Our Services

Hermans & Schuttevaer is active in all areas of Dutch notarial practice, with the sole exception of agricultural law. This page describes some of the areas in which we can offer exceptional knowledge and expertise.

New build projects
Our firm is called upon to oversee the legal formalities relating to most major construction projects in the Utrecht region, and to an increasing extent we also provide legal support for projects outside this region. We assist property developers in the purchase of land, in establishing the legal framework for the projects themselves, and in the registration and sale of the resultant properties. Dedicated new-build teams ensure that all project activities are undertaken with the highest degree of efficiency and that the individual units are sold within the shortest possible time frame.

Commercial property
Hermans & Schuttevaer has extensive experience in all aspects of commercial property transactions, including the planning of business parks and the contractual arrangements between developers and investors. We advise on the relevant tax matters, including property transfer tax and VAT liability, as well as the financing or re-financing of property portfolios of all sizes.

Investment advice
We can advise on all aspects of investment management, including the structuring of limited partnership arrangements (‘CV structures’) and other forms of investment. Although many investment portfolios are based on real estate, our expertise is equally applicable to those involving other tradable commodities, such as fine wine. Our partners are thoroughly familiar with Dutch corporation law and securities law. Where appropriate they will work in specialist teams, drawing upon the expertise of the various departments within the firm.

Corporate Law
Our Corporate Law department has extensive experience of setting up corporate structures as well as structures for not-for-profit organizations (such as schools and care institutions). Our services may be required further to an acquisition, merger, restructuring or change of ownership, for example, or in the context of joint ventures, whether project-based or on-going. We work on behalf of organizations of all sizes, in both the commercial and not-for-profit sectors.

Cooperation between our specialists
Where necessary, our specialists work in teams which draw upon the expertise of all relevant departments. Even a corporate takeover, for example, may involve certain aspects of family law. We consider it important that the appropriate expertise is on hand at every stage of the process. Cooperation between the Corporate Law department and their colleagues in Family Law would also be required when assets are transferred to a family trust or foundation to allow assets to be passed from one generation to the next to ensure the continuity of a family business. Clients thus benefit from the advantages of scale which a large practice can offer, and from the diversity of expertise represented within its various departments.

Large family companies
For large family companies, we administer the regular transfers and gifts of shares and other assets. If required, we can create and maintain a digital share register.

Rural estate management
Hermans & Schuttevaer offers services in all aspects of rural estate management, including the acquisition and/or retention of ‘NSW’ status (designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’), the selection of the most appropriate transparent legal form, and all other related matters.

Family Law
Hermans & Schuttevaer has a long-established reputation in all aspects of Dutch family law. The activities which now fall under the rather grand heading of ‘estate planning’ have been among our regular services for many years. We have extensive experience in inheritance law and the winding up of estates, for example, and therefore know exactly what must be taken into account when preparing a will. We are also thoroughly familiar with constructions whereby assets are passed to the next generation before death.

General notarial services
Although a large and established practice, Hermans & Schuttevaer is pleased to provide general notarial services to private individuals. Whether purchasing a house, drawing up a prenuptial agreement or planning your will, you are most welcome to contact us. We are also happy to assist start-up companies in determining the most appropriate legal structure, and can advise on the transfer of shares in an existing company to a new business partner.