Find a Lawyer in Ghent

Ghent is a city where law has been taught for centuries. The Law Faculty of Ghent University, one of the oldest and most prestigious in Belgium, trains hundreds of lawyers each year who feed the local and national bar. This proximity between the university and legal practice creates fertile ground for legal innovation and doctrinal reflection.

The Gerechtsgebouw (Palace of Justice) in Ghent, located at Opgeëistenlaan, is a modern building that houses the various courts of the district. The Balie Gent secretariat is also located there, facilitating procedures for litigants and lawyers.

The Balie Gent, under the direction of its stafhouder and the Raad van de Orde (Council of the Order), ensures the quality of legal services and compliance with professional ethics. The Balie organises an ambitious continuing education programme, with seminars covering all areas of law, from new legislation to case law developments.

Ghent stands out for several innovative initiatives in the judicial field. The recent creation of the 'drugopvolgingskamer' (DOK), a specialised chamber for monitoring drug-addicted offenders, illustrates a new approach that combines punishment with therapeutic support. This innovation, praised by legal and health professionals, could set an example for other courts.

Ghent's technology ecosystem, with hubs like the Tech Lane Ghent Science Park, generates specific legal needs. Lawyers have specialised in digital law, personal data protection, startup-related intellectual property, and IT contracts. This expertise attracts clients well beyond the Ghent region.

For litigants on modest incomes, the Bureau voor Juridische Bijstand organises free duty sessions at the Gerechtsgebouw. The legal aid system allows people to obtain free initial advice and, if conditions are met, be assisted by a pro deo lawyer.

The fees of Ghent lawyers are comparable to those practised in other major Flemish cities. An initial consultation generally costs between 75 and 125 euros.

For handling a case, the hourly rate is between 100 and 175 euros for an established lawyer, more for highly sought-after specialists (tax law, intellectual property, corporate law).

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