Eubelius > Brussels, Belgium > Firm Profile

Eubelius
LOUIZALAAN 99
AVENUE LOUISE
1050 BRUSSELS
Belgium

Belgium > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2

Eubelius remains active across domestic and cross-border M&A, also supporting a number of major businesses with ongoing corporate governance, commercial, and operational issues. Notable transactional expertise for the firm includes LBOs, strategic acquisitions, deals involving state-owned companies, and carve-outs, with the team advising clients active in a wide range of industries. Practice heads include managing partner Matthias Wauters, who handles public and private M&A as well as corporate litigation; Lars Van Bever, who focuses on real estate and private equity deals; Philippe Mulliez, who focuses on Flemish work encompassing transactions and litigation; and Frank Hellemans , an experienced M&A and capital markets advisor. Joris De Wolf was promoted to partner in January 2022, in recognition of his strong work on M&A and public takeovers. Marieke Wyckaert retired in December 2021.

Practice head(s):

Matthias Wauters; Ignace Claeys; Philippe Mulliez; Frank Hellemans

Other key lawyers:

Erwin Destuyver

Testimonials

‘Proactive, diligent and creative team.’

‘Very knowledgeable and experienced team. Great combination of in-depth knowledge and hands-on advice. They show a genuine interest in the business, and provide concrete and ready to use advice. They are able to quickly set up an intra-disciplinary team designed to your needs and manage to keep that team in place throughout the file at reasonable cost. Their expert teams work together very smoothly and all seems to be on top of the file. Great availability at all levels. Great teams to work with; as in-house counsel, you are really part of the external team and vice-versa.’

‘Matthias Wauters: a real deal maker. Always open for dialogue and looks for win-win solutions. He really listens to his client and puts his client at the center of the file. Clear and to the point advice that helps you navigate through complex matters and avoid pitfalls. Great commitment and availability: always there when you need him.

‘We had the opportunity to collaborate with Erwin Destuyver and his team in the context of an acquisition project: efficient team, organized, meticulous and professional work, availability at all times, meticulous and personal follow-up of the file, reactive. Very efficient collaboration and we highly recommend Erwin Destuyver.’

‘They stand out from their competitors (and yet we are used to working with many different firms) by their reactivity, efficiency, organization, knowledge of the subject matter, proactivity, client support, contactability at any time.’

‘The team is a team of top players that somehow do easily transfer projects or files to colleagues who have the exact skill / knowledge required, within the firm.’

‘Great team: excellent knowledge of the matters at stake. Great value for money.’

‘Filip Jenné: top notch lawyer; his engagement in the matters is exemplary. Hard to beat in terms of value for money.’

Key clients

Fedrus

Besix

BNP Paribas Fortis Private Equity

SNCB-NMBS

Domo Investment Group / Dovesco

Elia

Willy Naessens Group

Damier Group

Skeyes

SFPI – FPIM

Sports & Leisure Group

EIC Fund

Alter Pharma Group

AG Insurance / AG Real Estate

Work highlights

  • Assisted AG with the acquisition of Anima Care.
  • Assisted investment group Dovesco and the other shareholders on the sale of a majority stake in the LS Bedding group to Sleepco GmbH.
  • Assisted Damier Group which was part of a consortium led by CVC Capital Partners that acquired the France based Cooper Consumer Healthcare group from Charterhouse.

Belgium > Dispute resolution Tier 2

Noted for the depth of its tax litigation capabilities, Eubelius' large disputes practice is also well-versed in domestic litigation and ICC arbitrations, representing a mix of manufacturers, real estate companies, and sovereign states, among others. The practice is jointly chaired by Patrick Hofströssler, a long-standing specialist in civil and private estate disputes; Ignace Claeys, who heads up the commercial litigation desk; and Svjatoslav Gnedasj, who anchors the group's contentious tax offering. Counsel Thijs Tanghe focuses principally on contract and tort liability, representing clients in ICC and SCC arbitrations, as well as court proceedings. Senior attorney Alexandre Rigolet is praised for his 'excellent knowledge of public contracts.' All named lawyers are based in Brussels.

Practice head(s):

Patrick Hofströssler; Ignace Claeys; Svjatoslav Gnedasj

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Very responsive and available team.’

‘Alexandre Rigolet has an excellent knowledge of public contracts. He puts theory into practice.’

‘Eubelius teams work on projects with an open mind in favour of the client’s interests. During their approach, they always take impacts on the company-group into consideration, and analyse items in a global context.’

‘Notwithstanding the fact that they are the best experts in their legal field, they treat the legal counsels of their clients, with respect and without arrogance.’

Work highlights

    Belgium > Employment Tier 2

    The ‘alert and creative‘ employment and pensions team at Eubelius is strong in both advisory and contentious work, with litigation experience including appearances before the European courts on behalf of the Belgian state. Véronique Pertry leads the practice alongside Liesbet Vandenplas, who was made up to partner in 2022. Employee rights are a key specialism, with Pertry especially well regarded in this area, and counsel Filip Van Beirendock also noted. Vandenplas, meanwhile, advises on issues including flexible working and restructurings.

