{"id":24912,"date":"2024-08-25T13:00:46","date_gmt":"2024-08-25T12:00:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/firstname-change\/"},"modified":"2026-04-29T08:25:18","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T07:25:18","slug":"firstname-change","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/","title":{"rendered":"Change First Name in The Netherlands"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"s-section\">\n<div class=\"s-section-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-grid-toc_main gb-element-94926826\">\n<div class=\"s-section-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"s-sidebar-block-toc gb-element-bf14a539\">\n<p class=\"gb-text\">On this page<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#In_brief\" >In brief<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#For_which_situation_do_you_wish_to_change_your_first_name\" >For which situation do you wish to change your first name?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#What_does_a_first_name_change_cost\" >What does a first name change cost?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#Would_you_first_like_to_know_if_your_request_is_feasible\" >Would you first like to know if your request is feasible?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#How_does_the_procedure_for_a_first_name_change_work\" >How does the procedure for a first name change work?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#Examples_from_our_Practice\" >Examples from our Practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#Two_patterns_we_regularly_see_in_our_practice\" >Two patterns we regularly see in our practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#What_Can_You_Expect_from_Us\" >What Can You Expect from Us?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#What_clients_say_about_Simmelink_Lawyers\" >What clients say about Simmelink Lawyers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#Who_are_our_Attorneys_and_Mediators\" >Who are our Attorneys and Mediators<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#Frequently_asked_questions_about_first_name_change\" >Frequently asked questions about first name change<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#Ready_to_have_your_first_name_changed\" >Ready to have your first name changed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/#Plan_direct_uw_afspraak_voor_het_wijzigen_van_uw_voornaam\" >Plan direct uw afspraak voor het wijzigen van uw voornaam<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-section-main s-stack-2xl gb-element-6c76d265\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<p>A first name change is processed via a petition to the court based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0002656\/2026-01-01#Boek1_Titeldeel2_Artikel4\">Art. 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>, submitted by a lawyer. In our practice, judges typically look at three factors: the nature of the interest asserted, the proportionality of the requested change, and evidence supporting that interest. The total costs at Simmelink Lawyers are \u20ac899: a \u20ac558 legal fee including VAT plus \u20ac341 in court fees. The lead time is on average six to twelve weeks after submission, followed by a three-month appeal period before the change becomes final.   <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-tldr-block wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow gb-element-91be6667\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0 s-fs-h6\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_brief\"><\/span>In brief<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A first name change is a legal procedure in which the court amends the birth certificate based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0002656\/2026-01-01#Boek1_Titeldeel2_Artikel4\">Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>. This is possible if the petitioner demonstrates a compelling interest. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The court can change, add, replace, or (partially) delete a first name based on Art. 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code when the petitioner demonstrates a compelling reason; thirteen theme pages within the \/first-name-change\/ cluster elaborate on the most common grounds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Judges typically consider three overarching factors for first name changes: the nature of the interest asserted (identity, safety, registration), the proportionality of the change, and the presence of objective or personal evidence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recognized grounds include gender identity, a history of severe bullying, threats or stalking, religious conversion or renunciation of faith, a spelling or registration error, international situations, tribute to a family member, childhood experiences, and officially establishing a long-used common name.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A petition is submitted by a lawyer to the court in your place of residence; the court decides most cases in writing, without a hearing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The total costs are \u20ac558 including VAT (fixed legal fee) plus \u20ac341 in court fees, totaling \u20ac899; the lead time is on average six to twelve weeks after submission, followed by a three-month appeal period.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-82927d05 wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-028b2f4f\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c03a4616 gb-headline-text\">588<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-1d5a445f gb-headline-text\">First Name Changes<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-521fe751\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-69547fd7 gb-headline-text\">6-12 weeks<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9aef6ef3 gb-headline-text\">Average procedure lead time<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-eba17e2c\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-350717c1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"47\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-350717c1\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/5-star-review.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"5-star review\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-a198a965 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"#reviews\">Client Reviews<\/a><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-95f669bb\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-c3dbda46\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-c3dbda46\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/nederlandse-vlag-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Dutch flag - Simmelink Lawyers\" title=\"Dutch flag\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-964f4f51 gb-headline-text\">National and international area of operations <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"For_which_situation_do_you_wish_to_change_your_first_name\"><\/span>For which situation do you wish to change your first name?