An appeal (beroepschrift) is the document with which you submit a case to the administrative judge. It must meet specific conditions to be valid.
What must be included in an appeal?
A valid appeal contains the following elements:
- Full name and address of the appellant
- Date of filing
- Description of the decision being challenged
- Reasons for the appeal
- Signature of the appellant
- Copy of the objection decision
Where can you file the appeal?
An appeal can be filed in various ways:
- Online via the judiciary website (with DigiD)
- By post to the relevant court
- In person at the court registry
Structure of an appeal
| Section | Content |
|---|---|
| Address line | Addressed to the district court [location], administrative law division |
| Introduction | Mention of the decision and the date of the objection |
| Arguments | Explanation of why the decision is incorrect |
| Request | What you want the judge to decide |
| Attachments | Documents such as the objection decision and evidence |
Important grounds for appeal
A strong appeal is often based on:
- Incorrect application of law and regulations
- Insufficient substantiation of the decision
- Breach of principles of good administration
- Incorrect interpretation of the facts
- Negligence in the preparation of the decision
Filing a pro forma appeal
If you want to meet the deadline, you can file a provisional appeal. You can then supplement the arguments later within the period set by the court.
Frequently asked questions about appeals in Zoetermeer
May I add new arguments that were not in the objection?
Yes, in an appeal you can mention additional reasons. The judge reviews the entire decision anew.
Do I have to pay the court fee immediately?
No, the court sends a payment request. You usually have 4 weeks to pay.
What if I cannot pay the court fee?
If you have a low income, you can request exemption. Contact the registry for more information.
Extra questions and answers
How much time do I have to file an appeal?
You have 6 weeks from the date of the objection decision. This deadline is strict: late filing may lead to inadmissibility. If in doubt, you can file a pro forma appeal and supplement it later.
What if I forget a part of the appeal?
If something essential is missing (for example, a signature), the court often gives a short period to supplement it. Do this quickly to avoid problems.
Can I draft an appeal myself?
Yes, a lawyer is not required in administrative law cases. Ensure it is a clear and well-substantiated document. For complex cases, legal assistance is recommended. In Zoetermeer, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer for advice.
At which court should I file my case?
For Zoetermeer, this usually falls under the District Court of The Hague. Check the objection decision or contact the registry if you are unsure.
What are the costs of an appeal?
Court fees vary between €50 and €500 (2023), depending on the case. After filing, you will receive a payment request. In case of financial problems, you can apply for exemption with proof of income.