© Advocaat.be - Orde van Vlaamse Balies, 2025
2/04/25
Attack on law firm in Antwerp: Advocaat.be reacts shocked
Advocaat.be is shocked by the attack on a law firm in Antwerp. An explosive device was detonated on the night of 1 to 2 April, damaging a window of the office, several vehicles and a cargo bicycle. The motive behind this attack is still under investigation.
Our full sympathy goes out to the confreres who are its victims. This reprehensible act is extremely frightening. The lawyers involved commit themselves with great social commitment.
Shocked but not surprised
We knew this could happen, we did think it would happen one day, but when it does, we are no less shocked. Lawyers, like judges, are being targeted by criminals. This undermining of our profession also undermines our society as a whole.
Advocaat.be stresses that lawyers play an essential role in a rule of law.
They defend everyone's right to a fair trial, which is a fundamental principle in our democratic society. Lawyers should not be intimidated or threatened in the exercise of their profession.
Consultation with authorities
Advocaat.be takes this incident extremely seriously and is consulting with the judicial authorities. It is looking at how it can guarantee that lawyers can continue practising their profession safely in these detrimental circumstances.
Advocaat.be will follow this case closely and remains committed to the protection of lawyers and the fundamental principles of the rule of law.
