In Brief
Simmelink Advocaten begeleidt cliënten bij familierecht, internationaal familierecht, erfrecht en voornaamswijziging. Afhankelijk van uw situatie kiest u voor een intakegesprek, adviesgesprek of second opinion.
- During an intake interview, we initiate legal representation, a file is opened, and we commence our work. This can be as an attorney representing you or as a mediator facilitating the dialogue between parties.
- During a consultation, you discuss your legal situation at an hourly rate without further follow-up work. This is also available as background advice during ongoing mediation or alongside representation by another lawyer.
- A second opinion provides an independent assessment of ongoing proceedings or clarification when there are doubts about previously received advice.
- Clients who choose us for legal representation are assisted by a single dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.
Consultation
A consultation is intended for clients who wish to orient themselves legally without immediately initiating proceedings. In a single session, the legal position is discussed, potential routes are explained, and the consequences of various choices are clarified. No file is created unless the client requests it.
Second Opinion
A second opinion is an independent assessment of a situation where advice has already been received or proceedings are ongoing. Simmelink Lawyers evaluates the strategy, the documents, and the positions taken. This is particularly relevant for international proceedings, complex estates, and divorce cases involving multiple interests.
Legal Guidance
Simmelink Lawyers assists clients with family law, international family law, inheritance law, and name changes. Depending on your situation, assistance is provided through consultation, mediation, or court proceedings.
Practical examples
Divorce with children and alimony issues
A client contacted us with questions regarding an upcoming divorce involving young children. The situation was strained because the parents’ desired living and care arrangements differed, and there was uncertainty regarding the amount of child support.
During the intake interview, the legal framework was explained: which factors the court considers for care arrangements, how alimony is calculated, and which routes were available. Based on this, the client chose legal representation. The lawyer mapped out the financial situation, drafted the relevant documents, and facilitated negotiations with the other party. When negotiations eventually stalled, court proceedings were initiated. Throughout the entire process, the client had a single point of contact.
Name change based on personal identity
An adult approached Simmelink Lawyers wishing to change their first name. The background was personal in nature: the existing name did not align with their experienced identity and caused regular confusion in daily life.
During the consultation, it was explained what constitutes a compelling interest, how the petition procedure at the court works, and what documentation is required. The lawyer drafted the petition, substantiated the compelling interest based on the personal situation, and guided the client through the proceedings. The court handled the request during a hearing.
International estate with conflict between heirs
Following the death of a parent with assets in multiple countries, a difference of opinion arose between the heirs regarding the distribution of the estate. One of the heirs had previously received legal advice elsewhere but doubted its accuracy.
Simmelink Lawyers performed a second opinion: assessing which law applied to the estate, what claims the various heirs had, and whether the previously taken positions were legally tenable. The analysis provided insight into the actual legal position and the realistically expected outcomes of further steps. Based on this, the client was able to make an informed decision on the route to follow.
Our Attorneys at Law
The Simmelink Lawyers team specializes in family law, International family law, and inheritance law.
The lawyers combine legal expertise with international experience.
Clients are guided by one dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire process and communicates discreetly.
In complex financial matters or an international component, a specialized lawyer is important.
We strive for legally correct, practically feasible agreements that give you predictability and peace of mind.
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
Clients are guided by a dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.
Content verified by the team at Simmelink Lawyers, specialized in family law, international family law, and inheritance law.
Frequently Asked Questions
An advisory meeting is intended for clients who are orienting themselves and have not yet made a decision. No file is opened. An intake meeting is the first step in starting a file. Depending on the circumstances, we advise which form is most appropriate.
A second opinion is useful when there is doubt about received advice, in an ongoing procedure where the strategy needs to be reassessed, or in complex international cases. In many cases, a second opinion quickly provides clarity without the file needing to be transferred.
Yes. Simmelink Lawyers can be involved in the background of a mediation: assessment of draft agreements, advice at decision moments, and verification of the settlement agreement. This is also possible when the mediation takes place with another mediator.
Agreements regarding alimony or the parenting plan can be modified when circumstances have changed significantly, for example, with a new income, a relocation, or a changed family situation. In many cases, this proceeds via consultation; if that is not successful, via the court.
The working method applies to all areas of law in which Simmelink Lawyers is involved: family law, international family law, inheritance law, and name changes. Depending on the circumstances, the approach may differ per case.
Trust and quality
Simmelink Lawyers is affiliated with the Dutch Bar Association.
Read more about our reviews or see how we work via our working method.
Discuss your situation with us
Simmelink Lawyers is happy to think along with you about the legal position, the possible routes, and the approach that best suits your situation: whether it concerns an initial advisory meeting, a second opinion, advice during mediation, guidance during a procedure, or the modification of previously made agreements.
Contact UsOr contact us by phone via: 030 – 30 787 32
