International family law is a complex legal field that spans multiple countries and legal systems.
Are you a Dutch national involved in a cross-border divorce, maintenance dispute, or custody issues abroad? Or are you an expat living in the Netherlands dealing with legal matters to which Dutch law is (partially) applicable? Are you facing issues where both Dutch law and the law of another country play a role?
In all these cases, you may encounter conflicting legal systems from different countries, with uncertainty about which law is applicable.
At Simmelink Advocaten, we offer legal solutions specifically tailored to these complex situations. Whether you need advice on your rights in the Netherlands or abroad, or if you seek a second opinion on previously provided legal advice, we can assist you. Our attorneys possess extensive knowledge of international family law and provide guidance that aligns with your specific situation, regardless of whether you reside in the Netherlands or abroad.
Submit your legal question to our experienced attorneys today. Contact us for a free consultation and receive expert, personalized advice.
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Client Experiences
Simmelink Advocaten distinguishes itself through expertise and thorough knowledge. My case was handled correctly without any unexpected costs, which they had accurately estimated in advance.
Excellent law firm! The team is very friendly, communication is clear, and commitments are always kept. I highly recommend this firm for legal support.
The resolution of my alimony calculation by Simmelink was swift and efficient, and I am very pleased with the result. They are approachable and have extensive knowledge.
Law firm Simmelink is very professional and client-oriented. They understand the client’s needs and go out of their way to help. Rarely do you see a company where the customer is as central as at Simmelink.
Do you need expert legal advice or a second opinion on a family law matter?
Contact UsWhy choose international family law advice?
Obtaining legal advice in complex, cross-border situations can be crucial. At Simmelink Advocaten, we offer advice specifically tailored to your situation, particularly in international family law. Whether you are an expat living in the Netherlands or a Dutch national abroad, you can rely on us for:
- Legal expertise in international divorces, alimony, parental authority, and custody arrangements.
- Advice on Jurisdiction and Applicable Law:
Which court has the jurisdiction to handle your case? Are there multiple options? What law applies to each issue, such as the distinction between divorce and alimony when your future ex-spouse resides in one country and you in another?
We can advise you on which court is best suited for filing your case. - Practical solutions that optimally protect the interests of you and your family.
Our advice goes beyond an initial consultation. We provide solid legal advice based on an hourly rate and offer concrete, actionable solutions that give you greater insight into your situation, enabling you to make the right decisions.
When is a second opinion in international family law useful?
A second opinion can be essential when you have doubts about previously received legal advice. Whether you are a Dutch national abroad or an expat seeking legal clarity in the Netherlands, a second opinion provides you with an additional layer of assurance. You can request a second opinion when:
- You are uncertain about the legal advice you previously received.
- You are uncertain about which court has jurisdiction or which law applies to your case.
- If you seek more clarity on legal matters, such as the distribution of assets across multiple countries or disputes regarding a visitation arrangement.
Example from Practice
When parents with their children holding Dutch nationality reside in Italy, the Dutch court may have jurisdiction to handle a divorce petition. Alternatively, the choice can be made for the Italian court. In the event of a dispute regarding the children’s residence and who should pay child support, only the Italian court can address this, and Italian law must be applied.
Our second opinion provides you with the assurance of an alternative assessment by experts in international family law, allowing you to proceed with confidence.
Do you need expert legal advice or a second opinion on a family law matter?
Contact UsAdvantages of Our International Family Law Advice and Second Opinion
At our firm, when you seek advice or a second opinion, you receive more than just a simple assessment. Both our advice and second opinions are comprehensive legal consultations for which we charge an hourly rate. With our extensive experience in international matters, we provide sound legal advice. We carefully evaluate your situation to arrive at the best solutions, whether you reside in the Netherlands or abroad.
What can you expect from our advice and second opinion?
- Advice
A comprehensive legal advice tailored to your specific situation and the applicable legislation, whether you reside in the Netherlands or abroad. - Second opinion
An objective, alternative legal assessment of prior advice you have received, aimed at both expats and Dutch nationals abroad. - Clear cost structure
With us, you pay for a comprehensive consultation at a transparent hourly rate, ensuring you are never faced with surprises and know exactly what to expect.
Types of Issues in International Family Law
At Simmelink Advocaten, we offer advice and second opinions on various international family law matters. Below you will find an overview of the key issues on which we can provide advice or a second opinion:
International divorces
A divorce is already complex enough, but when both parties reside in different countries, or if you are an expat in the Netherlands or a Dutch national abroad, legal complications can accumulate. We offer advice on:
- Jurisdiction of the Court
Which court has the authority to handle your case? Can the divorce be arranged in the Netherlands and/or in another country? - Applicable Law
Which law applies to the divorce application? And what about other requests, such as custody, visitation, alimony, and the division of marital assets? - Asset Distribution Across Borders
How is joint property divided when there are assets in multiple countries?
International child support disputes
When alimony needs to be paid or received across borders, this can add an extra layer of complexity. We assist you with:
- Maintenance Obligations Abroad
How are maintenance agreements enforced when one of the parties resides abroad? - Modification of Alimony
How can you adjust alimony obligations if your financial situation changes?
Custody Arrangements and Parental Authority in International Relocations
When parents live in different countries, establishing visitation arrangements and determining parental authority can be very complicated. We offer assistance with:
- International Visitation Arrangements
The drafting and enforcement of visitation arrangements between countries. - Parental Authority Across Borders
Determining parental authority, including disputes over custody arrangements.
International Asset Distribution in Divorce
Distributing assets across different countries can raise complex legal questions. We offer advice and second opinions on:
- Distribution of assets across multiple jurisdictions
How are assets distributed when properties are located in different countries? - Protection of Rights
How can you protect your financial interests if your ex-partner resides abroad?
Are you a Dutch national living abroad or an expat in the Netherlands in need of a second opinion or seeking advice on a complex international family law matter?
At Simmelink Advocaten, you will find the right attorney for expert guidance, ensuring that your case is in capable hands.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a second opinion.
Contact UsFrom Our Practice: Real Results for Real People
At Simmelink Advocaten, we recognize the unique nature of each legal issue. Our case examples demonstrate how we work with care, precision, and attention to detail to achieve optimal results for our clients.
Through tailored solutions and high-quality legal expertise, we achieve outcomes that exceed our clients’ expectations.
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Our Attorneys at Law
At Simmelink Lawyers, you will meet legal experts known for their high-quality approach, quality and integrity.
We prioritize our clients’ needs and understand that every case is unique.
“Our lawyers are approachable, responsive and constantly keep you informed about the progress of your case.”
mr. Carla Simmelink
Please contact us
We are available from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, at the phone number +31 (0)30 – 3078732.
