Find a Lawyer in Antwerp

Antwerp holds a unique place in the Belgian legal landscape. Its port, the second-largest in Europe after Rotterdam, generates colossal economic activity that translates into specific legal needs. Maritime law, transport law, and international logistics are part of the DNA of the Antwerp bar. Generations of lawyers have specialised in port disputes, marine insurance, charter contracts, and international trade.

The Antwerp Palace of Justice, inaugurated in 2006 at Bolivarplaats, is a remarkable architectural work designed by Richard Rogers, the same architect who designed the Pompidou Centre in Paris. This 78,000 square metre glass and steel building symbolises the transparency of justice. It houses 36 courtrooms that can accommodate up to 1,500 people daily. The facilities are state-of-the-art: videoconferencing, digital recording of proceedings, accessibility for people with reduced mobility.

But the Antwerp bar is not limited to international affairs. It also meets the needs of individuals and SMEs across the province. Family law occupies an important place, with specialists in divorce, inheritance, and matrimonial property law. Criminal law is well represented, with criminal lawyers providing defence before the correctional court and the assize court.

The diamond industry, which has made Antwerp world-famous, also generates its share of disputes. Lawyers have specialised in this very particular sector, mastering the commercial customs of the Diamond Quarter and the rules governing this closed market.

The Antwerp bar is organised within the Balie Antwerpen, which is part of the Orde van Vlaamse Balies (OVB), the Order of Flemish Bars. The Balie coordinates the activities of lawyers across the province, organises continuing education, and manages the legal aid system. Local branches exist in Mechelen, Turnhout, and Heist-op-den-Berg to facilitate access for litigants in outlying areas.

Legal aid is accessible through the Bureau voor Juridische Bijstand, which organises free duty sessions at the Palace of Justice. The system works similarly to the rest of Belgium: people on modest incomes can obtain free initial advice and, if necessary, be assisted by a pro deo lawyer.

The fees of Antwerp lawyers reflect the diversity of the bar. For complex commercial matters or maritime law, fees can be high, comparable to those of major Brussels firms. However, for routine family law or employment law cases, rates remain accessible.

An initial consultation generally costs between 75 and 150 euros. For a divorce or employment dispute case, expect an hourly rate of 125 to 200 euros for an established lawyer. Major commercial cases may involve higher fees.

Legal aid is accessible through the Antwerp Bureau voor Juridische Bijstand. Duty sessions are held at the Palace of Justice, and the eligibility conditions are the same as elsewhere in Belgium.