Criminal investigation into lawyer Hans Rieder over loan of 600,000 euros by elderly client’s wife

The Antwerp public prosecutor's office is investigating lawyer Hans Rieder for potential abuse of vulnerable individuals, linked to a €600,000 transfer from the elderly widow of deceased client Lucien Verkest to Rieder's Swiss bank account. The investigation began in 2021 after large transfers to Rieder's account were noted. The widow reportedly signed a loan agreement favorable to Rieder, allowing him 20 years to repay the amount, starting after resolving tax disputes. The widow's daughter-in-law filed a complaint in 2025, claiming the widow, suffering from dementia, could not comprehend such agreements. The investigation includes allegations of money laundering and document forgery, among others. Rieder denies the accusations, asserting the loan was a private matter and that the widow was competent at the time of the transfer.