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Since 1 September 2025, anyone in Belgium can submit his/her conflicts in civil, corporate and social matters to the Chamber for Amicable Settlement (KMS). The KMS is an alternative to a traditional court case. Here, parties solve problems by talking to each other. The judge guides the conversation, but you keep the reins in your own hands.

On 31 January 2025, the Federal Government Agreement was published. This comprehensive 200-page document outlines the policy plans for the 2025-2029 coalition period and contains reforms within various areas of competence, including justice. Advocaat.be thoroughly analysed the agreement and reacted with a note on the proposals that have an impact on the legal profession and on the legal protection of citizens.

Due to the overcrowded prisons, it has been decided that only people with a sentence of more than five years should go straight to prison for the time being.

Prof Charlotte Colman surprised with her children's book "Who's in jail?", giving children a first look into the world of criminology. In this interview, Prof Colman highlights why informing children at an early age about law and justice is vital. Her book bridges complex topics with childlike curiosity: "Children pick up things but have gaps in their knowledge. We need to fill these gaps with neutral information tailored to the child, otherwise they will go looking for themselves or their imagination will fill in the blanks." The proceeds of "Who's in prison?" go to CAW East Flanders, for the benefit of children of parents in detention.

Prof Charlotte Colman surprised with her children's book "Who's in jail?", giving children a first look into the world of criminology. In this interview, Prof Colman highlights why informing children at an early age about law and justice is vital. Her book bridges complex topics with childlike curiosity: "Children pick up things but have gaps in their knowledge. We need to fill these gaps with neutral information tailored to the child, otherwise they will go looking for themselves or their imagination will fill in the blanks." The proceeds of "Who's in prison?" go to CAW East Flanders, for the benefit of children of parents in detention.

Victim of a crime or wrongdoing or registered as a civil party in which you were physically or psychologically threatened or assaulted? Then from now on, you have the right to receive information on the progress of the suspect's pre-trial detention.