Jens van den Brink

Media law / Internet law / Press law / Freedom of speech / Defamation / Intermediary liability law / Entertainment law / Image rights / Privacy law (litigation) / Advertising law / Licencing / Free speech litigation / Fundamental rights litigation / Online content / Copyright / Intellectual Property / IP Litigation / Licence agreements.

Jens is a partner in the IP & Media department, where he heads the media group. He is a media litigator, with a hands-on approach and years of experience in media defense.

Jens advises and litigates for national and international media companies, often in the area where IP, privacy, free speech and other fundamental rights collide. His litigation practice is particularly strong in free speech, copyright and internet matters. Jens also regularly handles entertainment law issues, varying from image rights to format and licensing issues. Jens is used to handling high pressure, media sensitive cases, where time is of the essence. The media team at Kennedy Van der Laan has the experience to prepare for media litigation in a matter of hours if necessary.

Both the media team and Jens personally are ranked ,tier one by both Chambers and Legal 500.

Jens studied law at King’s College London, Columbia University in New York and at the University of Amsterdam. He regularly lectures on media, internet and intellectual property law. He is editor-in-chief of Dutch media law blog Media Report.

The Legal 500 EMEA 2020 - Industry Focus: Media and Entertainment - Tier 1

At Kennedy Van der Laan, Jens van den Brink litigates on behalf of national and international media companies, often at the intersection of IP, privacy, and free speech. He also regularly handles entertainment law issues, varying from image rights to format and licensing issues. Emiel Jurjens provides expert advice on media regulation to Dutch and international online platforms. Counsel Christien Wildeman, who has a strong focus on defamation cases, is also recommended.

Chambers Europe 2020 - TMT: Media - Band 1

Clients describe Jens van den Brink as a "keen litigator and adviser." He maintains a broad media practice encompassing prominent regulatory litigation, documentary production and unlawful publication cases.

The Legal 500 EMEA 2019 - Industry focus: Media and entertainment - Tier 1

Kennedy Van der Laan 'has a full spectrum of media knowledge' and a 'clear understanding of ethical issues in media reporting and the EU regulations protecting press reporting'. Team head Jens Van den Brink 'is a smart negotiator and his strategic advice is outstanding. His team brings all aspects you might seek in a media desk. All are great to work with'. Emiel Jurjens is also well rated, especially on account of his track record of winning cases. Counsel Christien Wildeman acts for De Persgroep and is known for her defamation expertise. The team acted for NOS, RTL, and De Persgroep in proceedings before the European Court of Human Rights concerning access to state-held information on the MH17 plane crash.

Chambers Europe 2019 - TMT: Media - Band 1

Jens van den Brink acts for a diverse client roster consisting of publishing and social media companies. His prowess in defamation mandates is emphasised by commentators, one source calling him "the perfect lawyer for freedom of speech." "He's very quick in understanding the issues and gives practical advice," states another interviewee.

Chambers Europe 2018 - Media - Band 1

"Jens van den Brink specialises in contentious issues and defamation cases. According to clients, he is "very effective, and knows his business and his clients," adding that he "knows when to push harder and when to seek for a practical solution." He typically acts for broadcasters, newspapers and publishers and has advised GS Media on its defence against several recent damages claims brought against the company."

The Legal 500 EMEA 2018 - Media - Tier 1

"The ‘no-nonsense’ team at Kennedy Van der Laan is led by Jens van den Brink, who along with counsel Christien Wildeman ‘dominates the Dutch media litigation landscape’. Defamation and internet-related litigation are particular strengths. De Persgroep and Facebook are longstanding clients; Vodafone-Ziggo is a recent client."