Thijs de Jong

I’m a lawyer and a former amateur footballer. Although these are separate worlds, there are some surprising similarities; cooperation and trusting each other are indispensable if you are to win. To get the better of the other party, you need both insight and creativity – and, of course, clear communication. Knowing how to play the game with each other is crucial.

There is one essential difference: a silver medal is of no use whatsoever in legal cases.

I specialise in employment law, damage, personal injury and liability. In other words, I am a problem solver for business owners and employees. When issues arise concerning reorganisations, who is the director under the articles of association, and mergers & takeovers, I help in a calm yet enthusiastic manner.

I am a genuinely involved lawyer and an accessible adviser. My approach begins with clear communication. I am open about what is not possible and focus all my knowledge and experience on achieving what is possible. I study the rules and then focus fully on the game. I can play hard, but I always keep my eye on the ball, because if you know where the goal is you can let the ball do the work.

I aim to give my clients an advantage that will enable them to make and seal a good deal by finding out what is important for the opposing party. If this does not work, I will launch a full-fledged attack in the courtroom.

As a mediator, I help parties to listen to each other properly. This can result in surprising insights which often lead to joint solutions, without the need to go to court.

In my free time, I am first and foremost the father of two children. The future belongs to the young – but so do the conflicts that it will bring. I think it is fantastic to see how they are solving them.