Commercial Law
In business, disputes happen, and whether they’re on purchase and rental contracts, franchise partnerships, deliveries, transport contracts or anything else, we have a long history of helping SMEs find the right solutions – ideally, without going to court, but when that happens we are there to litigate on their behalf.
Advising on drafting contracts
We have been recognized experts in contract law, also known as the law of obligations, since 1969. If you need an assessment of a contract, we are happy to help, and we can also walk you through the process of drafting your own contracts. In most cases, you need more than just a contract that consists of a signed offer with the price, delivery date and a reference to sector-based terms and conditions The smartest way to protect your interests is to draft clear contracts and regularly update them to reflect your latest business practices and any new developments in regulations and case law. We can give you expert advice and help you draft your contracts and your general terms and conditions.
What to do when the other party defaults
If you are not satisfied with the way a contract party is fulfilling its obligations, we advise you to get legal advice at the earliest possible stage. If you take a wait-and-see approach, you may find that your time window in which to make a claim closes and your rights expire. Likewise, if you are considering suspending your performance or payment, we recommend you talk to us first. Contrary to what many assume, you might not be automatically entitled to suspend performance due to the other party’s failures.
Help with international disputes
We also provide support and advice on cross-border legal matters, and can call on our extensive international network to do so. This can include dealing with payment arrears or disputes on products and services, even internationally. We work closely with our clients to define a strategy, engaging local attorneys and other specialists such as technical experts, accountants, civil-law notaries or court bailiffs where necessary.
Open legal consultation for SMEs
Van der Goen Advocaten has been standing behind SMEs since 1969. Every Tuesday from 10 AM-12 PM, we offer a free consultation session for SMEs seeking advice on disputes, contracts, general terms and conditions, IT law, intellectual property, labour law, tenancy law and many other legal topics. Please register in advance to be assured that we will speak directly with you and cover your issue.
