A semiconductor package includes a flat metal leadframe including spaced apart portions, at least some of which constitute electrical connection leads. A filling material fills the spaces that separate the spaced apart portions of the leadframe to form a plate before fastening an integrated circuit chip to the front of the leadframe. Electrical connections are made between the chip and the electrical connection leads. The chip is then encapsulated on the front of the leadframe using a formed or attached encapsulant.