{"id":36215,"date":"2026-03-17T19:01:20","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:01:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/"},"modified":"2026-03-17T19:01:24","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:01:24","slug":"kinderen","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/","title":{"rendered":"Divorcing with children"},"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\/divorce\/kinderen\/#The_parenting_plan_what_is_it_and_what_does_it_contain\" >The parenting plan: what is it and what does it contain?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#Parental_authority_after_a_divorce\" >Parental authority after a divorce<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#Co-parenting_or_a_contact_arrangement_what_suits_your_situation\" >Co-parenting or a contact arrangement: what suits your situation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#Child_support_how_is_the_contribution_calculated\" >Child support: how is the contribution calculated?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#What_is_the_procedure_for_a_divorce_with_children\" >What is the procedure for a divorce with children?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#What_if_parents_cannot_reach_an_agreement_together\" >What if parents cannot reach an agreement together?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#Divorce_with_children_and_an_international_component\" >Divorce with children and an international component<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#Based_on_Real_Cases\" >Based on Real Cases<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/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 s-content-block--filled gb-element-15683c21 block-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow\">\n<p class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0\">In brief<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Divorce with children refers to a divorce involving minor children, for which the law imposes additional obligations on both parents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In a divorce involving minor children, a parenting plan is legally required. This document establishes agreements regarding parental authority, residence, and the provision of information. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In most cases, both parents retain joint <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/authority\/\">parental authority<\/a> over the children after a divorce, unless the court decides otherwise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The division of care and upbringing is established in a contact arrangement or <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/familierecht\/co-ouderschap\/\">co-parenting arrangement<\/a>, depending on the situation of both parents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The financial contribution of a parent toward the costs of care and upbringing is settled through <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/child-support\/\">child support<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Depending on the circumstances, a divorce with children can be finalized through consultation, mediation, or legal proceedings.<\/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=\"The_parenting_plan_what_is_it_and_what_does_it_contain\"><\/span>The parenting plan: what is it and what does it contain?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When there are minor children, a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/\">parenting plan<\/a> is legally required. The parenting plan is submitted to the court along with the divorce petition and contains at least the following agreements: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The division of care and upbringing tasks: who has the children and when?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How both parents inform each other about important matters concerning the children.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The manner in which parents consult with each other regarding decisions about the children.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The amount of <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/child-support\/\">child support<\/a>: the financial contribution of a parent toward the children&#8217;s costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The parenting plan can be drawn up in mutual consultation, through mediation, or determined by the court if the parties cannot reach an agreement. In many cases, a carefully drafted parenting plan leads to fewer conflicts in the long term. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Parental_authority_after_a_divorce\"><\/span>Parental authority after a divorce<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the Netherlands, parents generally exercise <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/authority\/\">parental authority<\/a> over their children jointly, even after a divorce. Joint parental authority means that both parents remain involved in important decisions regarding the upbringing, school, medical care, and place of residence of the children. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Only in exceptional situations does the court grant sole parental authority to one parent. In many cases, the court assesses whether joint parental authority is in the best interests of the child, even when the relationship between the parents is strained. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the circumstances, the court may also impose an information arrangement, whereby the parent without daily care is entitled to information about the child.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Co-parenting_or_a_contact_arrangement_what_suits_your_situation\"><\/span>Co-parenting or a contact arrangement: what suits your situation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The division of daily care for children after a divorce can be organized in various ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Co-parenting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/familierecht\/co-ouderschap\/\">co-parenting<\/a>, the children stay with both parents to an equal or near-equal extent. This requires good cooperation between parents and a stable situation on both sides. Co-parenting is not appropriate in all cases; the age of the children, the living situation, and the mutual relationship all play a role.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contact arrangement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When the children have their main residence with one parent, a contact arrangement is established for the time the children spend with the other parent. The arrangement is tailored to the age and needs of the children. In many cases, the court assesses what is in the best interests of the child if the parents cannot reach an agreement themselves.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Would you like to know which division best suits your situation? A <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce-lawyer\/\">divorce lawyer<\/a> helps in establishing agreements that are legally sound and align with the situation of both parents and the children. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Child_support_how_is_the_contribution_calculated\"><\/span>Child support: how is the contribution calculated?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After a divorce, a parent who provides less or no care for the children is obliged to make a financial contribution to the costs of care and upbringing. This contribution is called <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/child-support\/\">child support<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The amount of child support is calculated based on two factors: the needs of the child and the financial capacity of both parents. In the Netherlands, the calculation uses the Trema standards\u2014guidelines applied by the courts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Would you like an indication of the child support in your situation? Use the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/child-support-calculation\/\">calculate child support<\/a> tool, or discuss your situation in a consultation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alimony is not a fixed amount. Depending on circumstances\u2014such as a change in income or the living arrangement\u2014a request for modification or recalculation can be submitted. <\/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_is_the_procedure_for_a_divorce_with_children\"><\/span>What is the procedure for a divorce with children?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A divorce with children largely follows the same procedure as a regular divorce, but with additional steps regarding the parenting plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Orientation: determining which agreements regarding children and finances are necessary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drafting the parenting plan: through consultation, mediation, or the court.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submitting the divorce petition to the court, with the parenting plan attached.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Court ruling and registration of the divorce.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Implementation of the agreements and, if necessary, <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/nazorg-na-scheiding\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"34935\">adjustment in case of changed circumstances<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Would you like to know how the procedure works in your situation? <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Contact us<\/a>; it is for orientation purposes and without obligation.<\/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_if_parents_cannot_reach_an_agreement_together\"><\/span>What if parents cannot reach an agreement together?