Typhanie Afschrift, a renowned international tax lawyer, passed away on Saturday, April 19, 2025, in a hospital in Brussels. Her death followed a serious fall she suffered on Wednesday, April 16, while having lunch at a restaurant with acquaintances. Afschrift, who was a founding partner and managing partner of the Afschrift Tax & Legal firm, was known for her expertise in tax law and white-collar crime, not only in Belgium but also on an international scale.
Reports indicate that Afschrift fell after experiencing a heart attack, hitting her head on a piece of furniture. Following the incident, she was admitted to a Brussels hospital, where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries. The news of her passing was announced by Amid Faljaoui, the editor of Trends-Tendances, a publication for which she frequently contributed.
Afschrift was a prominent figure in the legal community, recognized for her extensive knowledge and experience in tax law. She was registered with several bars, including those in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Geneva, Fribourg, Madrid, and Hong Kong, in addition to Brussels and Antwerp. Her ability to plead in multiple languages—French, Dutch, English, Spanish, and Italian—allowed her to serve a diverse clientele effectively.
In 2022, Afschrift made headlines when she publicly transitioned from her previous identity as Thierry Afschrift. She had been practicing law for over 20 years before embracing her true self. "I am a woman. All I ask is to be regarded as such," she stated, emphasizing her journey towards self-acceptance.
Her last column, published just days before her passing in Trends-Tendances, was titled "The Strength of the United States." In this piece, Afschrift criticized the structural weaknesses of Europe in the face of crises, particularly highlighting the continent's attachment to the welfare state model. She praised the resilience of the American dream, asserting its ability to withstand challenges, even those posed by figures like Donald Trump.
Colleagues and peers lauded Afschrift for her exceptional advocacy skills and her capacity for negotiation. She was known for her discretion in handling complex tax and financial disputes, often managing to negotiate amicable settlements that avoided the courtroom. "She always demonstrated great discretion in her cases," remarked one of her colleagues, highlighting her professionalism and dedication.
Afschrift was also a professor at the Solvay Business School of Economics and Management at the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), where she served as the president of the "Executive Master in Tax Management" section. Her ability to simplify complex tax issues made her a sought-after speaker and writer, and she frequently contributed articles to various publications, critiquing government decisions and offering insights into fiscal matters.
On social media, Afschrift was an active presence, often sharing her thoughts and insights with a wide audience. She was frequently accompanied by the emblem of her firm, a plush bear, which she described as a symbol of confidence and trust. "The bear is the perfect confidant. It listens to secrets, patiently hears everything, and never repeats a word to anyone!" she wrote on her LinkedIn page last year.
The legal community is mourning the loss of Typhanie Afschrift, whose contributions to tax law and her advocacy for the transgender community have left a significant impact. Her passing is felt deeply by her family, friends, and the many individuals she inspired throughout her career.
As tributes pour in from colleagues and clients alike, it is clear that Afschrift's legacy will endure, remembered for her professional excellence, her courage in living authentically, and her unwavering commitment to her clients and the law.
In a statement, the Afschrift Tax & Legal firm expressed their condolences, stating, "Typhanie's passing leaves a great void in the world of tax law. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones during this difficult time."
Typhanie Afschrift's journey was not just about her professional achievements; it was also about her personal evolution and the courage it took to embrace her identity. She will be remembered as a trailblazer in her field and a beacon of hope for many.