    Practice head(s):

    Véronique Pertry; Liesbet Vandenplas

    Other key lawyers:

    Filip Van Beirendonck; Maaike Cornelli

    Testimonials

    ‘Eubelius has a dedicated (and stable) team of highly qualified staff members at its disposal. Their advice is always of top quality and in a language that can be understood by non-specialists.’

    ‘A very good team – alert and creative.’

    ‘Through years of cooperation, they know our company very well. In their advice, they are therefore able to clearly point out pain points and propose solutions.’

    ‘The indiviuals are experts who have extensive expertise and are aware of the most recent developments. They are extremely accessible and available, very concrete and practical. They really do everything to help, to support and advise their clients as correctly as possible. Véronique Pertry really stands out.’

    ‘Very strong legal knowledge, and open to discussing practical implementation (which can be different from the legal framework).’ 

    ‘Liesbet Vandenplas is a high-quality lawyer: she offers high availability to customers, and pragmatic and usable advice.’

    ‘Their advice is pragmatic and good value for money.’

    ‘Liesbet Vandenplas and Maaike Cornelli are both very professional and to the point.’

    Key clients

    ABB

    PON (Koninklijke Gazelle)

    Thalys

    European Payment Initiative (EPI)

    Fedrus International

    De Lijn

    Ghent University and Pension Fund

    Federal Government: Employment, Mobility, Social Security and Pensions

    Go!

    City of Ostend

    Impextraco

    Integrale

    Claire’s Belgium

    Enabel

    Alter Pharma

    Viabuild

    Flemish Governmental Services

    AG Real Estate

    Work highlights

    • Providing day-to-day advice to Thalys’ HR department on matters including individual and collective labour law.
    • Representing the Belgian State and the Federal Public Services of Employment and Social Security in labour, social security and pensions-related cases in various jurisdictions.
    • Advising the European Payment Initiative on all the employment issues related to staffing a virtual company throughout Europe.

    Belgium > Environment Tier 2

    Urban and environmental matters are a core strength of the public and administrative law team at Eubelius, which is helmed by Barteld Schutyser and Bart Martel and acts for a range of clients across the private and public sectors. Schutyser has broad public law expertise, with a particular focus on the environmental aspects of large real estate projects. Martel, meanwhile, specialises in public litigation, in particular urban planning disputes. Notable support comes from senior attorney Laura Janssens, who is active in matters across the construction, infrastructure, and transport industries.

    Practice head(s):

    Barteld Schutyser; Bart Martel

    Other key lawyers:

    Testimonials

    ‘A strong team with intelligent, hands-on people.’

    ‘Bart Martel and Laura Janssens offer a very practical view of things.’

    Key clients

    Uplace

    Proximus

    Aspiravi

    Port of Antwerp

    NMBS

    Desotec

    Elba Leasehold

    Colas Noord

    Province of East Flanders

    Albert Heijn

    Sint-Niklaas

    Work highlights

    • Advised Uplace with regard to the construction and operation of ‘Broeklin’, a new large urban development project in Machelen.
    • Advised NMBS (National Belgian Rail Company) with regard to the development of its new headquarters at the Brussels-South train station.
    • Assisted Proximus (the national telecoms operator) with regard to the development of telecoms infrastructure, including litigation and regulatory advice.

    Belgium > EU regulatory: Financial services Tier 2

    The ‘proactive‘ team at Eubelius handles the full range of financial regulatory issues, and has particular strength in AIMFD advice to asset managers and funds, advice on insurance products, the regulation of securities depositories, and payment services issues, including the licensing of new payments providers. Clients include major domestic and European banks, asset managers, insurers, and emerging payment services companies. Lars Van Bever leads the practice alongside senior counsel Jean-Marc Gollier, an expert in financial services regulatory issues for banks, insurers, and investment funds. Senior associate Nicolas Schrans focuses on banking governance, MiFID, and UCITS work.

    Practice head(s):

    Lars Van Bever; Jean-Marc Gollier

    Other key lawyers:

    Testimonials

    ‘We value mostly the Eubelius teams’ expertise and proactive way in dealing with a file. All relevant stakeholders are almost automatically consulted and informed making them an excellent strategic partner.’

    ‘Excellent professional service.’

    ‘Very good knowledge, practical approach, quick response time.’

    Key clients

    Batopin

    AG Insurance

    The European Payments Initiative

    Lazard Fund Managers (Ireland)

    Lazard Frères Gestion (France)

    Dexia

    ION

    Leoville

    Elia

    KBC Asset Management

    V-Bio Ventures

    ING

    Bancontact

    Allusion

    Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel

    Work highlights

    • Advised BFCM & CFCM in relation with the contribution in kind of 51% of the shares of Beobank (a Belgian credit institution) by CMNE to BFCM.
    • Assisted with the final closings of V-Bio Fund 2, the official European Venture Capital fund in Belgium.
    • Advising Batopin, a newly incorporated joint venture between the four largest Belgian banks (ING Belgium, KBC Bank, Belfius Bank and BNP Paribas Fortis) on the various regulatory aspects related to the implementation of a common ATM network.

