General administrative law largely governs the powers of administrative authorities to impose obligations on citizens unilaterally. At the same time, businesses and private individuals often depend on the authorities as well: many activities require a permit, and applications for subsidies are frequently submitted.

When assessing applications for permits or subsidies, administrative authorities must take the public interest into account. They are also responsible for supervising compliance with applicable regulations. Where activities are carried out without a permit or in breach of the conditions attached to a permit, enforcement action is therefore often taken. In principle, the authorities are even obliged to do so. Experience shows that mistakes are made with some regularity, which may result in damage to citizens, businesses or institutions. Circumstances may also arise in the granting or renewal of subsidies that give rise to doubt as to whether the administrative authority has exercised its powers appropriately. Although the General Administrative Law Act (Awb) seeks to provide a clear framework for the proper exercise of administrative powers, the practical application of its provisions frequently gives rise to legal questions.

Van der Feltz advocaten has many years of experience in advising and litigating for both private and public parties on the responsible exercise of administrative powers, including in relation to permitting, subsidy decisions, enforcement and supervision, the Electoral Act (Kieswet) and legislation governing educational institutions. Our lawyers closely monitor developments in administrative law and, as a firm, we are actively involved in the development of new legislation. Particular attention is given to the interaction between different areas of law.

Within the field of general administrative law, we are pleased to assist you, among other things, in relation to:

• Enforcement and supervision

• Subsidies

• Education law

• Electoral law

• Access to government information (Open Government Act – Woo)