Team.

At EDSON you won’t be served by one lawyer – but by a team. That is why we think it is important to not only present you with individuals and CVs. But to tell you something about our collective story.

The founders.

The founders of EDSON go way back – more than thirty years to be precise. They met in 1995 while at law school. After graduation, they set out on their own careers in academia, legal services, and international business. Now, they always kept in touch, as friends and as professionals that valued each other’s strengths. Now they have seized the opportunity to build a team together, sharing the same vision and values. Business Partners in the true sense of the word, they go through thick and thin.

The team.

EDSON believes in pooling the resources of diverse legal talents with an international background. We prefer to train and grow our champions of tomorrow in-house, rather than laterally hiring large lawyer teams. We also believe in a multidisciplinary approach with a team not just composed of lawyers, but also of economists and public affairs specialists. Our joint mission is to focus on excellence in our delivery and on always being to-the-point.

Pieter Paepe.
Partner.

Clients value Pieter for being highly detailed and thorough – yet never losing the big picture. Pieter has deep expertise in Regulatory matters, Competition Law, Trade Practices, EU matters and Litigation. A growing number of clients work with Pieter as trusted go-to counsel throughout the full lifecycle of their operations – not just for one matter or transaction. Pieter has argued and won several landmark cases before the EU Court of Justice.

M: +32 478 47 34 64
E: pieter.paepe@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Videogames.
Gaming, Wagering & Lotteries.
Online Media & Platforms.
Print Media.
Radio, Television & Motion Pictures.
Public & Private Healthcare.
Pharmaceuticals & Parapharmaceuticals.
Sports & E-Sports.
Electronic Communications.
Utilities & Energy.
Consumer Goods.
Life Sciences.
Mobility.
Construction & Real Estate.
Manufacturing.

Areas of the Law.

Competition & State Aid Law.
EU Law.
Commercial Litigation.
Trade Practices and Unfair Competition.
Data Protection and Electronic Communications.
Contracts.
EU Regulatory Matters.
Group Claims.
Fundamental Rights.
Platform, ISP & Intermediary Liability.

Full Profile.

Career.

Founding Partner, Edson Legal, 2021 – current.
Partner, Astrea Lawyers, 2017 – 2021.
Senior Associate, Astrea Lawyers, 2012 – 2017.
Senior Associate, Lorenz, 2011 – 2012.
Associate, KOAN, 2006 – 2011.
Academic Researcher, Free University of Brussels, 2001 – 2009.

Education.

Catholic University of Namur, Bachelor in Law, 1995 – 1997.
Catholic University of Leuven, Masters in Law, 1997 – 2000.
Free University of Brussels, Masters in European Law, cum laude, 2000 – 2001.

Languages.

Dutch.
French.
English.
German (proficient).

Accolades and Recommendations.

Gaming and gambling – Global market leader “He has very good knowledge, is very meticulous and has very strong international capabilities“. Chambers and partners, 2022.

Memberships and Board Mandates.

Managing Director, Edson Legal, 2021 – current.
Chair of the International Bar Association’s Sports Law Subcommittee, 2026 – current.
Member of the Association of Belgian Competition Lawyers, 2020 – current.
Member of the FIFPro expert group on football transfer matters, 2013.

Publications.