    Belgium > EU regulatory: Information technology Tier 2

    Belgium > Fraud and white-collar crime Tier 2

    Eubelius‘s criminal enforcement and compliance team handles cases relating to money laundering, financial fraud, and cybercrime and data breaches, acting for clients from first interrogation through to handling appeals before the Court of Cassation. Practice head Tom Bauwens is an ‘excellent lawyer‘, particularly experienced in criminal defence and senior associate Monica Rodriguez provides capable support across the range of litigation and compliance matters in sectors including construction and heavy industry, public services, and private security.

    Practice head(s):

    Tom Bauwens

    Other key lawyers:

    Monica Rodriguez; Camille Goldschmidt

    Testimonials

    ‘Eubelius has a strong team, which sets the bar very high in all areas. The level of knowledge of each employee is top-notch, the communication is clear and proactive.’

    ‘The partner, Tom Bauwens, has a lot of experience, is there at the right time for the client, has a no-nonsense style of communication and has a clear vision. A true reference in the sector, and a true leader for his highly skilled team. Monica Rodriguez is his senior associate, she masters criminal law at a level that is unseen for someone of her age. She has the skill to handle a case at top level both procedurally and substantively. Very promising person in the area of criminal law, a top experience to work with.’

    ‘Great team, very easy to work with. Thorough understanding of Belgian corporate criminal crime. Hands on and very responsive. First choice in Belgium for white-collar crime.’

    ‘Tom Bauwens stands out, excellent lawyer.’

    Key clients

    Crossborder Fines

    Havenbedrijf Antwerpen / Antwerp Port Authority

    Matexi

    Saffelberg Investment

    VRT

    VRT – Bart Aerts

    VREG

    Unilin – Mohawk International Services

    De Meuter – Holding DM

    NMBS

    Work highlights

    • Providing legal assistance to Crossborder Fines, a project of the Federal Public Service Justice, aimed at centralising and digitising the management and processing of traffic fines from end to end, in cooperation with the different stakeholders.
    • Legal assistance to VRT in the context of a judicial investigation following an audit from Audit Vlaanderen.
    • Legal assistance to Saffelberg Investments in the context of a judicial investigation in which the company is being accused of forgery, use of forged goods, abuse of corporate assets and abuse of trust.

    Belgium > Not-for-profit Tier 2

    Noted for the depth of its healthcare sector expertise, Eubelius‘ cross-practice team is a key port of call for various hospitals, healthcare organisations, and care homes, operating both domestically and internationally. The group is also regularly engaged by various social housing organisations, industry associations, and educational institutes. Antwerp-based Frank Hellemans specialises in corporate and financial matters; Barteld Schutyser is noted for his expertise in public law – including public law litigation; Veronique Pertry is a key port of call for public sector employment law matters; while managing partner Matthias Wauters is especially well-versed in association law, ranging from governance structuring to Code of Companies implementation.  

    Practice head(s):

    Matthias Wauters; Frank Hellemans; Barteld Schutyser; Véronique Pertry

    Key clients

    Site Sint-Anna

    Sint-Trudo

    Enabel

    SHM Vlaamse Ardennen

    SHM De Nieuwe Haard

    Febelfin

    Ghent University

    Zorgnet Icuro

    Together for Sustainability

    International Food Waste Coalition

    Consortium Vlaams IT platform BelRAI

    Work highlights

    • Advised Site Sint-Anna VZW in view of developing a real estate project consisting of both residential dwellings and healthcare services.
    • Advised Enabel in various individual and collective employment matters, such as HR policies, social dialogue, termination of employment contracts (including negotiations after a dismissal), telework, wellbeing at work, etc. relating to personnel in the headquarters as well as personnel abroad.
    • Assisted SHM Vlaamse Ardennen and SHM De Nieuwe Haard in connection with their merger into one large social housing company active in East Flanders.

    Belgium > Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 3

    The ‘pragmatic‘ and ‘flexible‘ team at Eubelius advises banks and corporates on the borrower and lender-side, with particular strength in acting for borrowers on real estate finance, acquisition and corporate financing, and PPP-related loans, as well as handling debt capital markets work including sustainable finance and accelerated book-builds. The practice is headed up by Lars Van Bever, who handles financing and debt issues, capital markets and public companies specialist Joris De Wolf, who was promoted to partner in December 2021, Matthias Wauters, and Thomas Donnez.

    Practice head(s):

    Lars Van Bever; Thomas Donnez; Joris De Wolf; Matthias Wauters

    Testimonials

    ‘The team was always on top of things and helped us efficiently and effectively. Their problem-solving attitude made a big difference bringing our project to a good end.’

    ‘The team I worked with is not only very professional but fast, kind and to the point.’

    ‘Their knowledge about financial markets combined with the complexity of the legal aspect of hour holding with 2 different countries. The lawyers were able to talk, write in 3 languages fluently. There was no delay when questions were asked and could find solutions to difficult challenges.’

    ‘Very talented lawyers, real experts in their respective domains. Also a great corporate culture – nice people to work with.’

