STAUNCH centres its practice on international arbitration matters, handling both commercial and investor-state arbitration domestically as well as across Europe and Asia. The team is co-led by Stefan Derksen and Irène Léger. Derksen handles a range of disputes involving the construction, technology, IT and insurance sectors, while Léger excels in commercial, investment, and post-M&A arbitration. Other notable team members include Lútsen de Vries, who is the go-to for construction-related disputes, setting aside proceedings and enforcement of arbitral awards. Jochem Vlek left the firm in December 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team at STAUNCH has several excellent lawyers, who have distinct strengths and collaborate well, adding to their joint impact.’
- ‘Lútsen de Vries deserves particular mention. His analysis is excellent, as is his oral delivery in court. He has an impressive mix of analysis and relentlessness a great lawyer should have, while also being kind and discreet which makes him effective in persuading a court and cooperating with clients without unnecessary friction.’
- ‘Simple and straightforward approach to complex matters, while at the same time effective. The team showcases commitment at the highest level. The whole team is knowledgeable and has practical experience.’
- ‘Stefan Derksen leads the team with utmost competence and commitment. He is super objective and has deep experience in arbitration, which gives confidence to clients. Its a great experience working with him. Irene Léger is super committed and knowledgeable about the details of the arbitration process.’
- ‘STAUNCH has a dedicated team of specialists who assist us in various arbitration cases. They proactively contribute to the preliminary process, ensuring we are well-prepared for arbitration. When they take on cases for us, it always feels like a genuine collaboration, rather than the matter being out of our hands. That's very reassuring.’
- ‘Stefan Derksen is simply incredibly smart! He immerses himself in our business and brainstorms how a procedure contributes to our objectives. He's approachable and eager to contribute.’
Key clients
- Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Vitrus Consultoria de Mercados Caterpillar ProRail Star Clippers Municipality of Gooise Meren Transact Risk Partners LLP
Work highlights
Represented Venezuela in four separate setting-aside cases following arbitration proceedings brought by investors for claims totalling more than $1bn.
Practice head
Stefan Derksen; Irène Léger
Other key lawyers
Lútsen de Vries; Malte Malycha