Best Business Lawyers in Belgium

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Partoens - Van Haute Advocaten
Brussels, Belgium

Founded in 2010
4 people in their team
English
Partoens - Van Haute Advocaten is a Belgian niche law firm specializing in criminal law and complex procedural matters. The firm has more than 20 years of specialization and a strong reputation for handling high profile cases in the region. It represents both suspects and victims in criminal...
Saint-Nicolas, Belgium

English
Michel Coëme serves as a notary at the ADVENTILL office in Saint-Nicolas (Tilleur) and is recorded on the national notary register with activity from April 27, 1998 to the present. The listing indicates he conserves notarial acts for that office, reflecting a long-term role in the formal custody...
Notaris Jessy Houben
Hechtel-Eksel, Belgium

Founded in 2017
English
Notaris Jessy Houben, located in Hechtel-Eksel, Belgium, offers comprehensive notarial services with a focus on conveyancing and public notary duties. The firm is led by Notary Jessy Houben, who, along with her dedicated team, provides expert guidance on a wide range of legal matters, including...
Thiunas Advocaten
Tienen, Belgium

Founded in 1995
English
Thiunas Advocaten is a distinguished law firm based in Belgium, renowned for its comprehensive legal services across various practice areas. The firm's team of seasoned attorneys brings extensive experience and in-depth knowledge to each case, ensuring clients receive expert guidance tailored to...
Vise, Belgium

3 people in their team
English
Douin Serge is an attorney based in Visé, Liège, Belgium. Admitted to the Liège Bar in 1988, he operates the practice personally and handles cases across business, real estate and family matters, as well as debt mediation since 1999. Two secretaries collaborate at the office to support efficient...
Brussels, Belgium

English
GMadvocaten, led by attorney and mediator Georges Michiels, offers comprehensive legal services with a focus on family law, including divorce proceedings, as well as commercial and residential lease disputes, criminal and traffic law, commercial and corporate law, mediation, and liability 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,...
Charleroi, Belgium

Founded in 1996
English
Panayotou & Partners is a Belgium based law firm that provides focused legal services to entrepreneurs and companies. Founded in 1996, the firm delivers representation in judicial proceedings as well as strategic advisory across a broad range of law, with each lawyer bringing a field-specific...

English
RED LAW is a Belgian law firm based in Charleroi that concentrates exclusively on real estate development in Wallonia. The firm brings together lawyers with specialized training in environment law and public real estate law to support project promoters, professionals, and public authorities from...
Fidys
Ans, Belgium

Founded in 1996
English
Fidys, established in 1996 and located in the Province of Liège, Belgium, specializes in providing comprehensive accounting and tax services tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs. The firm offers expertise in company creation, accounting management, and tax advisory, ensuring clients meet their...
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About Business Law in Belgium

Belgium, a thriving hub for business in Europe, boasts a robust legal framework that facilitates commerce and trade. The country's strategic location, multilingual workforce, and stable economy make it an attractive destination for businesses. Belgian business law is characterized by its complexity, encompassing various legal fields including corporate law, tax law, competition law, and intellectual property law. Belgian business law is harmonized with European Union legislation, allowing for better integration within the European market.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are numerous situations where individuals and businesses may require legal assistance in the business sphere in Belgium:

  • Starting a Business: Navigating legal requirements for company formation, registration, and compliance.
  • Contract Law: Drafting, reviewing, or negotiating contracts and agreements.
  • Employment Law: Understanding labor regulations and resolving employment disputes.
  • Intellectual Property: Protecting trademarks, copyrights, and patents.
  • Taxation: Complying with local and EU tax obligations and optimizations.
  • Mergers and Acquisitions: Structuring deals and ensuring legal compliance during transactions.
  • Litigation: Representing your interests in legal disputes and court proceedings.
  • Corporate Governance: Advising on directors’ duties and shareholder rights.

Local Laws Overview

The Belgian legal system is based on civil law and includes several key aspects relevant to business:

  • Corporate Structures: Choices include public limited companies (NV/SA), private limited companies (BV/SRL), and partnerships.
  • Registration and Licensing: Businesses must register with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises and may require local licenses.
  • Taxation: Both direct (corporate income tax) and indirect taxes (VAT) apply, and Belgium follows EU VAT directives.
  • Employment Law: Covers working conditions, dismissal procedures, and collective labor agreements.
  • Dispute Resolution: Options include litigation, arbitration, and mediation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of business entities can I set up in Belgium?

Common types include public limited company (NV/SA), private limited company (BV/SRL), and branch office, each with its specific requirements and legal implications.

2. What are the corporate tax rates in Belgium?

As of 2023, the standard corporate tax rate is 25%, with reduced rates available for small and medium enterprises meeting specific conditions.

3. How do I register a business in Belgium?

Registration is done through the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises, requiring documentation specific to the type of business entity.

4. What are the reporting obligations for a Belgian company?

Companies must maintain accurate accounting records, file annual financial statements, and submit tax returns annually.

5. Are there specific laws for e-commerce in Belgium?

Yes, e-commerce is governed by Belgian consumer protection laws, data protection regulations, and European directives.

6. What are my responsibilities as an employer in Belgium?

Duties include drafting employment contracts, ensuring health and safety compliance, and managing payroll and social contributions.

7. How can I protect my intellectual property in Belgium?

Businesses can apply for trademark registration, patent protection, and enforce copyright laws to safeguard their intellectual assets.

8. Are there any anti-competition laws I should be aware of?

Yes, Belgian and European laws regulate anti-competitive practices, mergers, and acquisitions to ensure fair competition.

9. How are business disputes typically resolved?

Disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation, depending on the nature and complexity of the case.

10. What legal requirements must be fulfilled for a merger or acquisition?

Mergers and acquisitions require thorough due diligence, compliance with corporate and competition laws, and may require regulatory approvals.

Additional Resources

For further information and assistance, the following resources can be helpful:

  • FPS Economy: Provides insights into business registrations and market regulations.
  • FOD Financiën/Service Public Fédéral Finances: Offers tax and financial guidance.
  • Belgian Chambers of Commerce: Offers support and resources for businesses.
  • European Union ICIP (Industrial and Commercial Intellectual Property): Information on protecting intellectual property rights.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with business matters in Belgium, consider the following steps:

  • Research Legal Experts: Look for law firms or attorneys specializing in business law in Belgium.
  • Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific legal needs and obtain professional advice.
  • Documentation: Gather all relevant documents and information pertaining to your case or business matter.
  • Evaluate Options: Work with your legal advisor to explore the best course of action based on your situation.

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 Business, 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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