    ‘We have worked with Matthias Wauters for over 20 years. He is outstanding both on a technical level and on a strategical level. He has helped us navigate in sometimes very complex situations. He is held in high regard within our group, a position that is well deserved given his track record.’

    ‘The capital markets team at Eubelius is very knowledgeable, without being too theoretical. I would always go to them for a major capital markets transaction.’

    ‘Joris De Wolf is one of the smartest and most thorough people I have ever worked with. I would never have an issue with relying on his work.’

    Key clients

    Acacia Pharma Group

    Asco Industries

    Aster

    Batopin

    Belgian Debt Agency (Belgian Federal State)

    Bonyf

    Care-Ion

    Care Property Invest

    Hyloris Pharmaceuticals

    ING Bank

    Materialise

    Nextensa

    Puratos

    Retail Estates

    Warehouses De Pauw

    Work highlights

    • Assisted Acacia Pharma Group in relation to its take-private by Eagle Pharmaceuticals by way of a UK scheme of arrangement.
    • Assisted Retail Estates in relation to its private placement of EUR 55 million new shares in an accelerated bookbuilding.
    • Assisted Puratos on its EUR 1 billion sustainable financing through a private placement of bonds to a group of US investors.

    Belgium > Competition: Belgian law Tier 3

    Eubelius represents a number of high-profile clients before the Belgian Competition Authority and courts in major litigation, most notably successfully challenging the BCA’s abuse of dominance ruling on behalf of bpost, as well as advising global businesses on Belgian merger filings, and advising on state aid and excess profits considerations. Clients include public sector organisations and businesses in fields such as financial services and aviation. The team is led by Jan Bocken, who has great expertise in acting before the BCA in a variety of proceedings, while the vastly experienced Hans Gilliams is also a key name for work in the financial services sector.

    Practice head(s):

    Jan Bocken

    Other key lawyers:

    Kim Gillade; Hans Gilliams

    Testimonials

    ‘Small but experienced and agile team with hands-on approach. They provide clear explanations of complex matters. They show a genuine interest in the business and help you navigate around the pitfalls with concrete advice.’

    ‘Jan Bocken stands out. He places a lot of trust in his team, but remains into the file too and understands where he needs to step in. He can easily translate the legal complexity to the business environment.’

    ‘High availability and open communication with all team members of the competition law practice, especially the senior associate and the partner itself. Good knowledge of the company and the market on which we are operating. For new markets/products, the team makes a great effort to quickly understand the specifics thereof. Equal focus on the budget/fees and clear communication with the client.’

    ‘Kim Gillade (senior associate): she is customer-focused and obtained an in-depth knowledge of the company and the markets on which we are operating on a short term. High availability and ensures an open and transparent communication about the topic as well as the fees/budget. She (pro-)actively follows up on the topics that are outstanding.’

    ‘Jan Bocken is customer-focused and offers a high availability to the customer if needed. His pragmatic approach is highly appreciated in this domain.

    Key clients

    bpost

    Asco Industries

    Batopin

    EPI Interim Company

    Immoweb

    Flemish Government

    Federal Government

    SNCB / NMBS

    Régie Média Belge

    Vlaamse Radio- en Televisieomroeporganisatie

    Port of Antwerp-Bruges (Port Authority)

    Fedrus

    MPE

    Radio Télévision Belge Francophone

    Fiberklaar

    AG real Estate

    Unilin (Mohawk Industries)

    Novomatic

    Work highlights

    • Representing bpost in its appeal against a fine of EUR 37.4 million imposed by the Belgian Competition Authority for an alleged abuse of dominant position.
    • Advising major Eurozone financial institutions in connection with the creation of the European Payments Initiative (EPI).
    • Advising the Flemish Government in connection with the state aid structuring of different major investment projects in the context of the Flemish resilience plan.

    Belgium > EU regulatory: Privacy and data protection Tier 3

    Eubelius advises a wide range of corporate clients on in-house data protection and privacy considerations, including GDPR issues, data-related projects and transfers, and also provides representation in data litigation before courts and the Belgian DPA. The team has particular expertise in the healthcare and life sciences space, as well as fintech. Data specialist Anneleen Van De Meulebroucke, who was recently promoted to the partnership, leads the team alongside Pieter Callens, who is strong in IT data projects work.

    Practice head(s):

    Anneleen Van de Meulebroucke; Pieter Callens

    Testimonials

    ‘Ms. Anneleen van de Meulebroucke is highly specialized in data protection. She combines this with litigation and a deep understanding of administrative law.’

    ‘We appreciate the knowledge and flexibility of the Privacy and Data Protection team of Eubelius. Highly qualified professionals, practical advice and very pleasant to work with.’

    ‘The Privacy and Data Protection team members are very responsive, flexible, and very professional. Dedicated to their area of law. The advice is understandable and practical to implement in the business.’

    ‘Eubelius has a small dedicated data protection team. This team is competent, efficient and pleasant to work with.’

    ‘We have been working with Anneleen Van de Meulebroucke. She is a competent and pleasant person to work with.’

