Get to know our member Els Doornhein, partner of our Dutch law firm De Vos & Partners Advocaten in Amsterdam, who is actively involved in Interact Law and explains how the network has benefited her practice so far and what success looks like.

How are you involved in Interact Law?

Our law firm has long been associated with the Interact Law network. In fact, our firm was one of the founding members of Interact Law!

As a partner of De Vos & Partners I am happy to use the services of the member firms. I specialise in intellectual property law, privacy, and commercial contracts for clients mostly in the creative industries – often in the field of fashion, design, and museums but also think of creators who exploit their (art)works worldwide. I also act as a trustee of bankrupt companies. International cases occur regularly in these legal practices.

How has the network benefited your practice so far?

It is so great to be confident in referring clients to the network, knowing that these clients will be well served and most importantly, that they will receive a warm welcome.

Throughout the years I have provided various matters to our network firms and done work for others. I am happy with the opportunities for cross-border collaborations, allowing us to serve our clients in a lot of countries worldwide.

This happens regularly in the trademark law practice, where I take care of and manage worldwide trademark portfolios for several clients. Assistance in the countries of our member firms and the recommendations of Interact Law colleagues for lawyers in other countries are always welcome and useful.

What does success look like to you?

My practice is based on trust, expertise, and commitment. Success is not only achieving favorable results for my clients, but also contributing to their long-term successes and guiding them through complex legal issues. In my work as an attorney, I always investigate solutions to solve a legal issue and to avoid a long “legal battle.”

A good international network of colleagues is essential in this regard. It enables me to effectively resolve cross-border issues and achieve the best outcomes for my clients, regardless of where they are located or where the dispute is occurring.

When I look at the clients I get to work for, I feel proud and happy. I am proud to work for them and it feels like a personal success. For me, success also means contributing to society. I have published almost 100 columns in various magazines (ranging from glossies to a

magazine for inventors), authored scientific articles and have given many lectures on new developments such as AI in relation to the law. Furthermore, for 20 years I have appeared regularly on TV programmes to explain consumer law in an accessible way. And, of course, it is a great pleasure – as a “50 plus lawyer” – to work with and learn from the younger generations!

In addition to my legal career, I value my well-being and health. Yoga and running half marathons keep me focused and energised, as does time with my family and enjoying very dear friendships.

For me, success is an ongoing journey, in which both my professional and personal goals come together in harmony.