Ambtenarenrecht

Civil service law constitutes a distinct branch of employment law, characterised by the unilateral appointment of civil servants and the public-law nature of the employment relationship. It prescribes specific rules governing appointment, promotion, remuneration, disciplinary measures and termination of employment.

This field of law is of particular significance because civil servants occupy a special position as executors of public functions, requiring that both the interests of the public authority and the rights of the individual civil servant be safeguarded. Disputes are typically adjudicated by the administrative courts rather than the civil courts.

In practice, counsel advises civil servants in objection and appeal proceedings concerning dismissal or disciplinary sanctions, and assists public authorities in the proper application of the Civil Servants Act and applicable sectoral regulations.