The international arbitration team at Houthoff stands out for its work in cross-border claims and investment treaty disputes. The department acts both for and against sovereign states and state-owned entities, giving it unique insight into cases. Assisting with enforcement and annulment of arbitral awards also forms a part of the practice. In addition, the team is well placed to advise clients on oil and gas, construction, TMT, renewables and commercial arbitrations. The team is led from Rotterdam by arbitration heavyweight Dirk Knottenbelt, who handles a mix of international corporate, commercial and investment arbitrations. Thomas Stouten is known for his expertise in complex multi-jurisdictional disputes and is currently one of the youngest members of the ICC Court of International Arbitration in Paris. Remme Verkerk represents sovereign states and investors in arbitration proceedings.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
- Social
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Houthoff is one of the best Dutch law firms in international arbitration matters. Its expertise in challenge proceedings is particularly noteworthy.’
‘The Houthoff team is standout for their attention to client concerns. The team draws from a very strong and talented group of attorneys to address client needs, tapping into cross-practice collaborations when necessary. ’
‘Thomas Stouten is a true leader, both at Houthoff and to the international arbitration community at large. He is a very capable advocate with a strong knowledge of his client's industries and the potential legal challenges facing their businesses.’
‘Absolutely the best arbitration team in The Netherlands. The team and the firm keep on improving in skills, knowledge and technology. The team is very well balanced, led by outstanding partners and with very eager, smart and ambitious associates. ’
‘Thomas Stouten is the best arbitration lawyer in The Netherlands. He is razor sharp and always on top of his game. His continuous ambition to improve himself and to win matters really stands out. Alongside his outstanding knowledge he is also very socially gifted and great with clients.’
‘Remme Verkerk is an impressive lawyer, his academic knowledge and deep experience ensures best results and solutions for clients. Thomas Stouten has gained a reputation of a superb arbitration lawyer who is well recognized globally. His knowledge, experience and reputation impress.’
‘The Houthoff arbitration team is a truly top-notch team. It is a focused arbitration team with also foreign associates to expand the bandwidth of their offering and one of the largest teams in The Netherlands. They deliver very high-quality work, are approachable and are litigators at heart. They truly enjoy their work and enjoy trying to find arguments and win proceedings.'
‘Thomas Stouten has rapidly made a name for himself and has become one of the household names in the field of arbitration in the Netherlands. He is smart and is extremely responsive. Thomas has got what it takes to win high-profile arbitrations. Dirk Knottenbelt is one of the senior statesmen in arbitration. He immediately sees the strengths and weaknesses in a case and is extremely convincing.’
Key clients
- 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
Work highlights
- Representing Mare/OIEG in the Dutch enforcement of a $600m ICSID award against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.
- Representing the Republic of Peru in a €600m investment dispute launched by the Swiss owners of a television network in Peru.
- Representing AES Solar Energy, Ampere Equity and Blasket Renewable Investment in various proceedings against the Kingdom of Spain in Amsterdam as investors.
Lawyers
Hall of fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Dirk Knottenbelt
Other key lawyers
Thomas Stouten; Remme Verkerk