Van Doorne acts as lead counsel for the majority of its arbitration cases, focusing the practice on annulment and enforcement proceedings. Investment treaty disputes, cross-border mandates, and set-aside proceedings all form key parts of the practice. The team is also well versed in handling post-M&A and joint venture disputes. Rogier Schellaars and Bas van Zelst jointly lead the team; both also sit as arbitrators and have a wealth of experience in handling arbitration proceedings. Schellaars specialises in energy sector mandates and acts both for and against states, while van Zelst is an expert in construction-related disputes and investment arbitrations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Van Doorne runs a varied arbitration practice, which includes in particular a highly skilled team acting as counsel in post-arbitration litigation (enforcement and set-aside proceedings).’
‘Rogier Schellaars and Bas van Zelst are the key partners and a true pleasure to work with. They are open-minded, responsive and bring well-thought and effective solutions to the table.’
‘Clear communication, clear fee structure and great technical knowledge.’
‘Easy to reach out to, clear communication.’
'Problem-solving ability that goes beyond strictly legal matters. Knowledge of the market.'
Leading individuals
Rogier specialises in international commercial arbitration. He is co-practice head at Van Doorne. Rogier acts as lead counsel, expert and arbitrator on M&A, joint-venture and investment claims (Dutch and foreign seated). Rogier also works as co-counsel. He is particularly active in the Energy, Life Sciences and Technology sectors.
Next Generation Partners
Bas van Zelst is a partner in Van Doorne’s arbitration practice. Bas has extensive experience in conducting and advising on national and international commercial arbitration and related proceedings before the regular courts. He has particular expertise in advising on, and conducting proceedings relating to, distribution agreements and a particular interest in (cross-border) seizure and enforcement proceedings. In the past, Bas was involved in (advising on) arbitration procedures under the ICC, NAI, LCIA, UNCITRAL and DIS arbitration rules. Further to his arbitration practice, Bas holds the Chair of Dispute Resolution & Arbitration at Maastricht University. His research focuses on cross-border conflict resolution with particular emphasis on arbitration.
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Rogier Schellaars, Bas van Zelst