    Key clients

    Janssen Pharmaceutical|(Johnson & Johnson Group)

    Agency Digital Flanders (Agentschap Digitaal Vlaanderen)

    Batopin

    ION-group

    VWF

    Stad Kortrijk

    Vlaamse Statistische Autoriteit

    Pandox

    Fiberklaar

    Viapass

    Work highlights

    • Assistance to Janssen Pharmaceutica in implementing a federated learning platform in hospitals and obtaining aggregated health data that can be further used for scientific research and framed by technical and organisational measures.
    • Representing ADF in two proceedings before the Belgian Data Protection Authority.
    • Assistance and advice to Fiberklaar in all matters of compliance with the GDPR, with a specific focus on the rules in the telecoms sector.

    Belgium > Private equity Tier 3

    Eubelius advises private equity funds, portfolio companies, and management teams, handling buyouts and exits, portfolio company M&A and financing, and fund formation mandates. The team advises on Belgian regulatory and structuring considerations, as well as cross-border transactions and investments, with clients including domestic companies and funds as well as international investors. Key names in the practice include Matthias Wauters, Erwin Destuyver, Filip Jenné, and Felix Dobbelaere, all experienced transactional lawyers with experience of cross-border private equity deals.

    Practice head(s):

    Matthias Wauters; Erwin Destuyver; Filip Jenné; Felix Dobbelaere

    Key clients

    BNP Paribas Fortis Private Equity

    Domo Investment Group / Dovesco

    Damier Group

    Sports & Leisure Group

    Creafund

    EIC Fund

    V-Bio Ventures

    Fortress Investment Group

    I Squared Capital

    Robur Capital

    Work highlights

    • Assisted investment group Dovesco and the other shareholders on the sale of a majority stake in the LS Bedding group to Sleepco (a portfolio company of Waterland Germany).
    • Assisted the shareholders of Sofics on the sale of Sofics to the investment fund Creafund and the reinvestment by the sellers in the acquisition vehicle.
    • Assisted Damier Group which was part of a consortium led by CVC Capital Partners that acquired the France based Cooper Consumer Healthcare group from Charterhouse in a EUR 1.5 billion deal.

    Belgium > Real estate and construction Tier 3

    The ‘hands-on‘ and ‘pragmatic‘ real estate team at Eubelius works closely with the firm’s tax practice to advise major real estate investment trusts (REITs) on projects, portfolio management, and regulatory issues. The team is jointly led by corporate real estate lawyer Lars Van Bever and tax specialist Wouter Claes. Senior attorney Eva Milants is also recommended.

    Practice head(s):

    Lars Van Bever; Wouter Claes

    Other key lawyers:

    Korneel Decroix; Eva Milants

    Testimonials

    ‘The team is very hands-on, pragmatic and works together with the client to think of a solution that also works in practice. While often seen in the sector as a law firm which is very theoretical, the contrary is true. The team provides legal advice which is based on a solid legal reasoning, while taking into account the specifics of the sector and the deal. The team is also very friendly and always reachable for further explanations and feedback.’

    ‘Very good knowledge of the sector. Practical approach. Quick response time.’

    ‘Multi-disciplinary team, combining top-notch legal advice with fiscal advice.’

    ‘Always ready to help. High level of partner involvement too. No-nonsense approach.’

    ‘Their strength is without any doubt the quality of their advice and work. They can handle very sophisticated, complex matters and they are also inventive in finding new deal structures. They are very responsive, with respect for deadlines.’

    ‘Lars Van Bever acts for real estate companies with a high level of sophistication, and is very responsive. Wouter Claes is strong on tax issues – an inventive lawyer in relation to deal structures, without taking any unnecessary risks.’

    ‘Lars Van Bever and Eva Milants have in-depth knowledge with respect to the structuring of real estate funds. The team is also very efficient in real estate transactions and negotiations. Wouter Claes and Korneel Decroix are experts in the domain of real estate taxation.’

    ‘Korneel Decroix and Wouter Claes are your go-to persons when it comes to tax-related questions in relation to real estate. They have a thorough knowledge of all tax-related matters in relation to real estate and really understand the sector. We would highly recommend them when you need solid, yet hands-on legal advice.’

    Key clients

    Nextensa

    AG Real Estate

    Retail Estates

    Warehouses De Pauw

    Skyline Europe

    Care Property Invest

    BE-REIT association

    Leoville

    ION

    Immobel

    Work highlights

    • Advised AG Real Estate and AXA Belgium, the reference shareholders of Befimmo, on the tender of their shares in Befimmo in the context of Brookfield’s public tender offer.
    • Advised Family Baijot on the sale of 55% of the shares in Maisons Baijot group (one of Wallonia’s largest family-owned contracting companies) to Euronext Paris-listed entity Bassac.
    • Advised AG Real Estate on the acquisition of Anima Care, including a portfolio consisting of approximately 30 care homes for the elderly.

