{"id":36290,"date":"2026-03-17T19:11:52","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:11:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/firstname-change\/kind\/"},"modified":"2026-03-17T19:11:54","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:11:54","slug":"kind","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/kind\/","title":{"rendered":"First name change for children"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"s-section\">\n<div class=\"s-section-wrapper .s-stack-2xl\">\n<div class=\"s-section-main\">\n<div class=\"s-tldr-block wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow gb-element-91be6667\">\n<p class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0\">In brief<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\"><strong>First name change for a child<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Changing the <strong>first name of a minor child<\/strong> can only be done through the court, with a lawyer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In principle, <strong>both parents with parental responsibility<\/strong> must consent; if not, you can request <strong>substituted consent<\/strong> from the court.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The court assesses whether there is a <strong>compelling reason<\/strong>, such as bullying, psychological distress, identity issues, or cultural\/religious reasons.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The procedure takes a maximum of 6 months. We guide you through the preparation, the petition, contact with the court, and the finalization in the BRP (Personal Records Database). <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Simmelink Lawyers specializes in <strong>name law and custody matters<\/strong> and has extensive experience with first name changes for minors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-btn-group gb-element-7313c4f1\">\n<a class=\"gb-text s-btn-primary s-btn--small\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/forms\/first-name-change-feasibility-check\/?src=voornaam-kind&#038;cta=top\">Complete the feasibility check<\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">Free and without obligations<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-104373c3 wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\">Why parents want to change their child&#8217;s first name<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Parents decide to change their child&#8217;s first name for various reasons, which are often deeply personal or sensitive in nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The current name evokes <strong>painful memories<\/strong> of a parent or situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The child is being <strong>bullied<\/strong> or does not feel safe with the current name.<br\/>On our page about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/pesten\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"33636\">changing a first name due to bullying<\/a>, you can read how the court views safety and well-being.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The name does not match the child&#8217;s <strong>gender identity<\/strong> or personal identity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parents want to adjust the first name for <strong>cultural or religious reasons<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There appears to be an <strong>error or unfortunate choice<\/strong> on the birth certificate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There is a need for <strong>connection<\/strong> with a parent or family member, for example, by adding an extra first name.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A name change can then provide peace, recognition, and a new start, provided it is done carefully and is in the best interest of the child.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\">Must both parents consent to the name change?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For minors, the question of <strong>parental consent<\/strong> is often the first bottleneck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If both parents consent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If both parents have parental responsibility and you are in agreement, the procedure is as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The lawyer submits the <strong>petition for a first name change<\/strong> on your behalf.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The court assesses whether there is a <strong>compelling reason<\/strong> and whether the change is in the best interest of the child.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The child may be heard, depending on their age.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If the other parent does not agree<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If the other parent does not give consent, the consenting parent can request the court to grant <strong>substituted consent<\/strong> (Art. 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code). The court then makes the decision that would normally have to be taken by both parents jointly. In practice, this proceeds as follows:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The consenting parent submits a request through a lawyer for consent <strong>in place of<\/strong> the other parent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The court assesses whether the other parent&#8217;s refusal is <strong>unreasonable<\/strong>, given all the circumstances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The central focus is always: <strong>what is best for the child at this moment?<\/strong> Not who is &#8220;right,&#8221; but which decision serves the child&#8217;s interests most.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We help you carefully analyze the situation and estimate whether substituted consent is feasible in your case.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\">The role of your child: input and age limits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When <strong>changing a child&#8217;s first name<\/strong>, the child&#8217;s opinion plays an important role. In practice, courts use the following guidelines: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Up to approximately 8 years old<\/strong><br\/>The court looks primarily at the parents&#8217; substantiation. However, information from, for example, the school, GP, or care providers can be taken into account. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From approximately 8 years old<\/strong><br\/>The court may invite the child for a conversation. This takes place in a safe setting and <strong>without parents in the room<\/strong>, so the child can speak freely. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From 12 years old<\/strong><br\/>Children aged 12 and older <strong>must be heard<\/strong> (Art. 809 of the Code of Civil Procedure). They may give their opinion and this carries significant weight, but <strong>they do not have to formally consent<\/strong> to the first name change. The court ultimately decides based on the best interest of the child.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We prepare both you and your child carefully: we explain what the child can expect, what questions might be asked, and how the conversation goes \u2013 without putting the child under pressure.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\">What does the court assess in a child&#8217;s first name change?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The court applies the criterion of a <strong>&#8220;compelling reason&#8221;<\/strong> and always looks at the <strong>best interest of the child<\/strong>. Important aspects: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Does the child experience <strong>psychological distress<\/strong> or tension due to the current name?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is there evidence of <strong>bullying<\/strong>, shame, or fear?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Does the name align or not align with the child&#8217;s <strong>identity<\/strong> (e.g., gender, cultural background)?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How consistently is the <strong>new name already being used<\/strong> in practice?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What does the change mean for the <strong>bond with both parents<\/strong> and the family?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do both parents agree, or is there a <strong>parental conflict<\/strong>?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How is the child supported in the change \u2013 emotionally and practically?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We help you make these elements concrete and substantiated: not just in words, but also with supporting evidence.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\">What changes are possible for a child&#8217;s first name?