Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Dispute resolution: arbitration

Jurjen De Korte leads on international arbitration matters at OSK Advocaten, which has experience in enforcement proceedings and disputes involving debt collection and foreign arbitration.

Dispute resolution: arbitration in Netherlands

Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP stands out for its international arbitration skills, boasting a large dedicated team in the Netherlands. The firm acts as lead counsel in high-profile arbitrations, including cross-border cases and international arbitrations where foreign law applies instead of Dutch law. Practice head Marieke Van Hooijdonk served as an ICC court member for seven years and utilises her experience to specialise in corporate and commercial disputes, representing clients in arbitration-related court proceedings. Hilde van der Baan is an expert in projects, energy, and construction arbitration. Marieke Schaink joined as counsel in January 2023 from the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets and has bolstered the team's finance-related arbitration capabilities.

Practice head(s):

Marieke van Hooijdonk


Other key lawyers:

Hilde van der Baan; Marieke Schaink


Testimonials

‘The team in the Netherlands are strong and highly capable, with deep experience in arbitration procedures. Commercially savvy, they leave no stone unturned in getting to the best arguments and the right outcome for the client. Not only are they incredibly hardworking, but they are a real joy to work with.’

‘Marieke Van Hooijdonk is an absolute force of nature in arbitration in the Netherlands. A fearless advocate for her client and completely on top of the detail.’

‘Marieke van Hooijdonk is top-notch and has been the best arbitration lawyer in the industry for many years, if not decades – very strong and confident advocacy, razor sharp and very committed to reaching the client’s goals and needs, creative and persuasive, drawing on extensive arbitration experience and expertise.’ Marieke Schaink is analytical and business-savvy – a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Consilient Health


Attero


NextEra Energy Global Holdings B.V. and NextEra Energy Spain Holdings B.V


Cargill


Work highlights


  • Representing Consilient in multi-jurisdictional enforcement and challenge proceedings following major wins in two ICC arbitrations.
  • Representing Bourrelier Group in relation to a longstanding franchise dispute with Intergamma in 75 arbitrations, as well as in court proceedings on the consolidation of more than 100 arbitration proceedings.
  • Representing Attero in the Court of Appeal in The Hague in a case against several municipalities in the Netherlands concerning the annulment of an arbitral award under the NAI Arbitration Rules, in which the municipalities were ordered to pay several million euro for waste management services provided by Attero in 2015-2017.

De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek

De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek‘s arbitration practice is a leading force in the Netherlands. Often handling international and cross-border matters, the team serves as lead counsel in numerous investment and commercial arbitrations that are heard by international tribunals. The team is thus well versed in arbitration proceedings in a number of different jurisdictions and is a go-to firm for multinational corporations. Investor-state arbitrations are another key area of expertise. Leading the team is former ICC International Court of Arbitration vice-president Marnix Leijten, who is regularly engaged by clients to handle complex, high-stakes arbitrations. Singapore and Amsterdam-based Albert Marsman is a leading international arbitration practitioner. Martje Verhoeven-De Vries Lentsch is known for her commercial arbitration and gas industry expertise, while Matthias Kuscher handles issues in the energy, infrastructure, and construction industries.

Practice head(s):

Marnix Leijten


Other key lawyers:

Albert Marsman; Martje Verhoeven-de Vries Lentsch; Matthias Kuscher


Testimonials

‘Time after time, the oral representation in hearings by the De Brauw team is exceptional. Both conceptually and with respect to details, it is clear that De Brauw has a superior understanding and knowledge of the case over the lawyers representing the other side. They have a relentless focus on what really is happening and why – facts still matter at De Brauw.’

‘Matthias Kuscher’s ability to deal with complex cases and consequently reduce that complexity is extraordinary. He is fluent in many languages, which is very effective in hearings.’

‘Marnix Leijten stands out for his curiosity, drilling down to the core and going beyond the legal debate, exceptional motivation and representation time and time again.

