Over Simmelink Lawyers
Simmelink Lawyers is a firm that assists clients with family and inheritance law cases, both nationally and internationally.
We combine strategic legal insight with clear process steps and personal guidance. The emphasis is on clarity, structure and enforceable agreements.
We assist clients with issues relating to divorce, alimony, custody, inheritance and name law. International aspects play a role in many cases. In those cases, we carefully assess which court has jurisdiction and which law applies according to European rules, including the Brussels II-ter Regulation (EU 2019/1111).
Our clients appreciate the clear explanation, strategic approach and consistent communication. Each case is handled by one dedicated lawyer, who oversees and coordinates the entire process.
Read more about our legal services by specialized lawyers in family and inheritance law – nationally and internationally.
Why clients choose Simmelink
Strategic and expert
We think ahead, analyze scenarios, and translate legal rules into actionable solutions.
National and international experience
We are well-versed in Dutch law and also assist expats and Dutch nationals abroad.
One dedicated Lawyer at Law
You always have one direct point of contact who substantively and strategically monitors your case.
Clarity and structure
We ensure you understand your position – at every stage of the process.
Our Specializations in Family Law and Dutch Inheritance Law
Family Law
We assist clients with divorce, parental authority, visitation, alimony, and the division of assets or pension.
Our Lawyers at Law bring structure to complex situations and ensure that agreements are legally sound and future-proof.
International Family Law
We assist international families, expats, and Dutch nationals abroad with divorce, alimony, and parental authority over children.
We monitor jurisdiction and applicable law and combine Dutch law with international regulations, including Brussels II-ter.
Inheritance Law
We assist heirs with estates, acceptance under benefit of inventory, executorship, and disputes between heirs.
Our inheritance law Lawyers at Law provide clarity and legally correct agreements – also for international estates.
Change First Name in The Netherlands
Do you wish to have your first name changed? We meticulously guide the petition process for both adults and minors.
In many cases, there is a compelling interest, such as identity, religion, or safety.
Want to know more? View our approach or schedule an appointment.
Our ApproachHow We Work
Every collaboration begins with an intake consultation, followed by a clear advisory process.
You will receive a written engagement confirmation with an overview of rates, planning and next steps so you know exactly where you stand.
Legal proceedings
- Intake – non-binding and exploratory conversation.
- Advice – strategic legal advice with scenarios and next steps.
- Consultation or mediation – focused on sustainable agreements.
- Legal proceedings – representation in court or tribunal, if necessary.
- Aftercare – monitoring compliance and updating agreements.
More about our approach
Request a consultation
Request a second opinion
Our Services in Practice
Our services consist of various processes, tailored to your situation and objective. Every collaboration begins with a written engagement confirmation in which our working method, rates and planning are established so you know exactly what you can expect.
Intake interview
The first consultation is exploratory and non-committal.
Together we discuss your situation, assess whether legal assistance is appropriate and outline the next steps.
You receive immediate clarity about possibilities, costs and planning so you know exactly where you stand.
Consultation
When direction is needed, we offer strategic legal advice that looks beyond today’s dispute.
We analyze your case, identify scenarios, and translate them into concrete choices.
Clear, thorough, and immediately applicable in practice.
Read more about strategic advice for family law.
For international cases: read more about advice for international family law
Mediation
Sometimes it’s better to reach agreements together.
We guide the process with legal clarity and strategic calm, so you maintain direction and the solution remains sustainable.
We monitor the framework, the agreement, and compliance with the agreements made.
Second Opinion
Do you have doubts about previous advice or want certainty about the right course of action?
We independently assess your case, analyze the strategy, and advise on alternatives.
Carefully, discreetly, and completely objectively.
Read more about second opinion for family law.
For international cases: read more about second opinion for international family law
Legal Guidance
One dedicated attorney who guides your case from start to finish.
We bring structure to your case, monitor progress and communication, and ensure everything proceeds legally correct.
So you maintain overview, even in complex trajectories.
Read more about a family law attorney.
Expat Service & Estate Planning
For international families and professionals with assets in multiple countries. We conduct correspondence and proceedings in Dutch or English — depending on your preference.
We combine Dutch law with foreign regulations and ensure agreements are correct in every jurisdiction.
Clear strategy, asset inventory, visitation arrangements, and cross-border expertise.
Preventive Legal Advice
Prevention is better than litigation.
We identify potential risks early and ensure agreements are clear, executable, and future-proof.
This way, you prevent misunderstandings, unnecessary costs, and legal tensions.
Aftercare
Even after completion, your situation remains in motion.
We monitor compliance, revise agreements where necessary and keep your file current.
We also provide aftercare to clients whose cases were previously handled by another firm.
This ensures continued peace of mind, overview and one point of contact with the same diligence as during the case.
Do you already have an attorney or mediator? We can still think along with you in the background. Tactically, discreetly, and aimed at strengthening.
Always Direct Contact with Someone who Knows What is Going On
At Simmelink Attorneys, you will be assisted by a legal assistant who is familiar with our clients and cases, ensuring you receive the right support immediately.
Even when it is temporarily busy or during consultation moments, your call is answered personally and carefully, ensuring your message reaches the right place immediately.
This way, you know from the first moment what to expect.
Our Core Values
Clarity
We make complex situations understandable. You get overview and clear communication at every step.
Result: peace of mind and confidence.
Strategy
We think ahead and work in scenarios. Every advice is aimed at sustainable solutions.
Result: direction and control.
Discretion
We handle your case with care and trust.
Result: a safe environment.
Who are our Attorneys and Mediators
You work with experienced attorneys, specialized in family law, international family law, and inheritance law. We communicate clearly, respond quickly, and keep you continuously informed.
Carla Simmelink – Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law
Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law
Valerie Lingg – Family Law Attorney, International Family Law
Family Law Attorney, International Family Law
Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo – Family Law Attorney, International Family Law
Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law
“Our lawyers are approachable, responsive and constantly keep you informed about the progress of your case.”
Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer
Reviews – What Do Clients Think of Us?
Legal matters are about more than laws and rules. Our clients choose Simmelink for the careful guidance, strategic advice, and personal attention. Read how they have experienced our collaboration.
Simmelink brought clarity to an emotionally charged estate and meticulously handled the legal aspects.
As an entrepreneur with assets in multiple countries, I sought a law firm that truly understands international divorces. In-depth international knowledge, quick action, and thinking three steps ahead – exactly what was needed. Exactly what you need when serious interests are at stake.
Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, you will gain immediate insight into options and next steps during the intake meeting.
This is general information, not individual legal advice.
The costs depend on the nature and scope of the case. During the intake meeting, you will receive a clear estimate.
In an inheritance with multiple heirs or international asset components.
Often, the court assesses which law applies.
Mediation focuses on consultation and joint agreements.
Legal guidance is necessary when positions differ or interests conflict.
Yes. We assist expats residing in the Netherlands and Dutch nationals abroad with family and inheritance law issues.
This is general information, not individual legal advice.
Simmelink Lawyers is affiliated with the
Netherlands Bar Association (NOvA)
