DLA Piper‘s dispute resolution team is ’highly client-oriented and exceptionally commercial’, and represents SME’s, international corporations, and professional unions, with experience appearing before all Belgian Courts. Arbitrations under a range of rules are another strength of the team, and it frequently acts in arbitrations under the International Chambers of Commerce, Belgian Centre for Arbitration and Mediation, and International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes. Bob Martens is a ‘very experienced and hands on lawyer who thinks out of the box and will go the extra mile’, and leads the team which is lauded for its ’unique combination of knowledge, ethics, original approaches and personal application’ alongside Ilse Van de Mierop. Laurent Geelhand is recognised for his ‘deep understanding of intricate legal frameworks across borders’.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘In-depth knowledge of both laws and regulations but also very dedicated to fully grasp the files, pro-active, outstanding availability, etc.’
‘DLA's dispute resolution practice is highly client-oriented and exceptionally commercial. They boast a team of both experienced senior and junior practitioners, a crucial element in delivering quality service. Their associates are of notably high caliber, often playing vital roles in the success of cases.'
‘Laurent Geelhand is an exceptional partner, known for his expertise in handling complex multi-jurisdictional disputes. His deep understanding of intricate legal frameworks across borders makes him a true legal mastermind. Laurent’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that every aspect of a case is thoroughly analyzed, and his legal advice is both strategic and precise.'
‘The combination of expertise in the public sector, postal sector and retail/logistic sector makes this firm unique. They have all the experience, expertise combined in 1 and respond to the specific needs of our company. They are very pragmatic and able to think out of the box. In addition they also have the international network which is handy for cross border files.'
‘Bob Martens is a very experienced and hands on lawyer who thinks out of the box and will go the extra mile. He can tackle any challenging and complex case and is very committed to his clients.'
- 'Andi Zrza is an exceptional lawyer – highly responsive, approachable, and a true pleasure to work with. Despite his young age, he is quick in identifying client needs and delivering pragmatic, out-of-the-box solutions. His relentless drive and commitment to his clients truly set him apart; he pushes tirelessly in court to secure the best possible outcomes, leaving no stone unturned, even in the most challenging cases.'
Key clients
- Achema
- AG Insurance
- Argenta Spaarbank
- Arco Group
- Atos
- NV Belfius Bank
- bpost
- BASF
- City of Antwerp
- Flemish Public Broadcasting Company
- Fresenius Kabi
- ING België
- Katoen Natie
- Sabena
- skeyes
- SodaStream International
- CBRE
- TUC Rail
- SA Standard de Liège
- Cegeka
- Accenture
- Worldline
- Legio Group
- UGI
- BASF
- CIT Blaton
- Democo
- AWT Gent
- RH
Work highlights
- Representing AWT Gent, a joint venture between the Flemish government-owned investment vehicle PMV and EPICo, in court proceedings against the contractor and its subcontractors about the construction of an all-weather terminal in the port of Ghent.
- Representing Belfius Bank, one of the largest Belgian banks, against several fraudsters in criminal and civil actions following the largest internal bank fraud committed in Belgium by a trader.
- Acting for the liquidators of Mirror Trading International (Pty) Ltd (in liquidation), a South African company that was the central vehicle in a major and global ponzi fraud regarding bitcoins, against more than 200 Belgian investors.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Ilse Van de Mierop, Bob Martens