CMS is known for its global reach, assisting international and multinational companies with litigation in the Netherlands. The team recently strengthened its practice with the addition of disputes specialists Andries Polkerman and Simon Polkerman, who were previously at De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek. The team handles a wide range of disputes, including commercial, corporate and financial litigation. Leonard Böhmer combines his litigation and insurance expertise to advise Dutch and European insurance companies, financial institutions and sovereign states in contentious matters. Peter Soede handles disputes involving liability law; Aukje Haan leads on ESG-related litigation; and Bart-Adriaan de Ruijter excels in corporate litigation for multinationals. All named lawyers jointly lead the dispute resolution practice.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The team truly knows what it is doing - at all levels. They are precise, straightforward and almost always end on top.’

  • ‘Aukje Haan is dedicated, sharp and great fun to work with. Associate Akin Aslan is one to watch.’

  • ‘This practice stands out due to its exceptional team of experts, who bring deep industry knowledge and a commitment to excellence. Clients will appreciate the innovative approach, including advanced technology and a strong focus on diversity and collaboration. It prioritises client satisfaction and tailors services to meet specific needs, setting a new standard in the industry.’

  • ‘The individuals I work with are exceptional for their expertise, dedication, and client-focused approach. They stand out from competitors through their innovative thinking and collaborative spirit. I particularly value their professionalism, integrity, and ability to deliver results. Partners like Bart-Adriaan de Ruijter have been instrumental in driving success and maintaining high standards.’

  • ‘The team of CMS is experienced in the respective industry sector and very engaged. Specifics of the cases involved can be made understandable and are considered in the litigations.’

  • ‘Maurits Rabbie and Bart-Adriaan de Ruijter have been very attentive and are always available at short notice. Clearly experts in their field, they provide clear legal opinions and are proactive in driving forward strategy.’

  • ‘Aukje Hahn and Akin Aslan are really doing a great job and are great colleagues for brainstorming the best possible legal solutions.’

  • ‘Bart Adriaan de Ruijter is a good listener, approaches issues from multiple angles and uses outside expertise in a very timely manner allowing time to prepare the best case for clients.’

Key clients

  • Ahold Delhaize
  • ArcelorMittal
  • Canal+
  • Chubb European Group Limited
  • Decathlon
  • Hitachi
  • Hubei Forbon Technology Co Ltd
  • Kärcher Futuretech
  • Mitsui
  • NS
  • Qbuzz
  • Teamblue

Work highlights

  • Advised Mitsui O.S.K. Lines on a complex international post-M&A dispute.
  • Represented All Nippon Airways in follow-on damages litigation proceedings before the court of Amsterdam in relation to the Air Cargo cartel case.
  • Represented Eli Lilly in a case regarding the reimbursement of its breast cancer treatment Verzenios.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Leonard Böhmer, Peter Soede, Aukje Haan, Bart-Adriaan de Ruijter

Other key lawyers

Maurits Rabbie, Akin Aslan