Martti Peetsalu

Practice Areas

Dispute Resolution / Arbitration / Mediation / Commercial Litigation / Insolvency & Restructuring / White Collar Crime

Martti Peetsalu is a leading expert in shipping and transport law, recognised by prestigious international directories for his practical, diligent, and responsive approach.

Clients appreciate his analytical, pro-active, and commercial mindset, comparing his strategic thinking to that of a chess player—always thinking several steps ahead.

With extensive experience in shipping law, Martti has litigated landmark cases, particularly in ship arrest issues, shaping Estonia’s reputation for having an efficient legal system and strong maritime case law. He has also handled cases involving road carriers, freight forwarders, forced vessel sales, cargo claims, and issues related to the carriage of goods and passengers by air.

Martti has successfully represented clients in significant Supreme Court cases concerning shareholder disputes, company division, and board member liabilities, which have shaped Estonian case law. He has also gained valuable experience in rail carriage and railway infrastructure charges.

He has further honed his expertise at Dabelstein & Passehl (Arnecke Sibeth Dabelstein), a law firm specialising in the transport sector. Martti also serves on the national revision committee on national defence law and co-authored analyses on court procedures in a state of emergency.

Career

Since 2023 Partner, law firm TEGOS (formerly TGS Baltic)

2021-2023 Associate Partner, law firm TGS Baltic

2017-2021 Senior Associate, law firm TGS Baltic (formerly Varul)

2014–2017 Senior Associate, law firm Varul

2012 Intern, Law Firm Dabelstein & Passehl (Hamburg)

2008–2014 Senior Associate, law firm Glimstedt

2006–2008 Lawyer, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Professional Memberships

2013 Estonian Association of Young Lawyers

2010 Estonian Bar Association