{"id":24955,"date":"2024-08-25T13:22:04","date_gmt":"2024-08-25T12:22:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/divorce\/parenting-plan\/"},"modified":"2026-05-07T00:24:21","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T23:24:21","slug":"parenting-plan","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/","title":{"rendered":"Parenting plan"},"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\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#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\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#What_is_included_in_a_parenting_plan\" >What is included in a parenting plan?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#When_is_a_parenting_plan_mandatory\" >When is a parenting plan mandatory?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#How_does_the_parenting_plan_relate_to_parental_authority_and_support\" >How does the parenting plan relate to parental authority and support?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#How_does_the_judge_assess_the_parenting_plan\" >How does the judge assess the parenting plan?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#Which_route_fits_your_situation_consultation_mediation_or_legal_proceedings\" >Which route fits your situation: consultation, mediation, or legal proceedings?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#Practical_examples\" >Practical examples<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#How_can_we_help_you\" >How can we help you?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#Discuss_your_situation_with_us\" >Discuss your situation with us<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/#Trust_and_quality\" >Trust and quality<\/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<p>A parenting plan establishes agreements regarding the division of care, child support, and the provision of information between parents after a divorce or termination of cohabitation. The plan is legally mandatory for divorces involving minor children under Article 815, paragraph 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure (Rv), and must be attached to the divorce petition before the court can grant the divorce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-15683c21 block-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_brief\"><\/span>In brief<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A parenting plan is legally mandatory for divorce (Article 815, paragraph 2 Rv), for the dissolution of a registered partnership with minor children, and for legal separation. Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/opstellen\/\">drafting a parenting plan<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Houdt uw ex-partner zich niet aan de afspraken, dan zijn er juridische routes om nakoming af te dwingen via de kantonrechter. Lees meer over <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/ex-partner-doesnt-keep-a-parenting-plan\/\">niet-naleving van het ouderschapsplan<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In the event of a significant change in circumstances, the plan can be adjusted through mutual consultation or via the court. Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/\">amending a parenting plan<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The court reviews the plan for completeness and the best interests of the child, and can establish an arrangement itself under Article 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) if parents cannot reach an agreement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In international situations, Brussels II-ter and the 1996 Hague Child Protection Convention determine the jurisdiction of the court and the applicable law.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_included_in_a_parenting_plan\"><\/span>What is included in a parenting plan?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A parenting plan contains at least three mandatory components: agreements on the division of care, on child support, and on the exchange of information between parents. Additionally, parents may include additional agreements that suit their specific situation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Division of care.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The division of care regulates how time and upbringing tasks are shared between the parents. It includes agreements on daily care, the distribution of school holidays and public holidays, and arrangements for illness or special circumstances. In the case of co-parenting, an equal distribution is established; with a primary residence arrangement, the child lives with one parent and has contact with the other parent at fixed times.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Child support.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The parenting plan contains agreements on the financial contribution of each parent toward the costs of care and upbringing. The amount is determined based on the child&#8217;s needs and the financial capacity of both parents, in accordance with the Trema standards of the LBIO. Annual indexation applies automatically unless parents agree otherwise. For 2026, the indexation is 4.6 percent.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Information and communication.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Parents establish how they will inform each other about important decisions regarding school, medical care, sports, and extracurricular activities. Agreements on how and how often parents have contact regarding the children are also part of this section. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Additional agreements.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to the mandatory components, parents can include agreements on international travel, management of the child&#8217;s passport, contact with new partners, and an evaluation moment to revise the plan over time. In Simmelink files, we see that clear additional agreements prevent later discussions, especially regarding passports and international travel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_is_a_parenting_plan_mandatory\"><\/span>When is a parenting plan mandatory?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A parenting plan is legally mandatory in four situations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>in a divorce involving minor children (Article 815, paragraph 2 Rv);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>upon the dissolution of a registered partnership with minor children;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>in a legal separation involving minor children;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>upon the termination of cohabitation by unmarried parents who exercise joint parental authority.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In a divorce, the court assesses whether the plan is complete and balanced. An incomplete or unsigned plan will be stayed by the judge until the parents reach an agreement or a court order is made. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_the_parenting_plan_relate_to_parental_authority_and_support\"><\/span>How does the parenting plan relate to parental authority and support?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The parenting plan is closely linked to other agreements within family law and must be drafted in alignment with them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Parental authority. <\/strong>Parental authority determines who has legal decision-making power over the child. With joint parental authority, both parents make joint decisions on matters such as schooling and medical treatment. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Division of care. <\/strong>Division of care regulates the actual time spent between parents. Co-parenting is a form where both parents have approximately equal care time. