⚖️ 140 km/h Without a Fine? In Namur, Justice Sounds the Alarm
On 21 May 2025, the Namur public prosecutor’s office made headlines by announcing a symbolic measure: certain speeding violations — even up to 140 km/h on the motorway — might no longer be prosecuted. Behind this striking headline lies a deeper message: the Belgian justice system is running out of steam.
This action is part of a broader protest movement by magistrates and courts across the country, responding to the chronic underfunding of the judiciary.
🔧 What Exactly Is Happening in Namur?
In a press release reported by several media outlets, the public prosecutor of Namur outlined three gradual measures:
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Suspension of zero-tolerance enforcement via speed cameras;
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Postponement of certain fines and asset confiscations;
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Non-prosecution of certain administrative infractions.
The goal? To reduce state revenue and draw attention to the lack of resources allocated to the justice system.
📍 A Movement Beyond Namur
Earlier in May, other jurisdictions had already launched actions: postponed hearings, unsigned decisions, suspended deadlines…
Yet far from being disorganised, local efforts are being made to coordinate actions between magistrates and lawyers, in order to safeguard the interests of citizens as much as possible.
As the Chair of the French-speaking Brussels Bar has rightly pointed out, lawyers share many of the concerns of the judiciary: stagnant salaries, deteriorating working conditions, delayed payments for legal aid services, and staffing shortages. These issues affect everyone in the justice system.
👩⚖️ My Role as a Lawyer in This Context
As a lawyer, I prepare each case carefully, as always. But nowadays, I often only find out on the day itself whether a hearing will actually take place or be postponed.
I always keep the client’s best interest in mind. In some situations, a postponement can be beneficial — providing more time for negotiation or strengthening the case. In others, the uncertainty can understandably cause frustration. This is why I continue to adapt, inform, and support every client with transparency and diligence, even in this unstable environment.
📣 Rebuilding Justice, Together
The Belgian justice system is facing a critical period. But now more than ever, it remains a cornerstone of the rule of law. To function, it needs sufficient funding, respect, and solidarity among all justice actors — magistrates, lawyers, clerks, translators, and administrative staff.
The current actions are not directed at citizens. They are a collective warning, aimed at preventing a silent collapse. And despite the disruption, we continue to do our job — by your side.
📌 In Summary
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The Namur prosecutor’s office has launched a symbolic protest against justice system underfunding.
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Other jurisdictions have already taken temporary measures, with growing efforts to coordinate.
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Lawyers like myself adapt on a daily basis, often without knowing whether hearings will take place.
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My commitment remains unchanged: to represent you effectively, to inform you honestly, and to defend your rights in a system undergoing transformation.