The competition law is complex, the financial stakes are high and the risks of heavy fines are real. Whether you are facing an investigation by the Belgian Competition Authority (BMA), has a conflict over a non-compete agreement, or needs to properly notify a merger; specialized legal assistance is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Our law firm offers highly specialized and strategic advice in all aspects of Belgian and European competition law. Our lawyers assist companies, managers and associations with practical solutions that are legally sound and commercially viable.
Our expertise in competition law
The search for a competition lawyer is often driven by a specific problem. Our expertise covers all the core areas in which you may need assistance:
1. Cartels, price fixing and leniency procedures.
Participating in a cartel is the most serious violation of competition law, with fines of up to 10% of global turnover. Our lawyers offer crucial advice and assistance in:
- The preventive screening of commercial agreements and information exchange with competitors.
- Defense during a cartel investigation by the BMA or the European Commission.
- Assisting companies in leniency proceedings ("whistleblowing") to avoid or reduce fines.
2. Abuse of dominance & unfair competition.
A conflict with a dominant player can cripple your business operations. Our lawyers will help you with:
- Assessing whether a trading partner is abusing its dominant position by imposing unfair competition or unreasonable terms.
- Defending your company against an allegation of abuse of dominance or economic dependency.
- Filing a complaint with competition authorities.
3. Distribution, agency and franchise agreements
Vertical agreements in your distribution network must be competition-proof. Our lawyers advise on:
- The permissibility of price fixing, exclusivity and online sales restrictions.
- Establishing selective or exclusive distribution networks that hold up legally.
- The conformity of your contracts with European block exemptions.
4. Competition clauses
An invalid competition clause can have far-reaching consequences. Our attorneys offer analysis and advice on the validity and enforceability of non-compete agreements in:
- Commercial contracts (e.g., agency, distribution).
- Acquisition agreements (M&A).
- Shareholder agreements.
5. Merger control (mergers & acquisitions).
A merger or acquisition often requires prior approval. A misjudgment leads to heavy fines (gun jumping). Our attorneys will guide you through:
- The analysis of the notification requirement to the BMA or the European Commission.
- The entire application process, from pre-notification to approval.
- Negotiating any remedies to get the transaction approved.
6. Procedures, complaints, 'searches & claims for damages
When a competition issue leads to formal proceedings, prompt and expert assistance is crucial. Our lawyers will assist you during:
- Searches by authorities ("dawn raids").
- Proceedings before Belgian competition authorities and courts.
- Pursuing or contesting claims for damages resulting from competition violations.
Why choose our office?
- In-depth specialization: Our lawyers have extensive experience in competition law. This guarantees you advice based on the most recent case law and developments.
- Strategic and proactive: Our lawyers are more than legal experts; we are strategic partners who think with you to achieve commercial goals within the legal outlines.
- Clear language: Complex rules are translated by our lawyers into clear and practical advice that you can put to work immediately.
- Experience in Belgium: Our lawyers have extensive experience in proceedings before the Belgian Competition Authority and Belgian courts, including the Market Court.
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