Advocaat bij Scheiden

Divorce Lawyer

A divorce legally dissolves your marriage. We guide you through the entire process, including negotiations and court proceedings. With expertise in family law, we ensure a smooth settlement.

Divorce is the legal dissolution of marriage under Article 150 et seq. of the Constitution and Book 1 of the Dutch Civil Code. You need a lawyer in case of disagreement about the divorce, children, or finances, or if a unilateral petition is impossible. Without professional help, you risk unfavorable agreements or lengthy procedures. The court checks whether marital conditions or community property are fairly divided. For children, the child's best interest is central under Article 1:247 Dutch Civil Code. A lawyer safeguards your rights and prevents errors.

The process starts with a joint petition to the court, followed by a hearing where the judge pronounces the divorce. Subsequently, a decree is issued, which is registered in the records. For children, you arrange custody, contact, and support simultaneously. If parties disagree, a procedure follows with pleadings and evidence. After judgment, there is a six-week appeal period. Finally, the assets are divided via a notarial deed.

Costs range from €1,500 to €5,000 depending on complexity and income; subsidized legal aid is possible via the Council for Legal Aid. The procedure takes 3-6 months with consensus, longer in disputes. You can expect transparent billing and a realistic cost estimate. At the end, you receive a final invoice. We offer fixed prices where possible. Expect a low-stress handling with clear milestones.

When to contact a lawyer?

Disagreement on divorce terms

When you and your partner clash over alimony or assets. A lawyer prevents unfavorable concessions. Contact us immediately.

Children involved in divorce

In discussions about custody or contact. Child's best interest requires expertise. Call us for child-centered solutions.

International marital conditions

If marriage was contracted abroad. Complex rules apply. Specialized knowledge is essential.

Financial uncertainty post-divorce

Doubts about assets or alimony. Prevent poverty trap. Let us secure your position.

The legal process

1

Intake and Advice

Initial conversation to map the situation. Develop strategy. Gather documents.

2

Drafting Petition

Preparing the joint or unilateral petition. Signing by parties.

3

Filing at Court

Filing with court fee. Judge schedules hearing.

4

Hearing and Judgment

Attend hearing. Receive decree after 4 weeks.

5

Registration and Settlement

Register in records. Arrange assets and alimony.

Why choose us

Personal Approach

We listen to your story and tailor the strategy to your unique situation. This minimizes emotional stress. You feel heard and supported.

Fast Settlement

Through efficient procedures, we save time and money. Consensus is encouraged. Your divorce is finalized faster than average.

Child-Centered Solutions

Always priority to children's well-being. Expertise in custody and contact. Parents are guided towards co-parenting.

Transparent Costs

Fixed rates and clear quotes upfront. No surprises. Subsidy application if possible.

Our services

Filing Petition

Drafting and filing the divorce petition. Including all attachments. Fast processing at court.

Conducting Negotiations

Discussions with the other party about agreements. Focus on win-win. Prevents lengthy procedures.

Court Representation

Attend hearing and plead. Strong argumentation. High success rate.

Arranging Asset Division

Inventory and division of assets. Tax advice included. Notarial registration.

Calculating Alimony

Accurate determination of spousal and child support. Pivot table method applied. Revision possible.

International Aspects

Guidance in cross-border divorces. Brussels II regulation expertise. Complex cases handled successfully.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a divorce take in the Netherlands?
For an amicable divorce, the process takes on average 3 to 6 months, from filing to registration. This includes the hearing and the statutory 14-day reflection period. In a contentious procedure, it can take 6 to 12 months or longer, depending on court workload and complexity. We accelerate where possible through proactive negotiations. Also factor in appeal periods in your planning.
Can I divorce without a lawyer?
For a joint divorce, a lawyer is mandatory under Article 1:162 Dutch Civil Code. They draft the deed and file it. Without a lawyer, a procedure is not possible. Exception only for registered partnerships without children. Professional help prevents errors and effectively protects your interests.
What does a divorce cost?
Average costs range from €1,500 to €5,000, including court fees of about €300. This depends on income, assets, and dispute level. For low incomes, you can apply for subsidized aid. We offer fixed prices for standard cases. Receive a personal quote after intake.
What is the statutory reflection period for divorce?
Since 2020, a 14-day reflection period applies after signing the settlement agreement. During this period, you can cancel the divorce free of charge. The court strictly enforces this. It protects impulsive decisions. After this period, dissolution is final.
Who pays the lawyer costs in a divorce?
Each party usually pays their own lawyer, unless otherwise agreed in the settlement. With significant income differences, alimony may compensate. The court can allocate costs for unreasonable behavior. For children, cost-sharing calculation often applies. Always request a cost estimate upfront.
Can I divorce if my partner does not cooperate?
Yes, via a unilateral petition due to irretrievable breakdown of marriage (Article 1:151 Dutch Civil Code). Proof via witnesses or correspondence. The procedure takes longer but is feasible. We gather evidence and litigate effectively. Success rate is high with good preparation.

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