Best Marine Insurance Lawyers in Belgium

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blomme.legal
Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 1965
7 people in their team
English
Blomme.legal is a Ghent based law firm with more than 50 years of experience in the areas it treats. The firm was founded in 1965 by Piet Blomme, and since 1995 has been led and expanded by August Blomme. Since September 2021 the office has been led by Bart Verhoeven (managing partner) and August...
Legalstreet Avocats
Huy, Belgium

Founded in 2009
English
Legalstreet Avocats is a Belgian law firm specializing in traffic law and medical law. The firm's name reflects its commitment to facilitating access to legal services, particularly in areas related to road traffic and medical issues. Legalstreet Avocats aims to simplify the legal process, making...
Konsilio Advocaten
Mechelen, Belgium

Founded in 2012
5 people in their team
English
Konsilio Advocaten is a Mechelen based Belgian law firm that concentrates on a wide range of civil and administrative matters through a coordinated collaboration of specialists who have built decades of combined experience. The firm emphasizes a collaborative approach, delivering precise and...

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,...
JAK Avocats
Liège, Belgium

Founded in 1985
6 people in their team
English
JAK Avocats is a Liège-based law firm with nearly four decades of experience in Belgian civil law, specializing in road traffic law and in the law of insurance and liability. Founded in 1985, the firm has built a reputation for precise advocacy in complex accident and liability matters and...
Brevia Advocaten
Bruges, Belgium

Founded in 1992
15 people in their team
English
Brevia Advocaten is a boutique law firm with offices in Brugge and Oostende that delivers multidisciplinary legal services to business clients and private individuals. The team combines deep expertise across corporate and commercial matters, insolvency and enforcement, liability and insurance,...
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...
Intolaw Advocaten
Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 2010
English
Intolaw Advocaten stands out in the Belgian legal landscape for its dynamic approach to solving complex legal issues across multiple fields of expertise. With a team of dedicated specialists ranging from criminal law to traffic law, social law and liability, the firm offers targeted solutions...

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...
Herentals, Belgium

Founded in 1978
10 people in their team
English
Benijts / Paul is a long-standing Belgian law firm based in Herentals, specializing in family law and related matters. Led by Paul Benijts, the team brings deep experience in divorce, matrimonial property settlements, and youth law, with a track record of practical, results-oriented advice. The...
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About Marine Insurance Law in Belgium

Marine insurance in Belgium is a specialized field within the broader framework of insurance law, primarily governed by national regulations that align with international standards. It covers a variety of risks associated with maritime activities, such as loss or damage to ships, cargo, terminals, and other forms of property by which goods or commodities are transferred, acquired, or held between points of origin and final destination. The Belgian legal system integrates aspects of maritime law with specific marine insurance provisions, ensuring that the policies comply with both Belgian laws and EU directives.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking legal advice in marine insurance can be important for several reasons. Common situations where you might need a lawyer include:

  • Claims Disputes: When there is a dispute between the insured and the insurer about the validity or amount of a claim.
  • Policy Interpretation: Understanding the terms and conditions of marine insurance policies, which can often be complex and technical.
  • Contract Drafting and Review: Ensuring that insurance contracts meet the legal requirements and protect your interests adequately.
  • Liability Issues: Determining liability in incidents such as collisions or environmental damage which requires thorough legal assessments.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring compliance with Belgian and international maritime laws and regulations.
  • Subrogation Actions: Handling cases where an insurer seeks recovery from third parties responsible for a loss.
  • Arbitration and Litigation: Representing clients in arbitration or court proceedings related to marine insurance disputes.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of local laws in Belgium relevant to marine insurance include:

  • Marine and Transport Insurance Act: This local legislation outlines the procedures and legal standards for marine insurance contracts and claims.
  • Belgian Shipping Law: Provides the framework for maritime operations, including safety standards and the conduct of shipping businesses.
  • Civil Code and Insurance Act: Domestic laws that regulate the provision of insurance, including marine insurance, and outline the rights and obligations of insurers and insured parties.
  • EU Regulations: As an EU member state, Belgium also adheres to several EU laws and directives affecting marine insurance, particularly concerning cross-border trade and environmental protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is marine insurance?

Marine insurance is a type of insurance designed to cover cargo losses and damages while being transported over waterways, as well as the transport vessels themselves against various perils such as weather damage, piracy, and accidents.

Is marine insurance mandatory in Belgium?

While marine insurance is not always mandatory, it is highly recommended, especially for businesses involved in international trade and shipping, to protect against potential financial losses.

What types of risks are covered under marine insurance?

Marine insurance typically covers risks such as damage to the vessel (hull insurance), loss or damage to cargo (cargo insurance), war risks, piracy, and liability to third parties (protection and indemnity insurance).

How are marine insurance claims settled in Belgium?

Claims are settled based on the terms outlined in the insurance policy. It often involves submission of a claim form, supporting documents, and may require an inspection by a surveyor to assess the damages.

Can I dispute a marine insurance claim decision?

Yes, if you believe a claim was unfairly denied or the settlement amount is incorrect, you can dispute the decision through negotiation, arbitration, and, if necessary, legal action in court.

How do I choose a marine insurance policy?

Consider the types of coverage offered, policy terms, insurer reputation, premium rates, and legal advice when selecting a marine insurance policy to best fit your needs.

What documents are required to purchase marine insurance?

Common documents include a completed proposal form, valuation of insured goods or vessel, details of prior insurance, and shipping documentation such as a bill of lading.

What should I do in the event of a loss or damage?

Notify your insurer immediately, document the damage with photographs, gather all relevant documentation (cargo lists, shipping receipts), and follow your insurer's claims procedure as specified in your policy.

Are there any exclusions in marine insurance policies?

Exclusions may vary but can include damage due to defective packaging, intentional acts, illegal activities, and wear and tear, among others. It's important to thoroughly review these in your policy.

How are marine insurance premiums calculated?

Premiums are based on factors like the type of cargo, route, duration of the transit, the vessel's age and condition, and the risk level associated with the shipment.

Additional Resources

For individuals seeking further information or assistance, the following resources can be highly beneficial:

  • Federal Public Service for Mobility and Transport: Provides information on maritime transport and regulations in Belgium.
  • Belgian Maritime Law Association: A professional body offering resources and assistance related to maritime law in Belgium.
  • Antwerp Maritime Academy: Offers courses and resources related to maritime operations and insurance.
  • European Maritime Safety Agency: Provides guidance on maritime safety standards and regulations applicable within the EU.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in marine insurance, consider following these steps:

  • Assess Your Needs: Clearly determine your legal needs and identify the specific issues you are facing.
  • Consult a Specialist Lawyer: Look for lawyers who specialize in marine insurance law. Consider reaching out to local legal associations for recommendations.
  • Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documentation related to your marine insurance policy and any claims or disputes you are involved in.
  • Schedule a Consultation: Book a meeting with a lawyer to discuss your case and explore possible legal strategies.
  • Follow Legal Advice: Work closely with your lawyer to ensure compliance with legal requirements and effectively resolve your marine insurance issues.

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 Marine Insurance, 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.