    Belgium > Tax Tier 3

    The tax team at Eubelius is particularly well regarded in the real estate sector, and is jointly led by Wouter Claes, Svjatoslav Gnedasj, and Korneel Decroix. Claes leads on real estate matters, while Decroix, who was promoted to partner in January 2022, specialises in VAT and fund structuring. Gnedasj, meanwhile, is in charge of litigation, with experience handling cases up to the Belgian Supreme Court. Senior attorney Kelly Moens is also recommended.

    Practice head(s):

    Wouter Claes; Svjatoslav Gnedasj; Korneel Decroix

    Other key lawyers:

    Testimonials

    ‘The team is very hands-on, pragmatic and works with the client to think of a solution that also works in practice. The team provides advice which is based on solid legal reasoning, while taking into account the specifics of the sector and the deal. The team is also very friendly and always reachable for further explanations and feedback.’

    ‘Working with the tax division of Eubelius is unique in the sense that there is a very professional but also personal collaboration, in which there is always attention paid to the specific situation of the client.’

    ‘Wouter Claes and Kelly Moens have thorough knowledge of the subject, clear communication skills, and the dedication and determination to make the project successful. They are always available for further discussions and questions, and very reliable.’

    ‘Korneel Decroix is really someone you can count on, not only for his excellent knowledge of tax law and tax procedures in Belgium, but also for his profound knowledge of the matters on which he works.’

    ‘The tax team at Eubelius is a very solid, high-performing team that works very effectively and proactively in order to serve the client’s specific needs. They certainly live up to their reputation.’

    ‘Korneel Decroix has a thorough knowledge of all tax-related questions in relation to real estate, is pragmatic, and really understands the specific needs of the real estate sector. Furthermore, Korneel is always friendly, down to earth and has a good sense of humour. A real go-to person for anyone in the real estate sector with tax-related questions.’

    ‘Eubelius has a tax team of very competent people. They respect the client and the wishes the client has, and they try to come up with solutions that work both for the client and the regulatory environment. They are always happy to assist or to discuss various topics.’

    ‘Korneel Decroix and Kelly Moens work to the highest standards and are highly recommended in terms of their knowledge of tax legislation and client orientation.’

    Key clients

    Sports and Leisure Group

    Anima

    KBC Ancora

    Nextensa

    Magnetrol International

    Puratos

    Delta Light

    Ontex

    Siemens

    Industry Software

    BASF Antwerpen

    Ansell Healthcare

    Trane

    Kinepolis Group

    Vasco Group

    Astra Sweets

    Mayekawa Europe

    Celio International

    Immobel

    Atenor

    Bpost

    AG Real Estate

    Batopin

    Work highlights

    • Assisted Leasinvest in obtaining a landmark tax ruling regarding the tax consequences of renouncing the status of a Belgian regulated real estate investment trust (BE-REIT).
    • Assisted EPI in connection with the tax and VAT structuring of the business model of a new pan-European payment scheme.
    • Successfully represented three major real estate project developers in 20 corporate tax and VAT litigation cases before the Belgian courts related to the re-characterisation of share deals into asset deals and services.

    Belgium > Intellectual property Tier 4

    Contentious work is a core strength of Eubelius‘s IP and IT practice, which has experience in notable patent and trade mark litigation before the enterprise and appeals courts. Pieter Callens heads the team, and has additional expertise in matters relating to unfair competition and tech.

    Practice head(s):

    Pieter Callens

    Testimonials

    ‘The team acts quickly and accurately and does everything possible and necessary to optimally defend the interests of its clients.’

    ‘Pieter Callens can rely on his in-depth legal knowledge and long experience to analyse problems and remedy them in the most appropriate way.’

    ‘Strong subject knowledge, good mix of young and experienced people, very motivated.’

    ‘Excellent knowledge of IP-related matters and ability to translate that knowledge into sound advice for the client.’

    Key clients

    Roger Hodgson and Harmonic Management

    EPI Interim Company

    Decolef

    Vaskon

    Belgian State

    Savic

    Brouwerij Roman

    Dimex

    Confortluxe

    Balta Group

    Work highlights

    • Representing the Belgian State in litigation before the Dutch-speaking division of the Enterprise Court of Brussels against Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which claims that the Belgian State wrongly rejected its application for a supplementary protection certificate.
    • Representing Savic in litigation before the Dutch-speaking division of the Enterprise Court of Brussels against Slovenian company Plana S d.o.o. and Belgian company Petsolutions relating to the design right and copyright infringement of cat litter boxes.
    • Representing Decolef Lux, the manager of the WorldTeam Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl cycling team, in all matters relating to intellectual property rights and portrait rights.

    Belgium > Industry focus: Energy

    Steered by Brussels-based Barteld Schutyser and Kortrijk-based Wim Goossens , the cross-practice team at Eubelius advises on a mix of regulatory, commercial, and disputes-based issues for both public and private sector energy players.  

    Belgium > Industry focus: Transport

    The team at Eubelius has a robust offering in the PPP space, routinely receiving instructions from major corporate entities and public sector bodies alike.

    Eubelius is Belgium’s largest independent law firm, with offices in Brussels, Kortrijk and Antwerp. The firm’s 24 partners, 14 (senior) counsels and more than 100 associates offer counselling and representation on Belgian and European law.

