Impact lawyers is a niche law firm for not-for-profits and social enterprises. The specialised team stands out for representing clients in mediation and litigation, providing practical advice across the sector, often acting for clients in the healthcare space. Notably, Marleen Denef co-founded the firm and has almost 30 years of experience in the sector, focusing on advising clients on organisational questions, as well as representing clients in precedent-setting litigation. Fellow co-founder Coralie Mattelaer specialises in all types of technical transactional and advisory work relating to non-profit matters, and stands out for her conflict management skills. Benoit Spitaels, the firm’s third co-founder, is widely recognised for his expertise in transactional work, organisational issues and tax matters relating to the charity sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Impact Advocaten has established a unique and solid practice of assisting nonprofit associations with solid and pragmatic advice in governance and strategy. ’
‘Marleen Denef is not only a top legal expert for assisting nonprofit associations, she also has an empathic, forward-thinking and hands-on approach that makes her stand out from any of her many peers I have ever worked with. Xenne Vermeir is intelligent and creative in providing governance solutions and legal advice.’
‘Very personal approach. Very good knowledge of our sector.’
‘Friendly and attentive. Correct budgeting. Knowledgeable. Clear communication. ’
‘Impact Lawyers is one of the most specialized firms in the field of social profit and good governance. ’
‘We have worked with Marleen Denef several times over the past few years. Marleen combines excellent knowledge with a big heart for the healthcare and welfare sector.’
‘Impact Lawyers stands out in every way. Their innovative HR policy, coupled with a clear focus on impact-driven clients, sets them apart. They possess unique expertise in areas such as social licensing, ensuring they can offer tailored legal advice that goes beyond traditional practices.’
‘Marleen Denef and Xanne Holvoet have exceptional expertise in advising impact-driven organizations. For us, they are a true beacon of knowledge, and we have complete confidence that we will always be fully understood and supported by them. While we believe the other colleagues also possess significant expertise, our experience has primarily been with Marleen and Xanne, whose insights and guidance have consistently been invaluable to us.’
Key clients
- The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
- Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB)
Lawyers
Hall of fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Marleen Denef; Coralie Mattelaer; Benoit Spitaels
Other key lawyers
Xanne Holvoet