Best Sex Crime Lawyers in Belgium

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Reya advocaten
Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 2024
5 people in their team
English
Reya Advocaten is a young and modern law firm based in Gent with additional offices in Zulte and Lokeren. The firm specializes in traffic law, real estate law, contracts and online entrepreneurship, delivering clear and practical legal solutions for both entrepreneurs and private clients. Its...
Cabinet d'avocats BOUVIER
Namur, Belgium

Founded in 1967
5 people in their team
English
Cabinet d'avocats Bouvier is a Namur-based law firm founded in 1967 by Christian Bouvier. The practice has grown into a five-attorney team spanning three generations, offering a diversified suite of services across real estate, patrimonial planning, corporate and commercial matters, criminal...
Piet Van Eeckhaut
Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 2007
8 people in their team
English
Piet Van Eeckhaut is a Ghent-based law firm known for rigorous legal work across criminal and civil matters. The firm carries forward the legacy of its founder, Mr. Piet Van Eeckhaut, who pled around 100 assizes cases and instilled a culture of thorough preparation, courtroom focus, and measured...
Advocatenkantoor Reymen
Sint-Truiden, Belgium

English
Advocatenkantoor Reymen BV, led by attorney Geert Reymen, is an independent Belgian law firm based in Sint-Truiden (Zepperen). The firm offers comprehensive legal support to both individuals and businesses, providing advice, mediation, and representation across various legal domains. With a...
Stibbe
Brussels, Belgium

Founded in 1911
1,000 people in their team
French
Dutch
German
English
We are a leading, independent, international law firm with main offices in Amsterdam, Brussels and Luxembourg, and a branch office in London. We provide our clients with the highest quality service in legal advice, transactions, and litigation.Our dedicated multidisciplinary teams are trusted legal...
Huy, Belgium

Founded in 1991
English
Established in 1991, Andromède is a law firm located at 33, Chaussée de Liège in Huy, Belgium. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across various disciplines, including civil law, criminal law, construction law, property law, contract law, and electoral law. With over three decades of...
Thompson Veerle Advocaat
Heers, Belgium

Founded in 2000
English
Thompson Veerle Advocaat, located in Heers, Belgium, offers comprehensive legal services across multiple domains. The firm specializes in areas such as family and inheritance law, youth law, commercial and contract law, property law, criminal law, insurance and liability law, and social law. This...
Advocaat Alper Darici
Houthalen-Helchteren, Belgium

Founded in 2018
English
Advocatenkantoor Alper Darici, located in Houthalen-Helchteren, Belgium, offers comprehensive legal services tailored to both individuals and businesses. The firm specializes in various domains of civil law, including contract law and construction law, providing clients with expert guidance and...
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...

English
Notariskantoor Kris Pexsters is recognized for its expertise in the fields of conveyancing and notarial services. The firm guides clients through complex real estate transactions, ensuring legal certainty from the initial agreement to the final transfer of ownership. With a thorough understanding...
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About Sex Crime Law in Belgium

Belgium's legal framework for sex crimes is designed to protect individuals' rights, ensure justice for victims, and uphold public safety. The Belgian penal code covers a wide range of offenses, including sexual assault, rape, child pornography, and human trafficking. The laws are stringent and are enforced with the aim of providing serious deterrence against sex crimes. Recent changes have also focused on improving support systems for victims, as well as updating legal definitions to reflect modern understandings of consent and coercion.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several scenarios where one might require legal help regarding sex crimes in Belgium:

  • If you are accused of a sex crime, you need expert legal advice to navigate the judicial process, defend your rights, and ensure a fair trial.
  • If you are a victim of a sex crime, legal assistance can help you understand your rights, report the crime, and seek justice and compensation.
  • If you are a witness in a sex crime case, you may need guidance on legal obligations and protections available to you.
  • If you are undergoing employment disputes or discrimination due to sex crimes-related issues, legal intervention can be crucial.

Local Laws Overview

Belgium has several key laws relevant to sex crimes:

  • Sexual Assault and Rape: Defined broadly, Belgian law considers both the physical act and the lack of consent. Legal reforms have stressed obtaining explicit consent.
  • Child Sexual Exploitation: Stringent laws are enforced against child pornography and exploitation, with severe penalties for offenders.
  • Human Trafficking: The law covers trafficking for sexual exploitation with comprehensive measures for victim protection and offender prosecution.
  • Harassment: Includes both physical and digital harassment, with legal proceedings designed to protect victim anonymity and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered consent in Belgian law?

In Belgium, consent must be freely given, informed, and explicit for each act of sexual contact. It can be withdrawn at any time.

What penalties can be imposed for sex crimes in Belgium?

The penalties vary, with minor offenses resulting in fines and community service, while serious offenses like rape or trafficking can lead to long-term imprisonment.

How can a victim report a sex crime?

Victims can report crimes to local police, or seek assistance from victim support organizations, who can guide them through the reporting process.

Are there protections for victims during a trial?

Yes, Belgium law provides for privacy measures, victim protection programs, and psychosocial support during trial proceedings.

What is the statute of limitations for reporting a sex crime in Belgium?

The statute of limitations can vary depending on the crime, but typically ranges from 10 to 30 years after the victim reaches adulthood for severe crimes.

Are sex crime records public in Belgium?

No, sex crime records are generally confidential, with limited access to protect both the victim's and accused's privacy.

Can foreigners be charged under Belgian sex crime laws?

Yes, foreigners can be charged if the crime is committed in Belgium's jurisdiction.

What should I do if falsely accused of a sex crime?

Seek immediate legal representation to build a defense and gather evidence supporting your innocence.

Can victims receive compensation?

Yes, victims may seek financial compensation through civil proceedings or specialized state funds.

How does one access counseling services for victims?

Victims can contact support organizations offering counseling services or seek referrals from legal advisors and police services.

Additional Resources

Here are some valuable resources for individuals seeking assistance or information on sex crimes in Belgium:

  • Federal Police: Can assist with crime reports and initial steps.
  • Victim Support Services: Offer counseling, legal advice, and support groups.
  • STOP Trafficking: A national body to report and seek help for human trafficking cases.
  • Child Focus: Focuses on child protection and offers assistance in related cases.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in a sex crime case, consider the following steps:

  • Consult a Lawyer: Seek out a specialist in criminal law with experience in sex crimes. Your lawyer can advise you on your case specifics, rights, and legal options.
  • Gather Evidence: Document any evidence related to the case, including communications, witnesses, or any potential physical evidence.
  • Seek Support: Contact relevant support services that can offer advice, counseling, and logistical support.
  • Understand Your Rights: Learn about your rights and legal protections, especially if you are the victim or a witness.

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 Sex Crime, 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.