DKCO’s journey from Mariehamn's ports to Nordic business centers
DKCO’s story began with laws related to shipping, commercial agreements and credit law, as well as Åland's unique position as a self-governing province. In the 1990s, we were already working with clients whose businesses required both an understanding of local rules and insight into international business patterns. DKCO Attorneys at Law is a leading Nordic law firm with unparalleled expertise in business law. The journey here has been the result of conscious choices and a long-term strategy.
Deep roots
DKCO's origins were more than just a specialisation – they became the foundation for an international approach that characterises our entire development. Our early collaborations with shipping companies, banks and companies in the export-oriented industry taught us one thing: law always crosses national borders.
Our maritime heritage has given us extensive knowledge of international business law and business relations. This knowledge is at the core of our advice, whether the case concerns public procurement in Vaasa or a company acquisition in Helsinki with foreign counterparties.
One firm with three offices
Establishing offices in Helsinki and Vaasa was not just a geographical growth strategy – it was a decisive move to combine local roots with national reach. We quickly learned that it's much simpler to proclaim 'we are everywhere' than to physically be in every corner of the globe. We were determined to avoid the pitfalls of a traditional 'head office with branches' organisation. All our lawyers work in joint teams, regardless of office and area of expertise. This gives clients direct access to the right expertise, without unnecessary intermediaries. Digital tools have undoubtedly strengthened our way of working, but it is the structure and culture that make it effective.
Bigger is not better
Law firms measure success in terms of number of employees or turnover. We measure our success by client value and the timely and accurate completion of complex assignments. Our approach is clear: "Better is better". We keep the organisation focused and decision-making processes short. This allows us to offer strategic expertise with experienced lawyers who are always available.
Nordic reach through partnerships
Growth has not been about opening more offices, but about building long-term relationships. We collaborate regularly with local chambers of commerce in our regions, industry organisations and international networks of law firms. This gives our clients access to the entire Finnish market and key decision-makers. It also enables us to handle projects involving both domestic and international transactions.
Lawyers of the future will work differently
DKCO's development is distinctive because we have shown what a smaller, specialised firm can achieve. We operate an ISO 9001-certified quality process in combination with an ISO 27001 framework for information security. This means that we can handle business-critical information with a level of security that matches that of large international firms while still being flexible. Decisions are made quickly, and changes can be implemented without lengthy internal processes.
What's next?
DKCO is proud to announce its evolution from a local shipping specialist to a prominent Nordic business law partner. Our advice on green transition and the energy sector is expanding rapidly. We assist companies with financing solutions, procurement and regulatory issues. We work in a global economy. This means that legal expertise must be both locally rooted and internationally relevant.
What started in the ports of Mariehamn has become a globally operating law firm. We are not tired of the challenge.
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DKCO Attorneys at Law: local knowledge meets international expertise. Our offices in Helsinki, Mariehamn and Vaasa serve clients throughout the Nordics and beyond.