“Belgium”, in J. Harris (ed.), Gaming Law 2021, Chambers. See also Gaming Law 2021 | Global Practice Guides | Chambers and Partners, 2021. (With C. De Preter).
“Rechtsmethodologie. Inleiding tot het opzoeken en analyseren van de bronnen van nationaal, Europees en internationaal recht”, 6th ed., Brugge, die Keure, 465 p., 2019. (With F. Eggermont, S. Smis and W. Schreurs).
“Belgium” in J. Harris (ed.), Jurisdictional Comparisons – Gaming Law, 3rd ed., p. 47-63, 2017.
“Football and EU state aid law: How state aid law shapes the relationship between public authorities and football clubs. Some observations on the Commission decisions of 4 July 2016”, Football Legal, p. 100-108, 2016.
“State aid and football: When do public authorities grant an advantage to football clubs?”, World Online Sports Law Report, p. 12-15., 2016.
“Draft Belgian Bill would narrow VAT exemption for gambling”, World Online Gambling Law Report, p. 8-9, 2016.
“Hedqvist judgment – No VAT on Exchange Transactions Between Virtual and Traditional Currencies”, article published on www.paymentscompliance.com, 2015.
“Virtual Money in Belgium: Prohibition on the Distribution of Financial Products”, article published on www.paymentscompliance.com, 2015.
“Artikelsgewijze bespreking Wet 11 maart 2003 betreffende bepaalde juridische aspecten van de diensten van de informatiemaatschappij (artikelen 18 t.e.m. 21)” in D. Blommaert, J. Cerfontaine, J. De Bruycker, V. Sagaert & R. Steennot, Wet en Duiding Bank en Zekerheden. Wet en Duiding Bank en Zekerheden, Brussel, Larcier, p. 312-326, 2014.
“Belgium” in J. HARRIS (ed.), Jurisdictional Comparisons – Gaming Law, 2nd ed., , p. 49-63. 2014.
“Praktijkboek Rechtsmethodologie, Die Keure”, 2006, 449p. Second edition published in 2008. Third edition published in 2011. Fourth edition published in 2014. Fifth edition published in 2016. (With W. Schreurs, F. Eggermont, S. Smis, and S. Gutwirth).
“Cross-Border E-commerce: Belgien “, IT Rechtsberater, 279-282, 2013.
“Taxing Games of Chance. EU state aid law and the Member States’ power to tax games of chance”, article published on www.gamblingcompliance.com, 2013.
“Belgium’s Whitelist and Blacklist: A Lawyer’s Analysis”, article published on www.gamblingcompliance.com, 2012.
“Les jeux de hasard en ligne dans l’Union Européenne: mise en contexte et commentaire de l’arrêt Santa Casa”, Revue du Droit des Technologies de l’Information, 55-79, 2010.
“Financement du service de radiodiffusion public: état des lieux”, Revue de la Concurrence belge/Tijdschrift voor Belgische mededinging, 23-48, 2010. (With C. SMITS).
“Taking a chance”, The European Lawyer, January 40-41, 2010.
“L’effectivité du troisième pilier de l’Union Européenne et l’exigence de l’interprétation conforme: La Cour de Justice pose ses jalons” [case note on the ECJ Pupino decision], Revue Trimestrielle des droits de l’homme 2007, 270-292. Also published in S. BRAUM & A. WEYEMBERGH (eds.), Le contrôle juridictionnel dans l’espace pénal européen = The judicial control in EU cooperation in criminal matters, Brussels: Editions de l’Université de Bruxelles, 45-63, 2009. (With A. Weyembergh and P De Hert).
“Reflexive governance and the EU 3rd pillar: analysis of data protection and criminal law aspects”, in E. Guild & F. Geyer (eds.), Security versus Justice? Police and Judicial Cooperation in the European Union, Aldershot, Ashgate, 129-150, 2008. (With G. González Fuster).
Conformity Study for Belgium – Directive 2004/38/EC on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States, Brussels, Milieu Ltd., 2008. (With S. Gutwirth and P. De Hert).
Conformity Study for Luxembourg – Directive 2004/38/EC on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States, Brussels, Milieu Ltd., 2008. (With S. Gutwirth and P. De Hert).
Conformity Study for Belgium – Act concerning the election of the members of the European Parliament by direct universal suffrage, attached to Council Decision 76/787/ECSC, EEC, Euratom, Brussels, Milieu Ltd., 2008. (With S. Gutwirth and P. De Hert).
Conformity Study for Luxembourg – Act concerning the election of the members of the European Parliament by direct universal suffrage, attached to Council Decision 76/787/ECSC, EEC, Euratom, Brussels, Milieu Ltd., 2008. (With S. Gutwirth and P. De Hert).
“Geen ontsnappen aan Europese unanimiteitsvereiste in derde pijler”, De Juristenkrant, Vol. 8, nr. 141, January 17, 16, 2007. (With P. De Hert).
Book review of ‘La confiance mutuelle dans l’espace pénal européen/Mutual trust in the European Criminal Area’, Panopticon, 2007/4, 70-74, 2007.
“Europees milieustrafrecht. Minder ruimte voor nationale strafbevoegdheden”, Nieuw Juridisch Weekblad, nr. 144, 482-495, 2006. (With P. De Hert, and H. Griffioen).

Christoph De Preter.
Partner.

Christoph combines legal instinct, academic excellence and business acumen. Christoph has taught and researched at the Leuven University Center for Law and IT. He has practised in premier international law firms. As former Chief Commercial Officer at Luciad and Hexagon Geospatial, he managed global revenue, international expansion, the partner network and a team of +100 sales executives and sales engineers. He advises C-level executives on a strategic level, is a dealmaker and fierce litigator. Christoph is well-versed in Intellectual Property, Technology, Contracts and Strategic Litigation (including AML/CFT, access to financial services, and financial sanctions).

Christoph has built a specific expertise in advising geospatial and other data-centric businesses on issues relating to data acquisition, governance and monetization. Christoph also has unique experience in negotiating and contracting with NATO, as well as in setting up teaming and subcontracting agreements with defense contractors.

M: +32 478 36 82 36
E: christoph.de.preter@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Software.
Gaming, Wagering & Lotteries.
Videogames.
Online Media & Platforms.
Print Media.
Radio, Television & Motion Pictures.
Electronic Communications.
Geospatial & Digital Twin.
Fashion, Luxury, Lifestyle & Merchandising.
Infrastructure.
Defense, Aerospace and Public Safety.
Consumer Goods.
Life Sciences.
Logistics & Fulfilment.

Areas of the Law.

IT Regulatory.
Contracts.
Litigation.
Platform, ISP & Intermediary Liability.
Data Protection and Electronic Communications.
Media Law.
Software & Database Protection.
Copyright.
Patents.
Trademarks.
Models & Designs.
Trade Secrets.
Trade Practices and Unfair Competition.
EU Law & Fundamental Rights.

Full Profile.

Career.

Founding Partner, Edson Legal, 2021 – current.
Chief Commercial Officer, Hexagon Geospatial, 2017 – 2021.
Chief Commercial Officer, Luciad, 2013 – 2017.
Head of Sales and Strategy, Luciad, 2009 – 2013.
Counsel, Crowell & Moring, 2008 – 2009.
Senior Associate, Crowell & Moring 2003 – 2007.
Assistant Professor, Interdisciplinary Center for Law and IT, KU Leuven, 2001 – 2004.
Junior Associate, Baker & McKenzie 2000 – 2001.

Education.

Catholic University of Namur, Bachelor in Law, magna cum laude, 1995 – 1997.
Catholic University of Leuven, Masters in Law, magna cum laude, 1997 – 1999.
Humboldt University of Berlin, Masters in Law, magna cum laude, 1999 – 2000.
Catholic University of Brussels, courses in Intellectual Property Law, 2003 – 2004.

Languages.

Dutch.
French.
English.
German.
Italian.
Spanish (notions).

Accolades and Recommendations.

“Rising star” for Intellectual Property, Legal500, 2008 – 2009.
“Recommended Individual” for IT and Gaming Law, Legal500, 2008 – 2009.
“Recommended Individual” for World Trademark Review 1000, 2024 – 2025.

Memberships and Board Mandates.