‘Martje Verhoeven-de Vries Lentsch is very experienced, has an excellent ability to look beyond the horizon, as well as an eye for detail and understanding of the essential details, and how these function together. Also excellent availability and communication.’

‘The De Brauw arbitration team is in a league of its own. Their knowledge of the law, team spirit and weight in the Dutch market is simply unparalleled. They have the ability to present difficult and intricate cases in a simple and convincing way while paying attention to the smallest yet most significant details. They deliver clear and actionable advice that is only available to teams with great local insights and connections. They manage cases as all-round projects which highly increases the quality of the final product.’

‘Marnix Leijten is an absolute star and definitely the best disputes lawyer in the Netherlands and one of the best in Europe. His courtroom presentation skills are extraordinary. Judges are mesmerised by his wit, knowledge and level of preparation.’

‘The arbitration team of De Brauw is outstanding. The team we worked with was excellent. Very good dynamics and it was clearly a joint effort to get the best result. Very knowledgeable on all fronts and creative in the approach and argumentation.’

‘Outstanding team with unparalleled knowledge and experience in the field of Dutch arbitration-related litigation. A very diverse team with lawyers from various jurisdictions offering a breadth of experience in and insight into the laws of other countries, which allows the team to deal with very complex international matters with great efficiency. The quality of the work provided by the team is second to none in the Netherlands.’

Key clients

COFCO Coöperatief and COFCO International


GasTerra


Just Eat Takeaway


Kingdom of Bahrain


Kingdom of the Netherlands


Malaysia


Majority shareholders of Yukos Oil (Hulley Enterprises, Yukos Universal, Veteran Petroleum)


Nationale Nederlanden


NLMK


Republic of Kazakhstan/National Bank of Kazakhstan


Royal Duyvis Wiener


Shell


Work highlights


  • Successfully defended Malaysia against the recognition and enforcement of a USD 14.92 billion arbitral award in the Netherlands.
  • Representing multinational financial services firm Nationale Nederlanden in an ICSID arbitration regarding its USD 500 million claim against the Republic of Argentina.
  • Defended the Kingdom of the Netherlands against claims of over EUR 1.5 billion each brought by RWE and Uniper in the first two investment treaty arbitrations ever commenced against the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Houthoff

Houthoff continues to be a premier arbitration firm in the Netherlands, in addition to regularly assisting with complex, high-value arbitration-associated court and Supreme Court litigation, including the enforcement and annulment of arbitral awards. The team has wide-ranging expertise in commercial arbitration matters, as well as investment treaty arbitration, where it represents states and investors in a range of ICSID, UNCITRAL, and other investor-state proceedings. The practice also assists with cross-border mandates and cases that require cross-sector knowledge. Practice head Dirk Knottenbelt focuses on international arbitration and is especially well versed in corporate and commercial arbitration. Thomas Stouten typically handles matters with cross-border elements and is co-chair of the enforcement and recognition subcommittee of the IBA Arbitration Committee. Remme Verkerk is experienced in enforcement and set-aside proceedings. Eva Milou Moison is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Dirk Knottenbelt


Other key lawyers:

Thomas Stouten; Remme Verkerk; Eva Milou Moison


Testimonials

‘Houthoff has one of the leading international disputes practices in the Netherlands. A very broad bench of advocates, skilled in both litigation and arbitration matters. Of particular note is their experience in set-aside cases.’

‘Thomas Stouten definitely stands out as a leader. He is a razor-sharp lawyer, with a very strong personality that helps in both hearings and negotiations. Thomas will always go the extra mile for his clients, leading to outstanding results.’

‘Thomas Stouten provides a state-of-the-art skillset to achieve the resolution of complex disputes. He is highly knowledgeable in arbitration cases and also masters soft skills in handling other counsels and tribunals.’

‘Thomas Stouten is a quick thinker, providing different perspectives and creative solutions. Eva Milou Moison provides tailor-made advice and writes sharp pleadings.’

‘Houthoff is an exceptional choice when it comes to matters related to complex, cross-border arbitration and enforcement. Having had the privilege of working closely with their team on a number of high-stakes enforcement matters, I can attest to their unwavering commitment to excellence, deep expertise, and unparalleled dedication to achieving a successful outcomes for their clients.’

