I was dismissed and I think it is unfair — who do I contact, and how fast?
Dismissal claims have the shortest deadlines in labour law — as little as two or three weeks in some countries to contest in writing or at the labour court. So: do not sign anything today, do not accept a "settlement" on the spot, and get advice this week. Vakbond (ACV, ABVV, ACLVB) (hetacv.be) represents members and often advises non-members for a first appointment; join now if you are not one. Toezicht op de Sociale Wetten (FOD WASO) (02 233 41 11) checks whether the dismissal breached protective rules (illness, pregnancy, works council, notice). Arbeidsrechtbank (rechtbanken-tribunaux.be) is where the claim goes — cheap and without a lawyer in most countries.
🗣️ What to say
"I received notice of dismissal on [date], effective [date], for [reason given / no reason]. I contest the dismissal as unjustified [and in breach of my protection as … ]. I ask you to withdraw it or to state the grounds in writing. I reserve all rights and will not sign a settlement without advice."
🪜 Step by step
- Note the date and the deadlineThe day you received the notice starts the clock. Contest in writing before the deadline even if you have not finished thinking.
- Sign nothingNo mutual termination, no waiver, no "acknowledgement" — a signature can cost you unemployment benefit and the claim.
- Get the reasons in writingYou are entitled to them. Vague reasons are usually the employer's weakness.
- Advice now: Vakbond (ACV, ABVV, ACLVB)Union lawyers see these every day and know the local court's practice. Legal aid if you are not a member and cannot pay.
- File at ArbeidsrechtbankA reinstatement or compensation claim, within the deadline; most cases settle at the first hearing.
📇 All contacts
❓ Frequently asked
Is dismissal without a reason allowed?
In most EU countries not after the trial period: there must be a valid economic, conduct or capability ground, and a fair procedure. In a few countries at-will dismissal exists but discrimination and retaliation are still banned.
Will I get unemployment benefit?
Yes, unless you resigned or agreed a termination without good cause. That is why you sign nothing. Register with the employment service on day one regardless.
They offer money if I sign today
Take it home. Anything worth signing is still worth signing tomorrow after advice. Offers rarely shrink; claims often grow.
📎 Sources
- Vakbond (ACV, ABVV, ACLVB) →
- Toezicht op de Sociale Wetten (FOD WASO) →
- Arbeidsrechtbank →
- Bureau voor Juridische Bijstand (pro Deo) / Justitiehuis →
🔎 Common searches
Recognise your own search? The answer above covers all of these.
- “unfair dismissal deadline Belgium”
- “dismissed what to do first”
- “contest dismissal labour court Belgium”
- “fired without reason rights”
- “settlement agreement sign or not”
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