Skip to content

Regulatory litigation in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, you’ll need to be aware of the country’s judicial system for handling disputes. You’ll have to consider the potential risks and consequences of non-compliance under Dutch law, including the risk of substantial financial penalties. The Dutch court system offers a clear process for resolving regulatory issues. You’ll want to understand the types of cases that can arise, the regulatory litigation process in the Netherlands, and the best practices for maintaining regulatory standards. Our Dutch attorneys herewith provide you with the most relevant things to consider.

The Netherlands has a robust regulatory framework governed by Dutch law that covers various sectors including finance, healthcare, and environmental services. Some important elements include:

  • The Dutch Civil Procedure Code (“Wetboek van Burgerlijke Rechtsvordering“) which outlines procedures for handling legal disputes in the Netherlands
  • The Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wft) governing financial regulations
  • European regulations like GDPR for data protection
  • For example, regulatory authorities like the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM), the Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), and De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) play an important role in enforcing compliance.

Common Compliance Issues in the Netherlands

Some common regulatory compliance issues that can lead to litigation in the Netherlands include:

  • Violations of financial reporting requirements
  • Breaches of environmental laws
  • Breaches of Food and Product Safety laws
  • Breaches of contract law between partners in the supply chain
  • Tort
  • Failures to comply with data protection regulations under GDPR
  • Anti-money laundering (AML) violations

Regulatory Litigation Process in the Netherlands

The regulatory litigation process in the Netherlands typically involves:

  1. Identification of potential violation by regulatory authority
  2. Investigations and audits
  3. Hearings and responses from the business
  4. Potential penalties or enforcement actions
  5. Possible appeals

Consequences of Non-Compliance under Dutch law

Consequences for businesses found to be non-compliant under Dutch law can be severe, including (but not limited to):

  • Significant financial penalties
  • Legal actions
  • Reputational damage
  • Loss of licenses in some cases

Recent Developments

The Netherlands has recently reshaped its collective action procedures through the Settlement of Large-Scale Losses or Damage Act (WAMCA), establishing a central register for certain claims.

Court System

Regulatory litigation cases are typically handled through the Dutch civil court system, which has three tiers:

  1. District courts (“rechtbank”)
  2. Courts of appeal (“gerechtshof”)
  3. Supreme Court (“Hoge Raad”)

Most cases start at the district court level. Appeals can be made to higher courts if parties disagree with rulings.

By understanding the regulatory landscape and litigation process, businesses operating in the Netherlands can better manage compliance risks and protect themselves from potential legal disputes. Implementing robust compliance programs and conducting regular audits are crucial for avoiding costly regulatory litigation.

Dutch law firm for regulatory litigation in the Netherlands

For any legal inquiries or support in the Netherlands regarding regulatory litigation in the Netherlands, please feel free to contact our adept team at MAAK Advocaten. Committed to excellence, our Dutch lawyers provide superior legal services tailored to your distinct needs. You can reach our law firm in the Netherlands through our website, by email, or phone.

Our approachable and skilled staff at MAAK Attorneys will be delighted to assist you, arranging a meeting with one of our specialized attorneys in the Netherlands. Whether you need a Dutch litigation attorney or a Dutch contract lawyer in Amsterdam, we are eager to guide you through the legal intricacies and secure the most favorable results for your situation.

Contact details

Remko Roosjen | attorney-at-law (‘advocaat’)
+31 (0)20 – 210 31 38
remko.roosjen@maakadvocaten.nl

The information on this legal blog serves purely for educational purposes and should not be taken as specific legal guidance. While we endeavor to maintain accurate and current information, we do not assert its absolute completeness or relevance to your particular situation. For advice tailored to your legal concerns, we urge you to engage with a licensed attorney. Please note that the blog’s content may change without notice, and we are not liable for any inaccuracies or missing information.

Remko Roosjen

Remko Roosjen

Remko Roosjen is a Dutch contract attorney in the Netherlands and creates close working relationships with clients, providing pragmatic solutions across on all legal matters in the Netherlands. Remko is a partner of our commercial law firm in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. His specialist areas include Dutch contract law, including Dutch commercial contracting and legal disputes, including civil litigation under Dutch law, arbitration in the Netherlands and other forms of dispute resolution, such as mediation. Remko Roosjen is a sharp, creative Dutch attorney with extensive cross-border experience representing both foreign plaintiffs and defendants. Visit Remko's profile via the website or via his LinkedIn Profile.