DEJONG expands presence in Statia with new office, welcomes Monique James-Brown

STATIA--DEJONG has expanded its presence in the Dutch Caribbean with the opening of a physical office in Statia, strengthening the law firm’s ability to provide legal services to residents, businesses and organizations in Statia and Saba.

The expansion also marks a new professional chapter for Monique James-Brown, who has joined DEJONG following more than 27 years of service within the local island government.

James-Brown brings decades of public service and legal experience to the firm. She also served for more than 20 years as a Judge of Instruction with the Joint Court of Justice of Curaçao, Aruba, St. Maarten, Bonaire, Statia and Saba, contributing to the administration of justice across the Dutch Caribbean.

In joining DEJONG, James-Brown returns to her roots as a commercial lawyer. Based at the firm’s Statia office, she will provide legal advice, guidance and representation to residents, entrepreneurs, organizations and local businesses. She will also support attorney Gerald Simmons-de Jong with cases in Saba.

DEJONG said the establishment of its permanent Statia office reflects the firm’s commitment to making legal services more accessible and personal for residents of both islands. Business owner Justin Simmons-de Jong recently spent several days in Statia with James-Brown preparing the new location to receive clients and members of the community.

A central focus of the firm’s work in Statia and Saba will also be resolving disputes through mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution wherever possible, taking into account the close-knit nature of both island communities.

The firm said the opening represents more than an expansion of its physical footprint, with James-Brown’s appointment bringing extensive local knowledge and experience to its services in the Windward Islands.

DEJONG was founded in June 2023 and is a full-service law firm with offices in Saba, Statia and St. Maarten. Its practice areas include commercial, administrative and corporate law, as well as legislation and policy services.

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