Oil & Gas
Oil & Gas Disputes
Deep industry insight and experience from all phases
Offshore construction disputes tend to be centred on the contractor’s undertaking to deliver a custom-made product. Projects are typically technically complex, last for a long time (often for several years) and come with a high price tag. This means that disputes will frequently arise during project execution or in relation to final settlement. Other types of offshore contract disputes, for example rig contract disputes or tie-in agreement disputes between offshore joint ventures, may also be of major financial and practical significance.
Thommessen has extensive experience with assisting on all contract types concluded in relation to offshore operations, from the initial negotiation of such contracts to any potential disagreement or dispute. We are experienced in acting for both operators/oil companies and contractors. We have an in-depth understanding of the relevant contract types and their risk apportionment structure. This enables us to cut to the chase and provide targeted assistance in all phases of a contractual relationship.
Complementary teams
In our experience, the successful resolution of contract disputes in the oil & gas sector requires experience with, and understanding of, the contracts in question, combined with excellent project and industry insight. A number of our lawyers have in-house background from oil companies or contractors. We draw extensively on this valuable experience and unique understanding when assisting clients. For major disputes, we will put together a complementary team that combines extensive industry expertise with general dispute resolution expertise. It is our experience that this makes for efficient and effective assistance throughout the process, with a consistent focus on delivering the optimal outcome.
Digital tools
We use simple digital project management and document processing tools to improve workflow efficiency and ensure involvement, transparency and predictability for clients. We thereby ensure that the client does at all times have an overview of the case and its documents, understands the timeline of the case, and knows what needs to be done and when it needs to be done. Our digital tools are undergoing continuous development, also in response to specific needs in individual projects, in collaboration with our innovation & development department.
BENCHMARK CASES
Safe Scandinavia conversion
Thommessen has assisted Westcon Yards AS in a final settlement dispute regarding conversion of the Safe Scandinavia rig from accommodation rig to tender support vessel. Westcon Yards AS prevailed with all of its claims in a judgment handed down by the Gulating Court of Appeal in March 2021. The case was not admitted for hearing before the Supreme Court, thereby making the judgment final and binding.
DONG/Hejre development project
Thommessen assisted DONG in a series of disputes that arose in connection with the Hejre development, against a consortium comprised of Daewo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) and Technip France (Technip).
The team
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