    The firm has privileged working relationships with outstanding independent law firms in many foreign jurisdictions, and a significant proportion of their work is cross-border (both inbound and outbound). The practice has a strong national and international focus. The firm serves a very diverse client base, ranging from Fortune 500 multinationals to local entrepreneurs, a large number of companies with public law status, and numerous Belgian companies which are part of large international groups. Eubelius represents all Belgian language communities and handles matters in English, Dutch, French and German.

    Main Areas of Practice:

    Banking & Finance (Lars Van Bever):
    ■ Financial Transactions
    ■ Financial Services & Regulation
    ■ Financial Litigation
    ■ Insurance Regulation

    Capital Markets & Listed Entities (Lars Van Bever, Joris De Wolf):
    ■ Capital Markets Transactions, Public M&A
    ■ Governance & Regulatory Matters

    Commercial & Consumer Protection (Ignace Claeys):
    ■ Commercial Law
    ■ Commercial Practices & Consumer Protection

    Competition (Jan Bocken):
    ■ Implementation of distribution systems and other forms of cooperation agreements
    ■ Merger Clearance
    ■ State Aid Matters
    ■ Compliance & Audit Services
    ■ Competition Litigation
    ■ Investigations by competition authorities

    Corporate & M&A (Matthias Wauters, Erwin Destuyver, Jeroen Delvoie, Felix Dobbelaere):
    ■ Mergers & Acquisitions
    ■ Private Equity & Venture Capital
    ■ Corporate Advisory Services
    ■ Restructuring & Insolvency
    ■ Associations, foundations and not-for-profit organisations

    Criminal Enforcement & Compliance (Tom Bauwens)

    Digital & Data Protection (Anneleen Van de Meulebroucke):
    ■ Contracts
    ■ E-commerce
    ■ Privacy & HR issues
    ■ Data Security & Cybercrime
    ■ Technology & Transactions
    ■ Data Protection Dispute Resolution & Litigation

    Employment (Véronique Pertry, Liesbet Vandenplas):
    ■ Individual Labour Relations
    ■ Collective Labour Relations
    ■ Compensation & Benefits
    ■ Well-being at work, equal treatment and privacy issues at the workplace
    ■ Start-ups, Restructurings, Mergers & Acquisitions
    ■ Employment law in the public sector
    ■ Self-Employed Status and Management Contracts
    ■ Social Security
    ■ Litigation & Social Inspections

    Energy (Wim Goossens, Barteld Schutyser):
    ■ Regulatory Advice
    ■ Dispute Resolution
    ■ Mergers & Acquisitions
    ■ Energy Project Development
    ■ Energy Contracts

    Estate Planning & Family Businesses (Patrick Hofströssler, Wouter Claes):
    ■ Property Management
    ■ Property Planning
    ■ Liquidation of Estates
    ■ Property Planning Structures
    ■ Family Businesses

    Healthcare (Korneel Decroix, Barteld Schutyser, Matthias Wauters):
    ■ Cooperation in the Healthcare Industry
    ■ Mergers & Acquisitions in the Healthcare Industry
    ■ Structuring & Financing of Healthcare Industry
    ■ Employment in the Healthcare Industry
    ■ Public Law & Institutional Advice

    Intellectual Property (Pieter Callens)

    Liability & Insurance (Ignace Claeys)

    Life Sciences (Filip Jenné):
    ■ Assistance with the creation and follow-on financing rounds
    ■ Assistance Upon Exit
    ■ Capital Markets (including IPO)
    ■ Internal Governance
    ■ Employee Incentive Plans

    Mobility (Alain François):
    ■ Assistance with transactions
    ■ Drafting of Legislation
    ■ Regulatory Advice
    ■ Dispute Resolution & Litigation
    ■ Tolling

    Pensions (Veronique Pertry, Liesbet Vandenplas):
    ■ Pensions
    ■ Benefits

    Public & Administrative (Barteld Schutyser, Bart Martel):
    ■ Public Procurement & Government Contracts
    ■ Environmental & Energy Law
    ■ Constitutional Law
    ■ Organising and structuring of public institutions and services
    ■ Legal status of personnel in public bodies
    ■ General Administrative Law

    Public-Private Partnership (Anthony Logghe, Barteld Schutyser):
    ■ Public & Administrative Law
    ■ Contract & Insurance Law
    ■ Corporate & Banking & Finance Law
    ■ Tax Law
    ■ European Law
    ■ Property Law
    ■ Civil & Administrative Litigation

    Real Estate (Lars Van Bever, Wouter Claes, Wim Goossens, Korneel Decroix):
    ■ Structuring
    ■ Regulatory Advice
    ■ Capital Markets
    ■ Dispute Resolution
    ■ Public-Private Partnerships
    ■ Environmental & Administrative Law

    Restructuring & Insolvency (Dominique De Marez)

    State-Owned Enterprises (Jeroen Delvoie):
    ■ Structuring & Transactions
    ■ Management Contracts
    ■ Specific Legislation
    ■ Public Procurement
    ■ Personnel
    ■ Governance
    ■ State Aid & ESA
    ■ Regulatory Advice

