How is jurisdiction determined in Dutch civil proceedings?

Dutch term: Rechtsmacht | Legal basis: Articles 1-14 Rv + Brussels I Recast

Jurisdiction in Dutch civil proceedings is determined by the Dutch Code of Civil Procedure (articles 1-14 Rv) for non-EU matters and by Brussels I Recast (Regulation (EU) 1215/2012) for disputes involving parties in EU member states. The basic rule is that the defendant can be sued in the courts of its domicile.

Within the EU, Brussels I Recast provides alternative grounds: contract claims at the place of performance (article 7(1)), tort claims at the place where the harmful event occurred (article 7(2)), and branch operations at the branch location (article 7(5)). Choice of court agreements are governed by article 25. Outside the EU, Dutch PIL rules and any applicable bilateral treaties determine jurisdiction.

Why it matters for international businesses

For international businesses, getting the jurisdictional analysis right before filing proceedings is essential. Starting in the wrong court wastes time and money.