Second opinion in family law and inheritance law

What is a second opinion?

A second opinion means that a specialized lawyer reassesses your existing case file. This may involve ongoing divorce proceedings, a maintenance dispute, a custody matter, or the settlement of an estate.

In many cases, clients seek confirmation that the chosen strategy is legally sound. Sometimes there is doubt as to whether all possibilities have been explored. A second opinion then provides overview and structure.

We assess based on current Dutch law and, if relevant, international regulations such as Brussels II-ter or the European Succession Regulation.

When is a second opinion useful?

A second opinion may be appropriate when you:

• have doubts about previous legal advice
• wish to have a settlement proposal reviewed
• wonder whether the correct court has jurisdiction
• desire background guidance during mediation
• wish to reconsider important decisions regarding children or assets

This frequently occurs in:

• separation or divorce – https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/scheiden/
• divorcing with children – https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/scheiden/kinderen/
• maintenance – https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/alimentatie/
• parenting plan – https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/ouderschapsplan/
• inheritance disputes – https://simmelink.nl/erfrecht/

These often involve choices that can have significant long-term consequences.

Our approach to a second opinion

A second opinion requires diligence, independence, and structure. We follow a set approach.

1. Independent case analysis

We study the case file independently and objectively.
This means:

• no contact with your current lawyer, unless you wish otherwise
• no judgment of individuals, only a legal assessment
• assessment against the law, case law, and current developments

Depending on the scope, we reserve preparation time. You will receive clarity on the estimate in advance.

2. Legal and strategic assessment

We assess, among other things:

• does the correct court have jurisdiction?
• has the correct law been applied?
• have all relevant legal principles been considered?
• does the chosen strategy align with your long-term position?

In many cases, multiple routes are possible: consultation, mediation, or legal proceedings. We map out these scenarios clearly.

3. Discussion and interpretation

You will receive a clear explanation of:

• strengths in the existing advice
• potential points of concern
• alternative approaches

We explain which factors are often important to the court. This is general information, not individual legal advice.

4. Choice of follow-up

After the second opinion, you decide on the next steps:

• you stay with your current lawyer
• we advise in the background
• we formally take over the case

You can read more about our general approach here:
https://simmelink.nl/werkwijze/

Second Opinion for International Matters

In international divorces or estates, jurisdiction and applicable law play a central role.

More information on international family law issues:
https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/internationaal/

For international estates:
https://simmelink.nl/erfrecht/internationaal-erfrecht/

In international cases, we frequently see uncertainty regarding:

• which court has jurisdiction
• which law is applicable
• recognition of foreign rulings

A second opinion can provide structure and clarity here. Depending on the circumstances, different legal systems may play a role.

For which Matters?

A second opinion is possible for, including but not limited to:

• divorce – https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/scheiden/
• divorce lawyer – https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/scheidingsadvocaat/
• maintenance disputes – https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/alimentatie/
• custody and access
• parenting plan – https://simmelink.nl/familierecht/ouderschapsplan/
• distribution of an estate – https://simmelink.nl/erfrecht/
• inheritance lawyer – https://simmelink.nl/erfrecht/erfrecht-advocaat/

Whether you want certainty about advice, wish to assess a mediator, or want to reorient strategically: we will carefully consider your options with you.

Practical examples

Family Law

In ongoing divorce proceedings, a client requested a reassessment of a spousal maintenance calculation. The analysis showed that certain income factors could be approached differently from a legal perspective. This provided more insight into potential room for negotiation.

Inheritance Law

In an estate with multiple heirs, doubt arose regarding the powers of the executor. After assessment against Dutch inheritance law, it became clear which legal frameworks applied, which helped prevent further escalation.

International Family Law

An expat requested a second opinion on the competent court in an international divorce. The assessment provided insight into the applicable regulation and possible procedural routes, allowing for a well-considered choice.

Trust and Professional Ethics

As lawyers, we are bound by professional secrecy and independence. Everything you share with us remains confidential.

We provide an independent assessment without judging your current lawyer or mediator. Transparency regarding time spent and costs is paramount.

Difference from a Consultation

A consultation focuses on a new question or initial assessment.
A second opinion assesses an existing case file, an ongoing process, or previous advice.

Both provide clarity, but a second opinion is intended for those seeking certainty about an existing legal course or who need strategic support behind the scenes.
➡ Read more about our legal advice.