Lexence combines its expertise in corporate matters with its skills in litigation and arbitration to advise clients on corporate disputes and commercial litigation. Practice head Timo Jansen leads on disputes involving governance and M&A transactions, while fellow co-lead Bram Thomas Craemer centres his practice on commercial disputes and advises corporations, non-profit organisations and individuals. Corporate litigator Willem Smelt was promoted to partner in January 2024 and now also co-leads the team, representing clients in shareholder disputes and enquiry proceedings before the Enterprise Chamber.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team really operates as one and are hands-on, practical and very skilled.’
‘Willem Smelt is an exceptional litigator who is very knowledgable, but at the same time very practical and a real deal maker when this is in the interest of his client.’
‘They work in small teams, always one of the team members is available. They come up with solutions really outside the box, so they are very creative. What I really like is that they take a stance and give you a simple yes or no, with reasoning. They give their opinion, so you can move forward.’
‘Willem Smelt is a likable person and straightforward in his opinions. He is not afraid to tell the client his opinion even if he knows the client does not like this. His advice is concrete and easy to understand. So it is easy to act upon. He is very sharp and comes up with solutions nobody has thought about. He has the ability to really convince his clients to act and follow his advice.’
‘Willem: very pragmatic approach. Calm presence in calls. Smart, to the point and personable.’
‘The team has a strong track record, with excellent lawyers. Especially the new hire Willem Smelt is very capable.’
‘The team is not only very experienced and knowledgeable in dispute resolution, but also very practical and solution-oriented. The lawyers are also approachable and a pleasure to work with.’
‘Willem Smelt is experienced and solution-oriented. He keeps track of the situation and navigates all parties through the pre-trial and trial phases. He is also proactive and very responsive in his communication. ’
Key clients
- St Benelux B.V.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Bram Thomas Craemer, Timo Jansen, Willem Smelt