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many parents wonder exactly what is legally possible. In practice, the following options are among those available: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Completely changing<\/strong> the existing first name.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Adding an extra first name<\/strong> (for example, to name the child after a family member).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Omitting<\/strong> or shortening a first name.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjusting the official first name to the <strong>common name<\/strong> that has already been used for years.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It is important that the choice is well-explained and that it is clear why the new first name better suits the child.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\">How the procedure works: step-by-step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">1. Introduction &#038; initial analysis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We discuss your situation, the role of the other parent, the age and position of the child, and your goal. You will receive an initial assessment of the feasibility. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">2. Case building and strategy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Together, we map out the reasons for the name change. Think of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>statements from parents and possibly care providers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>schools or other involved parties<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>evidence of bullying or psychological burden<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>documents showing that the new name is already in use<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We choose a strategy that fits your family situation and the stance of the other parent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">3. Drafting and submitting the petition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your lawyer drafts a legally and factually substantiated <strong>petition for a first name change<\/strong> and submits it to the court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">4. Hearing the child (if applicable)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If the court wishes to hear the child, we prepare for this carefully. We explain in understandable language what will happen and minimize tension as much as possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">5. Court hearing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>During the oral hearing, you and possibly the other parent will speak with the judge. Your lawyer guides you, monitors the strategy, and answers legal questions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">6. Ruling and processing in the BRP<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If the court grants the request, the new first name is recorded in the <strong>Personal Records Database (BRP)<\/strong>. After that, the name can be updated in official documents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Would you like a full overview of the procedure, legal requirements, and costs for adults and children? Then view our extensive page <em><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"12780\">First name change<\/a><\/em>. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bff3476 wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e3512ed6\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-be01f57b gb-headline-text\">Request a legal assessment<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text gb-text-15af73ce\">For situations with doubt or complexity. Our lawyers and attorneys provide a personal assessment of your request, including opportunities, risks, and points of attention. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-grid-2 gb-element-1609d05a\">\n<div>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-base-200-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-30fa5336f8ea391e0c7b5f5535c2697b\">\n<li class=\"has-brand-1-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-80b270d0c94eff542bdf6ed32026592b\" style=\"font-size:0.8rem\">Assessment by specialist<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-brand-1-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-e9bf8501b7aa1d65f7eb61e0c13bda31\" style=\"font-size:0.8rem\">Oral feedback<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-brand-1-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-789e8c3b6354a4eedf8f457cc45bc02a\" style=\"font-size:0.8rem\">Helps determine the right next step<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-bc7ee20c gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/forms\/first-name-change-feasibility-check\/?src=voornaam&#038;cta=inline\">Request an assessment<\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text gb-text-714d31c7\">Personal response within 1 working day<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\">Duur en kosten van de procedure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>De exacte duur en kosten hangen af van de complexiteit van uw zaak. In de meeste gevallen geldt:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>De procedure duurt gemiddeld tot zes maanden<\/strong> vanaf het moment dat het verzoek bij de rechtbank is ingediend.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Het griffierecht bedraagt EUR 341<\/strong>, hetzelfde voor alle rechtbanken in Nederland.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Voor onze werkzaamheden hanteren wij een duidelijke prijsafspraak vooraf.<\/strong> Het vaste tarief voor de advocaat bedraagt <strong>EUR 619<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Lees ook de uitgebreide toelichting hoe de <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/voornaam-wijzigen\/kosten-voornaam-veranderen\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"26368\">kosten zijn opgebouwd<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Based on Real Cases<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">First name change due to psychological distress<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A 10-year-old child bore the name of a parent with whom there was no longer any contact following a traumatic past. The name evoked fear and tension in the child. The school and care providers confirmed the impact.<br\/>The court ruled that the name change was necessary to give the child peace of mind and granted the request.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">Substituted consent upon refusal by the other parent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A mother wanted to adjust her child&#8217;s first name because the current name led to bullying and shame. The father refused any cooperation.<br\/>After a carefully built case file, with statements from the school, a care provider, and the child themselves, the court granted <strong>substituted consent<\/strong>. The child&#8217;s interest outweighed the father&#8217;s objections.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading s-fs-h5\">Extra first name for cultural connection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Parents wanted to give their child an extra first name that was common in their country of origin. That name had already been used in family circles for years.<br\/>The court honored this request, partly because the new name strengthened the child&#8217;s identity and caused no confusion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>(Specific names and details have been anonymized; in our cases, the interest and protection of the child are central.)<\/em><\/p>\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\">Frequently asked questions about first name changes for children<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1e85dbd5 gb-accordion\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d1310856 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-19f7b745 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-19f7b745\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong>Is a lawyer mandatory for a child&#8217;s first name change?<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-52e77243\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-52e77243\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-b299caa3 gb-headline-text\">Yes. For a minor child, the first name can only be changed through a petition procedure at the court, submitted by a lawyer.<\/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\"><strong><strong>Can my child request a name change themselves?<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-54bea308\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-54bea308\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-784447a0 gb-headline-text\">From the age of 12, a child is always heard and must consent themselves. Younger children can express their wish; parents then submit the request on the child&#8217;s behalf. <\/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>What if the other parent obstructs everything?