{"id":36242,"date":"2026-03-17T19:02:20","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:02:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/"},"modified":"2026-05-07T00:24:25","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T23:24:25","slug":"middle-name","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/","title":{"rendered":"Middle name"},"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\/middle-name\/#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\/middle-name\/#When_is_adding_changing_or_removing_a_middle_name_feasible\" >When is adding, changing, or removing a middle name feasible?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#What_are_the_legal_aspects_of_changing_a_middle_name\" >What are the legal aspects of changing a middle name?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#Examples_from_our_Practice\" >Examples from our Practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#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-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#How_does_the_procedure_work_step-by-step\" >How does the procedure work step-by-step?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#What_does_a_middle_name_change_cost\" >What does a middle name change cost?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#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\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#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\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#Specific_applications_with_their_own_treatment\" >Specific applications with their own treatment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/#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<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adding, changing, or removing a middle name for administrative, family consistency, or identity reasons can be done via a petition to the court based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/jci1.3:c:BWBR0002656&amp;boek=1&amp;titeldeel=2&amp;artikel=4\">Art. 1:4 BW<\/a>. In practice, judges generally weigh three factors for this type of request: the interest the client has in the change, whether the desired name is already used in practice or is merely a wish, and whether the chosen route is proportionate to that interest. For theme-specific grounds such as a tribute to a family member, religious renunciation, childhood experiences, or gender identity, separate procedures apply on other pages. The total costs at Simmelink Lawyers amount to \u20ac899: a \u20ac558 attorney fee including VAT plus \u20ac341 in court fees.   <\/p>\n<\/div>\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>The court can add, change, or remove a middle name based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/jci1.3:c:BWBR0002656&amp;boek=1&amp;titeldeel=2&amp;artikel=4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Art. 1:4 BW<\/a> when you demonstrate a compelling reason; family consistency between siblings, identity confirmation, correction of an unintended omission during birth registration, and administrative simplification are among the recognized grounds in our practice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In these types of requests, judges generally look at three things: the interest you have in the middle name, whether the desired name is already used in practice, and whether the addition or replacement is proportionate to that interest.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Addition is procedurally lighter than replacement and is well-suited for tributes, family consistency, or making a name that is already in use official; replacement requires stronger substantiation and is appropriate for situations where the existing name itself is burdensome.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The processing time is between six weeks and six months from submission; after that, a three-month appeal period applies before the change becomes final.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The total costs amount to \u20ac558 including VAT (fixed attorney fee) plus \u20ac341 in court fees, totaling \u20ac899; no surprises afterwards.<\/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=\"When_is_adding_changing_or_removing_a_middle_name_feasible\"><\/span>When is adding, changing, or removing a middle name feasible?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A request to change a middle name is feasible in most situations when the reason provided serves a recognizable interest and the desired situation aligns with actual use or a concrete familial or administrative fact. The current middle name does not have to be burdensome itself: positive grounds such as family consistency between siblings, identity confirmation without a gender aspect, and equalizing the number of names between children are widely recognized in our practice. For theme-specific grounds (tribute to a specific family member, religious renunciation, childhood experiences, gender identity), separate procedures apply; see below under &#8220;Specific applications with their own treatment&#8221;.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Three factors consistently reappear in our files and in case law:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nature of the interest in the middle name. <\/strong>Does it concern family consistency between siblings, identity confirmation without thematic binding, administrative simplification, or the correction of an unintended omission during birth registration? The interest does not have to be exclusively legal; personal and familial grounds are widely recognized in practice. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Actual use or merely a wish.<br\/><\/strong>Is the desired middle name already used within the family, social environment, or correspondence? Existing use significantly strengthens the motivation. If the wish is new and the name is not yet used in practice, a more extensive personal substantiation is required in the petition.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Adding or replacing.<br\/><\/strong>Which route fits your situation? Addition is generally procedurally lighter and maintains continuity; replacement is more intrusive and is more appropriate for burdensome names or decisive identity changes. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When these three factors are sufficiently met and the desired name complies with birth certificate requirements (not inappropriate, not confusing with a surname), granting the request is feasible in most cases.<\/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_are_the_legal_aspects_of_changing_a_middle_name\"><\/span>What are the legal aspects of changing a middle name?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every middle name query fits on this page. We have a separate page for making a common name (roepnaam) official that has been in use for a long time. For an addition as a tribute to a specific family member (deceased grandparent, mentor, parent), the motivation is structured differently than for family consistency. For addition or removal where religious conviction plays a role, additional considerations apply. When the existing middle name is burdensome due to childhood experiences, bullying, or a concrete safety threat, separate procedures with theme-specific factors apply. And for the correction of a spelling error or incorrect registration during birth notification, a separate route exists. For those situations, we refer you to the specific pages; this page covers the addition, change, and removal of a middle name in a general sense, particularly on purely administrative, family consistency, and identity (non-gender) grounds.      <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Three characteristics make the middle name theme distinctive in practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Addition is procedurally lighter than replacement.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In our practice, a request for addition often leads to a smoother assessment than a request for replacement, because the impact on identity and the environment is smaller. Tributes, restoring family consistency, and making a name official that is already in use are common grounds for addition. With replacement, the emphasis is more often on a burdensome or dysfunctional name.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The focus of evidence differs: actual use or a future wish.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the desired middle name is already used in practice, the focus of evidence lies on demonstrating that use: correspondence, family designations, witness statements. If the wish is new and there is no actual use yet, the emphasis shifts to a more extensive personal motivation: why is this name important, and what interest does the addition serve? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Some situations have their own treatment process.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every middle name query fits on this page. We have a separate page for making a common name official that has been in use for a long time. For the addition of a baptismal name where religious conviction plays a role, additional considerations apply. And for the correction of a spelling error or incorrect registration during birth notification, a separate route exists. For those situations, we refer you to the specific pages; this page covers the addition, change, and removal of a middle name in a general sense.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Evidence and its weight in files.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Proof of actual use (correspondence, family designations, email signatures, social media)<\/td><td>Continuity and consistency of the desired name in daily life<\/td><td>Usually weightier in the addition route; central substantiation when the name has been in use for a long time<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Statements from family or the immediate environment<\/td><td>External confirmation of the interest or actual use<\/td><td>Additional weight; stronger with multiple independent statements or when restoring family consistency<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Familial documentation (birth certificates of siblings, genealogical data)<\/td><td>Family consistency ground in case of differences in the number of first names between siblings<\/td><td>Usually weightier in the family consistency route; objective and not self-chosen<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Personal written motivation<\/td><td>Personal interest and significance of the addition, change, or removal<\/td><td>Necessary; in the case of a purely future wish (without actual use), this is the central substantiation<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Practitioner&#8217;s statement or comparable document<\/td><td>Relevant in the removal route where the existing middle name is burdensome<\/td><td>Additional weight specifically in the removal route and when changing a burdensome name<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>The examples below are anonymized and compiled from multiple cases in our practice.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Addition of a family name as a middle name as a tribute<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A client wished to add a name that had been passed down in the family for generations but was not included in his birth registration. The name had been used informally by immediate family members throughout his life. The petition was substantiated with an explanation of the family tradition, a statement from a family member, and correspondence in which the name appeared in actual use.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Addition of an unintentionally omitted middle name during birth registration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A client had only one first name since birth, while his parents had intended a middle name at the time of registration. The middle name was omitted at the desk due to time pressure and miscommunication. The parents and the client had always used the intended name in family and informal contexts. The petition was substantiated with a statement from the parents regarding the original intention, an explanation of the actual use within the family since birth, and the wish to bring the official registration into alignment with this.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Addition to restore family consistency between siblings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A family had three children, two of whom had each been given two first names, while the third child had only one, because the second intended name was unintentionally omitted during birth registration. The parents desired administrative consistency between their children. The petition was substantiated with the birth certificates of the three children, an explanation of the original intention, and a brief motivation from the parent with authority.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Adjustment of the number of first names between twins<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Parents came to us with twins, one of whom had received two first names during birth registration and the other only one, due to a misunderstanding during the registration. The parents wished to establish symmetry between both children. The petition was submitted by both parents with authority and substantiated with the birth certificates of the twins, an explanation of the original intention in the choice of names, and a brief motivation regarding the importance of consistency between the twins. For minors, early intervention before the school period generally proceeds more smoothly in our practice than later corrections.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Removal of a middle name that proved burdensome in administrative use<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A client had three first names, the second of which was never used in daily life and led to recurring confusion in formal situations. The motivation focused on administrative simplification and avoiding repeated explanations in work and healthcare contacts. The petition was substantiated with a personal written motivation and examples of administrative discrepancy.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Addition of a middle name for a minor child before the school period<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Parents wished to add a middle name for their young child in memory of a grandparent. They came to us with the wish to implement the addition before the child started primary school, to limit administrative traces later on. The petition was submitted by the parent with authority, signed by both guardians, and substantiated with a brief motivation regarding the familial interest and the choice of timing.  <\/p>\n\n\n\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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the desired middle name is already used in practice by family, the community, or in the immediate social environment, the request is often handled with limited additional substantiation; if actual use is lacking and it is purely a future wish, a more extensive personal motivation is required in the petition. Furthermore: for minors, requests for addition before the school period generally proceed more smoothly than requests later in the school career, as the administrative traces are then more limited. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_the_procedure_work_step-by-step\"><\/span>How does the procedure work step-by-step?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The procedure takes place via a petition to the court and is submitted by a lawyer. We guide you through every step. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Consultation or intake meeting.<br\/><\/strong>In an initial <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">consultation<\/a> or intake meeting, we map out your situation: the nature of the interest in the middle name, existing actual use, desired route (addition, change, or removal), any familial context, and what substantiation is already available. For requests for a minor, we also discuss the timing and the child&#8217;s position in the procedure. You will receive an assessment of feasibility and a clear cost overview.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic choices beforehand.<br\/><\/strong>Two choices determine the structure of the file. First: adding or replacing. Addition is procedurally lighter and is well-suited for tributes, family consistency, and making a name official that is already in use; replacement requires stronger substantiation and is appropriate for situations where the existing name itself is burdensome. Second: the timing for minors. Changes before the school period generally leave fewer administrative traces than changes later in the school career. We discuss these choices before the petition is drafted.     <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Collecting documents.<br\/><\/strong>We help you organize all necessary documents: a recent birth certificate, a BRP extract, a valid ID, and the substantive substantiation (proof of actual use, familial documentation, personal motivation, any statements from family members or practitioners). For minors, the consent of both guardians is also required. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drafting the petition.<br\/><\/strong>The lawyer drafts the petition including the legal basis (Art. 1:4 BW), the compelling reason, the three factors applied to your situation, the desired route (addition, change, or removal), and the desired name. The petition is aligned with the choices made in step 2. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Submission to the court.<br\/><\/strong>We submit the petition to the court in your place of residence. Requests for a name change are settled without an oral hearing in the vast majority of cases.  If the court has additional questions, these will be handled in writing via your lawyer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Court order and waiting period.<br\/><\/strong>The court issues a ruling. If granted, a three-month appeal period applies during which the order can be appealed. After that period, the change is final.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Processing in the BRP and official documents.<br\/><\/strong>After the appeal period has expired, the change is added as a subsequent mention to the birth certificate and registered in the Personal Records Database (BRP). You can then have your passport, ID card, driver&#8217;s license, and other documentation updated. A full overview of the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\">name change procedure<\/a> and the legal conditions can be found on our main page.  <\/li>\n<\/ol>\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_middle_name_change_cost\"><\/span>What does a middle name change cost?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The total costs are known in advance and fixed: \u20ac899.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fixed attorney fee Simmelink (including VAT)<\/td><td>\u20ac558<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Court fee<\/td><td>\u20ac341<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We work with a fixed price agreement in advance: no hourly rate billing, no surprises afterwards. The attorney fee is the same for addition, change, and removal, and the same for requests for yourself or on behalf of minors. A more detailed explanation of the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/costs-first-name-change\/\">cost structure<\/a> can be found on our rates page.  <\/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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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\">Is adding a middle name legally lighter than replacing one?<\/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 legal basis is identical (Art. 1:4 BW), but in our practice, addition often leads to a smoother assessment. Addition leaves the existing first name intact and has a smaller impact on identity and the environment; replacement requires stronger substantiation because the existing name is being discarded. Which route is appropriate in your situation depends on the interest you have in the change and the actual use of the desired name.  <\/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\">My other children have two first names, but one child has only one. Can I equalize this? <\/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\">Yes, equalizing first names between siblings can be a compelling reason for adding a middle name. When siblings have multiple first names and one child does not, and you wish to correct that discrepancy, this is among the recognized grounds in our practice. The request is substantiated with birth certificates of the other children, an explanation of the original intention, and the consent of both guardians. For minors, early intervention before the school period generally proceeds more smoothly.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-4e720521 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-81c23266 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-81c23266\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>Our twins have different numbers of first names. Can we equalize this? <\/strong><\/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-9ca7e850\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-9ca7e850\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-b2765e68 gb-headline-text\">Yes. When a different number of first names was registered during the birth notification of twins while the parents intended symmetry, correcting this is a recognizable ground for addition. The legal route is the same as for other sibling discrepancies: a petition to the court, submitted by both guardians, substantiated with birth certificates of the twins and an explanation of the original intention. When the timing is early in the primary school period or before, administrative traces are limited and the process generally runs smoothly in our practice.