‘Tom Stouten is an outstanding lawyer. We used him in an enforcement dispute before the Dutch courts. He knows what he’s talking about and delivers great results for the client. Without a doubt my go-to counsel in the Netherlands for arbitration-related work.’

‘Thomas Stouten especially stands out. He is responsive, pragmatic and understands the business and needs of the client. He is very effective without compromising on being respectful to the courts, tribunals and opposing party. His knowledge of arbitration, also enforced by being a court member of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, is excellent. Thomas and his team are the team you want to have on your side.’

‘Thomas Stouten is young, bright and truly goes the extra mile for his clients. Dirk Knottenbelt is very well respected in the Dutch arbitration sphere. His advocacy skills are unparalleled.’

Key clients

Petrobras Brasileo


Eni


Surpass Commercial Corp. Ltd.


Wells Ultimate Service LLC


Heidelberg Cement


EcoDevelopment


AES Solar


Ampere Equity


Blasket renewable Investment LLC


Perenco


The Republic of India


Iraq


TotalEnergies


Heirs of the Sultan of Sulu


Plurinational State of Bolivia


Work highlights


  • Representing several claimants in three disputes against PDVSA, the national oil company of Venezuela, and its subsidiary, Bariven.
  • Representing Solar Energy, Ampere Equity and Blasket Renewable Investments, as investors, in various proceedings against the Kingdom of Spain in Amsterdam.
  • Representing Mare/OIEG in the Dutch enforcement of a USD 600m ICSID award against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Linklaters

The arbitration team at Linklaters is an integral part of the firm’s global arbitration practice and excels in the sphere of international arbitration and cross-border enforcement. The practice handles a large number of set-aside proceedings and cassation proceedings, and has particular expertise in oil and gas and joint venture disputes. High-value and complex commercial and investment arbitrations make up the majority of the practice’s work. Practice head and arbitration specialist Gerard Meijer is an authority on Dutch law-related arbitrations and is routinely involved in high-stakes international arbitrations. Daniella Strik focuses on cases involving financial institutions and the energy sector, as well as having experience in notable investor state disputes. Bo Ra Hoebeke advises corporations and large investment companies, as well as handling commercial arbitration. Another key member of the team is Bart Fleuren, who is well versed in arbitration-related Dutch court proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Gerard Meijer


Other key lawyers:

Daniella Strik; Bo Ra Hoebeke; Bart Fleuren


Testimonials

‘The close-knit, personable and hugely dedicated team in Linklaters’ arbitration practice in the Netherlands work together seamlessly, bringing in expertise where necessary from their cassation experts, while keeping on top of the detail and process in a large matter.’

‘Gerard Meijer is a brilliant legal thinker and gives sound and reliable advice.’

‘I would like to give special mention to Bo Ra Hoebeke, whose standout advocacy led to a favourable ruling. She is calm, collected and deeply knowledgeable, and is an absolute pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

CC/Devas (Mauritius) Ltd., Devas Employees Mauritius Private Ltd., and Telcom Devas Mauritius Ltd.


Sina Hong Kong Limited


Chevron Corporation and Texaco Petroleum Company


Merck Sharp & Dohme (IA) LLC


Eni S.p.A.


Devas Multimedia America, Inc.


Monsoon Blocking Storage, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Representing Chevron Corporation and Texaco Petroleum Company in high-profile, multi-billion-dollar set-aside proceedings, and in underlying investment arbitration proceedings.
  • Representing Merck Sharp & Dohme (IA) LLC in set-aside proceedings in the Netherlands filed by the Republic of Ecuador with respect to arbitral awards issued against Ecuador in an investment arbitration.
  • Represented the Devas shareholders in the high-profile set-aside proceedings before the Dutch Supreme Court in relation to a billion-dollar UNCITRAL arbitration claim brought under the Mauritius-India BIT in 2012, which resulted in a USD 111 million award whose international enforcement is currently being resisted by India.

