Launch of Deviant Legal: A Law Firm for the Video Game Industry in the Netherlands

A Remote-First Approach

Perhaps the most distinctive feature of Deviant Legal is its remote-first structure. By embracing remote operations, the firm not only aligns itself with the global nature of the video game industry but also ensures that its services are more accessible and cost-effective for clients. This innovative approach enables Deviant Legal to connect seamlessly with clients and team members around the world, offering flexibility and scalability that traditional law firms struggle to match.

“With Deviant Legal, I believe the legal services provided can be better tailored to the international nature of the games and esports ecosystem. Because of our remote set-up, we are able to connect with clients and team members worldwide. Next to our core team, we work with a network of carefully selected remote (freelance) lawyers, which allows us to scale when needed. While we primarily focus on Dutch & European law first, we will be seriously researching international expansion opportunities.“ René Otto

Emphasizing Accessibility and Inclusion

Accessibility is at the core of Deviant Legal’s mission. Otto and his team are committed to making legal services approachable for everyone, regardless of their background or financial situation. This commitment extends beyond mere words, as Deviant Legal plans to roll out initiatives aimed at promoting legal access and reducing the intimidation factor often associated with seeking legal counsel.

The firm also places a high value on diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where lawyers can be their authentic selves. This philosophy not only enriches the firm’s culture but also positions it as a desirable destination for talented legal professionals who may feel out of place in more traditional settings. René Otto states:

“One of the core values of Deviant Legal is accessibility and inclusion. I believe that everyone should have access to a lawyer. We will announce some initiatives to promote that relatively soon. Additionally, accessibility means that lawyers should be way more approachable than they are currently. As a result, we work with authentic lawyers which are ‘down-to-earth’ and who ‘come as they are’. This does not only provide value for clients, but also for the legal profession itself. On a daily basis, I meet lawyers who love their work as a lawyer, but do not feel at home at the culture of the legal profession. This is a shame as it leads to an ongoing and unneeded brain drain. By giving these lawyers who do not adhere to the norm a place to call home, I believe Deviant Legal will win the war on talent”.

A Firm to Watch

The unique approach and specialized focus of Deviant Legal have not gone unnoticed. The firm has been highlighted by the prestigious international ranking LEGAL 500 as a “firm to watch,” and its founder, René Otto, has been named a “Next Generation Partner.”

René Otto’s journey from Van Iersel Luchtman advocaten to establishing Deviant Legal showcases that there is need for a dedicated full service boutique servicing the video game industry. René Otto also holds roles as a board member of Breda Game City and an ambassador for Women in Games.