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The ground for a first name change determines the legal substantiation and which documentation is central to the petition. According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rechtspraak.nl\/Organisatie-en-contact\/Organisatie\/Raad-voor-de-rechtspraak\/Nieuws\/Paginas\/Voornaamswijzigingen-toegenomen-2018.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Council for the Judiciary<\/a>, over 600 requests for first name changes were granted in 2018, an increase of more than twenty percent compared to 2015. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simmelink Lawyers has divided the field of work into thirteen theme pages, grouped into three families: identity and personal convictions; safety and processing; registration and family. For each theme, we explain which factors the court typically weighs and which evidentiary route is appropriate. Click on a theme for the full details.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Identity and personal convictions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When your current name no longer fits your religious beliefs, gender identity, or broader identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/\">First name change due to gender identity or transition<\/a>: change as part of a transition process.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/religieuze-bekering\/\">First name change due to religious conversion<\/a>: a name that fits a newly adopted faith, or another religious transition.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/doopnaan-niet-meer-gelovig\/\">Changing a baptismal name after loss of faith<\/a>: distancing oneself from a religiously charged first name (Christian, Islamic, Jewish, Hindu, or otherwise).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Safety and processing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When your name makes you vulnerable, refers back to a burdensome period, or stands in the way of a chance for a new start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/bedreiging-stalking\/\">First name change due to threats or stalking<\/a>: a new name as a safety measure in the event of an active threat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/pesten\/\">First name change due to bullying<\/a>: change due to a long-term and severe history of bullying at school or in the workplace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/voornaam-wijzigen\/jeugdtrauma\/\">First name change due to childhood experiences<\/a>: distancing oneself from a name that recalls a burdensome period or relationship from childhood.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/\">First name change after detention<\/a>: a new name for a real second chance after a criminal past.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Registration and family<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When the change concerns the composition of your first names, a tribute, or a correction of an administrative nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/\">Adding, changing, or deleting a middle name<\/a>: addition, change, or deletion of a second first name.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/roepnaam-toevoegen\/\">Adding a common name to official documents<\/a>: officially recording a long-used common name, alongside or instead of the existing first name.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/voornaam-wijzigen\/familiebanden\/\">First name change due to family ties<\/a>: tribute to a family member, or distancing oneself from a name given under pressure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/spelfout-registratiefout\/\">Correcting a spelling or registration error in a first name<\/a>: correction of a wrong spelling, forgotten name, hyphen, language barrier, or double registration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/abroad\/\">First name change from abroad<\/a>: procedure and international recognition for clients with an international connection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/kind\/\">First name change for a minor child<\/a>: the specific procedure and requirements for a change on behalf of a minor.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_a_first_name_change_cost\"><\/span>What does a first name change cost?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A first name change costs a total of \u20ac899 at Simmelink Lawyers: a \u20ac558 fixed legal fee including VAT plus \u20ac341 in court fees. You will know exactly where you stand in advance, with no surprises afterward. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Cost item<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Amount<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Legal fees (fixed rate, incl. VAT)<\/td><td>\u20ac558<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Court fee (nationally determined, 2026)<\/td><td>\u20ac341<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Copy of birth certificate (indicative)<\/td><td>\u00b1\u20ac15<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total standard procedure<\/td><td>\u20ac899 excl. copy <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if a hearing is required?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most first name changes are handled by the court in writing, without you having to appear. If the court does request an oral hearing, we will charge additional costs for the preparation and attendance of that hearing. We will always inform you of this in advance, so you can decide for yourself how you wish to proceed. The chance of a hearing varies by court; in The Hague, this chance is generally smaller than in the east of the country.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wat is inbegrepen in het vaste tarief?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Feasibility check in advance: assessment of your situation and chances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Full intake and file creation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drafting and submitting the legally substantiated petition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Guidance until the final ruling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>All communication with the court<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A full cost overview is available on our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/costs-first-name-change\/\">first name change costs<\/a> page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are you eligible for subsidized legal aid?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In some cases, a subsidy (pro deo) is possible, whereby the government reimburses part of the legal fees. In practice, a subsidy is not often granted for first name change requests, even if your income falls within the standards. This is because demonstrable hindrance in social functioning must be proven. We can assess your situation for borderline cases.   <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<div class=\"gb-element-eab29512\">\n<div class=\"s-btn-group gb-element-7313c4f1\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Would_you_first_like_to_know_if_your_request_is_feasible\"><\/span>Would you first like to know if your request is feasible?