{"id":37677,"date":"2026-05-02T20:45:12","date_gmt":"2026-05-02T19:45:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/"},"modified":"2026-05-02T20:45:24","modified_gmt":"2026-05-02T19:45:24","slug":"familiebanden","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/","title":{"rendered":"Adding or changing a first name due to family ties"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"s-section\">\n<div class=\"s-section-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-grid-toc_main gb-element-94926826\">\n<div class=\"s-section-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"s-sidebar-block-toc gb-element-bf14a539\">\n<p class=\"gb-text\">On this page<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#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\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#When_is_a_first_name_change_feasible\" >When is a first name change feasible?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#Examples_from_our_Practice\" >Examples from our Practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#Two_patterns_we_regularly_see_in_our_practice\" >Two patterns we regularly see in our practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#Related_scenarios_with_specific_handling\" >Related scenarios with specific handling<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#What_are_the_legal_implications\" >What are the legal implications?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#How_does_the_procedure_work_step-by-step\" >How does the procedure work step-by-step?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#What_does_a_change_due_to_family_relationships_cost\" >What does a change due to family relationships cost?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#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\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/#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<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<p>Adding a first name in memory of a deceased or special family member, distancing yourself from a name given under family pressure at the time, or changing a name by which you were named after an absent or harmful family member can be done via a petition to the court based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/jci1.3:c:BWBR0002656&amp;boek=1&amp;titeldeel=2&amp;artikel=4\">Art. 1:4 BW<\/a>. In our practice, judges generally look at three things: the nature of the family bond and the relationship to the original choice of name, the proportionality of the change at the current moment, and the presence of any objections from involved family members. The total costs at Simmelink Lawyers are \u20ac899: a \u20ac558 attorney fee including VAT plus \u20ac341 in court fees.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\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>The court can add, change, or (partially) replace a first name based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/jci1.3:c:BWBR0002656&amp;boek=1&amp;titeldeel=2&amp;artikel=4\">Art. 1:4 BW<\/a> when you demonstrate a compelling reason; honoring a deceased or special family member, distancing from a name given under pressure, and naming after an absent or harmful family member are among the recognized grounds in our practice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In these types of requests, judges generally consider three factors: the nature of the family bond and the relationship to the original choice of name, the proportionality of the change at the current moment, and the presence or absence of objections from involved family members.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two routes are possible: adding is well-suited for a tribute (the existing first name remains, and a name is added); replacement or partial replacement is suitable for situations of unwanted pressure where you wish to distance yourself from the imposed name.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In requests following the death of the namesake or in cases of broken family contact, the risk of objection is lower than in cases of ongoing strained family relations; in the latter case, a more extensive personal substantiation is required in the petition.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The total costs are \u20ac558 including VAT (fixed attorney fee) plus \u20ac341 in court fees, totaling \u20ac899; no surprises afterwards.<\/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_is_a_first_name_change_feasible\"><\/span>When is a first name change feasible?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A first name change due to family relationships or naming is feasible in most situations when the reason provided has a recognizable familial basis and the change is proportionate to the interest you assert. Two contrasting scenarios fall under this theme, each with its own emphasis in the motivation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tribute<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You wish to add or change a first name to honor a family member. This often concerns a deceased grandparent or parent, sometimes a parent who largely raised you, or another family member with whom you have or had a special bond. The motivation focuses on the nature of the bond and the original intention of the naming.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Unwanted pressure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You wish to distance yourself from a name that has become burdensome for a familial reason. Two sub-scenarios fall under this theme, each with its own emphasis in the motivation: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Name given under family pressure at the time. <\/strong><br\/>At birth, a name was chosen under pressure from a grandparent, following a traditional naming rule, or within a specific cultural context where free choice was not possible. The name no longer fits your current identity. The motivation focuses on the context in which the name was chosen at the time, the current relationship with the namesake (deceased, broken contact, or still living), and the burden the name currently causes.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Named after an absent or harmful family member. <\/strong><br\/>You are named after a parent, grandparent, or other family member with whom the bond has been broken, who has been absent from your life, or who has seriously harmed you or the child. The name evokes memories or tension with every official mention. The motivation focuses on the nature of the relationship with the namesake, the duration of the absence or broken contact, and the demonstrable burden the name causes. Demonstrable psychological complaints or treatment related to the person after whom one is named can carry additional weight.   <\/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=\"Examples_from_our_Practice\"><\/span>Examples from our Practice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><em>The examples below have been anonymized and compiled from multiple cases within our practice.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tribute to a deceased grandfather who raised the client<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A client was largely raised as a child by his grandfather, who had passed away several years ago. The client wanted to add the grandfather&#8217;s first name to his existing first names as a lasting tribute. The petition was substantiated with the grandfather&#8217;s death certificate, an explanation of the upbringing role during youth, and photos and correspondence from various life stages showing the special bond.