Best Sex Crime Lawyers in Belgium

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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...
Olivier Kock Avocat
Arlon, Belgium

Founded in 2024
1 person in their team
English
Olivier Kock Avocat is a Belgian law firm based in Arlon with a multifaceted practice spanning family, real estate, criminal law and civil disputes. The firm is known for precise, clear communication and practical guidance, helping clients understand their options and potential outcomes while...
Dewit Law Office
Brussels, Belgium

Founded in 1945
50 people in their team
French
Dutch
German
English
Since it was founded in 1945, Dewit Law Office has remained a human-sized firm and has always been careful to personalise all contact with its customers.Its strength lies in the diversity of its members. Dewit Law Office consists of lawyers working full-time internally, dealing with many cases in...

Founded in 1977
15 people in their team
English
Cabinet d'avocats Spadazzi & Associés is a Belgian law firm based in Grâce-Hollogne that was established in 1977 by Maître S.L. Spadazzi; the practice has grown into a partnership of lawyers supported by administrative staff and an accountant. The firm maintains a multidisciplinary litigation...
Advocatenkantoor Van Calenbergh
Geraardsbergen, Belgium

Founded in 2019
English
Advocatenkantoor Van Calenbergh, located in the heart of Geraardsbergen, Belgium, is a dynamic law firm specializing in criminal law, family law, and civil law. The firm offers comprehensive legal services, including assistance with initial police interviews, defense in criminal proceedings, and...
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...

1 person in their team
English
Avocate - Advocaat Trecylle Mwanzo is a Belgian attorney based in Liège who specializes in civil and family law as well as criminal law, with additional immigration expertise. She earned her degree from the Université Libre de Bruxelles (VUB) in 2021 and is quadrilingual, able to assist clients...
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...

English
Vandersanden Advocaten & Partners, located in Bilzen, Belgium, is a family-run law firm led by Annelies Vandersanden. The firm specializes in various legal domains, including insurance law, real estate, corporate law, criminal law, and family law. Their approach emphasizes clear and transparent...
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...
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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.