{"id":36281,"date":"2026-03-17T19:11:32","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:11:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/firstname-change\/detentie\/"},"modified":"2026-04-20T21:26:26","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T20:26:26","slug":"detention","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/","title":{"rendered":"First Name Change after Detention"},"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\/detention\/#Is_a_first_name_change_after_detention_feasible\" >Is a first name change after detention feasible?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/#What_changes_and_what_does_not_change_after_a_first_name_change\" >What changes and what does not change after a first name change?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/#How_does_a_first_name_change_relate_to_probation_and_parole\" >How does a first name change relate to probation and parole?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/#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-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/#What_does_a_first_name_change_after_detention_cost\" >What does a first name change after detention cost?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/#Safety_and_privacy_in_the_procedure\" >Safety and privacy in the procedure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/#Based_on_Real_Cases\" >Based on Real Cases<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/#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\/detention\/#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\/detention\/#Trust_and_quality\" >Trust and quality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/#Have_your_situation_assessed_without_obligation\" >Have your situation assessed without obligation<\/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>A first name change after detention is a court procedure through which the official first name is changed based on reintegration, safety, psychological well-being, or personal development as a compelling reason under Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The judge does not assess the criminal past, but rather the current stability, future prospects, and the substantiation of the compelling reason.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A first name change alters the official registration in the Personal Records Database (BRP), but not the Citizen Service Number (BSN) or the criminal record at the Judicial Information Service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A lawyer is mandatory. The procedure is conducted in writing; a hearing is the exception. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The procedure takes an average of six weeks to six months, followed by a three-month appeal period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The costs amount to \u20ac341 in court fees and a \u20ac558 fixed lawyer&#8217;s fee, totaling \u20ac899.<\/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=\"Is_a_first_name_change_after_detention_feasible\"><\/span>Is a first name change after detention feasible?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A first name change after detention is feasible when you can substantiate a compelling reason based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0002656\/2023-07-01#Boek1_Titeldeel2_Artikel4\">Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>, the statutory article that grants the court the authority to grant a first name change. Judges structurally recognize reintegration, safety, psychological well-being, and personal development as compelling reasons. In doing so, they do not assess the criminal past, but the current situation and the future prospects of the petitioner.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following factors are generally taken into account during the assessment:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A stable living environment: a fixed place of residence, work or daily activities, and structural guidance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prospects for a healthy rebuilding of life, as evidenced by probation reports, employer statements, or counselor statements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Psychological burden of the current name, for example due to negative associations or demonstrable health complaints.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Necessity of a new name within reintegration, for example when the use of the old name leads to obstacles online or socially.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consistent use of the new name in the social or counseling environment. This is not an obligation, but it strengthens the request. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In practice, the vast majority of well-substantiated requests are handled in writing. An oral hearing is the exception and occurs primarily if the judge has additional questions regarding the substantiation or the interests of any minor 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=\"What_changes_and_what_does_not_change_after_a_first_name_change\"><\/span>What changes and what does not change after a first name change?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For realistic expectations, it is important to be clear about the scope of a first name change. The court only changes the official first name; other registrations remain unchanged. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Changed after approval<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Not changed by the procedure<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>First name in the birth certificate (as a subsequent entry)<\/td><td>Citizen Service Number (BSN)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>First name in the Personal Records Database (BRP)<\/td><td>Criminal record at the Judicial Information Service; this remains linked to the BSN<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>First name in passport and identity card (after a new application)<\/td><td>Content of the Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG); this is based on judicial registration, not on the choice of name<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Registration with the Tax Authorities, UWV, health insurer, and pension fund (automatically via the BRP)<\/td><td>Publicly available information from previous media or case law publications<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Registration with bank, employer, school, and other institutions (after personal notification)<\/td><td>Identifiability through biometric data (fingerprint, photo) in judicial systems<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A first name change is therefore a targeted legal action with concrete effects in registers and documents, not an erasure of the criminal past. Judges value requests in which this scope is realistically framed. Simmelink Lawyers tailors the substantiation accordingly.  <\/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_a_first_name_change_relate_to_probation_and_parole\"><\/span>How does a first name change relate to probation and parole?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A first name change is legally separate from ongoing probation supervision, a probationary period, or special conditions. The court handling the first name change does not look at any potential probationary period; the criminal court has no role in this. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In practice, there are two points of attention:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Provision of information to the probation service. The probation service works with the BSN and not with the name, and generally receives the new first name automatically via the Personal Records Database. We advise clients to actively report the name change to the probation service or the involved treatment institution themselves to prevent administrative confusion.