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-c5948222\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c5948222\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-51ced355 gb-headline-text\">If you have joint parental responsibility and the other parent refuses, you can ask the court for substituted consent. The court then assesses whether the name change is necessary and in the best interest of the child. <\/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\"><strong><strong>Will the school be informed about the new name?<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-d545942c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d545942c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c9e904f9 gb-headline-text\">After the request is granted, the name is updated in the BRP. Subsequently, the school, GP, and other institutions can adjust their records. We explain the steps you can take for this.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-6a91efb1 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-3fa10d16 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-3fa10d16\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong>Can a first name be changed again later?<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-badb14f3\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-badb14f3\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bafe289d gb-headline-text\">In exceptional cases, a second change is possible, but the court will then be extra critical. The interest of stability for the child carries significant weight. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-73403608 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-24e754e4 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-24e754e4\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong>Where can I find the full explanation about first name changes in general?<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-e6e0ac3c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e6e0ac3c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-856a231a gb-headline-text\">In addition to this child-specific information, would you like to read the general overview of the procedure, requirements, and costs?<br>Then view our extensive page <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"12780\">First name change<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-e397a080\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-5820f11a gb-headline-text\">Who are our Attorneys and Mediators<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>During the handling of a first name change for minors, you will be guided by a lawyer with experience in name law and custody matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-margin-vert-l\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bd256ba\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-5dcdaabb gb-query-loop-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23938 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Carla Simmelink\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\">Carla Simmelink &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-29865 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Valerie Lingg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\">Valerie Lingg &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23939 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Eva Zaunbrecher\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\">Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-36349 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Sophia Sips\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-2048x2048.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\">Sophia Sips &#8211; Family Law Attorney<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9f3ea82c gb-headline-text\">Please provide the text you would like to have translated to English.<em>In cases concerning a child&#8217;s name, law, emotions, and parenthood all play a role simultaneously. Our task is to bring structure and peace to the situation \u2013 and to clearly present the child&#8217;s interests to the court. <\/em>Please provide the text you would like to have translated to English.<\/p>\n<cite>Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bddaa84d\">\n\n<div class=\"s-btn-group\">\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-c848a686 gb-button-text s-btn-secondary\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/\">Meet Our Team<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\">How Simmelink Lawyers guides you<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At Simmelink Lawyers, we combine <strong>legal expertise<\/strong> with a keen eye for the emotional and practical side of name changes for children:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>specialized lawyers in <strong>name law, family law, and international situations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>experience with <strong>conflicts between parents<\/strong>, parental responsibility, and substituted consent<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>attention to the <strong>position of the child<\/strong> \u2013 not just on paper, but in practice<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>clear explanations in understandable language, so you know exactly where you stand<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a <strong>strategic approach<\/strong>: which documents are needed, what to highlight and what not to, and how to deal with the other parent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\">Do you want to change your child&#8217;s first name?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you unsure if the court will grant your request, or are you worried about the other parent&#8217;s reaction or the impact on your child?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We think along with you, map out the situation, and provide <strong>honest and concrete advice<\/strong> on the feasibility and the best route.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e35b293b wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3945255d\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d8e81505 gb-headline-text\" id=\"haalbaarheidscheck\">Feasibility Check for your First Name Change<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7f166354\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-a76f6e9e\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-1dbb95f0\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1dbb95f0\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">Within one working day, you will receive an expert assessment of your request. This way, you quickly gain clarity, peace of mind, and a plan \u2013 with your child&#8217;s best interest as the starting point.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0712d0d3 s-btn-group\">\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-39b0fa65 gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/forms\/first-name-change-feasibility-check\/?src=voornaam&#038;cta=bottom\">Feasibility check request<\/a>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-23750f4e gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"#plan-online-afspraak\">Schedule your online intake appointment yourself<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-d69b8d25\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d69b8d25\">\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Na het invullen van het contactformulier.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zpqB8WhTp5I?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\" id=\"plan-online-afspraak\">Schedule your Appointment for Changing your First Name Directly Below<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You choose a time that suits you. Scheduling takes only 1 minute. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class=\"calendly-inline-widget\" data-url=\"https:\/\/calendly.com\/simmelink-advocaten\/30min-intakegesprek-vnw?locale=nl&#038;hide_gdpr_banner=1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In brief First name change for a child Complete the feasibility check Free and without obligations Why parents want to change their child&#8217;s first name Parents decide to change their child&#8217;s first name for various reasons, which are often deeply personal or sensitive in nature. A name change can then provide peace, recognition, and a &#8230; <a title=\"First name change for children\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/kind\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about First name change for children\">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-36290","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\/36290","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=36290"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36290\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":36294,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36290\/revisions\/36294"}],"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=36290"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}