Telebalie

The Nederlandse Orde van Advocaten bij de Balie te Brussel (Dutch Bar Association at the Brussels Bar) is a professional association representing Dutch-speaking lawyers in the judicial district of Brussels-Halle-Vilvoorde. As of March 26, 2026, the association comprises 4,133 lawyers, including 838 trainee lawyers, 2,755 registered lawyers (with 2,661 having their main office and 94 with a secondary office), 244 foreign lawyers registered on the EU list, 141 foreign lawyers on the B-list, and 155 honorary lawyers. This makes it the largest Dutch-speaking bar association in Belgium. (baliebrussel.be ) Balie Brussel aims to bridge the established professional values of the legal profession with the evolving societal context, addressing contemporary challenges and innovations. The association provides a transparent framework for the professional practice of Dutch-speaking lawyers in Brussels, as well as for non-Dutch-speaking and foreign lawyers who wish to join the Order. (baliebrussel.be ) For individuals seeking legal assistance, Balie Brussel offers various services: First-line legal advice : Regardless of income, individuals can contact the Telebalie at 02 511 50 45, available every weekday from 12:00 to 15:00, where a lawyer provides free assistance over the phone. (baliebrussel.be ) Second-line legal assistance (Pro Deo lawyer) : Individuals with limited income and means can apply for a Pro Deo lawyer through the Bureau for Legal Assistance (Bureau voor Juridische Bijstand). This service is entirely or partially free, depending on the applicant's income. (baliebrussel.be ) Balie Brussel also emphasizes the continuous professional development of its members. Lawyers are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of additional training annually. The association organizes training courses in various legal areas and a wide range of skills to ensure that lawyers can practice their profession as professionally as possible. (baliebrussel.be ) The association is led by the Stafhouder (Dean), who oversees administrative, regulatory, disciplinary, and representative aspects of the Order. The Stafhouder is available daily for lawyers, playing a connecting and conciliatory role, assisting with inquiries, managing courtroom incidents, and representing the bar with external parties such as other bar associations, courts, magistrates, and the Minister of Justice. (baliebrussel.be ) Balie Brussel is committed to building bridges between the traditional values of the legal profession and the evolving societal context, ensuring that both lawyers and those seeking legal assistance receive the support and services they need. (baliebrussel.be )