Litigation
Netherlands
2 years ranked
LAWYER PROFILE
Willem Heemskerk
Global 2026
Ranked in 2 practice areas
About
Provided by Pels Rijcken
Global
Practice Areas
Willem Heemskerk is one of the most experienced litigators in the Netherlands. He handles complex civil law disputes for mainly large national and international companies. His areas of expertise include liability, damage & insurance, professional liability, attachment, collection and enforcement, and media law. Willem acts as counsel both in adjudication as well as arbitral proceedings.
Career
Willem Heemskerk has been with Pels Rijcken since 1992. He is regarded as a leading expert in Dutch civil procedural law; he has many publications to his name, was the Vice President of the Dutch State Advisory Committee on procedural law, and regularly serves as expert in foreign proceedings. For many years, Willem is ranked in Band 1 for Dispute Resolution in the Chambers Global and Europe Guide and in the Hall of Fame for Dispute Resolution: Commercial Litigation in The Legal 500 Guide. In late 2018, Willem was recognised as the “Best Litigator in the Netherlands” in an election organised by the VIA.
Chambers Review
Provided by Chambers
Chambers Global Guide
Litigation - Netherlands
Band 1
Individual Editorial
Willem Heemskerk is one of the leading lawyers in the Netherlands for mass damages claims and class action proceedings, predominantly acting for defendants in the automotive and financial sectors.
Arbitration - Netherlands
Band 3
Individual Editorial
Willem Heemskerk acts on arbitration proceedings before the ICC and NAI. He is experienced in handling setting aside proceedings, as well as disputes related to contractual agreements and environmental damages.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
He is very friendly and professional, and has a really pragmatic, hands-on approach.
LitigationChambers Global GuideWillem Heemskerk is really one of the top litigators in the Netherlands. He is very experienced and familiar with Dutch litigation.
LitigationChambers Global GuideWillem is a brilliant lawyer and a top-notch litigator with a sharp view of the big picture. He is also a keen strategist with a deep understanding and knowledge of Dutch law.
LitigationChambers Global GuideWillem Heemskerk is very client focused, makes time to address all questions and provides strategic advice.
LitigationChambers Global GuideWillem Heemskerk is one of the very best in the business. He has a critical mind and thinks very fast.
LitigationChambers Global GuideHe has a sharp eye for all details and is a very friendly person overall.
ArbitrationChambers Global Guide
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