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tribute to mother with addition of second grandparent naming<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>At the time of birth registration, the client was named after the paternal grandmother but not after the maternal grandmother, who later passed away without being named after. The client wanted to add the maternal grandmother&#8217;s first name to restore symmetry between both families. The petition was substantiated with the grandparents&#8217; birth certificates, an explanation of the original naming choice, and a statement from the mother regarding regret over the one-sided naming.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Distancing from a family-imposed middle name after the death of the namesake<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>At birth, the client was assigned a middle name under pressure from a grandparent that did not align with the parents&#8217; wishes nor with the client&#8217;s own identity. The grandparent had since passed away. The client wanted to drop the middle name and retain the first name. The petition was substantiated with an explanation of the family context at the time of birth, a statement from the parents about the situation then, and a personal motivation regarding the current experience of the name.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Distancing from a name after broken family contact<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A client bore a first name given under cultural pressure from the family of the other parent, with whom contact had long been broken. The client wanted to replace the first name with a name that aligned with their current identity. The petition was substantiated with evidence of the broken family contact (cessation of correspondence, previous legal steps), a personal motivation regarding the burden the name caused, and an explanation of the cultural context in which the name was given at the time.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Named after an absent parent with demonstrable burden<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A client bore a first name given by his father. The father had been absent early in the client&#8217;s life, and contact had remained broken ever since. The name caused tension with every formal mention and reminded the client of a relationship that had never existed. The petition was substantiated by the long-term break in contact, a personal motivation regarding the burden with every official use of the name, and additional documents regarding the father&#8217;s absence during youth. The motivation focused on the desire to legally distance himself from the association the name carried.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Two_patterns_we_regularly_see_in_our_practice\"><\/span>Two patterns we regularly see in our practice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In tribute requests where the person to be honored is deceased and the addition is requested as a supplement to existing first names, the request is generally handled smoothly; for a tribute to a still-living family member, a more detailed motivation of the special bond is desirable. Furthermore: in unwanted-pressure requests where the namesake is deceased or family contact is broken, the risk of objection is lower than in cases of ongoing strained family relations; in the latter case, more extensive personal substantiation and possibly additional statements from the immediate environment are required. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-be249d49 s-margin-vert-xl s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bfdf1120 gb-headline-text gbp-section__headline\"><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\">My grandparent has passed away. Can I add her first name to mine? <\/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\">Yes. In our practice, honoring a deceased grandparent is among the most smoothly handled grounds for adding a first name. The motivation focuses on the special bond with the grandparent and the desire to keep the memory alive. A death certificate or an extract from the Personal Records Database (BRP) of the grandparent, combined with photos, correspondence, or statements, usually constitutes sufficient substantiation.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3600de9f gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-ba8b12fe gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-ba8b12fe\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>At my birth, I was only named after one grandparent. Can I still add the other? <\/strong><\/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-54bea308\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-54bea308\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-784447a0 gb-headline-text\">Yes, this is a recognizable scenario within the tribute route. When only one of two grandparents was named after at the time and you wish to restore symmetry, the familial logic of naming carries significant weight on its own. The request is substantiated with birth certificates of both grandparents, an explanation of the original naming choice, and potentially a statement from a parent regarding regret over the one-sided naming.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d7e7a6c6 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-361ea87d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-361ea87d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>My first name was given under pressure from a family member at the time. Can I change it now? <\/strong><\/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-c5948222\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c5948222\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-51ced355 gb-headline-text\">Yes. When a name was given under familial pressure at the time and no longer fits your current identity, this can constitute a compelling reason for a change or (partial) replacement. The motivation focuses on the context in which the name was chosen and the burden it currently causes. Whether the namesake is deceased, family contact is broken, or still ongoing, influences the weight of the substantiation required in the petition.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-5517b488 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-ebd9047b gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-ebd9047b\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>My first name reminds me of someone with whom the bond is broken. Can I change it? <\/strong><\/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-b6b4c022\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6b4c022\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-abea4d31 gb-headline-text\">Yes. If you are named after a parent, grandparent, or other family member with whom the bond is broken or who has been absent from your life, this can constitute a compelling reason for a change or (partial) replacement. The motivation focuses on the nature of the relationship with the namesake, the duration of the absence or broken contact, and the demonstrable burden the name causes. A statement from the immediate environment regarding the absence and any documentation of treatment contacts where the name association plays a role can strengthen the petition. If the name also has other burdensome dimensions, such as memories of a traumatic childhood period, we address this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/voornaam-wijzigen\/jeugdtrauma\/\">changing a first name due to childhood experiences<\/a>.