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">You can request a feasibility check in advance, in which we assess your situation and let you know what substantiation is required. After you sign up, we will contact you within one working day. If you would prefer to have a conversation immediately, you can schedule an <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">advisory meeting<\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-text s-btn-primary s-btn--small\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/forms\/first-name-change-feasibility-check\/?src=voornaam&#038;cta=top\">Request the feasibility check<\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">Free and without obligations<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-44e7b050 wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-0458c1a1 gb-headline-text\" id=\"stappen-voornaam-wijzigen\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_the_procedure_for_a_first_name_change_work\"><\/span>How does the procedure for a first name change work?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The procedure for changing a first name is regulated in <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0002656\/2023-07-01#Boek1_Titeldeel1_Artikel7\">Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>. You submit a petition to the court in your place of residence, which assesses whether your interest is sufficiently compelling. The requested name must not be inappropriate and must not be identical to an existing surname, unless you provide a valid reason for it.  <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-215434c2 gb-accordion\" data-accordion-multiple-open>\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8467255e gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-051d0714 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-051d0714\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Step 1 \u00b7 Initial meeting (advisory meeting or intake interview)<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-0577d26b\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0577d26b\">\n\n<p>During an <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">advisory meeting<\/a>, you discuss your legal situation at an hourly rate, without further work following. During an intake interview, we start the legal guidance and a file is opened. After you sign up, our secretariat will contact you within one working day to discuss your question and the desired route.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For clients who are still unsure if their request is feasible, an advisory meeting is the obvious choice: you receive legal clarification without immediately opening a file. For clients who have already decided they want to start the procedure, an intake interview is more efficient. The meeting can take place by telephone, via <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/video-conference\/\">video consultation<\/a>, or at our office in Maarssen.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-098eb022 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8b35873c gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8b35873c\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Step 2 \u00b7 Substantiation: gathering statements and documents<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-2736f89b\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2736f89b\">\n\n<p>Together we carefully map out your background and interest. This includes: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>identity documents and extract from the BRP (Personal Records Database);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>relevant medical, psychological or assistance reports (if you want to submit them);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>declarations from aid workers, family or third parties;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>documents about previous procedures (for example divorce, custody, criminal case or measures in case of stalking).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-43d111bd gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-6897b9b7 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-6897b9b7\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Step 3 \u00b7 Petition: drafting and filing with the court<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-522aa6c8\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-522aa6c8\">\n\n<p>Your lawyer will draft a legally substantiated petition, in which the following is detailed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>which name change<\/strong> you are applying for (or for your child);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>on which legal basis the request rests;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>why there is a compelling reason in your situation;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>why the requested change is in your interest (or in the interest of the child).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The petition is then submitted to the court on your behalf.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-038fedc3 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-bc6f2b30 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-bc6f2b30\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Step 4 &#8211; Assessment by the court<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-8a5c1adc\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8a5c1adc\">\n\n<p id=\"htoc-de-rechtbank-beoordeelt-of-het-verzoek-aan-de-voorwaarden-voldoet-en-of-er-een-deugdelijke-argumentatie-aan-ten-grondslag-ligt\">The judge studies the file and, in most cases, decides in writing without a hearing. Sometimes the judge requests advice from the public prosecutor or schedules an oral hearing; we will prepare you carefully for this. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1d020799 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-a144244c gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-a144244c\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Step 5 &#8211; Ruling and registration<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-c73b2071\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c73b2071\">\n\n<p>If the court grants your request, your new first name will be recorded in the decision. After the statutory three-month appeal period, the court sends the ruling to the municipality where your birth certificate is held. If you were born abroad, the ruling is sent to the municipality of The Hague. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Automatically processed via the BRP. <\/strong>The registrar of births, deaths, and marriages adds the deed of the changed first name to the original birth certificate. For people living in the Netherlands, the change is then implemented in the Personal Records Database (BRP). Organizations connected to the BRP, such as banks, insurers, the Tax Authorities, and health insurers, receive the change automatically.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Notify yourself. <\/strong>You must personally inform organizations that are not connected to the BRP. This includes your employer, sports club, school, or a foreign agency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your first name is officially changed once it is added to your birth certificate by the municipality. Throughout the entire process, we maintain an overview, and you will know what timeframe to expect and what choices you have.