Established in 2015, Shearwaters serves multinationals, PE firms, and their senior executives as a trusted legal advisor
With 50+ years of combined experience in Big Law, Shearwaters is the only boutique firm in the Netherlands specializing in Dutch corporate employment law within the international business context.
Its experienced lawyers have the “gravitas” and solid track record for which clients approach them. Shearwaters knows their way around the international commercial law and business environment, whilst offering its services against relatively low fees.
Helping clients confidently navigate corporate employment law
What do we offer?
1. Transactional support – in internationally and locally significant M&A deals;
2. Strategic advice – on delicate matters in the international business arena;
3. Litigation or support in mediation – in relation to the above two pillars.
What clients say about us
Clients continually praise Shearwaters for the strength of its advice and its solid track record
Some recently published quotes:
‘The team are quick to respond, always helpful and up to date on all things labour law and related topics.’
‘I have worked with Martijn van Broeckhuijsen and Maarten Vestering – they are extremely professional but at the same time approachable, they listen to you, look for options and alternatives and are very flexible in all their dealings.’
‘The legal services are of the highest level. Their experience in the field and personal approach keep us coming back to them. Even when during a process the scope shifts, Shearwaters comes up with solutions that meet all requirements.’
‘Shearwaters offered us tailored legal solutions based on a deep understanding of our needs by ensuring we had a broader perspective on employment law in The Netherlands.’
‘The individuals we worked with stood out due to their exceptional expertise, collaborative mindset, and commitment. They had an ability to combine deep technical knowledge with a practical, solution-oriented approach. They understood the complexities of employment law which enabled them to offer strategic guidance tailored to our unique challenges.’
‘I highly recommend Shearwaters for their expertise in labour law, offering top-tier legal advice that is both practical and effective. Their dedicated team combines deep legal knowledge with genuine empathy, ensuring personalized support.’
A globally ranked and recognized leader in the field
Internationally ranked and recognized by independent global legal directories Chambers Europe and The Legal 500 Series EMEA, Shearwaters is known for its strategic insight, sharp legal expertise, and unwavering client commitment.
Shearwaters is consistently ranked among the top employment law firms in the Netherlands. Our team members, including Martijn van Broeckhuijsen and Maarten Vestering, are named as highly recommended and leading lawyers.
Shearwaters distinguishes itself from other boutique firms through its extensive international perspective and vast experience. Unlike other boutiques firms, Shearwaters has evolved from Big Law firms, providing its lawyers with a unique global and international mindset, sound approach, and professional behavior that perfectly align with the niche market it serves.
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