Divorce in the Netherlands – Rights, Alimony, Custody, and Legal Process
Divorce in the Netherlands is governed by civil law and can be initiated by either spouse without needing to prove fault. All divorces go through court, and child welfare is a top priority.
✅ Types of Divorce:
- Full divorce (echtscheiding): Legal termination of the marriage.
- Separation of table and bed: Legal separation without dissolving the marriage.
- Recognition of foreign divorce: Possible under certain conditions.
⚖️ Legal Procedure:
- Submit petition via lawyer to family court.
- Set agreements on alimony, custody, property division.
- Court ruling issued.
- Registration with the municipality finalizes divorce.
👶 Children & Custody:
- Joint or sole custody possible.
- Child’s best interest is paramount.
- Parenting plan is mandatory:
- Living arrangements
- Education and medical care
- Financial support
💶 Alimony:
- Child support mandatory until age 21.
- Spousal support depends on financial need.
- Court decides based on income and needs.
🏠 Property Division:
- Based on marital agreement or default shared property law.
- Includes house, savings, debts.
⏱️ Duration:
- With agreement: 3–6 months.
- With disputes: can take longer.
🧭 Where to Get Help:
- Family law attorney
- Municipality (Gemeente)
- Juridisch Loket for free legal advice