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Probation conditions. A first name change does not interfere with probation conditions, unless a specific condition explicitly prohibits a name change. This rarely occurs and is assessed during the intake interview.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When a first name change is requested simultaneously with an ongoing assistance program, it helps to include statements from that program as substantiation for the petition. A probation report or a statement from the assisting institution strengthens the substantiation of the compelling reason. <\/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<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1. Intake and feasibility assessment <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In a confidential intake interview, Simmelink Lawyers discusses your situation, the desired name, the substantiation, and any available statements. You will receive a concrete assessment of the feasibility and a clear cost overview. After registration, the secretariat will contact you within one working day.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2. Collecting documents <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The following documents are required for the petition:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A recent copy of your birth certificate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A recent extract from the Personal Records Database (BRP).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A copy of your ID.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Statements from the probation service, social work, healthcare institution, employer, or assisting organization, insofar as available and relevant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any medical reports substantiating the psychological burden of the current name.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3. Drafting Petition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The lawyer prepares the petition with a legally precise substantiation. The phrasing is calm, factual, and without unnecessary details about the criminal past. The draft will be discussed with you before it is submitted.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4. Filing with the court <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The petition is submitted to the court in your place of residence. Most requests are handled in writing. If you are invited to a hearing, the lawyer will accompany you. For applications involving minor children, the judge is more likely to invite the parties for a brief discussion.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5. Court order and appeal period <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The court issues a written ruling. After the three-month appeal period has expired, the change is added as a subsequent entry to the birth certificate. The ruling is not made public.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6. Updating documents <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Institutions with access to the Personal Records Database receive the new name automatically. You must apply for a new passport or identity card at the municipality yourself. The bank, employer, healthcare provider, and other institutions must be informed separately.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_a_first_name_change_after_detention_cost\"><\/span>What does a first name change after detention cost?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Cost item<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Amount 2026<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Court fee<\/td><td>\u20ac341<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Simmelink lawyer fee (fixed)<\/td><td>\u20ac558<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total<\/td><td>\u20ac899<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Additional documents (copy of birth certificate, BRP extract)<\/td><td>Per municipal statement; generally under \u20ac20 per document<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The lawyer&#8217;s fee is a fixed amount agreed upon in advance, without subsequent calculation, provided no hearing is necessary. For a detailed explanation of the cost structure, please refer to the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/costs-first-name-change\/\">costs for first name change<\/a>. In practice, legal aid is not available for first name changes; the Legal Aid Board generally does not grant a subsidy for this, as the interest of the case does not outweigh the costs of legal assistance.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safety_and_privacy_in_the_procedure\"><\/span>Safety and privacy in the procedure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For clients with concrete safety concerns, the privacy of the procedure is a point of attention. A first name change through the court has three relevant safeguards: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hearings are the exception in first name change procedures. Most requests are handled in writing, meaning a public hearing is not an issue. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ruling is not made public and does not appear on rechtspraak.nl, unless the judge anonymizes it and deems publication to be in the interest of legal development. The latter almost never occurs in first name changes. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Personal Records Database is not a public register. Institutions only receive the new data if they have a legal basis to do so. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When safety is a primary reason for the request, it helps to state the safety facts concretely and professionally, supported by police, probation, or counselor statements. The judge weighs the safety necessity more heavily as the substantiation becomes more factual. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regardless of the procedure, identifiability through public sources (previous media reports, archives, case law publications regarding the underlying criminal case) remains unchanged. A first name change is not a tool against previous publicity. For that subject, a separate procedure regarding the right to be forgotten is applicable, for which Simmelink Lawyers can provide a referral if desired.  <\/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<p>The examples below are anonymized and compiled from multiple files. The descriptions focus on the Client&#8217;s situation and the legal approach. Outcomes are not mentioned.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Client with a stable life and a need to distance themselves from the old name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Client who had built a stable life after detention with work, assisted living, and structural guidance, found that the old first name continued to cause hindrance in his social environment. Simmelink Lawyers substantiated the request with a clear link between the desired name and current development, supplemented by statements from the assisting healthcare and work environment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Client with psychological burden due to associations with the old name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Client experienced daily psychological burden due to the associations the old name held for him. The name symbolized a period he had left behind. Simmelink Lawyers formulated the substantiation calmly and factually, emphasizing psychological well-being and future prospects, and included available statements from the treating healthcare provider.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Client moved to a new place of residence for a stable restart<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Client had moved to another city after detention to build a new life elsewhere. The old name was perceived as an obstacle in the new environment during job applications and social integration. Simmelink Lawyers prepared the petition with statements from the involved assistance services and a concrete future plan as substantiation for the compelling reason.