Smallegange Lawyers will strengthen its maritime practice from 1 July 2026 with the arrival of maritime lawyers Marcel Verhagen and Ton Jumelet, together with their colleagues Osman Yesildag and Daan Tilburg. The addition of the complete team expands Smallegange’s maritime practice to ten specialist lawyers, creating one of the largest specialist maritime law teams in Rotterdam.

Verhagen and Jumelet have been recognised names in Dutch maritime law for decades. They advise and represent shipowners, insurers, terminal operators, logistics providers, trading houses and other businesses active across the international shipping industry on complex domestic and cross-border legal matters. Their arrival significantly broadens Smallegange’s capabilities in maritime, port, transport, trade and insurance law, further strengthening the firm’s position as a trusted legal adviser to the international maritime and port sectors.

The move brings together two highly complementary maritime practices, creating a broader platform for advising clients across virtually every discipline of the maritime industry. It also reflects the continued growth of Smallegange’s international practice, which has built a strong reputation in shipping, transport and insurance law over many years.

Julian van de Velde, Partner at Smallegange Lawyers, said: “This is far more than the addition of four professionals. We are bringing together two complementary maritime practices, giving clients access to one of the broadest specialist maritime legal teams in the Port of Rotterdam. Marcel, Ton, Osman and Daan bring not only an outstanding international network, but also a way of working that perfectly matches our firm’s culture and ambitions. Together, we are taking another important step in strengthening Smallegange as a leading specialist maritime law firm.”

Marcel Verhagen added: “We are delighted to be joining Smallegange. We have deliberately chosen to make this move together as a team, which reflects the confidence we have in the firm and the opportunities we see ahead. Our respective practices complement each other exceptionally well and provide a strong foundation for further expanding the maritime practice in the years to come.”