The environment group at Schoups, led by experienced specialists Kristof Hectors and Charles Poncelet, chiefly advises on planning, permitting, compliance, and litigation matters. The firm 'stands out for its combination of legal acumen, client-focused approach, and technological innovation‘. Céline Bimbenet is a key advisor on expropriation law, and Roel Meeus is another key member of the team.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Schoups is a very competent team with a lot of experience in both urban planning and environmental law. ’
  • ‘Roel Meeus is an experienced lawyer with a very in-depth knowledge of Flemish environmental law and public law. Roel works quickly and precisely and is very accessible to local authorities.’

  • 'When compared to other firms in the field, Schoups consistently stands out for its combination of legal acumen, client-focused approach, and technological innovation. The firm's dedication to staying at the forefront of legal advancements and its commitment to client success put it in a league of its own.’

  • ‘When it comes to environment there are certain set of rules and regulations and it is something difficult for a business to understand and to see how this would practically work in reality. Schoups has a team that looks at the law and give you insights in how to run your business within the boundaries of the law. Very helpful and insightful. ’

  • ‘Charles Poncelet stands out to me in sense that he is practical and rational when it comes to giving advice. He also went beyond expectations to have a meeting with decision makers at a conference in the field helping our case without being asked. ’

  • ‘The team shows expertise and dedication in the files. They closely follow each step and accompany us through the all process.’

  • ‘Charles Poncelet shows a pragmatical approach and understands quite well the client's needs. He is able to find the right balance between legal security and risk, in order to achieve results.’

  • ‘Charles Poncelet has been an exceptional asset for our company. He is well connected in his field and he goes the extra mile to give a complete answer to a legal problem.’

Key clients

  • Resolve
  • Atelier Romain
  • Vastint Belgium
  • SAR Benelux
  • Auto 1
  • ION
  • Renewi
  • Benechim
  • Ether Energy
  • Signify Netherlands
  • Luminus

Work highlights

  • Advised Resolve on contract and permitting work as well as litigation.
  • Assisted Atelier Romain with multi-disciplinary advisory work for regional and local authorities.
  • Advised Luminus on the preparation of permit applications for onshore wind farm projects and third-party appeals against permits allowing new wind farm projects.

Lawyers

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

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Kristof Hectors, Charles Poncelet

Other key lawyers

Roel Meeus, Céline Bimbenet