Bird & Bird leverages its large and multi-disciplinary TMT group in order to advise clients on complex national and multi-jurisdictional projects. Co-heads of the media group Olaf Trojan and Paul Waszink specialise in different areas within media – Trojan is the first port of call for national and regional newspapers seeking advice on freedom of speech and internet-related matters, while Waszink focuses on regulatory matters in the telecoms space and represents media parties in FOI proceedings. Competition and EU law expert Janneke Kohlen works on horizontal cooperation agreements and distribution agreements and frequently provides in-house competition compliance programs and training to clients. The breadth of the practice is further demonstrated by the activity of senior counsel Wilfred Steenbruggen and Berend Van Der Eijk, data protection experts, who advise clients in the media space on such compliance matters.
Industry focus: Media and entertainment in Netherlands
Bird & Bird
Practice head(s):
Olaf Trojan; Paul Waszink
Other key lawyers:
Janneke Kohlen; Berend van der Eijk; Wilfred Steenbruggen; Clemens Molle; Linde Mayer; Wouter Kroeze
Testimonials
‘The team led by Olaf Trojan have broad experience in media case and outstanding knowledge of our company and individual newspapers.’
‘Olaf Trojan is very kind, has an outstanding knowledge of the latest law and regulations and is also capable of thinking business wise.’
Key clients
DPG Media
NPO
NOS
Skyscanner
SDU
T-Mobile
Tele2
Discovery
NLPO
Trustpilot
Work highlights
- Represented the Dutch Public Broadcaster NPO in several media law cases, among other subjects related to the Freedom of Information Act and the approval procedure for new media content channels.
- Represented Trustpilot in an injunctive relief order aimed at disclosing customer information.
- Represented the AD, the largest newspaper in The Netherland and some of DPG Media’s regional titles, in a number of defamation cases.
Brinkhof
Brinkhof has a major footprint in the media, broadcast, internet and telecoms sectors, with major international broadcasters, telecoms providers and online technology companies on its client roster. With ground-breaking litigation in internet and information law and an ever-growing number of European and US media and tech clients seeking advice on EU policy and compliance, the firm provides a full spectrum of expertise. Heading the media and entertainment and platform regulation and litigation practices, Remy Chavannes represents broadcasters and publishers, as well as internet platforms and has litigated dozens of cases at the intersection of copyright, freedom of expression, and privacy. TMT specialist, Quinten Kroes, assists radio broadcasters on the various frequency allocations and acts for commercial broadcasters in legal challenges. Dorien Verhulst represents Google in all its litigations. Anke Strijbos, a specialist in data protection and copyright law, is closely involved in significant media and platform-regulation cases.
Practice head(s):
Remy Chavannes; Dorien Verhulst
Other key lawyers:
Quinton Kroes; Anke Strijbos; Bart Tromp
Testimonials
‘A very knowledgeable team, especially at partner level. They understand the need for concise and practical advice that is forged on in depth legal knowledge, and they understand the business needs of their clients.’
‘Remy Chavannes is a great communicator with excellent legal and advisory skills. He can navigate complex legal questions as well as internal politics and is a joy to work with.’
‘Brinkhof is a reputable firm with high quality lawyers.’
‘I work with Quinten Kroes and Remy Chavannes who are both knowledgeable and smart.’
Key clients
Association of Dutch Commercial Radio broadcasters
Disney
Nieuwsuur
FD Mediagroep
Meta Platforms
RTL Group
RTL Nederland
Sky Radio
Radio Veronica
T-Mobile
Work highlights
- Represents Google in all of its Dutch litigation, including acting for its video platform YouTube in cutting-edge proceedings concerning the take-down of two videos due to violations of Google’s COVID 19 disinformation policies.
- Representing broadcaster RTL Group in administrative litigation before the Belgian Council of State relating to regulatory jurisdiction over RTL’s language channels targeting the French-speaking Belgian market.
- Acting for the Association of Dutch Commercial Radio Broadcasters in high-stakes performing-rights rate-setting litigation against collective management organisation Sena.
Kennedy Van der Laan
Known for its freedom of speech and internet-related media practice, Kennedy Van der Laan is sought out by Dutch news outlets, broadcasters and production companies for advice on defamation claims and pre-publication reviews. Team head Jens van den Brink represents national and international media companies in free speech, copyright and digital matters. Content and technology specialist Joran Spauwen counsels the firm’s internet platforms and ISP clients on IP and transactional mandates. Counsel in the IP and media practice Sophie Van Loon is a key contact for social media platforms, while senior associate Emiel Jurjens is an integral member of the team when representing clients in litigation proceedings. Associate Lotte Oranje regularly acts for clients in disputes concerning press publications and online content.
Practice head(s):
Jens van den Brink
Other key lawyers:
Joran Spauwen; Sophie van Loon; Emiel Jurjens; Lotte Oranje; Michiel Coops
Testimonials
‘Kennedy Van der Laan have provided us fast, timely and valuable advice on a wide variety of legal topics for over two years now. Their service is invaluable, and they have helped us navigate often complicated queries on media law, employment law, copyright, GDPR and much more.’