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Child support. <\/strong>Child support ensures a balanced distribution of the costs of care and upbringing, based on the Trema standards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The judge assesses whether these three components are consistent with each other, with the best interests of the child as the starting point. In Simmelink files, we see that inconsistency between parental authority, division of care, and child support is the most common reason for additional questions from the court. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_the_judge_assess_the_parenting_plan\"><\/span>How does the judge assess the parenting plan?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The judge reviews the parenting plan on four points:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>both parents have cooperated on the plan;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the plan is balanced;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the plan meets the legal requirements for division of care, child support, and provision of information;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the best interests of the child are sufficiently safeguarded.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If the plan is incomplete or unclear, the judge may request adjustments or establish an arrangement themselves under Article 1:253a BW. In practice, judges weigh three factors in disputes over the division of care: each parent&#8217;s existing caregiving role, practical feasibility (work, place of residence, school), and the child&#8217;s age and wishes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_route_fits_your_situation_consultation_mediation_or_legal_proceedings\"><\/span>Which route fits your situation: consultation, mediation, or legal proceedings?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Consultation or mediation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many parents draft the plan together under the guidance of a mediator or lawyer. This route is suitable for parents who can still communicate and are willing to reach agreements jointly. The turnaround time is shorter, and parties maintain more control over the outcome.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Legal proceedings at the court.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When consultation fails, the parenting plan becomes part of the divorce proceedings. The judge may request additional information, suggest adjustments, or establish an arrangement themselves. When there is a lack of agreement on a single component, we often see that a combined approach works: consultation where possible, a court decision where necessary.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>International situations.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For parents living in different countries, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hcch.net\/en\/instruments\/conventions\/full-text\/?cid=70\">1996 Hague Child Protection Convention<\/a> determines which authority is competent for measures to protect the child. Within Europe, Brussels II-ter additionally applies. In principle, the Dutch court has jurisdiction if the child has their habitual residence here. Read more on the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/international\/\">international family law<\/a> page.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_examples\"><\/span>Practical examples<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flexible care arrangement for varying work patterns<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A couple turned to us where one parent worked abroad weekly. The existing work schedules changed monthly and required a care arrangement that was not fixed on a standard week-by-week structure, without compromising continuity for the children. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The legal analysis focused on combining a rolling-base care calendar with clear information provision and a fallback arrangement for unexpected changes. For education and medical care, a decisive decision-making role per subject was assigned to maintain decisiveness in the absence of one parent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Co-parenting with equal division of care<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another couple consciously chose co-parenting with an equal division of care. Both parents lived within a ten-minute commute of the children&#8217;s school and wanted to remain fully and equally involved in daily care. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The legal implementation focused on a clear distribution of school holidays, public holidays, and extracurricular activities, plus an evaluation moment after two years. Child support was calculated according to Trema standards based on the difference in financial capacity and the existing division of care, rather than on a primary residence basis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Amendment after a parent&#8217;s relocation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In a third file, the parents initially lived close to each other after the divorce. A few years later, one parent took a position in another region, making the existing division of care no longer practically feasible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The legal assessment focused on whether the increase in income constituted a significant change in circumstances within the meaning of Article 1:401 BW, and how the division of care could be recalibrated without disrupting continuity for the children. A revision through mutual consultation, recorded in an amended parenting plan, prevented legal proceedings. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-advocaten-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\" id=\"advocaten\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Our_Attorneys_at_Law\"><\/span>Our Attorneys at Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Simmelink Lawyers team specializes in family law, International family law, and inheritance law.<br\/>The lawyers combine legal expertise with international experience.<br\/>Clients are guided by one dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire process and communicates discreetly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In complex financial matters or an international component, a specialized lawyer is important.<br\/>We strive for legally correct, practically feasible agreements that give you predictability and peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n<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>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-quotes-block gb-element-b0365a51 testimonial-block\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"s-quote-card-icon gb-media-5cab658b testimonial-icon\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/quote.svg\" title=\"quote\">\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-text testimonial-text\"><em><em>Clients are guided by a dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-author testimonial-author\">Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-be249d49 s-margin-vert-xl s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bfdf1120 gb-headline-text gbp-section__headline\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1e85dbd5 gb-accordion\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d1310856 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-19f7b745 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-19f7b745\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">When is the parenting plan submitted to the court?