In Zoetermeer, the parental maintenance obligation for children ends automatically at the age of 21, in accordance with the Civil Code. However, local young people and parents must be aware of important exceptions, especially with the nearby District Court of The Hague handling many cases. Article 1:395a CC provides for continuation in case of study delay or special circumstances.
Automatic Lapse in Zoetermeer
Without court intervention, the payment obligation stops exactly on the 21st birthday. Parents from Zoetermeer, like many in the Binckhorst or Stadshart neighbourhoods, no longer need to contribute, unless an existing court order provides otherwise. The District Court of The Hague, responsible for Zoetermeer, applies strict deadlines.
Exceptions for Zoetermeer Young People
In cases of illness, disability, or unexpected study delay – think of delays due to the corona pandemic at local educational institutions such as The Hague University of Applied Sciences with locations in the region – the court may extend the obligation. In shared parenting situations, common in Zoetermeer, this applies equally to both parents. Filing a request with the District Court of The Hague is crucial.
Transition to Partner Maintenance
After 21 years, young adults in Zoetermeer can claim partner maintenance if they cohabit with a studying partner. This requires a petition with proof of shared financial needs, to be handled by the local division of the District Court of The Hague.
Local practice: In a recent case at the District Court of The Hague, the court extended the parental contribution for a young person from Zoetermeer to 23 years due to corona-related delay at the HTS, with €350 monthly. Advice for residents of Zoetermeer: file disputes in time with the registry in The Hague to secure benefits and use local legal assistance via the Juridisch Loket in Zoetermeer.