Withholding or obstructing contact with a child is a serious issue. Children have the right to contact with both parents, and obstructing this can lead to legal action in Zoetermeer.
When is it permitted to refuse contact?
Contact may only be limited or refused if it is in the best interests of the child. The statutory reasons for this are:
- Harm to the child's mental or physical development due to contact
- Inability or unsuitability of the parent for contact
- Serious objections from a child aged 12 or older
- Contact that otherwise conflicts with the child's best interests
What constitutes obstruction of contact?
Examples of obstructing contact include, among others:
- Not handing over the child at agreed times
- Making negative remarks about the other parent in the child's presence
- Influencing the child to not want contact with the other parent
- Moving to another location without consultation
- Repeatedly cancelling or changing arrangements
Consequences of obstructing contact in Zoetermeer
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Penalty payment | A fine per instance that contact does not take place |
| Detention | Imprisonment as a last resort |
| Change of primary residence | The child goes to live with the other parent |
| Adjustment of parental authority | Parental authority may be awarded to the other parent |
Steps in case of obstruction of contact
- Keep a record of all obstructions (dates and situations)
- First try to find a solution through discussion or mediation
- Consider legal assistance from a lawyer in Zoetermeer
- Request the court to enforce the contact arrangement
- If necessary, request coercive measures
Parental alienation: A serious problem
Parental alienation, also known as parental estrangement, is an extreme form of obstruction of contact whereby a child is incited by one parent to reject the other parent. This can lead to judicial intervention via the District Court of The Hague.
What to do if my ex is turning my child against me?
Keep a file of all incidents and remain neutral towards your child. Seek support from a mediator or lawyer in Zoetermeer. The court may order an investigation by the Child Care and Protection Board and take appropriate measures.Can I stop contact if my ex does not pay child support?
No, contact and child support are two separate matters. Non-payment of child support is not a ground to refuse contact. Conversely, your ex may not stop child support if contact is obstructed.What if my child does not want contact themselves?
As a parent, you are obliged to encourage your child to maintain contact with the other parent. A child does not decide this themselves. If there is resistance, find out why and, if necessary, seek help via agencies in Zoetermeer.Frequently asked questions about obstruction of contact in Zoetermeer
What to do if my ex-partner does not comply with the contact arrangement?
Document all incidents (dates, times, details). Try a solution via a mediator or lawyer. If this does not work, you can ask the District Court of The Hague to enforce the arrangement with sanctions such as penalty payments or change of primary residence. The Zoetermeer Legal Aid Office can advise you on this.
How do I prove that my ex is deliberately blocking contact?
Gather evidence by keeping a logbook of incidents and retain communications such as emails or messages. Statements from third parties (family, professionals) can also be useful. A report from the Child Care and Protection Board can carry extra weight.
May I pause contact if I suspect danger to my child?
You may not stop contact yourself. Contact Veilig Thuis (0800-2000) or the Child Care and Protection Board if concerned. An emergency request to the court is also possible, but always do this with legal assistance to avoid problems.
What does a legal procedure for obstruction of contact cost?
Costs range from €1,500 to €5,000, depending on the case. This covers court fees (€350-€1,000), lawyer fees (€150-€300 per hour) and any reports. If you have a low income, you can apply for subsidised legal aid via the Zoetermeer Legal Aid Office.
How quickly does the court decide on obstruction of contact?
The duration of a procedure at the District Court of The Hague varies, but an emergency case can be handled within a few weeks. Standard cases often take several months. Contact a lawyer for a realistic estimate.