Board of Directors, BME NV, 2014 – current.
Board of Directors, Luciad NV, 2013 – 2021.
Board of Directors, AFCEA International, 2014 – 2017.
Board of Directors, European Organization for Gaming Law, 2022 – current.
President, Royal Swimming Club Landen, 2022 – current.
Investment Committee, FNX Ventures, 2023 – current.
Managing Director, Edson Legal, 2021 – current.

Publications.

“Belgium”, in J. Harris (ed.), Gaming Law 2021, Chambers. See also Gaming Law 2021 | Global Practice Guides | Chambers and Partners, 2021. (With P. Paepe).
“Controle van telefoon-, internet- en e-mailgebruik binnen lokale besturen” in X., Reeks ‘OCMW-Personeelsmanagement-Cases’, Vandenbroele, Brugge, 2011. (With F. Van Remoortel, and E. Plasschaert).
De Europeesrechtelijke beoordeling van nationale gokwetgevingen”, RDC-TBH, 2008. (With T. De Meese).
“De interpretatie van octrooien aan de hand van het verleningsdossier en andere extrinsieke elementen. Mag wie A heeft gezegd naderhand nog B zeggen?”, IRDI, 2008. (With K. Roox).
“Une salutation au jugement Lancôme/eBay, la visière levée”, IRDI, 2008.
“Het aansprakelijkheidsregime voor ISP’s en andere tussenpersonen in de wet elektronische handel: onbekend en onbemind.”, RDC-TBH, 2007. (With T. De Meese).
“Onrechtstreekse octrooi-inbreuk naar Belgisch recht na het Senseo-arrest: koffiedikkijken of klare wijn?”, IRDI, 2006. (With K. Roox).
“The European regulatory framework for security and privacy protection in electronic communications”, Annales des Télécommunications, 2006. (With J. Dumortier).
“De totstandkoming en draagwijdte van open source-licenties”, Computerrecht, 2004. (With H. Dekeyser).
“Aansprakelijkheid voor (het hosten van) links”, Computerrecht 2004.
“Spectrumregeling en gerechtelijke procedures: kan Europa lessen trekken uit de fouten van de V.S.?”, Jura Falconis, 2004. (With P. Ryan).
“Wie heeft nog boodschap aan de boodschap? De aansprakelijkheid van tussenpersonen onder de wet elektronische handel”, A&M, 2003.
“De toetsing van de registratievoorwaarden inzake domeinnamen aan de Handelspraktijkenwet en de Mededingingswet”, Computerrecht, 2003.
“Notificatierichtlijn heeft addertje onder het gras”, Juristenkrant 2003.
“On-line gokken in België: een stand van zaken” In: X., Mediarecht, 2003. (With J. Dumortier).
“Nieuwe aansprakelijkheidsregels voor de dienstverlener” in X., Elektronische handel. Commentaar bij de wetten van 11 maart 2003, Die Keure, Brugge, 2003.
“Online gokken: les jeux ne sont pas encore faits “, Juristenkrant, 2002.
“De hervorming van de Belgische Nationale Loterij: Gevolgen voor ‘Online’ Gokken”, Computerrecht, 2002. (With J. Dumortier).
“Een regelgevend kader voor online gokken in België”, Computerrecht, 2002.

Dries Beckers.
Counsel.

Dries combines thorough analysis, pragmatism, and business acumen while embracing a keen strategic mindset. He explores innovative, out-of-the-box solutions to provide his clients with to-the-point legal advice.

Dries has more than ten years of experience as a litigator in commercial, corporate and construction disputes. His litigation expertise is not confined to the courtroom; it is a lens through which he views the broader spectrum of legal services. Whether advising on strategic business decisions, assisting them in M&A deals or drafting contracts, he integrates a litigator’s acumen in identifying legal implications, potential liability risks or operational processes that may necessitate third-party intervention in the future.

Dries brings a unique edge to his legal services, shaped by a one-year in-house experience at a BEL 20-listed company and an extensive secondment at a vertically integrated Belgian property, asset, and fund manager. These experiences deepened his understanding of corporate dynamics and provided firsthand insight into what businesses truly expect from a trusted legal advisor.

M: +32 472 53 21 74
E: dries.beckers@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Construction & Real Estate.
Retail.
Fashion, Luxury, Lifestyle & Merchandising.
Logistics & Fulfilment.
Automotive.
Manufacturing.
Technology.
Environment.
Manufacturing.

Areas of the Law.

Commercial Litigation.
Mergers and Acquisitions.
Real Estate Law.
IT Law.
GDPR.
Trade Practices and Unfair Competition.
Corporate Housekeeping.

Full Profile.

Career.

Counsel, Edson Legal, 2024 – current.
Senior associate, Arcas Law, 2018 – 2023.
Secondment: Legal counsel at BEL-20 listed company, 2019 – 2020.
Associate, SocietatisLex, 2014 – 2018.

Education.

Free University of Brussels, LL.M. Tax law, cum laude, 2013 – 2014.
Free University of Brussels, Master in Public law, 2011 – 2013.
Free University of Brussels, Bachelor in law, 2008 – 2011.

Languages.

Dutch.
English.
French.

Publications.

“Europese overeenkomst nopens het verstrekken van inlichtingen over buitenlands recht, Londen 7 juni 1968”, Wetboek Internationaal Privaatrecht (geannoteerd), 2023.
“Europese overeenkomst nopens het verstrekken van inlichtingen over buitenlands recht, Londen 7 juni 1968, Wetboek Internationaal Privaatrecht (geannoteerd), 2020.
“Verordening (EG) nr. 1206/2001 betreffende de samenwerking tussen de gerechten van de lidstaten op het gebied van bewijsverkrijging in burgerlijke en handelszaken, Wetboek Internationaal Privaatrecht (geannoteerd), 2020.

Seminars.