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-f0f10adc gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-163f1c4a gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-163f1c4a\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>My brother or sister has a middle name that I also want to add. Is that possible? <\/strong><\/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-0bc67711\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0bc67711\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-2fbb7419 gb-headline-text\">Yes, provided the motivation aligns with family consistency rather than a tribute to a specific person. If the request stems from the wish to have the same name architecture as your brother or sister (for example, the same middle name that has been passed down in the family for generations), the motivation fits on this page. When the motivation primarily concerns a tribute to a specific family member (for example, a deceased grandparent whom both you and your brother wish to honor), we handle this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/\">adding or changing a first name due to family ties<\/a>. During the consultation, we will determine together which route fits your situation.   <\/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\"><strong>My child is still young; does it make sense to add a middle name now before the school period starts?<\/strong><\/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\">For minors, requests for addition before the school period generally proceed more smoothly in our practice than requests later in the school career. Administrative traces are then more limited and the transition in the social environment is less visible. We will discuss beforehand whether that timing is the best moment in your situation.  <\/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\">What is the maximum number of first names I can have?<\/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\">The law does not set a legal maximum, but the court weighs reasonableness. In practice, requests for up to three or four first names are handled without objection; for larger numbers, the request requires additional motivation. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2769f6b3 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-1983797d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-1983797d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can I request multiple changes in one petition?<\/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-7c18bfac\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7c18bfac\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-ee70b14f gb-headline-text\">Yes. Multiple changes can be requested in one petition, for example, the addition of one name and the removal of another. The court assesses each part individually for the presence of a compelling reason, without this leading to extra costs for court fees. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ac594b78 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-67b9c0f8 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-67b9c0f8\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">My first name has a spelling error. Does that belong on this page? <\/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-cca9d9b4\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-cca9d9b4\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-62dbcf1f gb-headline-text\">Not necessarily. For the correction of a demonstrable spelling error or an incorrect registration during birth notification, a separate route applies, which we cover on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/spelling-correction\/\">correcting a spelling error in a first name<\/a>. In some cases, correction can even be achieved via the civil registry without a court procedure. Which route is appropriate depends on the nature of the error.   <\/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=\"Specific_applications_with_their_own_treatment\"><\/span>Specific applications with their own treatment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some applications for a middle name have their own treatment process with theme-specific factors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tribute to a specific family member. <\/strong><br\/>When the wish stems from a tribute to a deceased grandparent, parent, or mentor with whom you had a special bond, we treat this as an independent theme on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/\">adding or changing a first name due to family ties<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Making a common name official. <\/strong><br\/>When the name you wish to add has already been used as a common name (roepnaam) for a long time, we handle this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/roepnaam-toevoegen\/\">officially recording a common name<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Religious grounds. <\/strong><br\/>When the desired name is a baptismal name and religious conviction plays a role, additional considerations apply. For conversion to a faith, we refer to <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/religieuze-bekering\/\">changing a first name due to religious conversion<\/a>; for distancing oneself from a religiously charged birth name without a current religious bond, see <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/doopnaam-niet-meer-gelovig\/\">changing a first name after religious renunciation<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Burdensome names due to childhood experiences. <\/strong><br\/>When the existing middle name reminds you of a burdensome period or relationship from your youth, we handle this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/jeugdtrauma\/\">changing a first name due to childhood experiences<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bullying experiences. <\/strong><br\/>When others have used the name against you or still use it in a bullying context, we handle this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/pesten\/\">changing a first name due to bullying<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Acute threat or stalking. <\/strong><br\/>When there is a safety threat where a name change is part of protection, we handle this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/bedreiging-stalking\/\">changing a first name due to threat or stalking<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gender identity. <\/strong><br\/>When the wish is related to a transition process or gender-diverse identity, we handle this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/\">changing a first name due to gender identity<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spelling error or incorrect registration. <\/strong><br\/>For the correction of a demonstrable spelling error or incorrect registration during birth notification, we refer to <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/spelling-correction\/\">correcting a spelling error in a first name<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 Adding, changing, or removing a middle name for administrative, family consistency, or identity reasons can be done via a petition to the court based on Art. 1:4 BW. In practice, judges generally weigh three factors for this type of request: the interest the client has in the change, whether the desired name &#8230; <a title=\"Middle name\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Middle name\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":27868,"parent":24912,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-36242","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","infinite-scroll-item","resize-featured-image"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36242","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=36242"}],"version-history":[{"count":22,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36242\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38218,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36242\/revisions\/38218"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24912"}],"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=36242"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}