In Brief
Simmelink Lawyers is a specialized law firm for family law, international family law, inheritance law, and name changes.
- In the event of a separation or divorce, a divorce lawyer assists you with the legal settlement, including agreements regarding children, alimony, and assets.
- For international families, expats, and cross-border situations, Simmelink assesses which court has jurisdiction and which law applies – within the framework of international family law.
- In the case of an inheritance involving conflict, disinheritance, or liability issues, an inheritance lawyer guides you in determining your legal position and the distribution of assets.
- To change a first name, a petition procedure at the court applies; in many cases, a compelling interest must be demonstrated.
- Every collaboration begins with a consultation or second opinion – for those orienting themselves, but also for those who have doubts about previous advice.
Specialized law firm for family and inheritance law
Simmelink Lawyers is a specialized firm that guides clients through complex family and inheritance law issues, both nationally and internationally. We combine in-depth legal expertise with a clear structure and strategic guidance.
International aspects play a role in many cases. Depending on the circumstances, we carefully assess which court has jurisdiction and which law applies. In doing so, we work within the framework of Dutch law and relevant international regulations.
Our clients work with one dedicated lawyer who oversees the content of the file and monitors the process. This creates peace of mind, oversight, and clarity regarding the next steps.
Our practice areas
International aspects play a central role in many files. We distinguish ourselves through our experience with cross-border family and inheritance law issues, where Dutch law is combined with international regulations and treaties.
Family Law
We assist clients with divorce, divorce with children, alimony, parental authority, and the division of assets and pensions. Depending on the circumstances, guidance can take place through consultation, four-way meetings, mediation, or court proceedings.
International Family Law
We assist expats, international families, and Dutch nationals abroad with international divorces, custody and visitation issues, and alimony cases. Depending on the circumstances, we assess which court has jurisdiction and which law applies, based on Brussels II-ter and international treaties.
Inheritance Law
We assist heirs in conflicts regarding the estate, statutory share, executorship, beneficial acceptance, and international estates where Dutch law applies.
Change First Name in The Netherlands
We handle petition procedures for changing a first name, for both adults and minors. In many cases, there is a compelling interest, such as identity, religion, or safety.
How can we assist you?
Every client comes to us at their own unique moment. We provide guidance from the initial consultation through to any potential proceedings. You can also turn to us afterwards, when agreements need to be adjusted to a changed situation. Choose the guidance that suits your situation:
Consultation
For those who wish to orient themselves legally without immediately opening a file. You will gain insight into your position, possible routes, and next steps.
Second Opinion
In case of doubt regarding previously received advice or an ongoing procedure. Independent assessment of strategy and documents, without transfer of the file.
Legal procedure
When consultation is not possible or urgency is required. We draft the petition, conduct the defense, or submit a request for provisional measures.
Modifying agreements
Circumstances change. When previously made agreements regarding alimony or the parenting plan no longer fit, we guide the modification through consultation or the court.
Agreements change along with your situation
After a divorce or legal procedure, circumstances can change. A new income, a move, a new family situation — these are moments when previously made agreements may no longer be appropriate.
When previously made agreements no longer fit the situation, we guide the modification of alimony, the revision of the parenting plan, or addressing a situation where agreements are not being met, through consultation or the court.
You do not need to have been a client before. Even if your case was handled by another firm at the time, you can come to us for a consultation or second opinion.
Method: overview, structure, and one dedicated lawyer
Every collaboration begins with an introductory meeting. You will gain insight into your legal position, possible routes, and realistic expectations, without promises of specific outcomes.
We work with one dedicated lawyer per case who oversees the process in detail. Guidance takes place at our office in Maarssen, by telephone, or via secure video calling. Correspondence is possible in Dutch or English.
Experienced lawyers with national and international practice
The team at Simmelink Lawyers specializes in family law, international family law, and inheritance law. The lawyers assist clients in consultation processes, mediation, and proceedings before the district court and the court of appeal.
In practice, we regularly handle cases with international elements, financial complexity, or long-term family relationships. Meticulousness and legal clarity are central to this.
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
Our Core Values
Clarity
We make complex legal situations understandable. You receive oversight, clear explanations, and transparent communication at every stage of the process.
Strategy
We think ahead and work with scenarios. Every piece of advice is carefully constructed and aimed at sustainable, legally sound solutions.
Discretion
We handle your case with care and confidence. Discretion and privacy are central to our working method and communication.
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
A consultation provides insight into your legal position, the possible routes, and what you can expect. No file is opened. Depending on the circumstances, this can still be discussed after the meeting.
A consultation is for clients who are orienting themselves. A second opinion is for clients who have already received advice or are in an ongoing procedure and want an independent assessment. In both cases, no file is created unless the client so desires.
Yes. Agreements regarding alimony or the parenting plan can be revised when circumstances have changed significantly, such as a change in income, a move, or a changed family situation. We guide both the amicable route and court proceedings.
Yes. We regularly assist expats, international families, and Dutch nationals abroad. Jurisdiction and applicable law depend on the circumstances of the case. This is general information, not individual legal advice.
In mediation, parties work together on agreements under the guidance of a mediator-lawyer. In legal representation, a lawyer represents your interests. It is also possible to participate in mediation while we assess your position in the background. Which route is appropriate depends on the situation.
Discuss your situation with us
Simmelink Lawyers is happy to think along with you, whether it concerns an initial orientation, a second opinion, or the modification of previously made agreements. We assist clients in the Netherlands and internationally.
Simmelink Lawyers is affiliated with the
Netherlands Bar Association (NOvA)