Enkele topics uit het beslagrecht, Het Vlaams Pleitgenootschap, 2022.
Actualia van het gerechtelijk recht, Confocus, 2022.
Actualia van het beslag- en executierecht, NCOI Learning, 2021.
Uitvoering van vonnissen en arresten, M&D Seminars, 2019.
Actualia van het beslagrecht, Arrondissementskamer van gerechtsdeurwaarders van Antwerpen, 2019.
Clausules inzake forum- en rechtskeuze bij internationale overeenkomsten, Intersentia summer class, 2019.

Prof. Dr. Frédéric Dopagne.
Counsel.

Dr. Frédéric Dopagne offers clients a rare combination of practical experience and academic excellence. His legal advice and representation is enriched by nearly 25 years of university activity, whilst fully focused on the facts of each case and tailored to the client’s needs and strategic interests. He has a constant eye for detail and a strong sense for the balance between negotiated solutions and litigation. Frédéric offers reliable guidance in complex matters, proposing creative solutions only where they are realistic.

As a professor at the University of Louvain, Frédéric teaches and publishes in various areas of Public International Law and EU law. He is recognized as an expert in the law of international organizations, State immunity, diplomatic law, international responsibility and international sanctions. He is frequently asked to make media appearances and to provide expert testimony to legislators and government bodies.

Frédéric advises and represents companies, governments and international organizations. He is also intensely sought by co-counsel of correspondent firms to handle the international law aspects of certain matters. He has developed a special experience in litigation involving immunity issues, including seizures of sovereign assets. He has advised intergovernmental organizations from various parts of the globe on a wide range of aspects pertaining to their legal status or activity, and has assisted them – or their staff members – in proceedings before international administrative tribunals. Frédéric’s cross-cutting expertise is also key to address complex interactions between legal orders.

M: +32 491 61 49 67
E: frederic.dopagne@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Sovereign Representation.
Diplomatic Missions.
Intergovernmental Organizations.
Defense.
Banking Services.

Areas of the Law.

Public International Law.
EU Law.
International & EU Sanctions.
Law of International Organizations.
International Civil Service.
State Immunity.
Diplomatic & Consular Law.
Law of Treaties & Domestic Application of International Law.
Fundamental Rights.
Cross-border Litigation & Asset Recovery.

Full Profile.

Career.

Counsel, Edson Legal, 2025 – current.
Counsel, Monard Law, 2018 – 2023.
Special Counsel, Kelly Drye, 2016 – 2018.
Senior Associate, Lorenz, 2010 – 2016.
Professor, University of Louvain, 2008 – current.
Guest Professor, University of Liège, 2012 – current.
Guest Professor, Sciences Po Lille, 2023 – current.
Adviser to the Chairman of the Military Missions Committee, Belgian Senate, 2009 – 2010.
Teaching & Research Assistant, University of Louvain, 2001 – 2008.

Education.

University of Namur, Bachelor in Law, 1995 – 1997.
University of Louvain, Masters in Law, 1997 – 2000.
Free University of Brussels (ULB), Advanced Master in International Law, 2000 – 2001.
University of Louvain, PhD in Law, 2002 – 2008.

Languages.

French.
English.
Dutch.
Romanian.

Memberships and Board Mandates.

Board, French Society of International Law, 2022 – current.
Secretary-General, Belgian Society of International Law, 2017 – 2022.
Board, Belgian Society of International Law, 2017 – current.
Board of Editors, Belgian Review of International Law, 2016 – current.
Board of Editors, Oxford International Organizations, 2017 – current.

Publications.

