{"id":37041,"date":"2026-04-19T13:43:05","date_gmt":"2026-04-19T12:43:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/"},"modified":"2026-05-06T10:00:24","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T09:00:24","slug":"change-spousal-maintenance","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/","title":{"rendered":"Changing spousal maintenance"},"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\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#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\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#When_can_spousal_maintenance_be_changed\" >When can spousal maintenance be changed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#What_if_a_non-modification_clause_has_been_agreed_upon\" >What if a non-modification clause has been agreed upon?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#In_what_ways_can_you_have_spousal_maintenance_changed\" >In what ways can you have spousal maintenance changed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#What_if_too_much_maintenance_has_been_paid\" >What if too much maintenance has been paid?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#Which_documents_do_you_need_for_a_request_for_change\" >Which documents do you need for a request for change?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#Special_situation_entrepreneur_director-major_shareholder_DGA_or_fluctuating_income\" >Special situation: entrepreneur, director-major shareholder (DGA), or fluctuating income<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#How_does_modifying_spousal_maintenance_work_in_an_international_situation\" >How does modifying spousal maintenance work in an international situation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#Practical_examples\" >Practical examples<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#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-13\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/#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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Modifying spousal maintenance is possible when circumstances have changed significantly after the divorce, based on Article 1:401 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW). Remarriage or cohabitation as if married by the recipient terminates the obligation by operation of law (Article 1:160 BW); a non-modification clause (Article 1:159 BW) raises the threshold for modification. <\/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>Modification is possible in the event of a significant change in income, family situation, or the expiry of the statutory maximum duration (Article 1:401 BW).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remarriage or a registered partnership of the recipient terminates the obligation by operation of law (Article 1:160 BW). Cohabitation as if married can also result in termination, but the court applies strict criteria here. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A non-modification clause (Article 1:159 BW) binds both parties, unless maintaining it unchanged is unacceptable according to standards of reasonableness and fairness. The threshold for breaking this clause is high. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Three routes for modification: mutual consultation, mediation, or a petition procedure at the court. Read more about the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change\/\">general modification procedure<\/a>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In international situations, the 2007 Hague Maintenance Protocol and the EC Maintenance Regulation (EC No. 4\/2009) determine which court has jurisdiction and which law applies. Learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/spousal-maintenance\/\">spousal support<\/a>.<\/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_spousal_maintenance_be_changed\"><\/span>When can spousal maintenance be changed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spousal maintenance can be modified when circumstances have changed significantly after it was established. The legal basis is Article 1:401 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW). Anyone seeking a modification must demonstrate that the situation was incorrectly established at the time or that a relevant change has occurred since then that makes the previous agreements no longer reasonable.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common grounds for change:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Substantial loss of income. <\/strong>Due to dismissal, disability, or retirement of the paying partner.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Significant increase in the recipient&#8217;s income. <\/strong>Due to a new job, promotion, or full-time employment, which reduces the need for maintenance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Remarriage or registered partnership of the recipient. <\/strong>Terminates the spousal maintenance obligation by operation of law (Article 1:160 BW). In practice, a legal step is often still required to stop the payment and arrange for any potential recovery of funds. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cohabitation as if married. <\/strong>Based on Article 1:160 BW, cohabitation can also result in termination. The court applies strict criteria: there must be a long-term relationship, a shared household, and mutual care, which must be substantiated with concrete facts and documents. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Long-term unemployment or illness. <\/strong>When this structurally affects the financial capacity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Expiry of maximum duration. <\/strong>Since January 1, 2020, the Spousal Maintenance Revision Act has been in effect: a maximum of five years or half the duration of the marriage, with exceptions for long marriages and young children.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_if_a_non-modification_clause_has_been_agreed_upon\"><\/span>What if a non-modification clause has been agreed upon?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A non-modification clause is a provision in the divorce agreement in which parties agree that the maintenance cannot be changed via the court. This clause is in principle legally valid and binds both parties, even if the financial situation changes drastically, unless invoking the clause is unacceptable according to standards of reasonableness and fairness (Article 1:159 BW). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The threshold for setting aside a non-modification clause is high. In Simmelink cases, we see that only drastic changes where maintaining the clause unchanged is unacceptable according to standards of reasonableness and fairness are sufficient for the court to intervene. Limited income fluctuations or foreseeable financial setbacks are rarely enough.