Best known for its work on the criminal aspects of high-profile bankruptcy and insolvency proceedings, the team at DLA Piper hosts a bench of lawyers of diverse legal backgrounds who are equipped to support clients facing various types of criminal and civil proceedings and investigations pertaining to fraud and white-collar crime. ‘Razor-sharp’ aviation and restructuring specialist Ilse Van de Mierop heads the practice, leading on matters involving financial fraud and bankruptcy, an area where Christian Van Buggenhout also has a strong track record. Cases centred around environmental fraud and public procurement fraud are a focus for litigator Bob Martens; Heidi Waem is highly active in cybercrime cases; and Lieven Annaert's practice encompasses white-collar crime and fraud defence before the Belgian courts.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Strengths: direct communication line, business know-how, pragmatic approach.’

  • ‘A pragmatic and efficient approach.'

  • 'The key lawyer in this practice is Ilse Van de Mierop. She is a very experienced, razor-sharp lawyer who is a very strong and inexhaustible litigator. To have this combination of tons of experience and such an enormous drive is quite unique.'

Key clients

  • Sabena
  • NV Belfius Bank
  • NMBS/SNCB
  • Vlaamse Radio- en Televisieomroeporganisatie
  • NV Arlimo
  • NV Your Estate Solutions
  • OVS Home
  • Argenta Spaarbank NV
  • Antargaz Belgium NV
  • Indufin
  • Lidl

Work highlights

  • Representing Sabena in its €2bn litigation (both civil and criminal proceedings) based on directors’ liability and alleged criminal infractions in order to claim compensation for the creditors.
  • Representing NV Arlimo in a criminal trial involving over 100 parties concerning housing breaches.
  • Representing NV YOUR ESTATE SOLUTIONS in a criminal trial concerning NV OPTIMA BANK.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Ilse Van de Mierop

Other key lawyers

Christian Van Buggenhout, Bob Martens, Heidi Waem, Lieven Annaert