Lawyer profile on Websta in the Netherlands

What to include on your profile page

Your Websta profile acts as a simple website for your legal practice. It should contain enough information that someone searching for a lawyer can understand what you do and how to reach you.

Start with a clear description of your practice areas. Say which types of legal work you handle - for example, family law, commercial contracts, employment disputes, or property transactions. Be specific rather than general. If you focus on a particular sector or client type, mention that.

Add a professional photo of yourself. People want to know who they are contacting. A headshot in business attire works well.

List the services you offer with brief descriptions. Each service entry can include a short explanation of what that service covers and what someone might expect from working with you on that matter.

Include your contact details and office location or locations where you work. If you work from home or use a shared office, you can still list where you are based. Add a phone number and email address.

Add booking or quote request functionality so potential clients can contact you directly through the platform. You decide whether to offer online booking for consultations or ask for quote requests where clients describe their legal matter and you respond with terms.

Photos and visual content

Beyond a profile photo, consider adding a photo of your workspace or office if it is professional and welcoming. A cluttered desk or confidential documents visible in the background should be avoided.

Keep the visual presentation minimal and professional. You do not need many images - typically one or two are sufficient for a legal practice. The focus should remain on your qualifications and services rather than interior design.

Languages for your profile

Publish your profile in Dutch since you are working in the Netherlands and your primary clients will be Dutch-speaking. If you speak English fluently and expect international clients or expatriates to contact you, add an English version of your profile as well.

Keep language versions consistent so each version accurately represents the same information.

How people find lawyers on Websta

Websta has a marketplace where people nearby search for services by category and location. On the legal services section, people can browse profiles of lawyers in their area and post tasks describing their legal needs.

Clients typically search by the type of legal service they need and the province or city where they are based. If someone needs help with a contract dispute in Amsterdam, they search for lawyers in that area. If they need family law advice in Rotterdam, they search there.

Your profile appears in these searches when your location and practice areas match what someone is looking for. Having clear, specific service descriptions helps you show up in the right searches.

Working as an independent lawyer in the Netherlands

If you operate as a sole trader or freelancer, you must be registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK). You can register online at the KvK website. You will need a business number and must register your sole proprietorship or partnership as applicable.

As a lawyer, you are subject to professional rules set by the Dutch Bar Association (Orde van Advocaten). Check their website for current requirements on professional liability insurance, client account management, and confidentiality obligations. These rules apply whether you are employed or independent.

You will need a business bank account separate from your personal account. Websta uses Stripe to handle card payments from clients; the money is paid out to the bank account you provide.

Register for VAT (btw) with the Dutch tax authority (Belastingdienst) if your turnover meets the threshold. Check the current VAT registration requirements with them.

You are responsible for invoicing clients, keeping records, and filing tax returns with the Belastingdienst. Consult a local accountant or bookkeeper about obligations specific to your situation, especially around deductible expenses and quarterly reporting.

What to write in the first hour

When you first set up your profile, focus on the essentials so potential clients can find you and understand what you do.

Write a one or two sentence description of your practice. For example: 'I advise independent businesses and sole traders on commercial contracts and employment matters' or 'I handle family law cases including divorce, custody, and inheritance disputes in the Amsterdam region.'

List your three to five main service areas. You can add more detail later, but start with the core areas where you spend most of your time.

Add your location - your province, city, or the regions you serve.

Upload a professional photo of yourself.

Provide an email and phone number where clients can reach you.

Set up contact or quote request functionality so people can send you a message about their legal needs.

You can refine your profile description, add more services, and add photos of your workspace over the following weeks. The goal of the first hour is to be findable and contactable.

Payment and terms

You set your own fees for each service. Websta handles the payment processing through Stripe, and funds go directly to your business bank account. You control your pricing and decide what you charge clients for consultations, hourly work, or fixed-fee services.

Be clear with clients about your fee structure upfront. Include this information when quoting on a task or when a client books a consultation.