{"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":"2026-05-06T10:04:16","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T09:04:16","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\/#In_brief\" >In brief<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/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-3\" 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-4\" 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-5\" 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-6\" 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-7\" 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-8\" 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-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><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#Discuss_your_situation_with_us\" >Discuss your situation with us<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/change\/#Trust_and_quality\" >Trust and quality<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-section-main s-stack-2xl gb-element-6c76d265\">\n<p>A parenting plan can be amended when circumstances have changed significantly compared to the original plan, for example due to relocation, a new work schedule, or a changed family situation. The court tests against Article 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code, with the best interests of the child as the starting point; ratification by the court gives the agreements an enforceable title. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-15683c21 block-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_brief\"><\/span>In brief<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A parenting plan can be amended in the event of a significant change in circumstances, with the court testing against Article 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code and the best interests of the child as the starting point.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Three routes: mutual consultation with legal review, mediation, or a petition procedure at the court.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Amendment through mutual consultation is possible without a judge, but only results in an enforceable title after ratification by the court.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the ex-partner does not cooperate, the court can be asked to impose an amendment via a petition filed by a lawyer. Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/\">the parenting plan<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A change in the care arrangement can also have consequences for <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/child-support-change\/\">child support<\/a>, as a shift in care days influences the care discount.<\/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 moment the plan was drawn up. The court assesses whether the change is sufficiently weighty. There is no fixed term within which an amendment must be requested; amendment is possible shortly after the divorce or years later.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common situations that justify an amendment:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Relocation of a parent. <\/strong>To another city, region, or abroad, making the existing care arrangement practically unfeasible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>New work schedule or change in income. <\/strong>Shift work, rostered shifts, or a job abroad can make fixed visitation days impossible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Blended family. <\/strong>A new partner or new children change the home situation and the need for flexibility in the care arrangement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Non-functioning agreements. <\/strong>Agreements that are structurally not complied with or do not work in practice for the child or the parents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changed wishes or situation of the child. <\/strong>Especially as the child gets older, the care arrangement may need to be revised to align with the child&#8217;s own wishes and social situation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In Simmelink files, we see that relocation and blended families are the most common reasons for amendment, and that structural non-compliance often points to underlying communication problems that may require mediation before legal proceedings are useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\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 routes to adjust a parenting plan, depending on the degree of agreement between parents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Mutual consultation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If both parents agree on the desired adjustment, they can amend the plan themselves. The new agreements are recorded in writing and signed by both. This is the fastest route, but it has a limitation: a signed amendment plan without judicial ratification does not have an enforceable title. This means that the agreements are not directly enforceable in the event of non-compliance.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is wise to have a lawyer check the amendment for legal completeness and for alignment with other agreements, such as child support, even in the case of mutual consultation.<\/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, mediation 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 divorce lawyer. 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 12 and older, the judge may organize a child interview. The legal basis for amending the care arrangement is Art. 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code.    <\/p>\n\n\n\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><strong>Written submission via a lawyer. <\/strong>The lawyer submits the desired amendment in writing to the other parent, with a legal explanation. This often still leads to agreement, as the other party sees the legal context and the potential procedural consequences. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Petition to the court. <\/strong>If the written submission 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>In practice, judges weigh three factors in disputes over care arrangements: the existing care role of each parent, practical feasibility (work, place of residence, school), and the age and wishes of the child. A lawyer can assess in advance how these factors weigh in a specific situation. <\/p>\n\n\n\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\n\n\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><strong>Child support. <\/strong>A different care arrangement often leads to a recalculation of child support. More care days with one parent increases the care discount of fifteen, twenty-five, or thirty-five percent. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Parental authority. <\/strong>An amendment to the parenting plan does not affect parental authority itself, but it can be related to decisions about joint authority in the event of structural conflicts regarding school choice, medical care, or relocation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Co-parenting. <\/strong>When the care arrangement changes from co-parenting to another arrangement, or vice versa, the practical agreements regarding residence, communication, and information exchange also change.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In Simmelink files, we see that revision of the parenting plan and recalculation of child support often need to be handled together rather than separately, because a change in the care arrangement automatically influences the financial distribution of care costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\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 depend on the route followed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mutual consultation with legal review. <\/strong>Limited lawyer fees, depending on the time required for review and recording of the agreements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mediation. <\/strong>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><strong>Legal proceedings in court. <\/strong>The 2026 court fee for a petition in family matters is \u20ac341 for private individuals with an income above the legal aid threshold. 