Department profile
Houthoff

Arbitration

Europe Guide 2026 : Netherlands


Houthoff

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Arbitration - Netherlands

Band 1

Band 1


What the Team is Known For

Houthoff has an outstanding practice in the Netherlands for international arbitration. The law firm has handled a number of cross-border arbitrations involving expropriation, setting aside proceedings and arbitral award issues. It additionally advises on investment arbitrations, as well as damages claims and contractual disputes in the energy and construction sectors. The lawyers often act on cases under NAI, ICC and ICSID rules.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Houthoff represented several companies as claimants in disputes against PDVSA and Bariven under ICC rules in relation to commercial contracts, with claims totalling more than USD1 billion.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Houthoff is the top of the top when it comes to handling complex international disputes. It consistently provides excellent support across the team.

    Arbitration respondentEurope
  • Houthoff is a go-to law firm for arbitration-related matters in the Netherlands. It has a very smart team that is very responsive and provides good strategic advice.

    Arbitration respondentEurope
  • The lawyers are at the top of the market and have excellent legal minds. They are easy to collaborate with and have a client-first mentality.

    Arbitration respondentEurope
  • Houthoff's lawyers have a very good understanding of international arbitration coupled with in-depth knowledge of Dutch law. They are also extremely responsive.

    Arbitration respondentEurope
  • The team consists of excellent lawyers who combine top-tier legal knowledge with business savviness. The more complex the matter, the more value Houthoff adds.

    Arbitration respondentEurope

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 2Thomas Stouten
    Band 2Thomas Stouten

    Thomas Stouten

    Thomas Stouten has extensive experience in handling contractual and shareholder disputes under ICC, SIAC and UNCITRAL rules. Additionally, he represents clients in the enforcement or annulment of ICSID and NAI awards.

    • He combines deep legal knowledge with practical insights, making him an invaluable advocate in high-stakes proceedings.

      Arbitration respondentEurope
    • He truly has the winner mentality and can deliver that message with a very high level of sophistication.

      Arbitration respondentEurope
    • Thomas Stouten is excellent. He has an in-depth understanding of Dutch arbitration law, but is also extremely practical and commercial in his approach.

      Arbitration respondentEurope
    • Thomas Stouten is very service-oriented and has an outstanding ability to get up to speed.

      Arbitration respondentEurope
    • Thomas Stouten exemplifies the kind of arbitration counsel you want in your corner: precise, persuasive and completely reliable.

      Arbitration respondentEurope

Ranked Individuals at Houthoff (1)

Netherlands

Members

Provided by Houthoff

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