In case of a divorce in Zoetermeer, a parenting plan is mandatory if you have children under the age of 18. This document contains all agreements regarding the care and upbringing of your children, drawn up together with your ex-partner.
Legal Requirement in Zoetermeer
Since 2009, parents must submit a parenting plan in case of divorce or termination of a registered partnership if there are minor children. Without this plan, the District Court of The Hague, under which Zoetermeer falls, will not process the divorce request.
Mandatory Agreements
According to the law, a parenting plan must at least contain the following points:
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Care and upbringing division | Where the child resides and when it is with which parent |
| Communication between parents | How parents inform each other about the child |
| Financial contribution | Arrangement for child support and cost sharing |
Additional Agreements
Many parents in Zoetermeer also add agreements about:
- Choice of school and studies
- Decisions regarding medical care
- Upbringing standards and religion
- Arrangement for holidays and special days
- Introduction of new partners
- Relocation plans
- Contact methods between parents
Types of Care Arrangements
| Type of arrangement | Time division | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Co-parenting | Approximately 50/50 | Children spend equal time with both parents |
| Primary residence with visitation arrangement | 60/40 or 70/30 | Child primarily resides with one parent |
| Weekend arrangement | 80/20 | Child is with the other parent every other weekend |
Input of the Child
In Zoetermeer, children from the age of 12 are invited by the court to share their opinion on the parenting plan. Younger children may also sometimes be heard. Their input is taken into account but is not binding.
What if we cannot reach agreement on the plan?
If you cannot agree together, you can seek help from a mediator in Zoetermeer. If that does not help, the District Court of The Hague will decide on the care arrangement, always prioritizing the best interests of the child.Can I change the parenting plan later?
Yes, in case of changed circumstances, you can adjust the plan. If you agree, you draw up a new plan together. In case of disagreement, you can ask the District Court of The Hague to make a decision.Is a parenting plan mandatory for unmarried parents?
For parents in Zoetermeer who are not married or do not have a partnership, a parenting plan is not mandatory. However, it is recommended to record agreements in writing for clarity.Contact and Support in Zoetermeer
For legal advice on a parenting plan, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. They offer free help and can refer you to a mediator or lawyer if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a parenting plan mandatory in case of divorce in Zoetermeer?Yes, in case of divorce or termination of a registered partnership with minor children, a parenting plan is mandatory. Without a plan, the District Court of The Hague will not process your request. The plan includes agreements on care, communication, and costs, drawn up with your ex-partner, possibly via a mediator. What if my ex-partner and I cannot reach agreement?
If you cannot agree, you can engage a mediator, for example via the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. If that does not work, the judge will decide on the arrangement, with the best interests of the child as priority. Children from the age of 12 can give their opinion. Can a parenting plan be adjusted afterwards?
Yes, in case of changed circumstances such as a move or new work situation, you can adjust the plan. If you agree, you draw up a new plan together. In case of conflict, the District Court of The Hague can be involved. How are the costs of children divided?
In the parenting plan, you make agreements about child support and other costs. This can be a monthly contribution or direct cost sharing. Often, the parent with higher income bears a larger share. Additional expenses such as school fees can also be included. What is the difference between co-parenting and a weekend arrangement?
In co-parenting, the child resides approximately equally with both parents (50/50), which requires good coordination. In a weekend arrangement, the child primarily lives with one parent and, for example, spends every other weekend with the other parent. ### Arslan & Arslan Advocaten **Arslan & Arslan Advocaten** provides professional legal guidance and support for your legal matters. - Website: [www.arslan.nl](https://arslan.nl) - Email: [info@arslan.nl](mailto:info@arslan.nl) - Free initial consultation