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-5008a27e\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-5008a27e\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Stappenplan-voornaamswijziging.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Stappenplan-voornaamswijziging\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Stappenplan-voornaamswijziging.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Stappenplan-voornaamswijziging-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Stappenplan-voornaamswijziging-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Stappenplan-voornaamswijziging-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Stappenplan-voornaamswijziging-1536x864.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"uit-de-praktijk\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Examples_from_our_Practice\"><\/span>Examples from our Practice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At Simmelink Lawyers, we guide first name changes across the full breadth of the \/first-name-change\/ cluster. The three examples below are a cross-section; the full list of themes can be found in the cluster overview at the top of this page. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">First name change for gender identity or transition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A client had been using a name that matched his gender identity for a long time but did not have a medical statement or diagnosis available. The legal question was whether the compelling interest could be legally proven even without a medical component. With statements from the employer, care providers, and social contacts regarding the long-term use of the chosen name, we substantiated that interest based on practical experience and social integration.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/\">Read the practical example<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">First name change for stalking or threats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A client was being persistently threatened, and their official first name was directly searchable in public registers. The legal question was whether a name change served a sufficiently concrete safety interest, rather than just a desire for anonymity. With police reports, official records, and a supporting statement from a care provider, we demonstrated the safety interest using objective evidence.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/bedreiging-stalking\/\">Read the practical example<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">First Name Change after Detention<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A client wanted to make a fresh start after detention, but his name was directly associated with his criminal past. The legal question was whether a name change was essential for a real second chance. With statements from care providers and the probation service, we substantiated that necessity based on the probation plan and the factual hindrance during job applications and housing searches.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/\">Read the practical example<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Two_patterns_we_regularly_see_in_our_practice\"><\/span>Two patterns we regularly see in our practice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Requests in which the asserted interest is supported by objective evidence (employer&#8217;s statement, medical report, BRP extract, birth certificate) generally proceed more smoothly than requests based primarily on personal motivation. For minors, the consent of both parents with custody is also required; if consent is missing, the court can grant substitute consent if the child&#8217;s interest demands it. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Can_You_Expect_from_Us\"><\/span>What Can You Expect from Us?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You work with one dedicated lawyer for a fixed price of \u20ac899, regardless of the complexity of the case. At Simmelink Lawyers, we exclusively handle cases within family law, inheritance law, and name law. First name changes fall under name law and receive the same attention as large files.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Dedicated lawyer. <\/strong><br\/>You work with the same lawyer throughout the entire procedure, who oversees your file and guides you personally. The legal structure differs per type of interest; having one lawyer who knows your situation prevents repetition and fragmented attention. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transparent pricing. <\/strong><br\/>Fixed price of \u20ac899 including court fees, with no hidden costs. Should a hearing occur, we will inform you of the additional costs in advance so you can decide for yourself how you wish to proceed. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National and international area of operations. <\/strong><br\/>We guide clients throughout the Netherlands and worldwide via video consultation. Consultation is possible at our office in Maarssen, by telephone, or via video call. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>International experience. <\/strong><br\/>Do you live abroad or does your name change have international consequences? We have experience with cross-border name changes and international recognition, with attention to the jurisdiction of the court and the applicable law. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ab3cc839 wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\" id=\"reviews\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-518c8e52\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-6fecf6ed gb-headline-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_clients_say_about_Simmelink_Lawyers\"><\/span><em>What clients say about Simmelink Lawyers<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-18fd49c3\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-bc24c0f8\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bc24c0f8\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-0c8a4522\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"204\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-0c8a4522\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Reviews-advocatenkantoor-simmelink-300x204.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Reviews-advocatenkantoor-simmelink-300x204.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Reviews-advocatenkantoor-simmelink-768x523.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Reviews-advocatenkantoor-simmelink.jpg 792w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-d05b80ab gb-button-text s-btn-secondary sim-button sim-button-secondary\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/reviews\/\">Read more reviews<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b12a701a\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b12a701a\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-521c0523\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-4cdc1c7e\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4cdc1c7e\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-df20da60\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"47\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-df20da60\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/5-star-review.