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>Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/rates\/\">rates and costs<\/a>. During an initial consultation, we discuss the expected work and the corresponding cost estimate. <\/p>\n\n\n\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>A pair of parents turned to us when one parent moved to another province for work. The existing care arrangement with a week-on, week-off schedule was no longer feasible: the travel distance was too great for daily school attendance and extracurricular activities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The legal assessment focused on a new care arrangement that did justice to both parents and ensured continuity for the children. Through mediation, agreements were made regarding the frequency and duration of contact moments, the distribution of travel costs, and the arrangement of holiday periods. The agreements were recorded in a supplementary parenting plan and submitted to the court for ratification, creating an enforceable title.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Changed work schedule<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A parent sought advice because the fixed visitation day proved structurally unfeasible due to a new work schedule with rotating shifts. The other parent was willing to agree to an adjustment but wanted the arrangement legally ratified to prevent later discussion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The request for amendment was prepared through mutual consultation with a rolling base care calendar that suited the changing work schedules. The adjusted arrangement was then submitted to the court and recorded in a court order, including corresponding fallback arrangements for unexpected schedule changes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Blended family with a need for flexibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A parent with a new partner and stepchildren found that the strict care arrangement from the original parenting plan no longer aligned with the blended family dynamics. The other parent had similar developments in their own home situation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Both parents needed more flexibility in the practical implementation without giving up the basic structure of the care arrangement. Under the guidance of a lawyer, an amended parenting plan was drawn up in which a core part with fixed agreements was combined with a flexible part that parents can adjust per quarter through mutual consultation. The plan was then recorded in writing and ratified by the court.  <\/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\">Do I need a lawyer to amend the parenting plan?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-52e77243\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-52e77243\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-b299caa3 gb-headline-text\">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-0ba80ccc gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-ceaacb9c gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-ceaacb9c\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can I amend the parenting plan unilaterally?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-7c214ff2\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7c214ff2\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f345431a gb-headline-text\">No, a parenting plan cannot be amended unilaterally. Both parents must agree, or the court must impose an amendment based on Article 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code. If the other parent changes the factual situation without consent, legal steps can be taken to enforce compliance with the existing agreements.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-f62daef0 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-a4db5f25 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-a4db5f25\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">How long does it take to amend a parenting plan?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-5d0776f7\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-5d0776f7\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-27ed54eb gb-headline-text\">The turnaround time depends on the chosen route. A petition to the court takes an average of a few months to half a year. When consultation or mediation leads to agreement, an amendment can be recorded more quickly, sometimes within a few weeks. In urgent situations, such as an upcoming relocation, there is the possibility of a provisional measure for the duration of the proceedings.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c312b0f5 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-499bc6da gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-499bc6da\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">What is an enforceable title?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-62959b4f\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-62959b4f\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-95dfce8c 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-5f943c18 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8b8802b1 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8b8802b1\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Does my child have a say in the amendment?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-cf4266bb\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-cf4266bb\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-48006dce gb-headline-text\">Children aged 12 and older have a legal right to be heard: the court invites them for a child interview when the court is involved in the amendment. For children aged 8 to 12, the judge may organize a child interview at their own discretion. The judge takes the child&#8217;s wishes into account in the assessment 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 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=\"Discuss_your_situation_with_us\"><\/span>Discuss your situation with us<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center s-fs-h5\">An early advisory meeting provides clarity on your legal position and the routes that suit your situation. After your registration, our secretariat will contact you within one business day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-text s-btn-primary s-btn--small\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Schedule a consultation<\/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 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><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/RaadvRechtspraak.svg\" alt=\"\" title=\"RaadvJustice\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-07670684\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"340\" height=\"105\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-07670684\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png\" alt=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" title=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png 340w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo-300x93.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On this page A parenting plan can be amended when circumstances have changed significantly compared to the original plan, for example due to relocation, a new work schedule, or a changed family situation. The court tests against Article 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code, with the best interests of the child as the starting point; &#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":3,"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\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36784"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36784\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38168,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36784\/revisions\/38168"}],"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}]}}