In Belgium

The bailiff (huissier de justice / gerechtsdeurwaarder) is a ministerial officer with exclusive authority to serve judicial documents and enforce court decisions.

Key functions: serving citations, enforcing evictions, serving payment orders, executing seizures, documenting damage.

How it works

Fees. Regulated by royal decree. A citation costs approximately 150-250 EUR. An eviction enforcement costs 500-1,000 EUR.

Who pays? The initiating party pays upfront. Costs can be recovered from the losing party if the court orders it.

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Good to know
A bailiff cannot enter a private dwelling without consent or a court order. For an eviction, they must have an enforceable judgment and can request police assistance if the tenant refuses to open the door.

Practical example

After obtaining an eviction judgment, the landlord instructs a bailiff. The bailiff serves the eviction order, granting 1 month to vacate. On the eviction date, the bailiff arrives with a locksmith and police officer. Total bailiff costs: 850 EUR.