CMS is well-versed in handling international arbitration under a wide array of rules including the NAI and ICC. The team is particularly active in construction and corporate arbitration and also handles setting aside and enforcement proceedings for clients. The practice is led by Jeroen Berlage, a construction expert with experience handling a diversity of delay, defect, and contract disputes. Bart-Adriaan de Ruijter left the firm in May 2026.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘CMS has a good cross-border practice with access to all relevant jurisdictions and expertise. They offer a good quality of work.’
- ‘Jeroen Berlage is extremely smart and has deep knowledge of construction and projects. A creative and fearless lawyer whom I would recommend to anyone for the toughest arbitration cases.’
- ‘The Amsterdam arbitration team is clearly well embedded in CMS' global arbitration practice. This sets them apart in the Netherlands and benefits their clients in cross-border matters. ’
- ‘The practice is distinguished by its deep expertise in corporate litigation and arbitration, with a particular focus on high-stakes matters such as shareholder conflicts, post-M&A disputes, and controversies involving ESG and climate change-related issues. Clients benefit from partner-led execution and seamless coordination throughout every stage of a dispute.’
- ‘Very dynamic, diverse, and modern team. Particularly standing out is the duet performance of Jeroen Berlage and Folkert Stoop.’
- ‘The team has very good, mutually respected professional connections with the arbitrator community.'
Key clients
- Air Products
- Heembouw
Work highlights
Represented Air Products in NAI arbitral proceedings relating to a project.
Represented Heembouw in multiple RvA arbitral proceedings relating to a construction dispute.
Practice head
Jeroen Berlage
Other key lawyers
Folkert Stoop