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" 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\" 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-52e77243\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-52e77243\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-b299caa3 gb-headline-text\">The parenting plan is submitted to the court at the same time as the petition for divorce or dissolution of the partnership. The plan must be attached to that petition before the judge can grant the divorce (Article 815, paragraph 2 Rv). <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3600de9f gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-ba8b12fe gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-ba8b12fe\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Is a parenting plan also mandatory without marriage?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" 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\" 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-54bea308\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-54bea308\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-784447a0 gb-headline-text\">With joint parental authority, a parenting plan is mandatory, even without marriage or a registered partnership. Unmarried parents who have joint parental authority (through acknowledgment plus registration in the parental authority register) must draft a parenting plan upon termination of cohabitation. With sole parental authority, there is no legal obligation, but a written arrangement is advisable in practice.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d7e7a6c6 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-361ea87d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-361ea87d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">What if the other parent refuses to cooperate?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" 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\" 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-c5948222\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c5948222\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-51ced355 gb-headline-text\">Als de andere ouder niet meewerkt, kan de rechter een voorlopige regeling treffen op grond van artikel 1:253a BW. Mediation kan helpen om alsnog tot afspraken te komen. Bij blijvend conflict beslist de rechter zelf over zorgverdeling, gezag en omgang. Lees meer over <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/ex-partner-doesnt-keep-a-parenting-plan\/\">niet-naleving en geschillen over het ouderschapsplan<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fc394c18 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8dd43315 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8dd43315\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can the parenting plan be adjusted?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" 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\" 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-d545942c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d545942c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c9e904f9 gb-headline-text\">Yes, a parenting plan can be adjusted if circumstances have changed significantly or if the plan no longer aligns with reality. Parents can record this through mutual consultation or via a request to the court. Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/\">amending a parenting plan<\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2191c498 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-6cfa744c gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-6cfa744c\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">How is child support determined in the parenting plan?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" 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\" 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-3ecf938b\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3ecf938b\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-6bc463d5 gb-headline-text\">Child support is part of the parenting plan and is calculated based on the child&#8217;s needs and the financial capacity of both parents, in accordance with the Trema standards of the LBIO. The annual indexation for 2026 is 4.6 percent.  Learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/\">alimony<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_we_help_you\"><\/span>How can we help you?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When drafting, reviewing, or amending a parenting plan, you can choose between two routes, depending on where you stand in your decision-making process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consultation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For those who still want to know which route is suitable, which agreements are common, and what the legal consequences of certain choices are. In an advisory meeting, we map out your situation legally and discuss the available routes. The meeting is billed at an hourly rate, with no further work following unless you wish. Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">the advisory meeting<\/a>.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Intake<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For those who have decided that legal guidance is necessary, either for drafting a new parenting plan, amending an existing plan, or a dispute over compliance. During an intake interview, we initiate legal representation and a file is opened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After your registration, our secretariat will contact you within one working day to discuss and schedule the appropriate route.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\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=\"Discuss_your_situation_with_us\"><\/span>Discuss your situation with us<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center s-fs-h5\">An early consultation provides clarity on your legal position and the routes that suit your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-text s-btn-primary s-btn--small\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Schedule a consultation<\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">Or contact us by phone via: <a href=\"tel:+31303078732\">030 &#8211; 30 787 32<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Trust_and_quality\"><\/span>Trust and quality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Simmelink Lawyers is affiliated with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.advocatenorde.nl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Dutch Bar Association<\/a>.<br\/>Read more about our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/reviews\/\">reviews<\/a> or see how we work via our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/\">working method<\/a>.<\/p>\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:\/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 parenting plan establishes agreements regarding the division of care, child support, and the provision of information between parents after a divorce or termination of cohabitation. The plan is legally mandatory for divorces involving minor children under Article 815, paragraph 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure (Rv), and must be attached &#8230; <a title=\"Parenting plan\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Parenting plan\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":21815,"parent":24947,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-24955","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\/24955","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=24955"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24955\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38215,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24955\/revisions\/38215"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24947"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21815"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=24955"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}