NautaDutilh

NautaDutilh has strong expertise across a variety of sectors, including energy, finance, and construction, allowing the firm to expertly advise clients in these sectors on all aspects of arbitration. The practice handles both international and national cases and is particularly known for representing clients in investment arbitrations. The team handles both arbitrations with a seat in the Netherlands and the enforcement of foreign arbitral awards. Investment arbitration specialist Mirjam Van de Hel-Koedoot leads the practice and frequently acts as lead counsel in high-stakes enforcement and set-aside proceedings. Kasper Krzeminski is also key to the team, focusing on energy and construction disputes as well as cross-border enforcement matters. Freerk Vermeulen, Paul Olden, and Barbara Rumora-Scheltema are all involved in different aspects of arbitration proceedings for the firm.

Practice head(s):

Mirjam van de Hel-Koedoot


Other key lawyers:

Kasper Krzeminski; Freerk Vermeulen; Barbara Rumora-Scheltema; Paul Olden; Frans Overkleeft; Pieter Fritschy


Testimonials

‘Nauta is definitely among the leading arbitration practices in the Netherlands. I have often worked with them and have never seen any lawyer who did not meet the highest expectations.’

‘Mirjam van de Hel-Koedoot is the perfect choice for both commercial and investment treaty arbitration. If you have her on your side, you can be sure of always being one step ahead of your opponents. She is not only an outstanding lawyer, but also a person you want to work with.’

‘The team is unfailingly responsive and client-oriented. They have sharp analytical skills, and they are strategic thinkers.’

‘Freerk Vermeulen is an exceptional appellate advocate. His experience and expertise shows through in his advice to clients. Mirjam van de Hel-Koedoot is a strong team leader and writer. She is also a true pleasure to work with.’

‘Local expertise with an international outlook. Very dedicated legal professionals, with astute industry knowledge across many sectors.’

‘Kasper Krzeminski is very smart, dedicated to his clients’ cause, and easy to work with.’

‘The arbitration team of NautaDutilh is very knowledgeable and strong. Their analysis of the case is to the point and understandable for both people with and without specific legal knowledge.’

‘Mirjam van de Hel-Koedoot has strong analytical skills, is to the point in discussions and takes a firm position during legal proceedings. Her legal capabilities to address any questions from the court or counter-party are excellent.’

Key clients

NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine


Everest Estate LLC


Royal Dutch Shell


LC Corp B.V.


PJSC Aeroport Belbek


Nationale-Nederlanden Levensverzekering Maatschappij N.V.


Cygne B.V.


Digital Enterprises


Anatoli Stati; Gabriel Stati; Ascom Group S.A.; Terra Raf Trans Traiding Ltd.


Fynerdale Holdings B.V.


HAL Holding


Eneco


Neste Engineering Solutions Oy


OOS International


BioGeneration Ventures


Work highlights


  • Representing NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine in set-aside proceedings initiated by the Russian Federation with respect to a partial award in which the Russian Federation was found liable for its seizure of Naftogaz’s Crimean assets following Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
  • Representing LC Corp B.V., a Dutch investor, with respect to an anti-arbitration injunction initiated by Poland on the basis of the Achmea case law from the European Court of Justice.
  • Representing OOS International companies as claimants against Chinese and Dutch parties in an international arbitration conducted under the SIAC Arbitration Rules seated in Singapore relating to a high-value joint venture dispute in the offshore wind industry.

Van Doorne

Van Doorne acts as lead counsel for the majority of its arbitration cases, focusing the practice on annulment and enforcement proceedings. Investment treaty disputes, cross-border mandates, and set-aside proceedings all form key parts of the practice. The team is also well versed in handling post-M&A and joint venture disputes. Rogier Schellaars and Bas van Zelst jointly lead the team; both also sit as arbitrators and have a wealth of experience in handling arbitration proceedings. Schellaars specialises in energy sector mandates and acts both for and against states, while van Zelst is an expert in construction-related disputes and investment arbitrations.

