Guiding clients through substantial IT and outsourcing initiatives, Leeway’s sector expertise encompasses areas such as software and data licensing, procurement and implementation of SaaS solutions, as well as ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements. The practice, directed by Michiel van Ast, addresses both contentious and non-contentious IP and IT matters for clients in the areas of digital business, media and retail. Michiel Odink focuses on digital transformation, IP disputes and commercial contracts, while Jos Klaus lends his expertise to major tech companies in matters related to domain names.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘It's a small high-quality firm. They leave the fuss out of the way and are truly focused on bringing value.’

  • ‘Leeway works with a small team with high profile individuals, enabling them to work efficiently.’

  • ‘Michiel van Ast takes the time to get to know you and is always realistic about timing and expectations.’

  • ‘Michiel van Ast combines in-depth knowledge of the sector and the law with a practical approach. He is very accessible and can act quickly if the situation requires so.’

  • ‘Leeway is one of the larger IP, tech and media boutique firms in The Netherlands. Leeway truly understands the legal and business needs of their clients.'

  • ‘Michiel van Ast and Michiel Odink are both great and likeable lawyers, sharp as a knife and very business-minded. They get the deal done.'

Key clients

  • Shell Recharge Solutions
  • PVH Europe (Tommy Hilfiger & Calvin Klein)
  • Danone
  • Baidu Inc.
  • Backbase
  • Signify
  • Axelera AI
  • Source.ag
  • O2 Worldwide
  • Karl Lagerfeld
  • Captin
  • Royal Swinkels Family Brewers
  • Eezeetags
  • The Fabricant
  • Physee
  • Lab Digital
  • Scotch & Soda
  • Unica ICT Solutions
  • Logpay
  • BlueAlp
  • Sourceful ICT
  • Ambitious People Group
  • IJsvogel Retail
  • SocialBlox
  • NBD Biblion
  • PM Factory
  • Quanza

Work highlights

  • Advised Axelera AI on the development of its Early Access Programme and on a contract with a strategic partner for critical emulation (verification) services.
  • Advised Baidu on cancellation proceedings and opposition proceedings against BAIDU marks owned by a company called ‘Baidu Europe’.
  • Advised Shell Recharge Solutions on negotiating an agreement with a supplier of a business-critical range prediction and IV routing platform, supporting negotiations over its vMSP and roaming agreements, drafting app terms of use and advising on compliance matters.

Lawyers

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Michiel van Ast

Other key lawyers

Michiel Odink, Jos Klaus