"A traineeship is an excellent way to explore the work, the working style, and the environment"

Even Hatling was a trainee at our Oslo headquarters in the fall of 2025.

"The workday often started in the coffee bar on the 11th floor, which was also a great opportunity to get to know colleagues across departments. After that, the days were filled with varied tasks, which made the placement very educational. Among other things, I drafted various board minutes and a process risk assessment for consent requirements in ownership transfers under the Companies Act", says Hatling.

A varied workday

He also participated in preparations for a litigation case and had the opportunity to follow the main hearing at Oslo District Court.

– One of the things that surprised me most was how short the path was from when I, as a trainee, prepared legal arguments to when they were actually used in court. I thought that was really cool!

– Do you have any tips for others considering a trainee placement in a business law firm?

– Apply! A trainee placement is a very good opportunity to try out both the work, the way of working, and the environment – and to get a realistic picture of whether this is something that suits you. And remember that the placement is just as much an opportunity for you to assess whether the firm is a place you want to work, as it is an opportunity for the firm to get to know you.

Do you want to do like Even and be a trainee with us? Read more about our trainee programs here!

Challenging

"I mostly worked with the M&A team, and ending up there was quite random. I found it both exciting and educational. Before the placement, M&A seemed like an area quite distant from what we study, and precisely for that reason I wanted to try it. The placement gave me good insight into what the work actually entails and what tasks a junior associate typically handles in such a team".

"The most challenging part was that I had little prior knowledge of the field, but that also made the placement extra educational. Even without much concrete knowledge, I still felt that my studies had provided a good foundation, especially in how to approach new problems. It was motivating to see how much is actually transferable".

Hatling will start as an associate with us in 2027.

"I accepted because I really enjoyed the colleagues and wanted to return to that environment. In addition, there are many highly skilled lawyers in the firm, which provides excellent opportunities to develop professionally. This combination made the choice easy for me".

Besides finishing his fourth year at the University of Bergen, he also has an active personal life.

"I enjoy a bit of everything – football, skiing, golf, and running – and I especially enjoy when activities can be combined with good friends", says Hatling.

Associate Lise Løtveit regularly interacts with students through her role as chair of the trainee committee. She joined Wikborg Rein in 2023.

Taking her EEA interest a step further

"I work on everything from legal analyses, notes, and pleadings to giving lectures and writing articles. The day also includes pleasant coffee breaks and the daily quiz on the floor – you can’t avoid it! I’m lucky to be part of our trainee committee and spend a fair amount of time planning events for students, conducting interviews, and participating in student events. The start of the year is always highlighted by ALD. In addition, I’m very happy to contribute to various event committees for outings and celebrations whenever possible", says Lise.

She works with state aid, competition law, and public procurement – areas with significant development, especially in the EU/EEA context.

"It’s hard to point to one specific highlight from my time at Wikborg Rein, so I prefer to highlight all the everyday highlights. For example, when you find an argument that really hits the mark in a case, or when you notice that you’re applying what you’ve learned and developing", says associate Lise Løtveit.

Working towards a common goal

"I particularly enjoy working closely in a team, especially when we’re working against a tight deadline and toward a common goal. It really gives a sense of teamwork and is one of the best things about being in a larger law firm like Wikborg Rein.

In her free time, she enjoys good food and drinks with friends and family.

"I also really enjoy vintage shopping, preferably abroad – but there are also many treasures to find around Oslo. Additionally, I like going on long runs to completely unwind. I’m really looking forward to spring in Oslo so I can run around Bygdøy again – a clear favorite!".