Established in 2015, Shearwaters serves multinationals, PE firms, and their senior executives as a trusted legal advisor. We are recognized and ranked internationally as a 'standout partner' in the boutique legal space.
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.
Discover more about our rankings:
"Maarten Vestering delivers an exceptional level of service. He is responsive, pragmatic and able to simplify complexity without losing detail."
Maarten Vestering
Employment Netherlands
"The team is exceptionally approachable. The lawyers are very knowledgable and always ensure they explain things thoroughly, in a way we can understand so we can implement their advice."
Shearwaters
Employment Netherlands
"The team was prompt in responding, indicating a high level of service and attentiveness. The lawyers were very knowledgeable of current trends and changes in labour laws."
Shearwaters
Employment Netherlands
"The client service is excellent, and the team is very prompt in communication and very quick."
Shearwaters
Employment Netherlands
"Martijn van Broeckhuijsen is a great strategic thinker who is very experienced in complex matters and very client-focused."
Martijn van Broeckhuijsen
Employment Netherlands
"The lawyers are pragmatic, on the ball and extremely knowledgeable with regard to Dutch employment law. They understand our business very well."
Shearwaters
Employment Netherlands
"Shearwaters provides down-to-earth and practical advice, as well as the ability to move beyond just the legal issues of a case. The partners are seasonded and experienced."
Shearwaters
Employment Netherlands
"Shearwaters' ability to tailor solutions and proactively engage with sector-specific legal developments makes it a standout partner in the boutique legal space."
Shearwaters
Employment Netherlands
"Martijn van Broeckhuijsen combines strong technical expertise with a high level of sophistication."
Martijn van Broeckhuijsen
Employment Netherlands
"Shearwaters combines a thorough understanding of complex employment regulations with practical business insight, enabling clients to navigate sensitive workplace issues with confidence and clarity."
Shearwaters
Employment Netherlands
"Shearwaters' size allows it to be highly driven, personal and pragmatic, while still offering strong technical capability. There is always someone available with the right knowledge."
Shearwaters
Employment Netherlands
"Martijn van Broeckhuijsen is a pleasure to work with and always supports our needs. He is an excellent lawyer with exceptional commercial awareness."
Martijn van Broeckhuijsen
Employment Netherlands