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"5-star review\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-8eb6adcb gb-headline-text\">Simmelink Law firm distinguishes itself through expertise and thorough knowledge. My case was handled correctly without any unexpected costs, which they had accurately estimated in advance.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-8a0cef77\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8a0cef77\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-5b2138a6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"47\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-5b2138a6\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/5-star-review.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"5-star review\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-666e558c gb-headline-text\">Excellent law firm! The team is very friendly, communication is clear, and commitments are always kept. I highly recommend this firm for legal support.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-e61d5556\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e61d5556\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-4ebb8e4c\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"47\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-4ebb8e4c\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/5-star-review.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"5-star review\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bd5779cc gb-headline-text\">The handling of my first name change by Simmelink was fast and efficient, and I am very satisfied with the result. They are approachable and have extensive knowledge.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-7cf5e2ec\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7cf5e2ec\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-bfe9d8c3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"47\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-bfe9d8c3\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/5-star-review.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"5-star review\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-6a59a6cd gb-headline-text\">Simmelink Law firm is very professional and customer-oriented. They understand the client&#8217;s needs and go above and beyond to assist. Rarely do you see a company where the customer is as central as at Simmelink.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-e397a080\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-5820f11a gb-headline-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_are_our_Attorneys_and_Mediators\"><\/span>Who are our Attorneys and Mediators<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You work with experienced attorneys, specialized in <strong>family law<\/strong>, <strong>international family law<\/strong>, and <strong>inheritance law<\/strong>. We communicate clearly, respond quickly, and keep you continuously informed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-margin-vert-l\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bd256ba\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-5dcdaabb gb-query-loop-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23938 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Carla Simmelink\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\">Carla Simmelink &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-29865 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Valerie Lingg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\">Valerie Lingg &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23939 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Eva Zaunbrecher\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\">Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-36349 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Sophia Sips\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-2048x2048.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\">Sophia Sips &#8211; Family Law Attorney<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9f3ea82c gb-headline-text\">&#8220;Clients are guided by a dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.&#8221;<\/p>\n<cite>Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bddaa84d\">\n\n<div class=\"s-btn-group\">\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-c848a686 gb-button-text s-btn-secondary\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/\">Meet Our Team<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<p><em>Written by  <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\" data-type=\"advocaat\" data-id=\"22477\">Mr. Carla Simmelink<\/a>, family law and name law lawyer.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-f50bb99a wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-830d7bdc gb-headline-text\" id=\"htoc-veelgestelde-vragen-faq\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions_about_first_name_change\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions about first name change<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7e2eb555 gb-accordion\" data-accordion-multiple-open>\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-01a84c01 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-720df5fb gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-720df5fb\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can I have my first name changed?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-bc330891\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bc330891\">\n\n<p>Yes, it is possible to change your first name via a petition to the court based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0002656\/2026-01-01#Boek1_Titeldeel2_Artikel4\">Art. 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>. The court grants the request if there is a compelling reason, such as an error in the original name; gender identity; a history of severe bullying; threats or stalking; religious conversion or renunciation; childhood experiences; or a tribute to a family member. The cluster overview at the top of this page shows the full list of recognized grounds.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b88d2cdc gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-c18c7801 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-c18c7801\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">What does it cost to change your first name?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-e3895704\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e3895704\">\n\n<p>A first name change costs a total of \u20ac899. This amount consists of \u20ac558 in legal fees (fixed rate) and \u20ac341 court fee, which is legally determined and is the same for all courts in the Netherlands. In addition, there are costs for official documents, such as a birth certificate, of approximately \u20ac20. Should a hearing unexpectedly occur, we charge additional costs. A full overview can be found on the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/costs-first-name-change\/\">first name change costs<\/a> page.    <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4d1d149a gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-2bcb8e5c gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-2bcb8e5c\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">How long does a first name change take?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-e24d6a72\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e24d6a72\">\n\n<p>Depending on the circumstances, a first name change takes six to twelve weeks after the petition is submitted. The lead time depends on the workload at the court and whether a hearing is scheduled. After the request is granted, a statutory appeal period of three months applies before the decision is final and you can apply for new identification documents.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b4a494b0 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-fcb48bf3 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-fcb48bf3\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">What constitutes a compelling interest when changing a first name?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-fae7c17a\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fae7c17a\">\n\n<p>A compelling interest is a legal interest recognized by the court that justifies the first name change. Recognized interests include a demonstrably severe history of bullying, gender identity and transition, religious conversion, threats or stalking, and an error in the originally provided name. The court assesses each case on its own facts and circumstances; there is no such thing as a standard interest.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ea835751 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-c11950d4 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-c11950d4\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can I change my child&#8217;s first name?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-b1c9ffdc\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b1c9ffdc\">\n\n<p>Yes, it is possible to change the first name of a minor child via a petition to the court. In principle, both parents with parental authority submit the request jointly. If one parent does not agree, the judge can still make a decision based on the best interests of the child. Depending on the circumstances, legal guidance is required to present the child&#8217;s interests with legal substantiation. See also our page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/kind\/\">first name change for a minor child<\/a>.    <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-475ba01a gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8e012341 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8e012341\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Do I need a lawyer to change my first name?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-7322d027\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7322d027\">\n\n<p>Yes, a petition for a first name change must be submitted to the court by a lawyer. The law mandates legal representation. The chance of success depends heavily on the legal substantiation of the petition; insufficiently motivated requests are rejected, even in cases of seemingly clear interests. A specialized lawyer knows the assessment criteria, knows what substantiation is required per type of interest, and can tailor the petition to your specific situation.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e35b293b wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3945255d\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d8e81505 gb-headline-text\" id=\"haalbaarheidscheck\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ready_to_have_your_first_name_changed\"><\/span>Ready to have your first name changed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7f166354\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-a76f6e9e\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-1dbb95f0\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1dbb95f0\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">At Simmelink Lawyers, you will receive honest and concrete advice about the chances, risks, and costs of a first name change in your situation, so that you can make an informed choice. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0712d0d3 s-btn-group\">\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-39b0fa65 gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/forms\/first-name-change-feasibility-check\/?src=voornaam&#038;cta=bottom\">Request the feasibility check<\/a>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-23750f4e gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"#plan-direct-uw-afspraak\">Schedule your online intake appointment yourself<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-d69b8d25\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d69b8d25\">\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Voornaam wijzigen\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/MvpZTv3y_E4?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\" id=\"plan-direct-uw-afspraak\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Plan_direct_uw_afspraak_voor_het_wijzigen_van_uw_voornaam\"><\/span>Plan direct uw afspraak voor het wijzigen van uw voornaam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>U kiest zelf een moment dat u schikt. Het plannen duurt slechts 1 minuut.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class=\"calendly-inline-widget\" data-url=\"https:\/\/calendly.com\/simmelink-advocaten\/30min-intakegesprek-vnw?locale=nl&#038;hide_gdpr_banner=1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/RaadvRechtspraak.svg\" alt=\"\" title=\"RaadvJustice\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-07670684\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"340\" height=\"105\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-07670684\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png\" alt=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" title=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png 340w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo-300x93.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On this page A first name change is processed via a petition to the court based on Art. 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code, submitted by a lawyer. In our practice, judges typically look at three factors: the nature of the interest asserted, the proportionality of the requested change, and evidence supporting that interest. The &#8230; <a title=\"Change First Name in The Netherlands\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Change First Name in The Netherlands\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":27868,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-24912","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"infinite-scroll-item","7":"resize-featured-image"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24912","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=24912"}],"version-history":[{"count":63,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24912\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37551,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24912\/revisions\/37551"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27868"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=24912"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}