Spousal maintenance is a logical continuation of the parental maintenance obligation, especially for student couples in Zoetermeer. With the nearby HAS University of Applied Sciences and other educational institutions in the region, Article 1:157 CC regulates contributions between partners in a joint household, taking into account high rental prices in neighbourhoods such as Palenstein and Seghwaert.
Conditions in Zoetermeer
Both partners must be studying at a local programme or have a gap in income, for example due to an internship at Zoetermeer companies. The maintenance obligation applies until 1 year after the last study, with judges at the District Court of The Hague taking local costs such as public transport trips to Rotterdam into account.
Calculation
Based on capacity to pay and need, often 50/50 for equal incomes. In Zoetermeer, rent of around €900-€1200, study books and living expenses at the Lijnbaan are included, plus extra for bike mobility.
Difference from child maintenance
In contrast to the 18-21 obligation, spousal maintenance does not end at a fixed age, but upon self-sufficiency. Judges apply stricter scrutiny for cohabiting couples in Zoetermeer, with attention to the local labour market at companies such as the Municipality or Ricoh.
Example: A working partner in Zoetermeer pays €450 to the student at the HAS, adjusted upon job change. Divorce? Maintenance continues until the end of studies, supported by recent rulings from the District Court of The Hague.