“Groenland : le droit international au secours du droit européen” (editorial), Journal de droit européen, 2026, 1.
“La composition de la mission et l’entrée en fonctions”
“Les libertés et exemptions de la mission”
“Les libertés et exemptions des membres de la mission”
“L’organisation du service diplomatique en Belgique” in J. Salmon, Manuel de droit diplomatique, 2nd edn, Larcier (forthcoming). (With J. Salmon).
“Article 39” in J.-P. Cot, A. Pellet and M. Forteau (eds), La Charte des Nations Unies. Commentaire article par article, 4th edn (forthcoming). (With P. d’Argent and R. van Steenberghe).
“Les différends opposant l’organisation internationale à un État ou une autre organisation internationale” in E. Lagrange, J.-M. Sorel and P. Palchetti (eds), Traité de droit des organisations internationales, 2nd edn, L.G.D.J. (forthcoming).
“Article 4” and “Article 28” in O. Corten, P. Klein, V. Koutroulis and A.
Lagerwall (eds), The Vienna Conventions on the Law of Treaties. A
Commentary, 2nd edn, Oxford University Press, 2025.
“La déclaration persona non grata de diplomates accrédités auprès de l’Union européenne”, Revue belge de droit international, 2025, 161-186.
“Aider, défendre, réparer: la mobilisation des avoirs de la Russie au profit de l’Ukraine”, Annuaire français de droit international, 2024, 155-175.
“Nationalité des apatrides palestiniens nés en Belgique”, case-note on Trib. fam. Bruxelles, 11 December 2024, Journal des tribunaux, 2025, 630-635. (With J.-Y. Carlier).
“Engagement of Belgian Courts with International Law” in A. Nollkaemper, Y. Shany and A. Tzanakopoulos (eds), The Engagement of Domestic Courts with International Law. Comparative Perspectives, Oxford University Press, 2024, 209–225.
“Le pouvoir du juge belge de déterminer le caractère étatique d’une entité”, note sous Cass, 19 novembre 2021, RCJB, 2023, 566–599.
“Jurisprudence belge relative au droit international public (2018–2022)”, RBDI, 2022, 539–591. (With P. d’Argent and A. de Vaucleroy).
“Fonds souverain géré par une banque centrale étrangère, simulation et immunité d’exécution”, b-Arbitra. Belgian Review of Arbitration, 2022, 103–119.
“États-Unis : retour au multilatéralisme ?”, Journal de droit européen, 2021, 1.
“Review of Éric David’s Droit des organisations internationales”, EJIL, 2020, 776–781.
“Le juge belge et l’immunité de juridiction de l’État étranger : à propos de l’approche du droit international coutumier”, Journal des tribunaux, 2020, 581–586.
“Waivers of Immunity from Execution” in T. Ruys, N. Angelet and L. Ferro (eds), The Cambridge Handbook on Immunities and International Law, Cambridge University Press, 2019, 389–408.
“Observations sur la pratique récente de dénonciation des traités”, AFDI, 2018, 131–159.
“Jurisprudence belge relative au droit international public (2012–2017)”, RBDI, 2018, 201–268. (With P. d’Argent, A. de Vaucleroy and E. Lanotte).
“Immunités des représentants diplomatiques et droit d’accès au juge”, Journal des tribunaux, 2017, 352–354.
“L’État belge devant ses tribunaux en défense des immunités du droit international” in P. d’Argent, D. Renders and M. Verdussen (eds), Les visages de l’État. Liber amicorum Yves Lejeune, Bruylant, 2017, 351–361.
“La responsabilité des pouvoirs publics non étatiques en droit international” in D. Renders (dir), La responsabilité des pouvoirs publics. XXIIes Journées d’études juridiques Jean Dabin, Bruylant, 2016, 531–562.
“L’immunité de saisie des biens de l’État étranger et de l’organisation internationale : notes sur l’article 1412quinquies du Code judiciaire”, Journal des tribunaux, 2016, 57–64.
“Les contre-mesures au sein du système juridique de l’Union européenne” in P. d’Argent, B. Bonafé and J. Combacau (eds), Les limites du droit international. Essais en l’honneur de Joe Verhoeven / The limits of international law. Essays in honour of Joe Verhoeven, Bruylant, 2015, 293–307.
Diplomatiek recht toegepast in België, Maklu, 2014. (With S. Duquet and B. Theeuwes).
Diplomatic Law in Belgium, Maklu, 2014. (With E. Hay and B. Theeuwes).
“L’immunité de juridiction de l’État étranger et de sa banque centrale intervenant dans le cadre d’une crise bancaire”, DAOR, 2014, 121–128.
“Les différends opposant l’organisation internationale à un État ou une autre organisation internationale” in E. Lagrange and J.-M. Sorel (eds), Traité de droit des organisations internationales, L.G.D.J., 2013, 1101–1120.
“Statut de chef d’État et libre circulation dans l’Union européenne”, Journal de droit européen, 2013, 10–12.
Case-note on CJEU, Ahmed Mahamdia v République algérienne démocratique et populaire (C-154/11), Journal du droit international (Clunet), 2013, 494–504.
Le droit diplomatique appliqué en Belgique, Maklu, 2013. (With F. Pons and B. Theeuwes).
“L’effet direct est-il une condition de la primauté du droit international sur le droit belge ?”, RBDI, 2012, 463–471.
Review of Antonios Tzanakopoulos’ Disobeying the Security Council. Countermeasures against Wrongful Sanctions, Netherlands International Law Review, 2012, 129–132.
“La Belgique fédérale dans l’Europe de Lisbonne” in R. Andersen (ed), Le droit public en Belgique : vingt ans après, Esperia Publications ltd, 2012, 31–43.
“Bruxelles et ses organisations internationales. Notes sur la politique de siège de la Belgique”, Journal des tribunaux, 2012, 185–192.
“La Cour constitutionnelle – Chronique de jurisprudence 2011”, Revue belge de droit constitutionnel, 2012, 161–227. (With F. Delpérée et al.)
“Le nouveau Benelux”, RBDI, 2011, 237–266.
“Article 4” and “Article 28” in O. Corten and P. Klein (eds), The Vienna Conventions on the Law of Treaties. A Commentary, Oxford University Press, 2011, 79–87 and 718–730.
“Retour sur un ‘classique’ – M. Virally, ‘La notion de fonction dans la théorie de l’organisation internationale’”, RGDIP, 2011, 285–287.
“Sanctions and Countermeasures by International Organizations: Diverging Lessons for the Idea of Autonomy” in R. Collins and N.D. White (eds), International Organizations and the Idea of Autonomy, Routledge, 2011, 178–195.
“Responsabilité internationale” and “Mesures coercitives non armées” in ‘La pratique du pouvoir exécutif et le contrôle des chambres législatives en matière de droit international (2008–2010)’, RBDI, 2011, 295–647.
“La Cour constitutionnelle – Chronique de jurisprudence 2010”, Revue belge de droit constitutionnel, 2011, 229–295. (With F. Delpérée et al.)
Les contre-mesures des organisations internationales, L.G.D.J.-Anthémis, 2010.
Le dialogue parlementaire Belgique-Europe, Bruylant, 2010. (With F. Delpérée).
Recueil sur l’égalité de traitement entre les femmes et les hommes et sur la non-discrimination dans l’Union européenne, 3rd edn, Publications Office of the European Union, 2010. (With J.-Y. Carlier).
“Assentiment parlementaire et traités conclus par l’Union européenne”, Journal des tribunaux, 2010, 153–156.
“Countermeasures by International Organisations. The Decentralised Society in the Heart of the Institutionalised Society” in H. Ruiz-Fabri, R. Wolfrum and J. Gogolin (eds), Select Proceedings of the European Society of International Law. Volume 2, Hart Publishing, 2010, 204–213.
“Le pape, le préservatif et l’ambassadeur”, La Revue générale, 2009, No 11/12, 31–34.
“Remarques sur les aspects institutionnels de la gouvernance des régions polaires”, AFDI, 2009, 601–614.
“Travaux de la Commission du droit international (soixante-et-unième session) et de la Sixième Commission (soixante-quatrième session)” (coord. R. Rivier), AFDI, 2009, 517–557 (section ‘Droit de la responsabilité des organisations internationales’, 533–546).
“Chroniques – Belgique”, Annuaire International de Justice Constitutionnelle, 2009, 543–594. (With F. Delpérée et al.)
“Arrêt Intertanko : l’appréciation de la validité d’actes communautaires au regard de conventions internationales (Marpol 73/78, Montego Bay)”, Journal de droit européen, 2008, 241–243.
“Kadi: the ECJ’s Reminder of the Elementary Divide between Legal Orders”, International Organizations Law Review, 2008, 371–379. (With J. d’Aspremont).
“Two Constitutionalisms in Europe: Pursuing an Articulation of the European and International Legal Orders”, ZaöRV (Heidelberg Journal of International Law), 2008, 939–977. (With J. d’Aspremont).
“Responsabilité internationale” and “Mesures coercitives non armées” in ‘La pratique du pouvoir exécutif et le contrôle des chambres législatives en matière de droit international (2003–2007)’, RBDI, 2008, 5–244.
“Les contre-mesures des organisations internationales. Essai de transposition du régime des contre-mesures étatiques”, Annales de droit de Louvain, 2008, 217–224.
“Les exceptions préliminaires dans l’affaire des Activités armées sur le territoire du Congo (nouvelle requête : 2002)”, AFDI, 2007, 328–346.
“Article 4” and “Article 28” in O. Corten and P. Klein (eds), Les Conventions de Vienne sur le droit des traités. Commentaire article par article, Bruylant, 2006, 119–135 and 1163–1187.
“Article 39” in J.-P. Cot, A. Pellet and M. Forteau (eds), La Charte des Nations Unies. Commentaire article par article, 3rd edn, Economica, 2005, 1131–1170. (With P. d’Argent, J. d’Aspremont and R. van Steenberghe).
“Immunité d’exécution et biens culturels étrangers : à propos de l’article 1412ter du Code judiciaire”, Journal des tribunaux, 2005, 2–4.
“L’attitude des États tiers et de l’ONU à l’égard de l’occupation de l’Irak” in K. Bannelier et al. (eds), L’intervention en Irak et le droit international, Pédone, 2004, 325–341.
“La mise en œuvre en Belgique des ‘mesures restrictives’ européennes (embargos, saisies, gels d’avoirs, etc.) : remarques sur la loi du 13 mai 2003”, Journal des tribunaux, 2004, 402–403.
“Military Law in Luxembourg” in G. Nolte (ed), European Military Law Systems, De Gruyter Recht, 2003, 517–545.
“La loi ‘de compétence universelle’ devant la Cour internationale de Justice”, Journal des tribunaux, 2002, 284–288.
“La responsabilité de l’État du fait des particuliers : les causes d’imputation revisitées par les articles sur la responsabilité de l’État pour fait internationalement illicite”, RBDI, 2001, 498–532.
“Le recours à la force armée autorisé par le Conseil de sécurité”, Annales de droit de Louvain, 2000, 189–244.

