Best Child Abuse Lawyers in Belgium

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Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 2015
1 person in their team
English
Advocaat Merel Colpaert is a Belgian law practice based in Ghent and Drongen, led by Merel Colpaert. The firm handles civil matters with a focus on Personen- en Familierecht, including divorce, end of cohabitation, child support and custody, and the distribution of assets after a relationship...
Henneaux Daniel-Libralegis
Brussels, Belgium

Founded in 2017
English
Henneaux Daniel-Libralegis is a dynamic law firm based in Libramont-Chevigny, Belgium, offering comprehensive legal services to entrepreneurs, individuals, and public authorities. The firm is committed to delivering practical solutions across various branches of law, emphasizing independence and a...

2 people in their team
English
Avocat DE SAMBLANX Marc-Junior is a Belgian lawyer admitted to the Bar of Liège-Huy who provides representation across the Kingdom of Belgium in criminal, family, civil, youth and traffic law. He holds a Master in Law with a specialized mobility track with distinction from the University of Liège...
Tienen, Belgium

English
Aeacus Lawyers is a distinguished Belgian boutique law firm specializing in tax law and related legal fields. The firm's expertise encompasses national and international taxation, corporate law, tax-related criminal law, insolvency law, and family property law. This comprehensive knowledge enables...
Marche-en-Famenne, Belgium

English
Lenelle & Fabry, located in Marche-en-Famenne, Belgium, offers comprehensive legal services with a focus on family law, traffic law, real estate law, and social law. The firm provides expert guidance on matters such as separations, child custody arrangements, traffic violations, landlord-tenant...
Amay, Belgium

Founded in 1995
6 people in their team
English
Collignon Avocats is a provincial law firm based in the province of Liège with offices in Amay and Waremme. The practice serves a broad local client base and lists a multidisciplinary team of six legal professionals including Me Robert Collignon (avocat honoraire), Me Christine Collignon, Me...
Oud-Turnhout, Belgium

Founded in 2011
6 people in their team
English
ANTURLEX is a versatile Belgian law firm based in Turnhout, offering complete legal services for businesses and private clients in Turnhout and the wider Antwerp region. The firm handles a broad spectrum of matters including corporate and commercial law, employment law, construction and planning,...
Cabinet Elisa Pinot
Florennes, Belgium

Founded in 2021
1 person in their team
English
Cabinet Elisa Pinot SRL operates from Florennes, Belgium, providing focused legal services across civil law disciplines. Led by Elisa Pinot, the firm combines practical notarial experience with formal legal training to deliver clear, tailored guidance for clients facing complex matters. The...

6 people in their team
English
Cabinet d'avocats Xharde Gilissen Xharde is a Belgian law firm with offices in Seraing and Liège that concentrates on civil liability, family law, insurance law, criminal law and related litigation. The firm operates through distinct practice poles covering civil and liability matters, tenancy and...

Founded in 2023
30 people in their team
English
Winston is an innovative Belgian law firm with offices across Vlaanderen and Brussels, dedicated to accessible, transparent and client oriented legal services. It differentiates itself by fixed prices per step rather than hourly billing, and by offering both online and in person access to counsel,...
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About Child Abuse Law in Belgium

Child abuse is a grave violation of children's rights and is taken very seriously in Belgium. Belgium has established a comprehensive legal framework designed to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence. This includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Belgian law aims not only to prosecute offenders but also to provide services and support for victims to ensure their safety and well-being. The Federal Public Service Justice and various child protection services play pivotal roles in managing cases of child abuse.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal intervention is often necessary in child abuse cases for several reasons:

  • Protection Orders: To ensure the safety of a child, a lawyer can help secure protection orders against an abuser.
  • Custody Disputes: In cases where child abuse is suspected within family settings, legal representation becomes crucial during custody disputes to advocate for the child's best interests.
  • Criminal Proceedings: A lawyer provides guidance during criminal proceedings against the accused and helps navigate the complexities of the legal system.
  • Advocacy and Support: Lawyers advocate for victims' rights and ensure they receive appropriate psychological support and compensation.
  • Understanding Legal Rights and Obligations: For guardians or involved individuals, understanding one’s rights and obligations under the law is crucial in child abuse cases.

Local Laws Overview

Belgium's legal system incorporates several important laws and decrees related to child abuse. Key aspects include:

  • Penal Code: The Penal Code outlines severe penalties for those convicted of child abuse, including imprisonment and fines.
  • Child Protection Legislation: Laws such as the Decree on Youth Welfare focus on preventive measures and the protection of children's rights.
  • Mandatory Reporting: Certain professionals, including educators and healthcare providers, are mandated to report suspected cases of child abuse to authorities.
  • Family Courts: Specialized family courts handle cases related to child welfare, including custody and protective measures.
  • Victim Support Services: Legal provisions ensure the availability of support services for victims and their families, including counseling and legal aid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered child abuse under Belgian law?

Child abuse in Belgium covers a range of harmful behaviors, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect and exploitation.

How do I report suspected child abuse in Belgium?

You can report suspected child abuse to the local police, child protection services, or the hotline provided by SOS Enfants or Child Focus.

What are the consequences for perpetrators of child abuse in Belgium?

Perpetrators can face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and rehabilitation programs depending on the severity of the abuse.

Can a child be removed from their home if abuse is suspected?

Yes, the authorities may remove a child from their home if it's judged necessary for their safety, subject to a court order.

Do children have the right to legal representation in abuse cases?

Children are entitled to legal representation in abuse cases to ensure their rights and interests are protected during legal proceedings.

Can parents regain custody after a child is removed due to abuse allegations?

Parents may regain custody if they prove that they have addressed the issues leading to the removal and can provide a safe environment, subject to court approval.

What support is available for child abuse victims in Belgium?

Support includes psychological counseling, legal assistance, medical care, and rehabilitation services to help victims recover and integrate safely into society.

Are there any rights for whistleblowers of child abuse?

Whistleblowers are protected under Belgian law from retaliation and can report anonymously to certain agencies.

How long does a typical child abuse case take to resolve in court?

The duration varies depending on the case's complexity, but child abuse cases are generally given priority within the judicial system to minimize harm to the child involved.

Is there financial aid available for legal proceedings in child abuse cases?

Yes, financial aid and legal assistance can be accessed through governmental and non-governmental organizations for those who qualify.

Additional Resources

For more information and support, consider the following resources:

  • SOS Enfants: Offers support and counseling for child abuse victims.
  • Child Focus: Provides assistance with missing and sexually exploited children cases.
  • Federal Public Service Justice: Offers insights into legal proceedings and victim rights.
  • Social Services: Local social services can provide immediate support and intervention where necessary.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in child abuse cases, consider the following steps:

  • Consult with a specialized lawyer who understands the complexities of child protection laws in Belgium.
  • Contact local child welfare agencies to report abuse and seek guidance on immediate protective measures.
  • Utilize available resources and support services for psychological and emotional help for the child and affected family members.
  • Attend all scheduled legal proceedings and consultations to stay informed and involved in the case's development.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Belgium through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Child Abuse, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.

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