The arbitration practice was founded in Rotterdam by Dirk Knottenbelt, who led the team for 25 years and stepped down from the leadership role at the beginning of 2026, while remaining a partner at the firm. The practice is now led by Thomas Stouten, an Amsterdam based partner and active member of the IBA Arbitration Committee. The arbitration team is based in both Amsterdam and Rotterdam. The Rotterdam office also includes partner Remme Verkerk, who represents clients in proceedings before the Dutch Supreme Court.
Client comments
One client, whom Houthoff has assisted in several US$100 million-plus arbitrations, calls the firm “super-fast, diligent and effective” and “absolutely at the top of its market”.
Another client describes the team as “well balanced” with “experienced partners surrounded by ambitious associates”, allowing them to deliver “outstanding quality of work that is tailor-made for the client”.
The same client praises the “profound legal knowledge and meticulous attention to detail” of Thomas Stouten, whose “sharp analytical skills and engaging personality make working with him both intellectually rewarding and enjoyable”.
A third source says, “The entire team is extremely business savvy and really understands what’s important for us. It has the biggest and best arbitration team in the Netherlands, which has lots of international expertise.”
Elsewhere the firm is praised for its “unbeatable commitment to success”, with Dirk Knottenbelt praised as a “world-class advocate” with “undeniable talent” for written and oral advocacy.
To read more about the Global Arbitration Review and Houthoff’s inclusion in the GAR 100, please visit the GAR website.