UWV Dismissal Permit vs Subdistrict Court Dissolution: Differences for Employers in Zoetermeer

In Zoetermeer, a growing business centre in the Randstad with companies in tech and logistics, employers often choose between a UWV permit for dismissal or dissolution by the subdistrict court. The choice depends on the dismissal ground, speed and local legal practice at the court in The Hague, which serves Zoetermeer.

UWV Procedure

For a- and b-grounds (economic or long-term illness). The UWV in Zoetermeer assesses neutrally without compensation. Duration: 4-8 weeks. After the permit, you send the dismissal letter yourself. Local tip: many Zoetermeer SMEs use this for downsizing due to housing market fluctuations.

Subdistrict Court

For c/d/e/f-grounds (underperformance, culpable conduct, refusal etc.). The subdistrict court in The Hague assesses with a hearing, often awards transition compensation. Duration: 6-12 weeks. Employee can mount a defence. In Zoetermeer we see more requests due to hybrid work conflicts post-corona.

Pros and Cons

UWV: faster and cheaper, ideal for local startups, but no tailor-made solution. Subdistrict Court: more flexible for complex cases, but more expensive (court fees €80-€500) and riskier (dissolution can be refused). Hybrid route: UWV after subdistrict court refusal, popular among Zoetermeer employers.

Strategy for Zoetermeer

For underperformance: start with an improvement trajectory and document everything digitally. Choose subdistrict court for tailor-made solutions. Both procedures lead to dismissal from the date of the ruling. Consult a local labour lawyer in Zoetermeer or Zoetermeer Advice Centre for optimal advice. This keeps your company compliant with collective labour agreements in the region. (248 words)