‘Focused deep knowledge of media law. The firm has done high profile cases that attracted a lot of publicity for us. We always work with Jens van den Brink. We have a trusting relationship.’
‘If Jens van den Brink is involved, then we know the matter is in good hands. Lotte Oranje is one of the newcomers. She’s a real talent, sharp, engaged and works hard.’
‘Jens van den Brink and Lotte Oranje take a practical view on matters. Also, they are a good sparring partner for smaller issues. They are down to earth and have good knowledge of the media field and knowhow of jurisprudence. They keep calm in difficult situations.’
‘Kennedy Van der Laan has the best media lawyer of the Netherlands. His name is Jens van den Brink.’
‘Good industry knowledge, good litigation-skills, pragmatic.’
‘Joran Spauwen and Jens van den Brink are both strong litigators and have good industry knowledge.’
‘Joran Spauwen stands out as being able to translate tech in an understandable way.’
Key clients
Meta
VodafoneZiggo
DPG Media
Mediahuis
BNNVARA
VPRO
Vice Media
KRO-NCRV
Eredivisie C.V.
PowNed
ViacomCBS
Bellingcat
GeenStijl
Work highlights
- Represented Twitter in a major litigation on filter requirements for commercial tweets against Dutch celebrity Jort Kelder.
- Represented de Volkskrant in a highly mediatized defamation case over #mettoo allegations in a political party initiated by a former political heavyweight.
- Represented Freedom of Information Coalition (a coalition of internet service providers and internet and press freedom organizations) regarding the blockade of Russian state-owned media implemented by the European Union.
Boekx Advocaten
As a media, privacy and IP boutique Boekx Advocaten represents newspapers, magazines, TV production companies and online media and entertainment platforms frequently in defamation and libel disputes. Specialist defamation practitioner Matthijs Kaaks represents both defendants and claimants in disputes related to defamation claims caused by investigative journalism. Otto Volgenant focuses on source protection, whistle blowers, data protection, freedom of speech in the journalism space. Marc de Boer is sought out by clients for counsel in the audio-visual content production and regulatory area.
Practice head(s):
Marc de Boer
Other key lawyers:
Matthijs Kaaks; Otto Volgenant
Testimonials
‘We have been working with Boekx for more than 15 years. We have never been disappointed with the services provided during that period. Confidence in the office is optimal.’
‘In the years that we hired Boekx, we have always worked with partner Matthijs Kaaks. His insights into complex media cases have helped us at important moments. Matthijs is sharp and an excellent litigator.’
‘Otto is a very dedicated lawyer: always available!’
Key clients
Dutch Association of Journalists
Stop Online Shaming Foundation
Warner Bros. Television Production
Skyhigh TV
Tuvalu Media
Follow The Money
Leaseweb
Snappet
Sumo Sushi
Esteon
Work highlights
- Represented Dutch Association of Journalists against De Persgroep on equitable rates for freelance journalists.
- Represented SOS Foundation against an adult content website, requiring publishers of adult content to seek consent when publishing user-generated videos.
- Advised Picnic in a dispute against Max Verstappen about a commercial video featuring a Verstappen lookalike.
bureau Brandeis
Supreme court litigation concerning neighbouring rights and copyright contract disputes are a distinct feature of bureau Brandeis‘ media and entertainment practice. The team is co-headed by Christiaan Alberdingk Thijm , Machteld Robichon and Hans Bousie, who each specialise in a different area in the media and entertainment space, providing clients with a range of advice. Thijm works on landmark cases concerning soft IP and intermediary liability. Robichon is a key contact for companies and operators in the media, gaming and broadcasting regulatory space. The cross-over between competition law and digital copyright is routine cross-border contentious work for Bousie, who also represents an array of publishers and record labels.
Practice head(s):
Christiaan Alberdingk Thijm; Machteld Robichon; Hans Bousie
Other key lawyers:
Sophie van Everdingen; Syb Terpstra; Sam van Velze
Testimonials
‘The legal team of Bureau Brandeis helps us with legal matters, mainly with parties that have objections against publications in our business magazines. And they do that very adequately, even though it’s usually last-minute business.’
‘We often work with Christiaan Alberdingk Thijm.’
‘One of the best, or perhaps the best, Dutch intellectual property and entertainment practices. The lawyers are responsive, proactive, just but appropriately aggressive where needed and always have a strong human touch both to clients and counterparties. Longstanding relationships and expertise with most counterparty firms in The Netherlands.’
‘Hans Bousie is one of the most reputable and experienced entertainment lawyers in The Netherlands and takes a practical and efficient way to resolving matters. His strengths are in focusing on key points of leverage, not fussing about minutiae.’
‘Hans Bousie has a great team around him at Brandeis, including Syb Terpstra, who has been incredibly engaged in our dealing with him; he studies matters deeply, has attention to detail and is very responsive.’
Key clients
Netflix
KPN/XS4ALL
Sanoma
Dutch Publishers Association
Talpa Radio
Hearst Magazines Netherlands B.V.