Practice head(s):

Rogier Schellaars; Bas van Zelst


Testimonials

‘Van Doorne runs a varied arbitration practice, which includes in particular a highly skilled team acting as counsel in post-arbitration litigation (enforcement and set-aside proceedings).’

‘Rogier Schellaars and Bas van Zelst are the key partners and a true pleasure to work with. They are open-minded, responsive and bring well-thought and effective solutions to the table.’

‘Clear communication, clear fee structure and great technical knowledge.’

‘Easy to reach out to, clear communication.’

‘Problem-solving ability that goes beyond strictly legal matters. Knowledge of the market.’

Key clients

Geosolutions B.V.


Czech Republic


Mr. Mohamed Abdel Raouf Bahgat


PanAmericana Television S.A.


Heerema Marine Contractors


Royal Agrifirm Group B.V.


Prorail


Work highlights


  • Represented Bank Melli and Bank Saderat in set-aside proceedings, defending the client’s arbitral award.
  • Represented Panamericana Televisión S.A. as counsel of record in arbitral proceedings against the Republic of Peru.
  • Represented GeoSolutions B.V in a major technology joint venture dispute concerning the Chinese version of Facebook (Weibo) and geolocation software connected thereto.

DLA Piper

The international arbitration group at DLA Piper collaborates with its practices around the world, advising on cross-border and international arbitration mandates. The firm is especially noted for its expertise in the energy and natural resources sector, as well as its strength is construction and post M&A disputes. Energy specialist Michiel Coenraads is the go-to for ESG disputes and complex international arbitrations. Anne Josephus Jitta is experienced in investment arbitration, enforcement, and annulment proceedings. Jorian Hamster is also noted for his knowledge of international arbitration.

Practice head(s):

Marnix Holtzer


Other key lawyers:

Michiel Coenraads; Anne Josephus Jitta; Jorian Hamster


Key clients

AbbVie


ABN AMRO


ACT Commodities


Adriaan van Erk


Amtrust International Underwriters DAC


Ballast Nedam


BASF


Bayer AG


Coinbase


Crossroads European Holdings


Generali Insurance Asset Management


Harel


HFM Solutions


HunterDouglas


ING Bank N.V.


KBC Bank


Laureate


Liberty Mutual Surety


Nike


Nutreco


OSI


Petronas


Rabobank


Rijksmuseum


SABIC


Shell


SNS Reaal


Stena AB


STX Commodities


TMF


Unilever


Van Cranenbroek


Work highlights


  • Acting for Tech Mahindra in an NAI arbitration.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is active in a number of arbitration matters, both defending and enforcing arbitral awards as well as advising on post-M&A disputes and set-aside proceedings. Due to the firm’s global footprint, it specialises in international arbitration matters. Arbitration specialist Jeroen Van Hezewijk leads the team alongside Jelle Drok, who focuses on technology-related matters, and Mijke Sinninghe Damsté, who joined the practice in May 2023 from Loyens & Loeff.

Practice head(s):

Mijke Sinninghe Damsté; Jelle Drok; Jeroen van Hezewijk


Key clients

ConocoPhillips


Manuel García Armas et al.


Fernando Fraiz Trapote


Güris Insaat ve Mühendislik AS


Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A.


Occidental Petroleum Corporation


Work highlights


  • Representing Manuel García Armas et al. in the first case concerning the review of negative jurisdiction awards to come before the Dutch Supreme Court.
  • Representing Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. in set-aside proceedings initiated by Bolivia before the Court of Appeal of the Hague.
  • Representing ConocoPhillips in the enforcement of a USD 1.35 billion arbitration award in the Netherlands against PDVSA.

Legaltree

Boutique firm Legaltree stands out for its partner-only approach, boasting a five-partner dispute resolution team that excels in international arbitration matters. The team has been steadily growing over the last few years, adding arbitration and commercial litigation expert Niek Peters from Simmons & Simmons to its roster in March 2023. Max van Leyenhorst specialises in Dutch arbitration cases, in addition to regularly sitting as an arbitrator in commercial disputes. Wouter de Clerck is the go-to for mandates involving the energy sector, Taco Wiersma is an expert in offshore disputes, and Sander Oorthuys is also noted for his contract expertise.

