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.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘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.
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Dirk Knottenbelt