Family law
The expat life can be challenging on your family
Family law issues are often personal, urgent and complex. Especially when (the law of) more than one country is involved. Whether you are dealing with a divorce, children, alimony or inheritance, it helps to know if and how Dutch law applies to your situation.
Our experts are here to guide you through Dutch family law with care, clarity and practical advice, so you can make informed decisions in a difficult time.
We can help you with the following legal matters:
- (International) divorce
- Child maintenance
- Spousal maintenance
- Custody, care arrangements and parenting plans
- International child abduction
- Inheritance
- Mediation
- Family law matters with cross-border aspects
Common situations
- You are considering divorce and want to understand your rights
- You are dealing with a divorce in the Netherlands and you or your spouse or both of you have international ties
- You need advice about custody, a care arrangement or child maintenance
- You need advice about spousal maintenance
- You are dealing with international child abduction or a relocation issue
- You are facing an inheritance issue after the death of a relative
What internationals should know
Family matters can involve different legal systems, different countries and sensitive personal circumstances. For internationals, questions about where children live, which law applies, or how an inheritance is handled can quickly become extra complicated. We help you understand which law applies and what to do next.
Why GMW lawyers
As one of the largest family law teams in the Netherlands, we combine deep expertise with extensive experience in international divorces and cross-border family law matters. You are in expert hands.
Related property law topics
Our articles, FAQs and white paper cover topics such as international divorce, maintenance, custody, international child abduction and inheritance under Dutch law.
Our team is here to help you
Need advice on a family law matter in the Netherlands? Our team is here to help you assess your situation and take the next step.
Related articles
01 December 2017
A divorce under common law in the Netherlands
07 September 2017
Affairs and other grounds for divorce
27 August 2014
Benefits of talking to a divorce specialist
Downloads
White paper about divorce in the Netherlands
This white paper is for expats living in the Netherlands who are considering getting divorced. It provides clear explanations of key points that could help make your international divorce a little easier, as well as information about family law and useful tips.
FAQ’s
If you were disinherited, you may still be entitled to a statutory portion of the inheritance, known as the “legitime portie” in the Netherlands. This is a fixed share of the estate that children can claim, even if they were excluded from the will. The claim must be made within 5 years of the death of the deceased.
As an heir in the Netherlands, you can choose to accept the inheritance fully, accept it under the benefit of inventory (to avoid personal liability for debts), or reject it entirely. You must make this decision within three months of the inheritance becoming available.
Yes, you can get divorced in the Netherlands even if you live abroad. Dutch courts have jurisdiction if you or your spouse are Dutch citizens, live in the Netherlands, or have a strong connection to the country. A Dutch lawyer will handle the process, and in most cases, you won’t need to be physically present. Make sure your marriage is properly registered and provide any necessary documents, such as a legalized marriage certificate.
To get divorced in the Netherlands, you need a Dutch lawyer to file a petition with the court. The court will review your case and issue a divorce decree, which must then be registered with the municipality where your marriage was recorded to finalize the divorce.
