Default law

Default law refers to legal provisions that apply only when the parties have not agreed otherwise. In other words, the law provides a standard rule, but the parties are free to modify or exclude it through a contract or general terms and conditions. If no alternative arrangement has been made, the statutory rule applies by default.

Example: In Dutch B2B debt collection, the rules on collection costs are generally considered default law. This means that businesses may agree on different collection cost arrangements in their contracts or general terms and conditions. If no such agreement exists, the statutory scheme applies

Updated: 13/07/2026

The definitions presented in this section reflect the situation in Belgium, unless stated otherwise. They are intended to explain concepts in clear, everyday language and should not be considered exhaustive or definitive. Suggestions or requests for amendments may always be sent to glossary@tcm.be.