    Tax (Wouter Claes, Svjatoslav Gnedasj, Korneel Decroix):
    ■ M&A Structuring
    ■ Fund Structuring
    ■ Real Estate Taxation
    ■ Tax Disputes
    ■ Taxation of non-profit organisations
    ■ Estate Planning

    DepartmentNameEmailTelephone
    Banking & finance Lars Van Beverlars.vanbever@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 06
    Capital markets and listed entities Joris De Wolfjoris.dewolf@eubelius.com+32 2 543 31 31
    Commercial law & consumer protection Ignace Claeysignace.claeys@eubelius.com+32 2 543 31 73
    Competition Jan Bockenjan.bocken@eubelius.com+32 2 543 31 41
    Corporate, finance and M&A Matthias Wautersmatthias.wauters@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 01
    Corporate, finance and M&A Erwin Destuyvererwin.destuyver@eubelius.com+32 2 543 31 37
    Corporate, finance and M&A Jeroen Delvoiejeroen.delvoie@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 40
    Corporate, finance and M&A Felix Dobbelaerefelix.dobbelaere@eubelius.com+32 56 23 51 26
    Digital & data protection Anneleen Van de Meulebrouckeanneleen.vandemeulebroucke@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 07
    Dispute resolution and litigation Patrick Hofströsslerpatrick.hofstroessler@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 15
    Employment Véronique Pertryveronique.pertry@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 43
    Employment Liesbet Vandenplasliesbet.vandenplas@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 44
    Energy Barteld Schutyserbarteld.schutyser@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 50
    Energy Wim Goossenswim.goossens@eubelius.com+32 56 23 51 57
    Estate law and wealth planning Wouter Claeswouter.claes@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 35
    Estate law and wealth planning Patrick Hofströsslerpatrick.hofstroessler@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 15
    Healthcare Korneel Decroixkorneel.decroix@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 35
    Healthcare Barteld Schutyserbarteld.schutyser@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 50
    Healthcare Matthias Wautersmatthias.wauters@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 01
    Intellectual property Pieter Callenspieter.callens@eubelius.com+32 56 23 51 22
    Liability & insurance Ignace Claeysignace.claeys@eubelius.com+32 2 543 31 73
    Life Sciences Filip Jennéfilip.jenne@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 01
    Mobility Alain Françoisalain.francois@eubelius.com+32 2 543 31 44
    Pensions and benefits Véronique Pertryveronique.pertry@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 43
    Pensions and benefits Liesbet Vandenplasliesbet.vandenplas@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 44
    Public and administrative law Barteld Schutyserbarteld.schutyser@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 50
    Public and administrative law Bart Martelbart.martel@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 50
    Public-private partnerships Anthony Loggheanthony.logghe@eubelius.com+32 2 543 31 44
    Real estate and construction Wouter Claeswouter.claes@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 35
    Real estate and construction Lars Van Beverlars.vanbever@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 06
    Restructuring & insolvency Dominique De Marezdominique.demarez@eubelius.com+32 56 23 51 19
    State-owned enterprises Jeroen Delvoiejeroen.delvoie@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 40
    Taxation Svjatoslav Gnedasjsvjatoslav.gnedasj@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 35
    Taxation Korneel Decroixkorneel.decroix@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 35
    Taxation Wouter Claeswouter.claes@eubelius.com+32 2 543 35 35
    White-collar crime Tom Bauwenstom.bauwens@eubelius.com+32 2 543 32 13
    PhotoNamePositionProfile
    Tom Bauwens photoMr Tom BauwensPartner
    Jan Bocken photoMr Jan BockenPartner / Member of the Management Committee
    Wouter Claes photoMr Wouter ClaesPartner / Member of the Management Committee
    Ignace Claeys photoMr Ignace ClaeysPartner
    Herman De Bauw photoMr Herman De BauwFormer Partner.
    Jeroen Delvoie photoMr Jeroen DelvoiePartner
    Erwin Destuyver photoMr Erwin DestuyverPartner
    Alain François photoMr Alain FrançoisPartner
    Hans Gilliams photoMr Hans GilliamsSenior Partner
    Wim Goossens photoMr Wim GoossensPartner
    Frank Hellemans photoMr Frank HellemansPartner
    Patrick Hofströssler photoMr Patrick HofströsslerPartner / President of the Management Committee
    Filip Jenné photoMr Filip JennéPartner
    Anthony Logghe photoMr Anthony LogghePartner
    Philippe Mulliez photoMr Philippe MulliezPartner / Member of the Management Committee
    Véronique Pertry photoMrs Véronique PertryPartner
    Lars Van Bever photoMr Lars Van BeverPartner
    Matthias Wauters photoMr Matthias WautersPartner / Managing Partner / Member of the Management Committee
    Marieke Wyckaert photoMrs Marieke WyckaertMarieke has left Eubelius and the Brussels Bar in December 2021.
    Number of lawyers : 140
    at this office : 119
    Dutch
    English
    French
    German
    Contact : Matthias Wauters (managing partner)
    Other offices : Antwerp
    Other offices : Kortrijk