Best Employment Rights Lawyers in Belgium

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Founded in 2009
10 people in their team
English
Balthasar & Associés - Cabinet d'Avocats advises private clients and businesses throughout Belgium from its base in Aywaille. The firm assists with commercial relationships, real estate matters, employment and social security issues, civil liability, criminal traffic matters, and related disputes....
M24 Cabinet d'avocats
Liège, Belgium

Founded in 2022
English
M24 Cabinet d'avocats, based in Liège, Belgium, offers comprehensive legal services through its five specialized departments: CIVILIS, COSULATA, GLOBAL DEFENSE, EXCELLEX, and HRL. Each department focuses on distinct areas of law, including civil and family law, business and commercial law,...
Advocaten Moors
Bree, Belgium

1 person in their team
English
Advocaten Moors provides focused legal guidance across civil, commercial and criminal matters in Belgium. Led by Frederique Moors, the firm handles complex disputes and transactional work with an emphasis on practical outcomes and efficient service.The firm is known for a decisive and goal oriented...

Founded in 1995
English
BE-LEGAL | Advocatenkantoor Mol, formerly known as Velede, underwent significant transformations in 2019, culminating in a rebranding to its current name in 2020. The firm relocated to a modern and spacious office at Molderdijk 124, 2400 Mol, enhancing its visibility and accessibility. This...
Brussels, Belgium

Founded in 2014
English
Freson Advocaten, located in the heart of Borgloon, Belgium, is a dedicated law firm offering comprehensive legal assistance across various domains. The firm is led by two experienced attorneys, Marc and Isabel Freson, who collaborate closely to provide clients with effective solutions to their...
Brussels, Belgium

Founded in 2019
5 people in their team
English
Advocaten Geukens is a well established law office in Tongeren, Belgium, guided by three generations of legal expertise. The firm provides comprehensive civil and commercial representation across family, employment, criminal, corporate and other practice areas, drawing on a long track record of...
Lieven Duchateau
Sint-Truiden, Belgium

Founded in 2000
English
Lieven Duchateau is a seasoned attorney with over 15 years of experience, offering tailored legal advice to both individuals and businesses. His practice emphasizes proactive solutions, aiming to prevent legal issues through timely counsel and thorough preparation. This approach underscores the...

Founded in 2015
English
Koonen-Lentz Anwaltskanzlei, located in Eupen, Belgium, offers comprehensive legal services across various practice areas, including civil law, criminal law, traffic law, insurance law, and debt collection. The firm is proficient in handling cases involving personal injury, property damage,...
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...

Founded in 1920
English
Cabinet d'Avocats Delfosse, established in 1920 by former Minister of Justice Antoine Delfosse, has evolved over four generations into a prominent law firm in Liège, Belgium. The firm comprises over fifteen attorneys, each specializing in areas such as civil liability, insurance law, medical law,...
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About Employment Rights Law in Belgium

Employment Rights in Belgium are designed to protect both employees and employers, ensuring fair treatment, adherence to labor laws, and fostering a balanced workplace environment. These rights encompass a wide range of topics, including working conditions, compensation, termination procedures, non-discrimination, and collective bargaining. Belgian labor law is characterized by its complexity and its integration within the broader framework of European Union regulations, which adds an additional layer of protection and rights for the working population.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are numerous situations where one might require legal assistance concerning Employment Rights in Belgium. Common circumstances include wrongful termination, discrimination in the workplace, disputes over wages or working hours, issues related to employment contracts, workplace harassment, and understanding or negotiating terms of a collective bargaining agreement. A lawyer specializing in employment law can provide crucial advice, guide you through the legal processes, and represent your interests either in negotiations or in court.

Local Laws Overview

Belgium's employment laws are comprehensive and include several key aspects, such as:

  • Employment Contracts: These can be permanent, fixed-term, or temporary, each with specific regulations regarding notice periods and termination.
  • Working Hours: The standard workweek is 38 hours, though variations exist across different sectors.
  • Minimum Wage: Belgium has a national minimum wage system that is regularly updated.
  • Holiday and Leave: Employees are entitled to annual paid leave, maternity leave, paternity leave, and parental leave as per Belgian law.
  • Termination Rights: Employers must adhere to strict termination procedures and notice periods. Unlawful termination can lead to legal consequences.
  • Non-Discrimination: Laws prohibit discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, or sexual orientation.
  • Collective Bargaining: Many industries have collective bargaining agreements that include additional rights and obligations for both employers and employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard probation period in Belgium?

The probation period in Belgium typically lasts between one to six months, depending on the type of employment contract and the agreed conditions.

How much notice is required for termination?

The notice period depends on the length of service and can range from a few weeks to several months. It is important to consult employment contracts and applicable legislation.

What are my rights if I am discriminated against at work?

Belgian law provides protection against discrimination, and individuals can file complaints with either their employer or relevant public bodies for redress.

Can I be dismissed while on sick leave?

Dismissal during sick leave is generally not allowed unless it is unrelated to the illness and adheres to proper legal procedures.

What should I do if I experience workplace harassment?

It is advisable to report the incident to HR or a supervisor and can seek legal advice if the issue is not resolved internally.

Am I entitled to overtime pay?

Overtime pay is regulated and often requires additional compensation or leave, depending on collective agreements and employment contracts.

What are the rules for maternity and paternity leave?

Maternity leave generally includes a period of 15 weeks, while paternity leave is typically 10 days. These periods may include both paid and unpaid components.

How is annual leave calculated?

Annual leave is calculated based on the number of days worked in the preceding year, usually amounting to around 20 days for full-time employees.

Do I have the right to join a trade union?

Yes, employees in Belgium have the right to join trade unions, which play an integral role in collective bargaining processes.

What should be included in an employment contract?

An employment contract should clearly outline the job description, wages, working hours, probation period, notice period, and any other specific working conditions.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider the following resources:

  • FPS Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue: Provides information on employment rights and public services.
  • Belgian Trade Unions: Offer support and advocacy for workplace issues.
  • Labour Courts: Specialized courts dealing with disputes related to employment relationships.
  • European Commission: Offers guidelines and information on employment rights under EU law.

Next Steps

If you need legal help in employment rights, consider the following steps:

  • Identify and gather all relevant documents and evidence related to your issue.
  • Consult with specialists or employment rights advisors to clarify your situation.
  • Find a lawyer who specializes in employment law to obtain personalized advice.
  • Consider mediation or arbitration for quicker resolutions, if appropriate.
  • In case of serious disputes, prepare for litigation by contacting labor courts or relevant legal agencies.

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 Employment Rights, 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.