Michael is at the forefront of restructuring and insolvency law, helping clients navigate complex financial challenges while crafting innovative strategies for recovery and risk mitigation. Known for his collaborative approach, Michael leads and brings stakeholders together during challenging situations with commercial acumen and strategic legal thinking.
With a background in transactional work and corporate litigation, Michael helps businesses achieving clarity and advantage in complex situations. From representing clients in restructuring-related litigation cases to providing guidance during distressed transactions and crisis situations, he develops solutions using his ability to direct stakeholders with his legal and commercial skills.
Michael also provides comprehensive counsel on managing/supervisory director’s duties and shareholder liability issues and disputes; fraudulent conveyance; set-off and security rights. In these matters, he seeks not only to protect his clients’ interests but also to ensure robust corporate governance.
In 2005, Michael was seconded to the US law firm Paul, Weiss Rifkind Wharton and Garrison where he worked on bankruptcy-related litigation and Chapter 11 matters gaining valuable insights.
Michael’s membership of Insolad, the Dutch association of insolvency practitioners and of the Dutch Association of Restructuring (NVvH).
Michael also accepts appointments as court appointed restructuring expert and observer in complex matters.
As a member of both the global transactions group and financial institutions group, Michael provides integrated advice that addresses the full spectrum of restructuring challenges.
A speaker of English and German, along with his native Dutch, Michael connects with clients across regions, ensuring seamless communication and tailored advice.
- Advising certain lenders in relation to the restructuring of an internationally operating bicycle production company.
- Advising Gordon Brothers in relation to Blokker.
- Acting as court appointed restructuring expert in respect of McDermott.
- Advising HAL Investments B.V. in relation to its participation in the restructuring and acquisition of Royal IHC B.V.
- Advising Getronics in relation to its global restructuring and transfer to new ownership.
- Advising Hexion Nederland B.V. in relation to the Chapter 11 of Hexion Inc.
- Advising the security holder in relation to the restructuring and insolvency of Intertoys B.V. and the enforcement sale of the business.
- Advising the security agent in relation to the enforcement of its security rights in respect of a €600m commercial real estate portfolio and acting in litigation commenced by the debtor(s) seeking to prevent enforcement.
- Defending the former CEOs (of two Dutch financing companies) of a South America based telecoms operator in litigation before the Dutch courts against liability in tort commenced by certain holders of notes and bonds.
- Advising Dutch Van Gansewinkel Groep, a waste and energy business, on its €800m restructuring implemented by way of an English law scheme of arrangement.
- Advising certain lenders, the security agent and the common agent for the entire financing transaction in respect of Dutch company Royal Imtech, including the enforcement actions following its insolvency.
- Advising Estro, active in the childcare business, on its restructuring and negotiation with its creditors, and on its negotiation with its silent administrator.
- Advising the former directors of DSB Bank on its bankruptcy, including on the settlement with the bankruptcy trustees.
- Advising several financial institutions on the restructuring of their interest rate derivative exposure on Vestia.
Strawinskylaan 10
P.O. Box 75299