AMS-IX
Public broadcasters AT5 and NH Nieuws
Music Creations Publishing B.V.
VBK Uitgeversgroep B.V.
Media B.V
Spinnin’ Records
Dutch Association for Educational Media
Close
Yellow Claw & Barong Family
Bunq
Sony
Heroic
Bitbird
Dash Berlin
Amp.Amsterdam
Pathé
Vlado (Marcel Kosic)
Tiqets
Work highlights
- Represented Hearst Magazines in all cases concerning the lawfulness of publications.
- Represented Spinnin Records in litigation before the Court of Appeal Arnhem/Leeuwarden and before the Supreme Court against world famous DJ Martin Garrix
- Advised Netflix on media, copyright and regulatory matters.
HOYNG ROKH MONEGIER
IP specialist HOYNG ROKH MONEGIER represents clients in media litigation matters and unfair advertising. Head of the IP and media practice Joris Van Manen acts for clients in high-profile EU wide trademark infringement and unfair competition cases. The experienced Laura Fresco acts in opposition and invalidity proceedings before the European Union IPO and assists with border seizures and anti-counterfeit programs.
Practice head(s):
Joris van Manen
Other key lawyers:
Laura Fresco
Key clients
AkzoNobel
Banijay
Bolton Adhesives
BREIN
Concord Music
CTM Publishing
De Persgroep
Epic Games
Euronext
Jimi Hendrix Estate
John Lennon Estate
MC&F Broadcasting
Mondriaan Fonds
Motion Picture Association of America
Naga and Apeiron
Procter & Gamble
Rabobank
SABAM
Samsung
Signify
Sony Entertainment
TERN
Vemedia
Höcker Advocaten
Höcker Advocaten is a first port of call for litigation, licensing and transactional advice for a range of innovative companies, such as enterprises that create and deliver content, music and audiovisual as well as literary rights collecting societies, and advertising agencies. Team head and experienced litigator Jacqueline (J.M.B.) Seignette assists clients on the impact of new technologies on the protection of IP. Joep Meddens focuses on privacy aspects in the advertising space and represents clients in defamation and misleading advertising disputes. As labelled by clients, the ‘excellent’ ‘force of nature’ that is Marijn Kingma is a robust practitioner in the copyright space, advising clients on acquisitions and representing them in disputes. Sponsorship agreements is also routine work for Kingma.
Practice head(s):
Jacqueline Seignette
Other key lawyers:
Joep Meddens; Marijn Kingma; Marc Wolters
Testimonials
‘Marijn Kingma’s team supports me in both media and communications law and entertainment law’
‘I have always known Höcker Advocaten to be a very qualified niche firm, widely recognized for its advisory in media and entertainment spaces, and I recommend them, for all areas, including music law, audiovisual law, TV and new tech’
‘Höcker Advocaten uses useful technological tools. The firm is at the forefront of innovation and proficient with blockchain and cryptocurrencies. Its IP technologies are very important for the client.’
‘Marijn Kingma is a force of nature, made entirely of conviction and determination. Everything starts with her great quality of listening; she has an iron will. She is an excellent jurist, fine analyst and presents clearly. We are proud to be represented by Marijn.’
‘What I like about the team, especially Marijn Kingma, is that they are really accessible and they really know our business and our company. They really think along with our needs and provide us with constant support. Compared to other firms, their rates are very reasonable as well.’
‘Marijn Kingma is excellent. She is quick on her feet, very knowledgeable and fun to work with. I would highly recommend her to anyone.’
‘We feel included and taken serious in our ambition to make an impact. Marijn Kingma is active in many organizations to create a fair practice environment for artists.’
‘Höcker Advocaten has integrity, ambition and the lawyers are fun to work with.’
Key clients
Buma
Stemra
Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe, SIAE Benelux
Mojo Concerts
Ticketmaster
Stichting de Thuiskopie
Ziggo Dome
LIRA
Motion Picture Association
Stichting Leenrecht
Omnicom
TBWA
DDB Unlimited
RadioCorp
Stichting BREIN
WPG Uitgevers
Lama Lama B.V.
Pythagoras Music Fund
Work highlights
- Representing RadioCorp in litigation proceedings against competitor Kink FM, who has objected to the emergency COVID-19 extension of FM licenses held by RadioCorp and other national radio stations.
- Representing PMF, a Netherlands based music investment fund financed by private and institutional investors. We are assisting PMF with the acquisition of music copyrights from Dutch and European hit authors since PMF became a client in the summer of 2021.
- Representing Stichting de Thuiskopie, in a dispute concerning the debate that copies for private use stored in the cloud and copies for private use made from streaming services should be equitably remunerated as part of the private copying levies system.
Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV
Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV is described as the ‘go to law firm in the Netherlands for freedom of speech cases in digital media defamation and false accusations claims’ for ‘public authorities and The State’. Head of the media and entertainment practice, IP litigation specialist Sikke Kingma is known for his Supreme Court pedigree, representing high-profile clients in disputes pertaining to the lawfulness of publications and statements on the internet or in other media, particularly where unfounded accusations or infringements of privacy are concerned. Associate Jordi Bierens is the key contact for clients seeking counsel on matters relating to the protection of journalistic sources, press freedom, advertisement law and false accusations in digital media and traditional press.