Other key lawyers:

Niek Peters; Max van Leyenhorst; Wouter de Clerck; Taco Wiersma; Sander Oorthuys


Testimonials

‘Both Max Van Leyenhorst and Wouter de Clerck provide exceptional advice and action in respect of arbitration and cross-border litigation matters. They are go-to partners for such matters and get the client to the right result in an efficient and cost-effective manner.’

‘Legaltree is as close as you get to a barristers’ chambers in the Netherlands. A collection of top-notch individual practitioners, effectively operating independently under the Legaltree umbrella. This is a high-class legal service without the baggage of juniors or overheads of large offices.’

‘Niek Peters is still young, but already a senior, well-recognised and experienced arbitration practitioner and arbitrator. He is precise, diligent, quick to respond and a pleasure to work with. He is alert to the legal and cultural differences that underlie some of the parties’ disagreements and clearly has an encyclopaedia of knowledge on Dutch arbitration law and practice, as well as Dutch civil law more widely.’

Key clients

ABN AMRO


Boskalis


Hapag Lloyd


Mammoet


Strukton


Spliethoff


Van Oord


Federal Republic of Somalia


Dipasa Europe BV


Crescent Energy


Ferrero


Senior Service


Cargolux


Work highlights


  • Acting as Dutch counsel in annulment proceedings pertaining to a pending USD 1.4bn investor-state arbitration.
  • Acting for Crescent Gas Corporation and Crescent Petroleum Company International against National Iranian Oil Company in USD 2.5bn enforcement proceedings.
  • Acting for a co-defendant in EUR 990m enforcement proceedings pertaining to the nationalisation of an Eastern European bank.

Loyens & Loeff

Loyens & Loeff is sought out by clients for its skill in the enforcement of arbitral awards and set-aside matters, which often have a focus on international and cross-border issues. Tom Claassens leads the practice and is an expert in arbitration proceedings and proceedings before the Dutch state courts and the courts of the Netherlands Antilles. Recently promoted partner Bastiaan Kemp handles post-M&A arbitration proceedings, while Melle Boevink advises on both corporate and commercial disputes. Eva Slabbers is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Tom Claassens


Other key lawyers:

Bastiaan Kemp; Melle Boevink; Eva Slabbers


Testimonials

‘We have seen the team in a number of large landmark cases. The team is well versed in the more difficult arbitration issues, both commercial and investment cases.’

‘Tom Claassens is always a pleasure to work with – not only smart and eloquent but also a really nice guy.’

‘The Loyens & Loeff arbitration and litigation team is excellent. The team is diligent, knowledgeable and very approachable and responsive. The team is definitely top notch.’

‘Tom Claassens and Melle Boevink are key. They are both excellent, responsive and pleasant to work with.’

‘Very strong and knowledgeable team that works hard and delivers results for clients. Excellent international focus and depth of understanding of complex issues of Dutch and international law. Client-focused and timely legal advice at a very competitive price.’

‘Tom Claassens has broad experience of appearing before arbitral tribunals. Tom is a true leader, who at the same time offers a very personal approach to each client and every case. Tom is excellent both in his written submissions and on his feet before the court.’

‘Melle Boevink is an extremely talented lawyer with a great ability to resolve complex factual and legal matters. Melle’s client skills are outstanding – he is very easy to work with and always listens to the client.’

Key clients

The former majority shareholders of Yukos Oil


Sovereign Wealth Fund Samruk-Kazyna JSC


San Miguel Holding Corp.


