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Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
Child abuse is taken seriously in Belgium, including in the municipality of Beersel. Belgian law treats physical, sexual and psychological abuse, as well as neglect and exploitation, as criminal matters and as subjects for youth protection procedures. Cases involving children can trigger both criminal prosecution of a suspected perpetrator and protective measures to safeguard the child. Responsibility for investigation and immediate protection often involves local police, medical services, youth welfare authorities and the public prosecutor's office. Legal processes may be handled by the juvenile court when the child is a victim or when an alleged offender is a minor.
There are several common situations where obtaining legal assistance is important:
- If you or your child have been physically, sexually or psychologically harmed and you want to report the matter or pursue criminal charges.
- If protective measures are being considered or imposed, such as emergency placement, supervised care or removal of a child from a household.
- If custody, visitation or parental responsibility is contested following alleged abuse or neglect.
- If you are accused of child abuse and need to defend against criminal or juvenile proceedings.
- If you need legal help understanding your rights during police interviews, medical assessments or youth welfare interventions.
- If you need to request restraining measures, no-contact orders or to enforce a child protection decision.
A lawyer who specialises in family, criminal or juvenile law can explain options, protect procedural rights, collect and preserve evidence, represent you in court and coordinate with social and medical professionals.
- Criminal law: Acts that harm a child - including physical assault, sexual offences, exploitation, coercion and severe neglect - can be prosecuted under Belgian criminal law. Penalties range from fines to imprisonment depending on the seriousness of the offence and aggravating factors.
- Youth protection law: Belgium has specific youth protection procedures to safeguard minors at risk. The juvenile court and youth assistance services can impose protective measures that prioritise the child’s welfare - for example supervised assistance, placement in foster care or treatment programs.
- Dual-track responses: A single situation can generate parallel responses - criminal prosecution against a perpetrator and welfare measures for the child victim. These processes have different objectives: criminal law seeks accountability while youth protection seeks safety and support for the child.
- Mandatory involvement of authorities: When professionals such as doctors, teachers or social workers reasonably suspect serious harm, local protocols require involvement of child welfare services and may lead to notification of the juvenile court or public prosecutor. Exact reporting rules can differ by sector and region.
- Privacy and confidentiality: Proceedings involving minors are more protected than ordinary court cases. Hearings may be closed to the public and identifying details are often withheld to protect the child’s identity.
- Legal aid and representation: People with limited means may qualify for legal aid - free or subsidised legal representation - through Belgium's legal assistance system. The local bar association can provide information on eligibility and application procedures.
Prioritise the child’s immediate safety. If there is imminent danger call emergency services. For non-urgent but serious concerns contact the local police or the emergency number. Seek medical care for injuries and preserve any evidence. Report the concern to child welfare services or the juvenile court if you believe the child is at risk of significant harm.
You can report suspected abuse to the local police station, to child welfare services or to the public prosecutor’s office. Social services and some non-governmental organisations can also help make a report. When you report, provide facts, names, dates, and any supporting evidence you have.
Not always. Authorities assess the immediacy and severity of risk. If there is an immediate threat to the child’s safety, temporary removal or emergency measures may be taken. In less urgent situations, authorities may propose support measures, supervision or visits to monitor the family and reduce risk.
Access depends on the circumstances and best-interests assessment. Courts or youth protection services can restrict or suspend contact if it is judged harmful. Conversely, supervised contact or rehabilitative programs may be ordered if contact is considered possible under safeguards.
Useful evidence includes medical reports, photographs of injuries, statements from the child or witnesses, messages or recordings showing threats or abuse, school or daycare reports, and logs documenting incidents. Keep records of dates, times and descriptions. A lawyer can help gather and preserve evidence in a way that supports legal proceedings.
Courts treat testimony from minors carefully. Judges may use child-friendly procedures, such as testimony via video or through a protective intermediary, and may close hearings to the public. The aim is to minimise additional trauma while ensuring a fair process.
Many professionals - including healthcare workers, teachers and certain social workers - must follow reporting protocols and internal obligations under youth welfare systems. Exact duties can depend on the profession and the applicable regional rules. When in doubt, professionals should consult their institution’s policies and legal advisers.
Potential consequences include criminal prosecution with penalties that may include imprisonment and fines, protective orders, loss of parental authority, and placement or supervision orders issued by juvenile or family courts. Employers or professional bodies may also take disciplinary action where relevant.
Timelines vary widely. Emergency protective steps can be implemented quickly. Criminal investigations and trials can take months or longer depending on complexity and whether appeals are filed. Youth protection proceedings may also require time to assess needs and implement suitable measures, though courts often aim to act promptly in the child’s best interests.
Look for lawyers who specialise in family law, juvenile law or criminal law with experience in child protection cases. The local bar association can provide directories or referrals. Ask prospective lawyers about their experience with juvenile courts, working with social services and handling sensitive evidence. If cost is an issue, ask about legal aid eligibility.
- Local police station and emergency services for immediate danger.
- Public prosecutor’s office - for reporting crimes and following up on criminal procedures.
- Youth protection services and the juvenile court - for interventions oriented to the child’s welfare.
- CAW - Centres for General Wellbeing Work - provide confidential support and guidance for victims and families.
- Child Focus - services specialising in missing and sexually exploited children and support for families.
- Local social and health services - physicians, pediatricians and mental-health professionals can document injuries and provide care.
- Local bar association - for referrals to lawyers specialised in family, juvenile and criminal law and for information about legal aid.
- NGOs and victim support organisations that offer counselling, crisis intervention and practical assistance to victims and families.
Note - Services in Beersel may be available in Dutch and often in French or English. When you contact services, ask about language support if you do not speak Dutch.
- Ensure immediate safety: If the child is in danger call emergency services without delay.
- Seek medical care: Get medical assessment and documentation for any injuries or signs of neglect.
- Preserve evidence: Keep records, photos, messages and any witnesses’ information.
- Report the concern: Contact the local police, youth protection services or public prosecutor’s office and provide factual details.
- Contact a lawyer: Find a lawyer experienced in child abuse, family law or juvenile law to advise you on criminal and protection options, rights during investigations, and court procedures.
- Consider legal aid: If finances are a concern, ask the bar association about legal aid eligibility and how to apply.
- Use support services: Reach out to social services, counselling centres and victim support organisations for emotional and practical help.
- Follow through: Cooperate with investigators and support professionals, keep records of all contacts and court dates, and ask your lawyer to explain each step so you can make informed decisions.
If you are unsure where to start, call local emergency services for immediate danger or a social service helpline for guidance on the correct local authority to contact in Beersel. A lawyer can help you navigate reporting, protection and any legal proceedings that follow.