Practice head(s):
Sikke Kingma
Other key lawyers:
Jordi Bierens
Testimonials
‘Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn is the house attorney for public authorities and the state in the Netherlands, and also has a track record in representing NGOs, social watchdogs and academics. For such clients, its Media and Entertainment team is the go to law firm in the Netherlands for freedom of speech cases in digital media defamation and false accusations claims.’
‘In this field, there is no other law firms in the Netherlands that can match this team in terms of experience and expertise. The team is always one step ahead and very aware of market practices and developments.’
‘Jordi Bierens essentially built the freedom of speech practice within the team.’
‘I always refer cases to Jordi Bierens. He is not only the key lawyer in the field of media law, but also he has built a very strong reputation in the sector. He is a go-getter, knows all the ins and outs and always gives the extra mile on every case.
‘Jordi Bierens is strategic, pragmatic and communicative. He is able to explain complex legal issues in layman’s terms and he knows how to perform and remain calm under pressure. I have good (and independent) knowledge of the sector, and I would strongly recommend Jordi as a Rising Star in the field of Media and Entertainment.’
‘Sikke Kingma has a very good reputation for media and entertainment cases, especially Supreme Court cassations.’
‘Sikke Kingma is an excellent lawyer. He is also a great and fun person to work with.’
Key clients
Rijksvoorlichtingsdienst (Netherlands Government Information Service)
Consumentenbond
Sena (Foundation for the Exploitation of Neighbouring Rights)
State of the Netherlands (Ministry of Security and Justice)
The Public Prosecution Service
Work highlights
- Defended the Dutch Inspectorate of Education in proceedings against a Christian high school that sought to prevent the publication of a critical report on the social safety of LGBTQI-students at the school.
- Represented the Radiocommunications Agency Netherlands in lawsuits about the redistribution of radio frequencies.
Van Doorne
Experienced specialist in IP law Kriek Wille heads Van Doorne‘s IP and media team. Wille not only advises international TV producers and global production companies in IP disputes but also represents clients in unfair competition cases, publicity, advertisement and sponsorship mandates. As a skilled practitioner in M&A, private equity and venture capital transactions, Meltem Koning-Gungormez advises corporates and financial institutions involved in the media sector on the impact of investments, acquisitions and divestments. Associate Dominique Geerts is an integral support to clients dealing with media-related IP disputes.
Testimonials
‘The team operates on a highly professional level and also brings good spirits and energy to the table. The invoices are more than reasonable.’
‘Kriek Wille is a very experienced lawyer and a great person to work with. Kriek is very reliable and accurate.’
‘Van Doorne offered a balanced, collaborative team that helped me achieve my litigation needs with the right expertise and experience and price point.’
‘Each member of the three-member team brought a unique expertise to the table and did so in a personable and efficient way. Their flexible and responsive approach made it a pleasure.’
‘Kriek Wille, Melanie de Boer and Hanne van t’Klooster help us deal with regulatory issues. The team is also very international and provides quick advice with a very professional approach at good fees.’
‘Kriek Wille is an experienced lawyer in the entertainment and media field with a very human approach and with a good sense of all interests involved.’
‘Kriek Wille is a pleasure to work with. She understands the clients’ needs. She strives for an efficient and optimal solution for the client.’
‘Kriek Wille is an outstanding and strategic litigator. She sees the big picture, takes thoughtful care of the details, and forms excellent teams. Kriek’s advice is always on-point and extremely helpful. Her advocacy skills in the courtroom or in an arbitration setting are exceptional.’
Key clients
Bertram Group Limited
Bundle
Durabo B.V.
Erdee Media Group
Influencer Marketing Agency
Keesing Media Group
LG Electronics
Medialane Theater B.V.
Medialane TV B.V.
MediaMonks
MOAM Foundation
Morenso International
Nederlandse Loterij
NENT Studios
Platform Media Adviesbureaus
Stardust Holding B.V.
Stichting Cliniclowns
Tele2 Works Council
Telegraaf Media Group
TGH B.V.
The Player Management
TransIP
Uitgeverij Nieuw Amsterdam
Unitel International Holding
Vidcon (online videoconferencing)
Vous Hotels & Retreats
Dasso Group
Foodimus
The Green Happiness
Tony’s Chocolonely
The Walt Disney Company
Work highlights
- Representing book publisher Uitgeverij Nieuw Amsterdam in and ourtside court in longrunning litigation concerning an allegedly unlawful journalistic publication.
- Advising a large international content producer on various matters including elements of its IP policy and on several acquisitions.
- Advised the management of Keesing Media Group in the company’s buy-out by BC Partners
Visser Schaap & Kreijger
IP and media niche firm Visser Schaap & Kreijger is led by litigator Jacqueline Schaap, who focuses on freedom of speech, image rights, contract law, product placement and sponsoring mandates. IP virtuoso Dirk Visser is known for successfully representing clients in ground-breaking decisions in respect of anti-piracy in the music and film industries. Paul Kreijger works on matters that intersect IP and competition law, for example, copyrights and neighbouring rights. Recently promoted partner Patty De Leeuwe works closely with Visser and Schaap on various copyright, freedom of speech and defamation issues.
