Claeys & Engels Top Ranked in Band 1 for Employment Law in Belgium in Chambers & Partners Europe 2021

We are proud to be – once again - top ranked as only firm in Band 1 for Employment Law in Belgium. Also congratulations to our four ranked partners Chris Engels , Bart Adriaens , Bart Vanschoebeke and Sophie Maes !

Chambers Review:

What the team is known for: Market-leading employment boutique, boasting a highly regarded team spread over six offices across Belgium. Advises on the full range of matters, including restructuring, pension harmonisation and collective dismissals. Offers notable expertise in collective bargaining agreements and negotiations around social plans. Noteworthy experience assisting clients with cross-border matters, including employee transfers, immigration and work permit matters. Also esteemed for handling matters concerning employers' liability in health and safety matters. Additionally houses a dedicated data protection offering.

Strengths: A client enthuses: "Claeys & Engels is our go-to firm," explaining that the firm's advice is "really in-depth, really good, and it is practical." Another client declares: "The lawyers immediately come up with a solution and it is a pleasure to work with them."

Notable practitioners: 

Bart Adriaens is particularly strong on social security law matters and represents clients in investigations and employment audits. A market commentator lauds: "He is excellent at cases against the public employment authority."

Bart Vanschoebeke advises clients on a range of employment mandates, including dismissals, contracts and works council matters. A client declares that he delivers "an exemplary work," while another client reports that he is "a pleasant guy to talk to."

The "outstanding"
Chris Engels advises clients on restructuring and works council negotiations, with one interviewee declaring: "Engels has an important background on European work councils." According to a source, "he is the best-reputed lawyer in the Belgian market."

Sophie Maes enters the rankings after being recognised by market onlookers for her role in international employment matters. A client enthuses: "She is very good and knows all the different legislation of different countries." Maes advises on immigration, work permits and the Posted Workers Directive, as well as restructurings.

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