Suing a company in the Netherlands is a structured, written process, with an internationally minded option for cross-border disputes.
Which court has jurisdiction
For cross-border claims, Brussels Ia generally points you to the courts where the defendant company has its seat, with special rules for contract and tort and respect for choice-of-court clauses.
Subdistrict vs district court
Claims up to €25,000 go to the subdistrict court (kanton), where you can act without a lawyer; larger claims go to the district court (rechtbank), where representation by a Dutch advocaat is mandatory.
The English-language NCC
A distinctive option for international business: the Netherlands Commercial Court (NCC) conducts proceedings in English, which can make Dutch courts attractive for cross-border disputes.
How a claim starts and costs
Most claims begin with a writ of summons (dagvaarding) served by a bailiff. The losing party usually pays a liquidated cost tariff rather than the winner’s full fees.
For foreign claimants
A verified Dutch colleague can confirm jurisdiction, pick the right court (including the NCC), and issue the summons.
Thresholds and procedure change — confirm with admitted Dutch counsel.