Practice head(s):
Jacqueline Schaap; Dirk Visser
Other key lawyers:
Paul Kreijger; Patty de Leeuwe
Testimonials
‘Jacqueline Schaap is a giant in the Dutch media and entertainment practice. No-nonsense legal advice based on decades of experience. Patty de Leeuwe is the rising star within the firm.’
‘The team at Visser Schaap & Kreijger are experts on IP law. They combine years of experience with practical knowledge of the market and are involved in consulting regarding any Dutch law development and EU implementations.’
‘The firm offers a monthly jurisprudence law breakfast to their clients, discussing court cases and rights developments, which is a perfect way to keep up to speed for clients involved in legal IP practice.’
‘We have been working with Visser Schaap & Kreijger for many years. Our main lawyer is Ms Jacqueline Schaap, who is an excellent advisor and well informed about our business. This means any cases or questions we bring to her are handled with care and precision.’
‘Visser Schaap & Kreijger is a niche IP law firm. The people working at Visser Schaap & Keijger have the right DNA to advise media companies and it is very nice to work with them. Services are of a very high level.’
‘The partners are accessible, keeping their clients informed by sharing information, organising sessions with updates on IP matters.’
‘I work with Jacqueline Schaap. She is direct, knows the business, the players and is very convincing and credible which is helpful in legal proceedings.
‘Jacqueline Shaap is very accessible and she responses very quickly when help is needed. Her advice is practical.’
Key clients
Endemol Shine Nederland
Talpa Network and Talpa TV
Universal Music and Universal media
Stichting Brein – anti piracy organisations and the MPA
Singel Publishers
DPG Media
NDP Dutch news Media Association
MediaMonks
Warner Bros. International television Nederland
KNVB
Mediahuis
Videma
Work highlights
- Representing several organisations and holocaust survivors in injunction proceedings against Thierry Baudet, the leader of the political party FvD regarding his comparison during the COVID pandemic of unvaccinated persons with the position of the Jews during the Holocaust.
- Representing the Amsterdam bar association in injunction proceedings against a tv-programme preventing the publication of certain confidential information.
- Representing the tv producer Witte Geit and the broadcaster BNN VARA in injunction proceedings about a copyright infringement regarding a television series format.
AC&R
Advocates for Creativity and Reputation, AC&R, established in 2023 following the merger of Hofhuis Alkema Groen and Le Poole Bekema, routinely work on IP and media law matters. The lawyers of Le Poole Bekema bring a strong presence in the Dutch media and entertainment sector, representing four public broadcasters as well as their governing bodies. Anne Bekema is an experienced litigator in copyright law, defamation and freedom of speech matters, representing broadcasters, producers and individuals on matters concerning freedom of expression, format rights and scientific integrity. Laura Broers regularly acts for clients in urgent and publicity-sensitive cases, such as high-profile defamation cases. Associate, Ron Lamme, brings an added dimension of expertise in information technology to the media and entertainment practice.
Practice head(s):
Anne Bekema; Laura Broers
Other key lawyers:
Ron Lamme
Testimonials
‘The team is extraordinary in their field of expertise. They individually are the best in class when it comes to understanding the level playing field and together, they make an unbeatable team. Their approach is very human and informing, they use dialogue to come to the best strategy. The firm is inventive and the lawyers have the client’s importance in their best interest.
‘I have worked with both Anne Beekema and Laura Broers, who both thrive in very complex corporate organisations. With humor, openness and real dialogue they realized a position as true consultants and expert to the matter.’
Key clients
Mediahuis Nederland
NOS
Microsoft
McDonald’s
Arla
EO
HEMA
NPO
Edemol Shine
Banijay Group
Vincent TV Producties
VPRO
See Tickets
Stitching Regionale Publieke Omroep
RTV Rijmond
Monday Media
NTR
AMC
Kabushiki Kaisha Zoom
Lebara Mobile
Cobo
Videma
NLPO
Fintage House
RTL Nederland
Work highlights
- Represented Mediahuis Nederland (De Telegraaf) in defamation proceedings started by an investigative journalist claiming that De Telegraaf acted unlawful by publishing a news article dated over 15 years ago.
- Advised news channel NOS on a number of matters relating to news articles and journalistic investigations.
- Represented governing body NPO in criminal proceedings relating to the death threat of a journalist working for the NPO.
Hoogenraad & Haak
Boutique IP, advertising and food law firm Hoogenraad & Haak focuses on disputes concerning misleading and false advertising. Chair of the Netherlands Advertising Law Association and vice-chairman of the Global Advertising Lawyers Alliance Daniel Haije specialises in comparative advertising and trademark infringement and protection issues. Firm founder Ebba Hoogenraad advises on all aspects of advertising law, such as contracts and advertising campaigns. Associates Mathijs Peijnenburg and Lisanne Steenbergen add depth to the niche advertising team.