Republic of Mongolia


Energia Costa Azul (Sempra Energy)


The heirs of the last Sultan of Sulu


Work highlights


  • Representing the former majority shareholders of Yukos Oil in the enforcement of the arbitral awards rendered against the Russian Federation for claims amounting to over USD 50 billion in relation to the unlawful expropriation of their investment in Yukos Oil.
  • Representing the heirs of the last Sultan of Sulu in the high-profile recognition and enforcement of their USD 15 billion arbitral award against the State of Malaysia.
  • Representing Samruk-Kazyna JS in a case against Anatolie Stati, Gabriel Stati, Ascom Group S.A. and Terra Raf Trans Traiding Ltd. regarding the recognition and enforcement of a USD 500 million arbitral award against Kazakhstan.

Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV

The arbitration practice at Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV handles all stages of arbitration cases, from interim measures to set-aside proceedings. While the firm is primarily known for its expertise in handling matters for public and governmental entities, it has been growing its commercial client base as well as its international capabilities. Willem Heemskerk chairs the international team and is the go-for for complex liability and compensation disputes before arbitral tribunals. Fellow practice head Mark Birnage is known for his expertise in construction and project work and handles project-related arbitration proceedings. Supreme Court litigator Martijn Scheltema is noted for his knowledge of set-aside proceedings and the enforcement of arbitral awards. Iman Brinkman focuses on energy-related matters, while newly promoted partner Raimond Dufour is the go-to for international arbitration proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Willem Heemskerk; Mark Birnage


Other key lawyers:

Martijn Scheltema; Iman Brinkman; Raimond Dufour


Testimonials

‘Raimond Dufour’s assistance was essential, first to build the strategy in the early stages of the proceedings, and then throughout the arbitration, until the primary claims prevailed before the tribunal.’

‘The team is unique where high-level legal performance (such as the handling of cases in the Supreme Court) is combined with an outstanding quality of work in specific industry sectors such as the energy sector.’

‘Martijn Scheltema’s legal skills are matched by his ability to assess problems from the client’s perspective and to develop and advise a practical approach to cases submitted to him for advice or action. Iman Brinkman’s sound knowledge of civil law, commercial law and administrative law is of great value to himself and to the firm. He is a widely recognised expert in the energy sector.’

‘The team is very quick in responding to the client’s wishes and is open to considering input from the client. In addition, they have a deep bench to do research on all legal matters. They also diligently plan the work in accordance with the schedule of proceedings and therefore there is ample opportunity to provide input and review the submissions.’

‘I have worked closely with Willem Heemskerk and Raimond Dufour. They both have a wealth of experience and are very easy and pleasant to work with. Besides their extensive legal knowledge, they have a very good sense of strategy.’

‘The team excels in teamwork and client care. The team makes a great effort to acquire and apply knowledge about the specific subject the arbitration is about.’

‘Willem Heemskerk stands out because of his broad perspective on cases. As a client, you can lean on his experience in arbitration. Willem is very decisive on what’s good for the client’s position and he gives very good advice.’

‘Thorough, hands-on lawyers. Honest people.’

Key clients

State of the Netherlands


Provinces of North Holland, South Holland, Utrecht, North Brabant, Limburg, Gelderland, and Zeeland


Municipalities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague


Feadship Holland; Royal Van Lent; Royal De Vries Shipbuilding


ABN AMRO Bank


Nationale-Nederlanden


KPN


Rabobank


ProRail


Work highlights


  • Represented the Dutch state in a multi-billion-euro arbitration against Shell and ExxonMobil over the Norg underground gas storage site and assisting the state in two major arbitrations against NAM (Shell and ExxonMobil’s Dutch joint venture) relating to the Groningen gas field.

Ysquare

Ysquare is well versed in arbitration of various kinds, including high0stakes commercial arbitration, post-M&A disputes, joint venture disputes, and energy-related arbitration. The boutique Amsterdam-based firm is active in a large number of international and national arbitrations, including before the ICC International Court of Arbitration, the Netherlands Arbitration Institute, and CEPANI. Clients include multinational and national entities from the energy, private equity, marine, and chemical sectors. Bregje Korthals Altes is known for her work in high-profile commercial and construction arbitration, while Rufus Abeln is engaged by clients for M&A and joint venture-related disputes. Hanneke Schreur is also noted.