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fc394c18 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8dd43315 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8dd43315\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">What if my family does not agree?<\/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-d545942c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d545942c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c9e904f9 gb-headline-text\">A first name change is your own right, not that of your family. However, the court may take existing objections into account if they are clearly expressed. In requests following the death of the namesake or in cases of broken family contact, the risk of objection is low. In cases of ongoing strained family relations, the chance of a family member objecting is higher; in that case, more extensive personal substantiation is required in the petition, along with potential additional statements from the immediate environment.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2769f6b3 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-1983797d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-1983797d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can I choose between addition and (partial) replacement?<\/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-7c18bfac\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7c18bfac\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-ee70b14f gb-headline-text\">Yes. Addition leaves the existing first names intact and adds a name; this is suitable for tribute situations. Replacement removes a name and puts another in its place; this is suitable for unwanted-pressure situations. Partial replacement, for example, dropping the middle name while retaining the first name, is an intermediate route that frequently fits unwanted-pressure requests in our practice. We will discuss which route suits your situation.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-66263a20 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-5a977e52 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-5a977e52\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Will there be a hearing?<\/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-0466495f\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0466495f\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-0d8d3dea gb-headline-text\">In most cases, no. Requests for a first name change are usually handled in writing. If the judge deems an oral hearing necessary, your lawyer will guide you through it.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Related_scenarios_with_specific_handling\"><\/span>Related scenarios with specific handling<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not every wish to adjust a first name from a family perspective falls under this page. For other scenarios, we refer you to: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Adding, changing, or removing a middle name in a general sense. <\/strong><br\/>When the wish is independent of tribute or unwanted pressure and arises, for example, from identity confirmation or administrative consistency, we address this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/middle-name\/\">adding a middle name<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First name change for a minor child. <\/strong><br\/>When the request is submitted on behalf of a minor child, additional requirements apply, such as consent from both parents with parental authority. For the specific procedure, we refer to the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/kind\/\">changing a first name for a minor child<\/a>. This also applies to situations where one parent has given the child a name that the other parent never wanted.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Burdensome names due to childhood experiences. <\/strong><br\/>When the existing first name reminds you of a burdensome period or relationship from your youth without the family bond itself being the central ground, we address this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/voornaam-wijzigen\/jeugdtrauma\/\">changing a first name due to childhood experiences<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Experiences of bullying related to the name. <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If others have used or still use the name against you in a bullying context, we address this on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/pesten\/\">changing a first name due to bullying<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>International family context. <\/strong><br\/>When the family context is cross-border (family member abroad, name from another legal system), international points of attention apply on the page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/abroad\/\">changing a first name from abroad<\/a>.<\/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=\"What_are_the_legal_implications\"><\/span>What are the legal implications?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The legal basis is found in <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/jci1.3:c:BWBR0002656&amp;boek=1&amp;titeldeel=2&amp;artikel=4\">Art. 1:4 BW<\/a>. The court can order a change, addition, or (partial) replacement of a first name when the petitioner demonstrates a compelling reason. In family relationships, both a tribute to a special family member and distancing from a name given under pressure are among the structurally recognized grounds.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Three characteristics make the theme of family ties distinctive in practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tribute and distancing are mirror images of each other in motivation.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the case of a tribute, the motivation focuses on the positive bond with the person to be honored: what was the relationship like, why do you want to remember that person in your own name, and what form (addition or limited replacement) suits that goal. In the case of distancing, the motivation focuses on the original context in which the name was given, the current relationship with the namesake, and the burden the name currently causes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The relationship with the namesake determines the risk of objection.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When the namesake to be honored or rejected is deceased, no living objection can come from the family. When family contact is broken, the risk of objection is also lower. In cases of ongoing strained family relations, the chance of a family member objecting is higher; this increases the requirement for personal substantiation in the petition.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sub-theme: only one grandparent named after.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A recurring application in tributes is the situation where only one of two grandparents was named after at the time. Often, regret arises later, and the addition of the second grandparent is desired to restore symmetry between the paternal and maternal sides. This is a recognizable basis where the familial logic of naming largely carries the motivation on its own.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Evidence and its weight in files.