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Anyone wishing to request a modification despite a non-modification clause must have a well-substantiated file with concrete evidence: medical statements, annual figures over several years, or proof of a drastically changed family situation. A specialized divorce lawyer can assess in advance whether the circumstances are serious enough to start a procedure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_what_ways_can_you_have_spousal_maintenance_changed\"><\/span>In what ways can you have spousal maintenance changed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spousal maintenance can be adjusted in three ways, depending on the ex-partner&#8217;s willingness to cooperate and the complexity of the situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Mutual consultation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When both ex-partners agree on a new arrangement, the modification can be recorded in writing in a supplementary agreement. Written recording is important: a verbal agreement may be legally valid but is difficult to prove and not easily enforceable. Confirmation by the court gives the agreements full legal force.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Mediation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When consultation is difficult but a procedure can still be avoided, mediation can offer a solution. An MfN-registered mediator guides the consultation. The agreements made are recorded in writing, potentially with confirmation by the court.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Legal procedure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the ex-partner does not cooperate with a modification, a petition can be filed with the court. A lawyer is mandatory for this. The opposing party is given a period set by the court to file a defense. Take procedural risk into account: the court can also maintain the maintenance or establish it differently than requested. In practice, judges weigh three factors in modification requests: the demonstrability of the changed circumstances, the extent to which the change is structural, and the balanced relationship between need and financial capacity.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_if_too_much_maintenance_has_been_paid\"><\/span>What if too much maintenance has been paid?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the paying partner has paid too much maintenance for a long period, recovery is legally possible but not self-evident. The court looks at, among other things, the duration of the overpayment, the financial situation of both parties, and whether the recipient has already spent the money on living expenses. In Simmelink cases, we see that full recovery is more often limited or rejected when the recipient has spent the money in good faith on daily expenses.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no fixed statutory period after which recovery is no longer possible; the judge weighs all circumstances of the case. This underscores the importance of acting promptly: the sooner a request for change is filed, the smaller the risk of unrecoverable overpayment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_documents_do_you_need_for_a_request_for_change\"><\/span>Which documents do you need for a request for change?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The court wants insight into the current income, expenses, and health situation. Missing or incomplete evidence delays the procedure and weakens the position. Common evidence for a spousal maintenance modification request:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Recent payslips or, for entrepreneurs, annual figures for the past two to three years plus an accountant&#8217;s statement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tax returns and assessments for the relevant period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Medical information in case of disability or illness (documents from an occupational physician or specialist).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proof of cohabitation or remarriage of the recipient (BRP extract, rental contract, witness statements).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The original divorce agreement including any non-modification clause.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Special_situation_entrepreneur_director-major_shareholder_DGA_or_fluctuating_income\"><\/span>Special situation: entrepreneur, director-major shareholder (DGA), or fluctuating income<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For entrepreneurs, director-major shareholders, and freelancers, the court assesses income based on normalized business results over several years. Incidental high profits or dividend payments are not automatically included as structurally available income. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a director-major shareholder, the court also weighs the customary salary at a BV, undistributed profit reserves, and assets in the company. In Simmelink cases, we see that the legal presentation of financial data is more often decisive for the outcome than the figures themselves: a recalculation that aligns with the structural income position carries more weight than a recalculation based on the most recent year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_modifying_spousal_maintenance_work_in_an_international_situation\"><\/span>How does modifying spousal maintenance work in an international situation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When one of the parties lives abroad or the spousal maintenance was established by a foreign court, the case becomes legally more complex. In international cases, the first question is which court has jurisdiction and which law applies before a procedure is started on its merits. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hcch.net\/en\/instruments\/conventions\/full-text\/?cid=133\">2007 Hague Maintenance Protocol<\/a> determines the applicable law; within the EU, the EC Maintenance Regulation (EC No. 4\/2009) also applies for jurisdiction and cross-border recognition. It is important to investigate early which court has jurisdiction and which law applies: those who wait too long may sometimes no longer be able to choose the most favorable route. For the recognition of a foreign maintenance order, both the 2007 Hague Maintenance Convention and the EC Maintenance Regulation play a role, depending on the countries involved.     Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/international\/\">international family law<\/a>.<\/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\">Breaking a non-modification clause after disability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A paying ex-partner was declared permanently partially disabled after an accident. A non-modification clause was included in the divorce agreement. The question was whether the changed health situation was sufficiently drastic to break the clause based on Article 1:159 BW.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The legal assessment focused on the demonstrability of the permanent disability, the structural nature of the income drop, and the comparison with the original financial capacity calculation. With medical statements, a UWV ruling, and a recalculation according to the Trema standards, it was substantiated that maintaining the clause unchanged would be unacceptable according to standards of reasonableness and fairness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Termination after cohabitation of the recipient<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A paying ex-partner had indications that the recipient was living with a new partner. The question was whether there was cohabitation as if married within the meaning of Article 1:160 BW, with the result that the spousal maintenance obligation would have ended by operation of law. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The legal assessment focused on proving the three criteria: a long-term relationship, a shared household, and mutual care. Concrete evidence was collected: BRP extract, shared residential addresses, witness statements, and social media. Based on the file, a request for termination of the spousal maintenance was filed, with recovery of the overpaid amounts since the moment the cohabitation had demonstrably begun.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Modification after income increase of ex-partner<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The receiving ex-partner obtained a significantly higher income after a career step than at the time of the divorce agreement. The question was whether the need for spousal maintenance had decreased as a result, so that the contribution could be reduced or terminated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The legal assessment focused on the demonstrability of the structural income increase via tax returns and annual statements. A recalculation of the need according to statutory standards was prepared as substantiation for the modification request. The case was eventually finalized in mutual consultation, after mediation by a lawyer-mediator, and recorded in a supplementary agreement for confirmation 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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Simmelink Lawyers team specializes in family law, International family law, and inheritance law.<br\/>The lawyers combine legal expertise with international experience.<br\/>Clients are guided by one dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire process and communicates discreetly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In complex financial matters or an international component, a specialized lawyer is important.<br\/>We strive for legally correct, practically feasible agreements that give you predictability and peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bd256ba\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-5dcdaabb gb-query-loop-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23938 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Carla Simmelink\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\">Carla Simmelink &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-29865 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Valerie Lingg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\">Valerie Lingg &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23939 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Eva Zaunbrecher\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\">Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-36349 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Sophia Sips\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-2048x2048.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\">Sophia Sips &#8211; Family Law Attorney<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-quotes-block gb-element-b0365a51 testimonial-block\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"s-quote-card-icon gb-media-5cab658b testimonial-icon\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/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\">From what date does a modification take effect?<\/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\">A modification often takes effect on the date of the petition. Retroactive effect to before the filing is possible but not automatic; the judge assesses this based on the circumstances, including the duration of the overpayment and the spending of the money by the recipient. Acting promptly limits the risk of unrecoverable overpayment.  <\/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\">What if my ex does not want to cooperate with a modification?<\/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\">If the ex-partner does not cooperate, a legal procedure can be started by filing a petition with the court, for which a lawyer is mandatory. The procedure offers a binding solution but entails procedural risk: the court can also maintain the maintenance or establish it differently than requested. <\/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 a modification procedure take?<\/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 lead time varies greatly per case. An uncomplicated case where both parties cooperate can be completed within a few months. In a legal procedure with a defense or an expert report, the lead time can increase to a year or longer. A lawyer can outline a realistic timeline based on the specific situation.   <\/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 if I live abroad?<\/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\">In international situations, the 2007 Hague Maintenance Protocol and the EC Maintenance Regulation (EC No. 4\/2009) play a role. The first question is always which court has jurisdiction and which law applies before a procedure is started on its merits. A specialized lawyer assesses the legal framework based on the places of residence and any choice of law in the divorce agreement.  <\/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\">What does a modification procedure cost?<\/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\">The costs consist of lawyer fees at an hourly rate and, in a court procedure, the 2026 court fee of \u20ac341 for individuals. In the case of consultation or mediation, costs remain lower than in a full court procedure. For entrepreneurs, international aspects, or complex family situations, costs increase due to additional analyses. Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/rates\/\">rates and costs<\/a>.   <\/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 wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simmelink Lawyers is affiliated with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.advocatenorde.nl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Dutch Bar Association<\/a>.<br\/>Read more about our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/reviews\/\">reviews<\/a> or see how we work via our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/\">working method<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/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 Modifying spousal maintenance is possible when circumstances have changed significantly after the divorce, based on Article 1:401 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW). Remarriage or cohabitation as if married by the recipient terminates the obligation by operation of law (Article 1:160 BW); a non-modification clause (Article 1:159 BW) raises the threshold for &#8230; <a title=\"Changing spousal maintenance\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/change-spousal-maintenance\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Changing spousal maintenance\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":19097,"parent":24926,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-37041","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","infinite-scroll-item","resize-featured-image"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/37041","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=37041"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/37041\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38153,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/37041\/revisions\/38153"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24926"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19097"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37041"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}