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Client with a permanent job lost after discovery of past by a colleague<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Client had built a permanent career after detention and was performing excellently. When a colleague discovered the past, unrest arose in the workplace, followed by dismissal. Simmelink Lawyers prepared the petition with an emphasis on the importance of re-entering the labor market without a repetition of the same dynamics, substantiated by employer statements and reintegration reports.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Specific names and details have been anonymized. In our files, the peace, safety, and reintegration of the Client are central. <\/em><\/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:\/\/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\">Does my criminal record change if I change my first name?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">No. The criminal record is managed by the Judicial Information Service based on the Citizen Service Number, which remains unchanged. A first name change alters the name on future documents and registrations, but does not change the criminal record and does not affect the content of the Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG).  <\/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 detention a valid reason for a first name change?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">Detention in itself is not a legal basis. The compelling reason that the court assesses is the underlying situation: reintegration, safety, psychological well-being, or personal development. These are structurally recognized when they are factually substantiated.  <\/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>Do I need to explain my past in detail in the petition?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">No. Only insofar as it is relevant to the substantiation of the compelling reason. Simmelink Lawyers formulates the context respectfully and professionally, without unnecessary details about the underlying criminal case.  <\/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\">Do I have to come to court for a hearing?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">In most cases, no. Requests for a first name change are usually handled in writing. If invited to a hearing, the lawyer will accompany you.  <\/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\">Will my probation officer or the public prosecutor be informed of the change?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">The court that decides on your first name change does not actively inform these parties. Through the Personal Records Database, the new first name generally reaches institutions linked to the BSN. We advise informing the probation service or the assisting institution yourself to prevent administrative confusion.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8005eeca gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-a049096c gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-a049096c\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can a first name change be done during a probationary period?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-62d082ca\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-62d082ca\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-5d24ba4d gb-headline-text\">Yes, unless a specific probation condition prohibits it. This rarely occurs. In case of doubt, this will be assessed during the intake interview.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-f6f10321 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-902d823b gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-902d823b\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">What if my past remains searchable via the internet?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-431f4cd1\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-431f4cd1\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-51db9a98 gb-headline-text\">A first name change alters the official registration, not previously published media reports or online archives. For that subject, there is a separate procedure regarding the right to be forgotten. Simmelink Lawyers can provide a referral for this if desired.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c2ad6b79 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-fdb46259 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-fdb46259\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Where can I find the general explanation about first name changes?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-0725e4b5\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0725e4b5\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-6df729c3 gb-headline-text\">The general explanation regarding the procedure, conditions, and costs for a first name change in all situations can be found on our hub page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\">change first name<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"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 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=\"Have_your_situation_assessed_without_obligation\"><\/span>Have your situation assessed without obligation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Whether a first name change is promising in your situation depends on the substantiation of the compelling reason. Simmelink Lawyers assesses your situation within one working day via the feasibility check. For more complex situations, for example in combination with an ongoing assistance program or in case of safety concerns, a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">consultation<\/a> is appropriate. In that meeting, we will discuss the route, the substantiation, and realistic expectations regarding the scope in detail.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-text s-btn-primary s-btn--small\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Contact Us<\/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><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/RaadvRechtspraak.svg\" alt=\"\" title=\"RaadvJustice\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-07670684\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"340\" height=\"105\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-07670684\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png\" alt=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" title=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png 340w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo-300x93.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On this page In brief A first name change after detention is a court procedure through which the official first name is changed based on reintegration, safety, psychological well-being, or personal development as a compelling reason under Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code. Is a first name change after detention feasible? A first name &#8230; <a title=\"First Name Change after Detention\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/detention\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about First Name Change after Detention\">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":{"0":"post-36281","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\/36281","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=36281"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36281\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37231,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36281\/revisions\/37231"}],"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=36281"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}