Littler (Belgium), an independent Belgian employment law boutique established in May 2025 following its demerger from Reliance, is co-headed by Edward Carlier and Pierre Van Achter. Carlier specialises in all aspects of HR law, particularly corporate restructurings, dismissals, TUPE, outsourcing, and non-competition issues. Van Achter focuses on employment litigation, advising on individual and mass redundancies, contract negotiations, and supporting foreign companies establishing operations in Belgium. Herman Craeninckx has a large focus on company restructurings, including collective dimissals and terminations.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Edward Carlier is our trusted advisor for all HR matters. He is very responsive and quick, provides to-the-point analysis and feedback, has a good understanding of business and HR dynamics and a great feeling for pragmatic solutions.’
- ‘Professionals in labour law, up to date in regard to the latest directives and regulations, and hands-on when it comes to support negotiations with unions and workers council.’
- ‘We’re very happy with the service provided by the agency. Their advice is clear, practical, and business-focused, helping us manage cases effectively and avoid disputes altogether. Since working with them, we haven’t had a single legal issue — their proactive approach makes all the difference. Compared to other firms, they stand out for their efficiency and ability to translate legal guidance into actionable solutions.’
- ‘Smooth collaborations, understands our business and challenges, available and flexible.’
- ‘Pierre Van Achter and Edward Carlier work in a very open and pragmatic way. They are easy to work with and to share ideas with: they are respectful to us, their interlocutors, and behave in a simple and accessible way, which, again, is fundamental and greatly appreciated to ensure a good relationship and fruitful work.’
- ‘I’ve worked with Edward Carlier for over 12 years, even across different companies, and the collaboration has always been exceptional. What makes him stand out is his pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach and deep understanding of the business. He’s down-to-earth and consistently offers sound, practical advice. Over the years, I’ve worked with several members of his evolving team, and the support has always remained strong and reliable.’
- ‘The team has a straightforward, practical, pragmatic and business-centred approach which is very practical and appreciated. Feedback is also timely and complies with the business's deadlines and imperatives.'
- ‘Great responsiveness and pragmatism; very experienced.’
Lawyers
Leading partners
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Practice head
Edward Carlier; Pierre Van Achter
Other key lawyers
Herman Craeninckx; Arnout Roosen