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In most common law systems, "the law" is a set of rules that serves as a guideline for proper behavior of its subjects. In this view, a well-balanced set of written rules is the basis for a peaceful and prosperous society.
When conducting business in countries such as Belgium or the Netherlands, one should expect more such rules than in the U.S. Americans often perceive these rules as limiting, however when properly applied they do offer a high degree of certainty that common law with its reliance on constantly evolving case law never can offer.
America's primary corporate target is shareholders' value. Legally, where in the U.S. shareholders prevail, in Europe it are the creditors that have priority. Economically and socially, European -and certainly Dutch- companies also have social responsibilities, of which maintaining employment is among the most important. When making business decisions, a balance is sought between long-term employment and continuity of the company on the one side and the more short-term shareholders' value on the other.
With regard to opportunities Americans think in terms of possibilities a potential partner or employee may offer to achieve the target; Europeans first think in terms of proven, "past", qualifications of the potential partner or employee.
In the U.S. an employee without a contract is an employee at will, who can terminate or be terminated at any time. In Europe, usually, an employee without a contract automatically is a permanent employee from the first day of employment, and enjoys all the rights that come with that.
In the Netherlands, and also in Belgium, rules and regulations are structured and coordinated. Some are prohibitive, some are broad. MaasHudson helps you understand them, so that you can effectively work with them. MaasHudson offers companies that focus on the Netherlands and Belgium solutions and information to succeed.
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