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When parents cannot agree on the parenting plan, the contact arrangement, or child support, the court can make a decision. Each parent is then represented by their own lawyer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In such cases, the court assesses what is in the best interests of the child, whereby the well-being of the children carries more weight than the wishes of the parents. In many cases, the court also advises engaging a parenting or contact counselor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you stuck in negotiations? Discuss your situation with a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce-lawyer\/\">divorce lawyer<\/a>. Depending on the circumstances, several routes are possible\u2014from renewed consultation to legal proceedings.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Divorce_with_children_and_an_international_component\"><\/span>Divorce with children and an international component<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When one or both parents have a different nationality or live abroad, a divorce with children involves additional legal complexity. Questions regarding the jurisdiction of the court, applicable law, and the recognition of agreements in other countries then play a role. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A specific situation is <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/international\/\">international child abduction or relocation<\/a>, where a parent wishes to move abroad with the children. This requires consent from the other parent or a court decision. For more information, see the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/international\/\">international family law<\/a> page.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In international matters concerning children, a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/second-opinion\/\">second opinion<\/a> from a specialized lawyer is often useful.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Based_on_Real_Cases\"><\/span>Based on Real Cases<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Parenting plan in case of a difference of opinion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In one case, Simmelink Lawyers assisted a client in a divorce where both parents had a different division of care in mind. One wanted co-parenting, while the other did not see it as feasible given the work schedules.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By carefully mapping out the situation and taking the interests of the children as a starting point, an arrangement could be established that was workable for both parents and legally sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recalculation of child support after a change in income<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A client contacted us after a change in his income situation. The previously established child support no longer matched the new circumstances. In such a case, the legal framework is important: a request for modification is possible when there are changed circumstances that the court could not foresee at the time. Depending on the circumstances, there are several routes possible to adjust the child support.   <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-479128b1 sim-section\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d2156fab sim-section__inner-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c3c6957d\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9ac3bf72 gb-headline-text\">Are you unsure about the best course of action in your situation?<br>Schedule an appointment with us.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2897bd62\">\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-0c012c4c gb-button-text sim-btn-action sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Contact Us<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\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>At Simmelink Lawyers, you work with lawyers specialized in family law, international family law, and inheritance law. We work intensively together on solutions that are legally sound and do personal justice to your situation.<\/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:\/\/simmelink.nl\/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\"><strong>Is a parenting plan always mandatory?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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 xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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\">Yes. In a divorce involving minor children, a parenting plan is legally required. The plan is submitted along with the divorce petition. Without a parenting plan, the court cannot process the petition. If parents cannot reach an agreement themselves, the court will establish the plan.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2712f11d gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-17f3fa07 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-17f3fa07\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>Will my ex also retain parental authority over the children after the divorce?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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 xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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-061dc4a6\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-061dc4a6\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-98660516 gb-headline-text\">In most cases, both parents retain joint parental authority over the children after the divorce. This does not change automatically due to a divorce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sole parental authority is only granted when joint parental authority is demonstrably contrary to the best interests of the child. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is general information; every situation requires its own assessment.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-88866d7b gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-1365ae94 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-1365ae94\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What if my ex does not comply with the contact arrangement?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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 xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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-433b3ebd\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-433b3ebd\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d0db8993 gb-headline-text\">When a parent does not comply with the established contact arrangement, there are legal means to enforce compliance. In many cases, the court assesses whether there are grounds for a penalty payment or a modification of the arrangement.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the circumstances, conciliation or mediation can also be a first step. A lawyer can advise which route is most appropriate in your situation. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7afb061f gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-f5653bff gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-f5653bff\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>Can I move abroad with my children after the divorce?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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 xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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-e59cd61c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e59cd61c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-e246ca56 gb-headline-text\">Moving abroad with minor children is only possible with the consent of the other parent or with a court decision. Without this consent, a move can be classified as international child abduction. Depending on the circumstances and the interests of the children, the court assesses whether the request will be granted.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-cc72da1a gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-b0b432df gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-b0b432df\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>How is the amount of child support determined?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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 xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/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-5eb67c2e\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-5eb67c2e\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-85f9edb3 gb-headline-text\">The amount of child support is calculated based on the needs of the children and the financial capacity of both parents. Dutch courts use the Trema standards for this purpose.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The calculation depends on income, housing costs, and the division of care. This is general information; the exact calculation varies per situation. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\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\/2024\/05\/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 In brief Divorce with children refers to a divorce involving minor children, for which the law imposes additional obligations on both parents. The parenting plan: what is it and what does it contain? When there are minor children, a parenting plan is legally required. The parenting plan is submitted to the court &#8230; <a title=\"Divorcing with children\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/kinderen\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Divorcing with children\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":21815,"parent":24950,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-36215","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\/36215","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\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36215"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36215\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":36216,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36215\/revisions\/36216"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24950"}],"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=36215"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}