{"id":36784,"date":"2026-03-31T14:39:05","date_gmt":"2026-03-31T13:39:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/"},"modified":"2026-04-19T13:49:52","modified_gmt":"2026-04-19T12:49:52","slug":"change","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/","title":{"rendered":"Amending a parenting plan"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"s-section\">\n<div class=\"s-section-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-grid-toc_main gb-element-94926826\">\n<div class=\"s-section-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"s-sidebar-block-toc gb-element-bf14a539\">\n<p class=\"gb-text\">On this page<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#When_can_a_parenting_plan_be_amended\" >When can a parenting plan be amended?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#How_can_you_amend_the_parenting_plan\" >How can you amend the parenting plan?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#What_if_your_ex-partner_refuses_to_cooperate_with_an_amendment\" >What if your ex-partner refuses to cooperate with an amendment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#Why_is_an_enforceable_title_important_when_making_an_amendment\" >Why is an enforceable title important when making an amendment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#What_consequences_does_an_amendment_have_for_other_agreements\" >What consequences does an amendment have for other agreements?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#What_does_it_cost_to_amend_a_parenting_plan\" >What does it cost to amend a parenting plan?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#Practical_examples\" >Practical examples<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#Advice_or_assistance_with_an_amendment\" >Advice or assistance with an amendment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-section-main s-stack-2xl gb-element-6c76d265\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-15683c21 block-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow\">\n<p class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0\">In brief<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A parenting plan can be amended if circumstances have changed significantly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Amendments through mutual consultation are possible without court intervention, but do not provide an enforceable title.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ratification by the court makes agreements legally enforceable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your ex-partner does not cooperate, the court can be asked to impose an amendment. You will require a lawyer for this. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Common reasons: relocation, new income, blended family, or agreements that are no longer functional.<\/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_can_a_parenting_plan_be_amended\"><\/span>When can a parenting plan be amended?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A parenting plan can be amended when circumstances have changed significantly compared to the time the plan was drafted. The court assesses whether the change is sufficiently substantial. There is no fixed period within which an amendment must be requested.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common situations that justify an amendment:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Relocation of one of the parents to another city or region<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New income or different working hours that affect the distribution of care<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blended family: a new partner or children that change the home situation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agreements that are structurally not observed or do not work in practice<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changed wishes or situation of the child, especially as the child gets older<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_you_amend_the_parenting_plan\"><\/span>How can you amend the parenting plan?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are three ways to adjust a parenting plan. The appropriate route depends on the degree of agreement between the parents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Mutual consultation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Als beide ouders het eens zijn over de gewenste aanpassing, kunnen zij het plan zelf wijzigen. De nieuwe afspraken worden schriftelijk vastgelegd en door beiden ondertekend. Dit is de snelste route, maar heeft een beperking: een ondertekend wijzigingsplan zonder rechtelijke bekrachtiging heeft geen executoriale titel. Dat betekent dat de afspraken bij niet-nakoming niet direct afdwingbaar zijn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is advisable, even in the case of mutual consultation, to have a lawyer check the amendment for legal completeness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Mediation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If mutual consultation is not fully successful, <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/mediation\/\">mediation<\/a> can offer a solution. A mediator helps both parents reach new agreements, with a focus on the best interests of the child. The outcome is recorded in a supplementary or amended parenting plan. Through a lawyer, this plan can then be ratified by the court, creating an enforceable title.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Legal proceedings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your ex-partner does not agree to the desired amendment, the court can be asked to make a decision. This is done via a petition filed by a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce-lawyer\/\">divorce lawyer<\/a>. The judge assesses whether the changed circumstances justify the amendment and whether the proposed adjustment is in the best interests of the child. For children aged 8 and older, the judge may organize a child interview. The legal basis for amending the care arrangement is <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0002656\/2024-01-01#Boek1_Titeldeel14_Afdeling3_Artikel253a\">Art. 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>.    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_if_your_ex-partner_refuses_to_cooperate_with_an_amendment\"><\/span>What if your ex-partner refuses to cooperate with an amendment?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A parenting plan cannot be amended unilaterally. If your ex-partner does not cooperate with an adjustment, there are two legal routes: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A lawyer submits the desired amendment in writing to the other parent, including a legal explanation. In many cases, this still leads to an agreement. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If this does not lead to a result, an amendment can be enforced through the court. The judge tests whether there are changed circumstances and whether the amendment is in the best interests of the child. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A lawyer can assist you in formulating a substantiated request and assess which route is most likely to succeed in your situation. Would you like to discuss your situation legally first?  Schedule a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">consultation<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_an_enforceable_title_important_when_making_an_amendment\"><\/span>Why is an enforceable title important when making an amendment?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An enforceable title makes agreements legally binding. Without an enforceable title, amendments that are only recorded in writing by the parents are not enforceable if the other parent fails to comply later. With an enforceable title, immediate action can be taken in the event of non-compliance, for example via a bailiff or a request for a penalty payment.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An enforceable title is created when the court ratifies the amendment in a court order. This is also possible if both parents agree: they can jointly ask the court to record the new agreements without a full legal procedure being necessary. <\/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_consequences_does_an_amendment_have_for_other_agreements\"><\/span>What consequences does an amendment have for other agreements?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An adjustment to the parenting plan can have consequences for other parts of the existing agreements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Child support: a different distribution of care can lead to a recalculation of the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/child-support\/\">child support<\/a>. In most cases, more care days with one parent influences the amount of the contribution. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parental authority: an amendment to the parenting plan usually does not affect parental authority itself, but it can be related to decisions regarding joint parental authority in the event of structural conflicts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Co-ouderschap: als de zorgverdeling wijzigt van co-ouderschap naar een andere verdeling, of omgekeerd, veranderen ook de praktische afspraken over verblijf en communicatie.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A lawyer can assess whether a change in the care distribution also requires a revision of the maintenance calculation.<\/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_it_cost_to_amend_a_parenting_plan\"><\/span>What does it cost to amend a parenting plan?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The costs of amending a parenting plan depend on the route followed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mutual consultation with legal check: limited costs, depending on the time a lawyer spends on assessment and recording. Lawyer fees (honorarium) are added to this. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mediation: the costs are shared by both parents and depend on the number of sessions. Lawyer fees are added if a lawyer records the outcome legally or submits it for ratification. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legal proceedings: the court fee is \u20ac318 (2026 rate for natural persons). In addition, there are lawyer fees, depending on the complexity of the file and the number of hearings. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>An overview of our rates can be found on the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/rates\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"36004\">rates page<\/a>. Would you like to know what an amendment is expected to cost in your situation? <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Please contact us<\/a>. We will discuss this in advance.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_examples\"><\/span>Practical examples<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Relocation to another province<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In one case, we assisted a client whose ex-partner moved to another province for work. The existing care distribution was therefore no longer feasible. Through mediation, new agreements regarding the frequency of contact moments and the distribution of travel costs were recorded in a supplementary parenting plan.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Changed work schedule<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In another case, a client sought advice because the fixed visitation day proved structurally unfeasible due to a new work schedule. The request for amendment was submitted to the court. The judge recorded the new arrangement in a court order.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Blended family<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A third case concerned parents who had formed new blended families. The need for more flexibility in the care arrangement led to consultations under the guidance of a lawyer, after which an amended plan was recorded in writing and ratified by the court. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Advice_or_assistance_with_an_amendment\"><\/span><strong>Advice or assistance with an amendment?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Would you like to know if your situation justifies an amendment to the parenting plan, or have you already tried to reach an agreement? Our lawyers assist you in all three routes: from the legal check of a mutual agreement to legal proceedings in court. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Intake interview<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>During an intake interview, we start the legal assistance and a file is opened. After your registration, our secretariat will <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"12227\">contact<\/a> you within one business day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Consultation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>During a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"31583\">consultation<\/a>, you discuss your situation legally at an hourly rate, without further work following. After your registration, our secretary will <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"12227\">contact <\/a>you within one business day. <\/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>At Simmelink Lawyers, you work with lawyers specialized in family law, international family law, and inheritance law. We work intensively together on solutions that are legally sound and do personal justice to your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bd256ba\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-5dcdaabb gb-query-loop-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23938 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Carla Simmelink\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\">Carla Simmelink &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-29865 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Valerie Lingg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\">Valerie Lingg &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23939 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Eva Zaunbrecher\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\">Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-36349 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Sophia Sips\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-2048x2048.