Christianne has a talent for connecting people, she is customer focused, effective, and pragmatic if necessary. She advises her clients in an efficient, astute and effective manner. With nearly 20 years of experience in all facets of employment law, Christianne has an in-depth understanding of the interests of domestic and international employers. She has extensive experience in corporate reorganisations and individual dismissal cases. Christianne has a special interest in cases involving employee co-determination, and is an expert in preparing balanced benefits packages for companies.

What do you enjoy most about working as a labour and employment specialist?

Thinking along and/or sparring on employment law issues at a strategic level with the entrepreneur, HR manager or legal counsel gives me enormous satisfaction.

How has your role changed since you first started practising?

As a young lawyer, I was usually only involved in the execution of matters. As a partner, I think along with clients at the highest level, and you look at cases in a different way; you know the do’s and don’ts, the tips and tricks and you dare to take (responsible) risks in order to get the best out of the situation for your client. In addition, it is great fun to train employees to become lawyers.

What aspects should clients be aware of when building labour and employment systems and structures for their company?

Keep your eyes and ears open for what is going on in the workplace and among your employees; what do your employees really think is important? In addition, make sure you have a good lawyer to keep you informed of important changes in laws and regulations.

With a hybrid work environment emerging, how do you see your clients’ needs evolving over the next three years? How are you adapting your practice accordingly?

Employers have a great responsibility to provide a good workplace at home. In addition they have less insight into what is happening, and it is, for example, difficult to keep track of someone’s mental state. There is great demand for good home working policies.

What are some key factors you consider when preparing balanced benefits packages for companies?

Number of holidays, possibility to enjoy paid parental leave and gym subscriptions.

What do clients look for in an effective labour and employment specialist?

My clients say they are happy with my practical approach and my fast action. Besides, I am an entrepreneur myself and I try to translate that into my advice. Often I say: you can turn left or right but I myself would turn left.

How does Van Hall Advocaten distinguish itself from its competitors in the market?

Lawyers tend to always point out the risks of a case. We approach it from a different angle: we look at how to solve a problem in a creative and practical way, but legally at the highest level possible.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Put yourself in your client’s shoes and think about what he needs instead of what you think he needs.