Dr. Arina Gorbatyuk.
Senior Legal Advisor.

Dr. Arina Gorbatyuk blends academic depth with pragmatic execution. She holds a PhD in Law from KU Leuven (2019) and has more than a decade of research experience, which she translates into clear, actionable guidance.

She advises on Intellectual Property (IP), Technology, and Competition Law. Clients turn to Arina for negotiating and drafting contracts, developing IP strategies, and assisting with IP protection and enforcement. She guides businesses through the interplay between IP and Digital Markets, including the emerging challenges at the interface of IP and AI, within the rapidly evolving EU regulatory landscape. Arina also has specific expertise in structuring R&D
collaborations and co-creation projects.

An accredited mediator by the Belgian Federal Mediation Committee, Arina facilitates the settlement of commercial disputes through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. She regularly publishes in international peer-reviewed journals and gives guest lectures at KU Leuven and the University of Göttingen.

M: +32 484 62 29 85
E: arina.gorbatyuk@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Technology.
Online Media & Platforms.
Radio, Television & Motion Pictures.
Videogames.
Fashion, Luxury, Lifestyle & Merchandising.
Life Sciences.
Pharmaceuticals & Parapharmaceuticals.
Electronic Communications.
Consumer Goods.

Areas of the Law.

Intellectual Property Law.
Trade Secrets.
Technology Law.
Commercial Law.
Trade Practices and Unfair Competition.
Competition & State Aid Law.
Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Full Profile.

Career.

Senior Legal Advisor, Edson Legal, 2025 – current.
Research Fellow, KU Leuven Centre for IT & IP Law (CiTiP), 2023 – current.
Legal Consultant, Sirius Legal Business Law Firm, 2023 – 2025.
Postdoctoral Researcher, Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) and KU Leuven CiTiP, 2019 – 2023.
PhD Research Fellow, FWO, KU Leuven CiTiP, and University of Antwerp, 2015 – 2019.
Researcher, KU Leuven CiTiP, 2012 – 2015.
Intern, International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA, Geneva), 2011.

Education.

KU Leuven, PhD in Law, 2019.
University of Strasbourg, LLM in European and International Intellectual Property Law, 2011 – 2012.
University of Deusto, Tilburg University, University of Strasbourg, European Master in Transnational Law and Finance (Erasmus Mundus Scholarship), 2010 – 2012.
Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO-University), Bachelor of Law, magna cum laude, 2006 – 2010.

Languages.

English.
Dutch.
Russian.
French.

Publications.