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\">Sophia Sips &#8211; Family Law Attorney<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-quotes-block gb-element-b0365a51 testimonial-block\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"s-quote-card-icon gb-media-5cab658b testimonial-icon\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/quote.svg\" title=\"quote\">\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-text testimonial-text\"><em><em>Clients are guided by a dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-author testimonial-author\">Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-be249d49 s-margin-vert-xl s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bfdf1120 gb-headline-text gbp-section__headline\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1e85dbd5 gb-accordion\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d1310856 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-19f7b745 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-19f7b745\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong>Can I amend the parenting plan myself without a lawyer?<\/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\">Through mutual consultation, parents can adjust the parenting plan themselves and record it in writing. A lawyer is not legally required. However, it is wise to have a lawyer check the amendment, especially if the adjustment is significant or has consequences for maintenance or parental authority. Furthermore, without judicial ratification, the amendment does not have an enforceable title.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2712f11d gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-17f3fa07 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-17f3fa07\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong>Can my ex-partner unilaterally amend the parenting plan?<\/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-061dc4a6\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-061dc4a6\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-98660516 gb-headline-text\">No. A parenting plan cannot be amended unilaterally. Both parents must agree, or the court must impose an amendment. If your ex-partner changes the factual situation without your consent, you can take legal steps to enforce compliance with the existing agreements.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-88866d7b gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-1365ae94 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-1365ae94\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong>How long do legal proceedings to amend the parenting plan take?<\/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-433b3ebd\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-433b3ebd\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d0db8993 gb-headline-text\">The duration depends on the situation. A petition to the court takes an average of several months. If it is possible to reach an agreement through consultation or mediation, an amendment can be recorded more quickly. In urgent situations, such as an imminent relocation, the possibility of a provisional measure exists.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7afb061f gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-f5653bff gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-f5653bff\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong>What is an enforceable title and why is it important for an amendment?<\/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-e59cd61c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e59cd61c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-e246ca56 gb-headline-text\">An enforceable title is a court ruling or order on the basis of which compliance can be enforced, if necessary via a bailiff. An amendment that is only recorded in writing by parents without ratification by the court does not have an enforceable title. This means that in the event of non-compliance, you must go to court again. Ratification prevents this.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ddb5abe6 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-45037f9c gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-45037f9c\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong>Does my child have to agree to an amendment of the parenting plan?<\/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-bdcd3e35\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-bdcd3e35\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-00d47fd0 gb-headline-text\">Children aged 8 and older can be invited by the judge for a child interview if the court is involved in the amendment. Children aged 12 and older have a stronger right to be heard. The judge takes the child&#8217;s wishes into account in their judgment, but ultimately decides based on the best interests of the child.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/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 When can a parenting plan be amended? A parenting plan can be amended when circumstances have changed significantly compared to the time the plan was drafted. The court assesses whether the change is sufficiently substantial. There is no fixed period within which an amendment must be requested. Common situations that &#8230; <a title=\"Amending a parenting plan\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Amending a parenting plan\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":24955,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-36784","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","5":"infinite-scroll-item"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36784","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36784"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36784\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37058,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36784\/revisions\/37058"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24955"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36784"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}