Other key lawyers:

Bregje Korthals Altes; Rufus Abeln; Hanneke Schreur


Testimonials

‘A professional and capable team, which is skilled at anticipating issues and very client friendly.’

‘Extremely diligent and responsive. They have in-depth knowledge of the case, as well as keeping a tactical overview.’

‘Rufus Abeln and Hanneke Schreur are very energetic and have in-depth knowledge of the case. They are able to understand the situation within a short timeframe, which enables them to quickly start preparing the case.’

Key clients

Oracle


Waterland Private Equity


ExxonMobil


(Bankruptcy Trustees of) ATB Bank


MAD Atelier International B.V.


Renault


Steinhoff Recovery Foundation


TKH Group N.V.


FORsettlement


Work highlights


  • Representing various multinational companies in energy-related international arbitration proceedings, including in relation to energy production, transportation and renewables.
  • Acting for clients in post-M&A and JV disputes, including for private equity group Waterland in a EUR 2bn claim brought in international arbitration proceedings.
  • Advising as counsel to multiple Dutch and foreign publicly listed companies in international arbitration proceedings.

Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance‘s international arbitration practice is led by Juliette Luycks, who acts as counsel to a variety of clients, ranging from international organisations to financial investors, in addition to sitting as an arbitrator. Tiemen Drenth provides support in energy, finance and corporate-related arbitrations, as well as in cases with cross-border aspects.

Practice head(s):

Juliette Luycks


Other key lawyers:

Tiemen Drenth


Testimonials

‘Clifford Chance in Amsterdam is one of the best commercial law firms in the Netherlands, both for international and domestic cases.’

‘Reliable, professional knowledge.’

Key clients

Rockcastle Global Real Estate Holdings B.V.


STAUNCH

STAUNCH‘s team focuses on complex arbitrations, combining its lawyers’ international experience to advise on international cases, set-aside proceedings, and shareholder disputes. The boutique firm’s practice is led by Stefan Derksen, who excels in construction and finance-related arbitrations.

Practice head(s):

Stefan Derksen


Other key lawyers:

Lútsen de Vries; Irène Léger


Testimonials

‘Staunch is a small firm dedicated to dispute resolution and because of its size can render effective and personalised legal services of a high quality.’

‘The team are commercial and creative, and operate a structure where the partners do a lot of the work, which ensures a high degree of quality.’

‘Despite being a small firm, Staunch has proven itself able to handle big mandates. They are skilled advocates with unquestionable expertise in running complex commercial disputes. Staunch bring a sophisticated, inclusive approach to litigation and arbitration. They show their experience on the legal questions, as well as on matters of policy and judgement.’

Key clients

Caterpillar


ProRail


Star Clippers


Municipality of Gooise Meren


Work highlights


  • Representing Star Clippers in an ongoing high-stakes dispute with Croatian shipyard Brodosplit relating to the construction of the world’s largest sailing passenger vessel.
  • Frequently representing Dutch railway infrastructure provider ProRail in construction arbitrations.
  • Representing Caterpillar in a multi-jurisdictional cross-border dispute for the recovery of USD 120 million from a South American industrial conglomerate.

Van Traa Advocaten

Van Traa Advocaten specialises in international trade, transport and logistics, and insurance-related cases. In particular, the team assists enterprises with international trade disputes related to fraud, breach of contract and perishing of goods. International trade experts Marc van Maanen and Steven Oude Alink co-lead the practice.

Practice head(s):

Marc van Maanen; Steven Oude Alink


Testimonials

‘Van Traa is a very good and practical firm with professional business skills, especially for international trade cases.’

‘Good knowledge of finding practical solutions to solve disputes within short timeframes. This is great added value.’

Work highlights


  • Assisting the Dutch Council for Personal Injury on the establishment of an arbitration institute to assess and settle complicated long-term personal injury cases.
  • Represented multiple clients in challenging national and international arbitration proceedings which have emerged as a result of trade contract terminations triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Assisted numerous logistics service providers in multi-jurisdictional disputes pertaining to alleged breaches of contract.