“Open Innovation and Intellectual Property: How Open are ‘Open Innovation’ Agreements?” in A. Léonard, A. Gorbatyuk and E. van Zimmeren (eds), The Future of IP: Stimulating Creativity and Inclusivity, Larcier Intersentia, 2025, 57-77.
“The Future of IP: Stimulating Creativity and Inclusivity”, Larcier Intersentia, 2025. (With A. Léonard and E. van Zimmeren, eds.).
“Enabling Patent Transactions Through the Use of Blockchain Technology”, JIPITEC, 2024, 14(4), 603-618. (With T. Gils).
“Patent Notice (Failure) in the Era of Patent Monetization”, IRIPCL, 2022, 53, 506-542. (With A. Kovács).
“Copyright issues on the use of images on the Internet” in I. Stamatoudi (ed.), Research Handbook on Intellectual Property and Cultural Heritage, Edward Elgar, 2022, 191-213. (With M.-C. Janssens and S. Pajares Rivas).
“The Allocation of Patent Ownership in R&D Partnerships: Default Rules v. Contractual Practices”, SCRIPTed, 2020, 17(1).
“Intellectual Property Ownership in Coupled Open Innovation Processes”, IRIPCL, 2016, 47(3), 262-302. (With G. Van Overwalle and E. van Zimmeren).

Romain Verhoeye.
Junior Associate.

Romain joined Edson in 2022. He practices in all areas of DMTI and Business Law, with a focus on Intellectual Property and IT Law. Prior to joining Edson, Romain has interned with the Belgian Data Protection Authority and the Belgian Gaming Commission. He holds a Masters degree in Law (Major: Corporate Law) from the Catholic University of Louvain (UCL-2021), and a LLM in IP&ICT Law from the Catholic University of Leuven (KUL-2022).

M: +32 477 07 61 84
E: romain.verhoeye@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Videogames.
Gaming, Wagering & Lotteries.
Online Media & Platforms.
Software.

Areas of the Law.

IT.
Copyright.
Software & Database Protection.
Trade Practices and Unfair Competition.

Full Profile.

Career.

Junior Associate, Edson Legal, 2022 – current.

Education.

Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, LLM in IP & ICT Law, 2021 – 2022.
Université Catholique de Louvain, Master in Law, specialization in Corporate Law, cum laude, 2019 – 2021.
Université Saint-Louis Bruxelles, Bachelor in Law, 2016 – 2019.

Languages.

French.
Dutch.
English.

Idil Gökgöz.
Junior Associate.

Idil Gökgöz joined EDSON in 2024 after graduating cum laude from KU Leuven with an LL.M. in IP & ICT Law. Prior to that, she specialized in Economic Law during her Master of Laws (cum laude) at the Free University of Brussels (VUB), where she graduated in 2023. During her studies, Idil developed a strong focus on Data Protection/Data Governance and Intellectual Property Law. Having grown up in Brussels and having spent a semester at the Bilgi University in Istanbul, she was schooled and is fluent in English, French, Dutch and Turkish.

M: +32 494 46 79 09
E: idil.gokgoz@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Construction & Real Estate.
Fashion, Luxury, Lifestyle & Merchandising.
Online Media & Platforms.
Pharmaceuticals & Parapharmaceuticals.
Print Media.
Radio, Television & Motion Pictures.

Areas of the Law.

Commercial Law.
European Law.
Fundamental Rights.
GDPR.
IP.
IT.
Pharma.
Real Estate.

Full Profile.

Career.

Junior Associate, Edson Legal, 2024 – current.

Education.

Catholic University of Leuven, Master of IP & ICT Law (LL.M.), cum laude, 2023 – 2024.
Free University of Brussels, Master of Laws, cum laude, 2021 – 2023.
Free University of Brussels, Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.), 2018 – 2021.

Languages.

Turkish.
Dutch.
French.
English.

Lea Nchange.
Junior Associate.

Lea Nchange joined EDSON in 2024, after graduating cum laude from the Free University of Brussels (ULB, 2024) where she specialized in Public and International Law. In 2023, Lea moved to Berlin and studied EU and Competition Law at the Free University of Berlin, graduating magna cum laude. Having graduated from the bilingual Bachelor programme at the UCLouvain Saint-Louis Brussels, Lea is well-placed to assist clients in French, English and German.

M: +32 486 04 13 75
E: lea.nchange@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Electronic Communications.
Software.
Gaming.
Media.
Pharmaceuticals & Parapharmaceuticals.
Utilities & Energy.
Mobility.
Infrastructure.
Defense, Aerospace and Public Safety.

Areas of the Law.

EU Regulatory Matters.
EU Law.
Competition & State Aid Law.
Contracts.
Litigation.
Data Protection and Electronic Communications.
Fundamental Rights.
Commercial Law.
Competition Law.
Corporate Housekeeping.

Full Profile.

Career.

Junior Associate, Edson Legal, 2024 – current.

Education.

Free University of Berlin, Master of Laws, magna cum laude, 2023 – 2024.
Free University of Brussels, Master of Laws, cum laude, 2022 – 2024.
Université Saint-Louis – Bruxelles – UCLouvain, Bachelor of Laws, Bilingual programme French – English, 2018 – 2022.

Languages.

French.
German.
English.
Dutch (notions).

Caroline Balemans.
Junior Associate.

Caroline Balemans joined EDSON in 2024 as a Junior Associate. She obtained her Master of Laws from the University of Antwerp (2023, cum laude). During her curriculum she showed a strong interest for business law. In the framework of an international exchange programme, Caroline attended the law school of the University of Nantes (France) where she took subjects related to European environmental law, ultimately inspiring her master’s thesis on circular economy. Following her Master’s programme, she did a one-year traineeship at the European Intellectual Property Office in Alicante, Spain, where she was responsible for examining European trademarks applications. As member of the EDSON team, Caroline is involved in IP, Business Law and Litigation matters. Her working languages are Dutch, English and French.

M: +32 468 28 30 50
E: caroline.balemans@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Fashion, Luxury, Lifestyle & Merchandising.
Manufacturing.
Mobility.
Online Media & Platforms.
Pharmaceuticals & Parapharmaceuticals.
Print Media.
Public & Private Healthcare.
Radio, Television, Motion Pictures.

Areas of the Law.

