks and shareholders’ agreements that facilitate effective decision-making, predictability and long-term cohesion across generations and family branches.
Investments
We provide comprehensive legal advice in relation to investment strategy, asset management, and the acquisition and disposal of investments – both in Norway and internationally. Our broad expertise enables us to assemble specialised teams at short notice, regardless of the type of asset (equities, investment funds, fixed income instruments, etc.) or sector involved.
Our services include, among other things:
- structuring of investments
- assessment of tax implications
- financing structures
Ongoing legal and tax advice
Many Family Offices require a trusted adviser who is available when questions arise – whether relating to day-to-day operations, regulatory developments or specific issues. We act as a long-term legal and tax adviser and sparring partner.
As part of our ongoing support, we provide analyses of shareholder taxation, distribution strategies, and the implications of reorganisations and transactions.
Incentive schemes for key personnel
The design of incentive and remuneration schemes is essential to attract and retain key personnel within Family Offices. A range of models is available, from pure bonus schemes to co-investment arrangements where key employees acquire shares in the Family Office.
Our support includes advice on selecting the appropriate model, assessing the tax implications, and implementing the chosen solution.
Succession planning
Family Offices often manage significant wealth across generations. Questions relating to ownership structures, governance and role allocation are therefore central – both to ensure control and continuity, and to support future value creation.
We assist with:
- planning and execution of succession processes, including cross-border succession
- ownership structuring and holding structures
- reorganisations
Prenuptial agreements and wills
As part of our work with Family Offices, we also advise private individuals on family and inheritance law matters. Our services range from the preparation of prenuptial agreements and wills to assisting with complex matrimonial settlements and private estate administrations.
Cross-border relocation
Recent changes to the rules on exit taxation have reduced the flexibility for high-net-worth individuals tax resident in Norway to relocate abroad. We provide advice on:
- tax implications of emigration and changes in tax residence
- liquidity and structural adjustments prior to relocation
- the interaction between Norwegian shareholder taxation and foreign tax regimes
- relocation planning in light of both Norwegian and international tax rules
Project management and coordination
Complex family structures often require advisers across multiple jurisdictions. Thommessen can act as project manager for structuring processes and coordinate advice from international partners, allowing the family to avoid managing a fragmented adviser landscape.
A trusted adviser with a holistic perspective
Family Offices operate at the intersection of legal, financial and personal considerations. Our strength lies in combining deep specialist expertise with a holistic understanding of the family’s legal and commercial needs.
We assemble multidisciplinary teams tailored to each family’s structure and ambitions, delivering solutions that are legally robust, commercially viable and sustainable over time.