Practice head(s):
Daniël Haije; Ebba Hoogenraad
Other key lawyers:
Mathijs Peijnenburg; Lisanne Steenbergen
Testimonials
‘Great team, accessible, great in giving practical advice’
‘Ebba is a great lawyer, she is accessible, creative, a quick thinker, actively involved.’
Key clients
Heineken
Lidl
Ahold Delhaize
Ecotone
Samsung
Suitsupply
Perrigo/Omega Pharma
Coca-Cola
L’Oréal
Kenniscentrum Suiker & Voeding
Katjes
Koninklijke Vereniging Homeopathie
FrieslandCampina
Wieden + Kennedy
Alfred
Publicis
Gospooky
Work highlights
- Successfully representing Super Nature Products in a principal case against the Dutch Minister of Medical Care, following a high fine for an advertisement for a food supplement, wrongly based on the Medical Act instead of Food law legislation.
- Defending Albert Heijn from misleading advertising complaints regarding Nutri-Score, a pilot supported by the Dutch Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport.
Leeway
Leeway‘s media and entertainment team supports clients across an entire spectrum of mandates such as IP, data protection and contractual agreements. Michiel Odink is a specialist in intellectual property and media law, advising clients on copyright, music publishing, film production and collective rights matters. Odink also is an expert on advertising and marketing laws. Marga Verwoert supports actors, vloggers and TV personalities on IP matters, drafting and negotiating licensing agreements. Eric Keyzer brings an additional strength to the media practice, acting for clients in the TV, radio, music and publishing industries. Associate Jos Klaus not only supports but also leads IP matters concerning the media space and Nini Blom supports the team on the highest profile matters.
Practice head(s):
Marga Verwoert; Michiel Odink
Other key lawyers:
Eric Keyzner; Jos Klaus; Nini Blom
Testimonials
‘Leeway is well known in the media and entertainment space. Leeway is the biggest firm focusing on entertainment and tech in The Netherlands. They have a very personal and entrepreneurial approach. Leeway is fully up to speed on latest developments, in our case Film & TV postproduction. Last year Erik Keyzer joined Leeway. He is an excellent addition to the already strong team.’
‘Michiel Odink understands our business very well and he doesn’t limit himself by just giving us legal advice. He is a great sparring partner and truly helps us develop our business.’
Key clients
Warner Music Group
Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc
Pathé Thuis
TopCast Media
Cloud 9
PriveeKollektie B.V.
Q-Music
Lukassen Producties
Wieden+Kennedy
Joy Tomassen
BosBros
Rooftop Studios
180 Amsterdam
Work highlights
- Successfully settled a dispute for Warner Music against a well-established Dutch independent record publisher.
- Leeway deals with Warner Bros’ and Hanna-Barbera trademarks.
- Advised Pathé Thuis group in connection with an innovative new project to offer on-demand screenings at a network of boutique private cinemas at up to 500 locations across Europe within 5 years.
Van Kaam IP & Media
Boutique firm Van Kaam IP & Media is a go-to advisor for public and commercial broadcasters on challenging privacy and business-critical TMT-related issues. The experienced Bertil Van Kaam and Remco Kloters lead the practice, with the former focused on representing broadcasters in defamation proceedings and the latter focused on advising social influencers on data privacy compliance. Jurian Van Groenendaal has a strong reputation in advising clients on unlawful publications, including image rights. Associate Oskar Mulder is a key supporting associate in both media-related data privacy matters and disputes involving freedom of speech and defamation.
Practice head(s):
Bertil van Kaam; Remco Klöters
Other key lawyers:
Jurian Van Groenendaal; Oskar Mulder
Testimonials
It’s about the dedication to their clients and how they treat us. And across the board, everybody I had the pleasure to come in contact with at Van Kaam had one key characteristic that stands out most; Heart. The people at Van Kaam are always ‘on’ and have the same feeling of friendly but eager and firm dedication to results. And in the end, that’s what it’s all about.’
‘I would describe Remco Kloters as highly knowledgeable, pragmatic and always thinking about different approaches to any given solution. Dedication is a lifestyle for him.’
‘Bertil van Kaam is a specialist in the field of media law and unlawful press publications. One of the best in his field. He is sharp and creative, daring to take risks and is always easily contactable. He answers calls immediately or returns them in no time in ad hoc situations. His expressive personality fits well in his profession. Remco Klöters is a very good media law attorney. Lots of passion for his profession and very competent.’
Key clients
RTL Nederland
Fremantle Productions B.V.
AVROTROS
Graniet Import Benelux B.V.
Night of Comedy
Provincie Limburg
Work highlights
- Representing AVROTROS in preliminary injunction proceedings about defamation as claimed by individuals that were the subject of its TV-programs Radar and/or Opgelicht?!.
- Representing Graniet Import Benelux B.V. in defamation proceedings before the District Court of The Hague against a former prosecutor who made several allegations against the client in a broadcast of the TV-program Zembla.