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><strong>Evidence<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What it shows<\/strong><\/td><td>We<strong>ight in files<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">BRP extract or death certificate of the person to be honored<\/td><td>That the person to be honored has passed away and can no longer consent or object<\/td><td>Usually weighty in tribute requests; reduces the risk of objection<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Photos, letters, or correspondence with the person to be honored<\/td><td>Nature and intensity of the special bond<\/td><td>Additional weight; demonstrates the relationship without requiring third-party statements<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Statements from family members or close associates<\/td><td>External confirmation of the special bond or of the familial pressure at the time<\/td><td>Additional weight; stronger with multiple independent statements, particularly if the namesake is no longer living<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Family context at the time of birth (e.g., documents regarding naming customs or cultural situation at the time)<\/td><td>Under what pressure or in what context the name was given at the time<\/td><td>Central substantiation for unwanted-pressure requests; stronger as the context is made concrete<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Evidence of broken contact (cessation of correspondence, absence from family gatherings, previous legal steps)<\/td><td>That family contact with the namesake has been broken<\/td><td>Supplementary for unwanted-pressure requests; reduces the risk of objection<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Personal written motivation<\/td><td>Concrete significance of the change at the current moment<\/td><td>Usually indispensable; central to every scenario within this theme<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Evidence of long-term absence of the namesake (cessation of correspondence since early youth, lack of contact at family gatherings, lack of role in upbringing) or evidence of a harmful relationship (previous legal steps, practitioner statements where the name association plays a role)<\/td><td>That the relationship with the namesake has been absent or harmful over a longer period<\/td><td>Central substantiation for the naming route within unwanted pressure; stronger as the absence or harmfulness is concrete and long-term<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_the_procedure_work_step-by-step\"><\/span>How does the procedure work step-by-step?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The procedure is conducted via a petition to the court and is submitted by a lawyer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Consultation or intake meeting.<br\/><\/strong>In an initial <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">consultation<\/a> or intake meeting, we map out your situation: is it about a tribute or unwanted pressure, what is the relationship with the namesake, what substantiation is already available, and does addition or (partial) replacement better suit your goal? You will receive an assessment of feasibility and a clear cost overview. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic choices beforehand.<br\/><\/strong>Two choices play a role. First: adding or replacing. Adding suits a tribute: the existing first names remain, and a name is added as a memorial. Replacing or partially replacing suits unwanted-pressure situations: a name is removed or replaced by another. Second: for minors, additional consent from both parents with parental authority is required. With a deceased namesake or broken family contact, the motivation proceeds more smoothly than with ongoing strained family relations. We discuss these choices before the petition is drafted.      <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Collecting documents.<br\/><\/strong>We help you organize all necessary documents: a recent birth certificate, a BRP extract, a valid ID, and the substantive substantiation (death certificate or BRP extract of the person to be honored, photos and correspondence, statements from family members, evidence of family context at the time, and your own written motivation).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drafting the petition.<br\/><\/strong>The lawyer drafts the petition including the legal basis (Art. 1:4 BW), the compelling reason, the three factors applied to your situation, and the desired route (addition, replacement, or partial replacement).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Submission to the court.<br\/><\/strong>We submit the request to the court in your place of residence. Requests for first name changes are settled without an oral hearing in the vast majority of cases. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Court order and waiting period.<br\/><\/strong>The court issues a ruling. If granted, a three-month appeal period applies. After that period, the change is final.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Processing in the BRP and official documents.<br\/><\/strong>After the appeal period has expired, the change is added as a subsequent entry to the birth certificate and registered in the Personal Records Database (BRP). You can then have your passport, ID card, driver&#8217;s license, and other documentation updated. A full overview of the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\">first name change procedure<\/a> and the legal conditions can be found on our main page.  <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_a_change_due_to_family_relationships_cost\"><\/span>What does a change due to family relationships cost?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The total costs are known in advance and fixed: \u20ac899.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Description<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Costs<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fixed Simmelink attorney fee (including VAT)<\/td><td>\u20ac558<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Court fee<\/td><td>\u20ac341<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total<\/td><td>\u20ac889<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We work with a fixed price agreement in advance. The attorney fee is the same for addition, replacement, and partial replacement. A more detailed explanation of the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/costs-first-name-change\/\">cost structure<\/a> can be found on our rates page.  <\/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\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\/\/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 Adding a first name in memory of a deceased or special family member, distancing yourself from a name given under family pressure at the time, or changing a name by which you were named after an absent or harmful family member can be done via a petition to the court based on &#8230; <a title=\"Adding or changing a first name due to family ties\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/familiebanden\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Adding or changing a first name due to family ties\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":24912,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-37677","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\/37677","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=37677"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/37677\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37686,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/37677\/revisions\/37686"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24912"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37677"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}