Commercial law.
Competition law.
Corporate housekeeping.
European Law.
EU Regulatory.
IP.
IT.
M&A.

Full Profile.

Career.

Junior Associate, Edson Legal, 2024 – current.
Pan-European Seal Trainee, EUIPO, 2023 – 2024.

Education.

University of Antwerp, Bachelor in Law, 2018 – 2022.
Nantes Université, Erasmus program, 2023.
University of Antwerp, Master of Laws, cum laude, 2021 – 2023.

Languages.

Dutch.
English.
French.
German (notions).
Spanish (notions).

Annea Bunjaku.
Legal Advisor.

Annea joined EDSON in 2023 and serves as a Legal Advisor within the firm’s legal practice. She advises on a range of client matters involving EU and International law, with a focus on legal research, doctrinal and regulatory analysis. She also contributes to the drafting of scientific and informative articles on diverse legal topics. Annea plays an active role in developing and improving the firm’s legal processes, and in refining the cross-functional structures that form part of its broader legal strategy. Annea holds an LL.M. in International and European Business Law from KU Leuven, awarded through the Master Mind Scholarship. She previously studied European and Business Law at the University Paris Nanterre and graduated summa cum laude from the University of Prishtina. Prior to joining EDSON, she gained legal experience across Kosovo’s judicial institutions, including the Court of Appeal, and the Basic Court of Prishtina, as well as international organisations such as USAID and UNICEF.

M: +32 456 04 39 55
E: annea.bunjaku@edsonlegal.eu

Industries.

Consumer Goods.
Product safety.
Life Sciences.
Manufacturing.
Print Media.
Fashion, Luxury, Lifestyle & Merchandising.
Videogames.
Electronic Communications.
Environment.

Areas of the Law.

EU Law.
Competition & State Aid Law.
Trade Practices and Unfair Competition.
Contracts.
Fundamental Rights.
Contracts.
EU Regulatory.

Full Profile.

Career.

Legal Advisor, Edson Legal, 2026 – current.
Paralegal, Edson Legal, 2023 – 2026.
Volunteer, Partnerships Manager, Model European Union Strasbourg, 2021.
Legal collaborator, The Basic Court of Prishtina, Civil Division, 2020 – 2021.
Legal collaborator, Kosovo Chamber of Commerce, Commercial Justice Activity, USAID, 2020.
Legal collaborator, Kosovo’s Court of Appeal, 2020.
Vice President, Youth Advisory Board, Up to Youth Project, USAID, 2020.
Volunteer, UNICEF Innovations Lab Kosovo, 2018.
Volunteer, UN Youth Assembly in Kosovo, United Nations Mission in Kosovo, 2018.

Education.

Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, LL.M. in International and European Business Law, 2022 – 2023.
University of Paris Nanterre, European and Business law, 2020 – 2021.
University of Prishtina, Bachelor in Law, summa cum laude, 2018 – 2022.

Languages.

Albanian.
English.
Dutch (notions).
French (notions).

Tessa Cools.
Office Manager.

Tessa Cools joined EDSON in 2024 as Office Manager, overseeing daily operations and driving the firm’s business development strategy. Prior to this role, she spent seven years as a legal assistant in the EU Public Policy department at a major U.S. law firm in Brussels. From 2023 to 2024, Tessa managed an Olympic athlete on the path to the Paris Games, negotiating and closing sponsorships and brand deal agreements, and continued to collaborate with her professional business ventures post-retirement. With a strong interest in languages and politics, Tessa initially pursued a career as a conference interpreter, earning degrees from KU Leuven and the Free University of Brussels (VUB), before transitioning into the legal field.

M: +32 495 84 54 35
E: tessa.cools@edsonlegal.eu

Full Profile.

Career.

Office Manager, Edson Legal, 2024 – current.
Manager, Hanne Claes, 2023 – 2024.
Legal Assistant, Covington & Burling, 2017 – 2024.

Education.

Catholic University of Leuven (KUL), Postgraduate Course in Conference Interpreting (NL/EN/FR), 2016 – 2017.
Free University of Brussels (VUB), Master in Interpreting (NL/EN/FR), 2015 – 2016.
Catholic University of Leuven (KUL), Bachelor in Applied Linguistics(NL/EN/FR), 2012 – 2015.

Languages.

Dutch.
English.
French.
Bosnian (Serbo-Croatian).

Thanh Nguyen.
Billing & Reporting Specialist.

Thanh Nguyen joined EDSON in 2026 as Billing & Reporting Specialist, where he oversees the firm’s billing and reporting function and plays a central role in its financial operations. As the firm’s dedicated specialist in this area, he manages the full billing cycle and financial reporting processes, ensuring accuracy, consistency and financial visibility of our billing cycles and financial reporting process across the organisation.

He brings over ten years of experience in finance, having held accounting and consulting roles across international organisations in sectors including financial services, chemicals and digital industries. His expertise spans end-to-end accounting, complex invoicing structures, reconciliations, month-end closing and audit support.

Thanh is recognised for his precision, reliability and discretion, and for maintaining robust and efficient financial processes in fast-paced and evolving environments.

Thanh holds a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science from Tilburg University. He is fluent in Dutch, English, German and Vietnamese.

M: +32 456 12 03 72
E: thanh.nguyen@edsonlegal.eu

Full Profile.

Career.

Billing & Report Specialist, Edson Legal, 2026 – current.
Accountant, Van Lanschot Kempen, 2023 – 2025.
Consultant, NT Services, 2022 – 2023.
Accountant, Roosens, 2019 – 2022.
Accountant, BASF, 2018 – 2019.
Accountant, Audibene, 2016 – 2018.
Analyst, Cimpress, 2015 – 2016.

Education.

Tilburg University, Master of Science, 2012 – 2014.
Tilburg University, Bachelor of Science, 2007 – 2012.

Languages.

Dutch.
English.
German.
Vietnamese.