- Representing Graniet Import Benelux B.V. in civil proceedings against Zembla, a current affairs TV-program broadcasted by BNNVARA before the Dutch Press Counsel.
CMS
CMS‘s media, entertainment and sports team advises clients on commercial arrangements, corporate transactions and litigation in a range of industries, such as sports, advertising, film, gaming and social media. IP expert Rogier de Vrey focuses on disputes concerning the exploitation and enforcement of digital media rights. Sports law specialist Michiel Van Dijk advises sports organisations, associations and international top athletes on a variety of sports mandates. Senior counsel Simon Sanders supports clients on the overlap between legal issues and technology, while Marcoline van der Dussen is a key support on media and advertising-related IP matters.
Practice head(s):
Rogier de Vrey; Michiel van Dijk
Other key lawyers:
Simon Sanders; Marcoline van der Dussen
Testimonials
‘Tailored, commercial and easily digestible advice provided promptly by a friendly and accessible team led by Rogier de Vrey.’
Key clients
Comcast (NBC Universal | SKY)
Paramount (ViacomCBS)
Amazon Studios
Global Media & Entertainment (UK)
Capgemini / Sogeti
Centric
Broadcom
Liberty Global
UEFA
HP
Roku
Sony (Europe)
Diageo
KNVB
Team Jumbo Visma
NOC*NSF
Work highlights
- Assisting SkyShowtime (a joint venture between Comcast and Paramount) in their 2022 launch of a pan-EU VOD streaming offering, beginning with a launch end 2022 in the Netherlands.
- Represented HP in regard to two court cases initiated by Digital Revolution, alleging violation of advertising / unfair competition laws and trademark infringement. One of the cases involved inkjet, the other court case involved laser cartridges.
- Advised Capcom, on various legal requirements in relation to the envisaged launch of a new top brand computer game.
Greenberg Traurig LLP
Greenberg Traurig LLP‘s media and entertainment team specialises in representing clients in IP matters. Radboud Ribbert acts for well-known individuals in the music, social media and film industries in various copyright and data protection disputes. Having joined in September 2021, associate Wouter van Wengen is a key contact for national and international clients in the media-related technology industry, working on cybersecurity investigations and trademark infringements. Recent arrival from DLA Piper Thomas van Weeren adds additional support to the team.
Practice head(s):
Radboud Ribbert
Other key lawyers:
Wouter van Wengen; Thomas van Weeren
Testimonials
‘The team is approachable, and the cooperation is good.’
‘The firm’s network makes it stand out. Greenberg Traurig is able to perform independently and has the ability to easily reach out to lawyers in other countries. Additionally, their network allows us to find new partners.’
‘We’ve primarily worked with Radboud Ribbert and we’re very happy with him. He understands our cases and is genuinely interested in finding a solution that truly satisfies our needs. He goes out of his way to reach out and takes action when he comes across something that may help us succeed, providing us with novel ideas and insights. He takes action incredibly quickly and ensures things keep progressing.’
Key clients
Roddelpraat
Work highlights
- Representing Roddelpraat in an action brough by a national celebrity for copyright infringement and defamation. The case touches on various unmarked topics on the intersection of copyright, freedom of speech and privacy in the context of online platforms.
Houthoff
Supreme Court litigator Thijs Van Aerde leads Houthoff's media and entertainment team. TV channels, film distributors and ICT critical systems companies entrust Van Aerde and Thomas De Weerd with various media-related disputes, including copyright infringements, data protection, licensing and freedom of speech proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Thomas de Weerd; Thijs van Aerde
Key clients
Marktplaats.nl and 2dehands.be
Hyundai Motor Netherlands
DSM Grup
Ola Cabs
XPeng Motors
ParkBee
Kia Nederland
VolkerWessels
RDW
Hearst Netherlands
Pensioenfonds Detailhandel
Stichting BREIN
Shell EV Charging
eBay International
Work highlights
- Representing Stichting BREIN in Supreme Court litigation against Usenet provider News-Service Europe (NSE).
- Representing film distributor Dutch Filmworks in litigation proceedings against internet provider Ziggo, Liberty Global/Vodafone concerning whether the internet provider must provide Dutch Filmworks with the personal data of their customers who infringed on the film industry’s copyrights.
Leopold Meijnen Oosterbaan
Leopold Meijnen Oosterbaan‘s team is especially in demand for its mastery of video games industry. Olivier Oosterbaan advises companies in the interactive video games industry on new regulations, consumer actions and NFT mandates. IP lawyer and litigator Quirijn Meijnen focuses on copyrights in the art, software and media sectors, and enforcing IP rights related to innovative electronic products. Meijnen represents famous Dutch photographers and artists in disputes concerning fraudulent paintings and unauthorised use of poetry, paintings and music. Maarten Leopold advises clients on a global scale on contracts and commencing legal proceedings in the music and events industries.
Practice head(s):
Olivier Oosterbaan; Quirijn Meijnen; Maarten Leopold
Testimonials
‘Small partner-centric team.’
‘Olivier Oosterbaan is a very knowledgeable lawyer for tech, especially games, data protection, and advertising.’
