Career Stories | Viktor Saavola, Senior Associate, Dispute Resolution

Viktor Saavola works as a senior associate in Hannes Snellman’s Dispute Resolution Team. Viktor advises domestic and international clients in their business disputes and regulatory investigations, representing clients in commercial disputes in both national courts and arbitral tribunals. 

How did you end up working at Hannes Snellman?

I applied for an open position in Hannes Snellman’s Dispute Resolution Team and joined in 2020. Before joining Hannes Snellman, I worked for a boutique law firm specialising in dispute resolution, where I had also worked as a trainee before graduating in 2018.

What was your first impression of Hannes Snellman?

In general, my first impression of Hannes Snellman was that the people working here take a serious and invested approach to their work, while simultaneously maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. Everyone is very dedicated to their work, but at the same time they are extremely welcoming and approachable. Having worked here for some time now, I can say that my first impression couldn’t have been more accurate. I feel our team’s team spirit is first-class and the support we provide each other keeps all of us highly motivated.

In your opinion, what skills are required of a good lawyer?

From the perspective of a dispute resolution focused lawyer working at a law firm, decision-making is a valuable skill. It may come more naturally for some, but I certainly consider it a skill that can be honed through experience. In the end, our clients come to us for clear recommendations or instructions on how to approach any given issue. Simply presenting the different alternatives and the underlying law is rarely enough or what the client is looking for. This is where one’s decision-making skills come into play: choosing the best alternative with the client’s best interests in mind. Having the necessary knowledge of the relevant legislation and case law is of course paramount in order to be able to provide an analysis of the issue at hand in the first place.

On a more general level, communication skills are also essential. Whether you are arguing your case in a court room or negotiating the terms of an acquisition in a conference room, being clear and convincing in your verbal output goes a long way towards building your case and working towards the goal of fulfilling your client’s interests. Being clear in your written communication skills is equally important.

What is the best career advice you have received?

Forcing yourself out of your comfort zone on a constant basis is the best way to ensure continued professional and personal growth. On the other hand, I feel the age-old platitude of “it’s a marathon, not a sprint” rings true. It is important to be merciful to oneself and to take a breather when necessary.

Let’s go back to your student years for a moment as you took part in the Vis Moot competition during your studies. As you know, Hannes Snellman is an active player in the Finnish Vis Moot scene, and we have a well-established role in supporting Finnish students wishing to participate in the Vis Moot, and we also take part in organising the Helsinki Pre-Moot. Looking back at your moot year, what is it that springs to your mind? Also, do you have any advice for aspiring Mooties?

Participating in the Vis was certainly the highlight of my studies in law school. While plenty of other memories from those times are beginning to become a bit hazier, the memories of the countless hours spent in the university library drafting memoranda, pleading about the ethicality (or lack thereof) of chocolate cakes, and meeting other Mooties in the Pre-Moots and Vienna still burn bright. The lessons learned about both written and oral legal argumentation are unrivalled. The Pre-Moot parties are unforgettable. At this stage of this year’s edition of the Vis Moot, as we are nearing the end, my only advice is to take it all in and to cherish it, hopefully for years to come.