‘Leopold Meijnen Oosterbaans is my go-to law firm in the Netherlands. Their knowledge in the video game sector is hugely important to my clients. I am not aware of another firm in the Netherlands which can match them in this area.’
Key clients
Good Shepherd Entertainment
Azerion
Herman Brood estate
Gamious
Paladin Studios
Soedesco Publishing
Jenny Boot
Victron Energy
Transport Info B.V.
William Rutten
Epica
Dj Monitor
Downtown Publishing
Sony Music Publishing
Massive Music
Fuga
Emma Heesters
Loveland Festival
Maestro Gallery
Work highlights
- Advised Paladin Studios in connection with the development under license of the successfully launched Apple Arcade game ‘Cut The Rope Remastered’
Simmons & Simmons
Simmons & Simmons media and entertainment practice focuses on contentious defamation cases and gives strategic advice to client. Head of the media and soft IP practices Paul Tjiam represents clients in freedom of speech disputes and privacy and social media injunctions. Joris Oster is the key contact for international media companies seeking advice on transactional matters and disputes. Senior associate Edwin van der Velde supports the team in media-related matters.
Practice head(s):
Paul Tjiam
Other key lawyers:
Joris Oster; Edwin van der Velde
Testimonials
‘Simmons & Simmons is very flexible in its availability. It is very motivated to assist our organisation in achieving its goals. It offers a high range of legal expertise, and its advice is very thorough and realistic – avoiding lengthy legal procedures.’
‘We have excellent contact with Paul Tijam. He is a true expert on intellectual property issues. It is great to see that all of Simmons & Simmons staff we deal with are truly committed to help our organisation.’
Key clients
Van Egten
Jacuzzi
TuneIn Corp
Assia
Spotify
Virgin Media
Honeywell
Samsung Electronics
Warner Bros
UNICEF
Stage Entertainment
Liberty Global
Netflix
Progress Software
Xiaomi
VEON
Vanderlande Industries
Activision Blizzard
Work highlights
- Representing Ms. Van Egten in a string of defamation court proceedings against Mr. Sanderink and his companies
- Advising entertainment company ActivisionBlizzard with its corporate and employment housekeeping.
- Representing a client against Bravis Hospital in a court case relating to a severe violation of privacy rights.
Van Iersel Luchtman Advocaten
Van Iersel Luchtman Advocaten Bred-based Van Iersel Luchtman Advocaten's media and entertainment practice specialises in esports and gaming mandates. Video game publishers, e-commerce companies and computer peripheral producers entrust recently promoted partner René Otto with video game developments, publishing deals, licensing issues, M&A transactions, commercial contracts and IP matters. With a multidisciplinary team, including GDPR compliance expert Dewi Harkink, M&A practitioner Puck van Elzingen and sanctions law specialist Loes Joosten, the firm provides clients in the gaming sector a broad service.
Practice head(s):
René Otto
Other key lawyers:
Dewi Harkink; Puck van Elzingen; Loes Joosten,
Testimonials
‘The sole focus on the on the Gaming & Esports industry makes Van Iersel Luchtman Advocaten unique. The firm is a true pioneer when it comes to this, and makes doing business with them very easy. They understand the culture since they are involved personally within the gaming and esports communities. The firm’s understanding of the intricacies of the gaming and esports landscape is for sure their top strength. It provides safety, clarity, and confidence.’
‘With reference to their work regarding the video game industry, they have been leaders in discussing the complex legal situation in regard to IP ownership and licensing in the Netherlands.’
‘Rene Otto has become known to seemingly all game developers in the Netherlands. He is respected and trusted for his advice and maintains impartiality. He is also an advocate for women’s involvement in the video game sector.’
Key clients
Azerion Group
Cooler Master
Games for Health
Vertigo Games
Abstraction Games
Startselect
Utomik
Zordix
MeetToMatch
Breda University of Applies Sciences
HKU (Utrecht School of the Arts)
Dutch Games Association
KeoKen Interactive
LiveWall Group
Little Chicken
Ronimo Games
Total Mayhem Games
Nederlandse Airsoft Belangen Vereniging |(Dutch Airsoft Association)
H20 Gaming & Esports
Nederlands Instituut voor Beeld en Geluid (Dutch Institute for Sound and Vision)
Codeglue
Gearbox Publishing
Nixxes Software (Subsidiairy of Sony Interactive Entertainment)
Branchevereniging Esports Nederland (Dutch Esports Association)
Linx Interactive
Superluminal
Paper Castle Games
Infinity Interactive
Vertigo 6
StickyLock Studios
LFG Studio Red
DreamFuel Games
CFX Gaming
Pixie Interactive
Sokpop Collective
Work highlights
- Advised the award-winning PR and Marketing agency Vertigo 6 on being acquired by Happy Horizon
- Advised CFX Gaming and several other video game companies on the legal aspects of ‘play to earn’ video games using blockchain, crypto and NFT technology.
- Advised on the establishment of the Dutch Esports Association “Branchevereniging Esports Nederland”.