The Child Protection Board is a government agency that in Zoetermeer and surrounding areas checks whether children are growing up in a safe environment and advises the court on protective measures and parental authority matters.
What does the Board do?
The Child Protection Board has three core activities:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Child safety | Analysing whether a protective measure is necessary |
| Divorce conflicts | Providing advice on parental authority and contact arrangements after a divorce |
| Youth criminality | Supervision and advice regarding juvenile suspects |
When is the Board involved?
- If there are doubts about a child's safety (via Safe at Home)
- In case of disagreement between parents about children after a divorce
- If a young person has committed a criminal offence
- For applications to change parental authority
- When a court requests advice on parental authority issues
Course of a Board investigation
During an investigation by the Board:
- The Board collects data from all involved parties
- Conducts interviews with parents, the child, schools and support workers
- Thoroughly analyses the situation
- Prepares an advice report for the court
Cooperating with an investigation
Cooperating with a Board investigation is not mandatory, but:
- Refusal may have adverse consequences
- The Board may issue advice based on the information available
- The court may take your refusal into account in the decision
Your rights during an investigation
- Right to clear information about the process
- Right to tell your side of the story
- Access to the preliminary report and opportunity for corrections
- Right to support from a lawyer or trusted person
How long does a Board investigation take?
An average investigation takes about 12 weeks. In urgent cases it can be faster, in complex situations longer.Can I view the Board's report?
Yes, you receive the report before it goes to the court. You can have inaccuracies corrected and add a written response.What if I do not accept the Board's advice?
You can submit your objections to the court, which makes an independent decision. You can appeal against the court's judgment.Frequently asked questions
What is the role of the Child Protection Board?
The Board investigates whether children are safe and advises the court on protective measures.
When is the Board called in?
Upon signals of child abuse, neglect or irresolvable conflicts in divorces.
What happens during an investigation?
The Board speaks with those involved and prepares a report with recommendations for the court.
Can I challenge the Board's advice?
You can give your opinion to the court, which decides itself and is not obliged to follow the advice.
What is the duration of a Board investigation?
An investigation lasts on average 3 months, depending on the complexity.
Summary
The Child Protection Board in Zoetermeer investigates risks to children and advises the court on appropriate measures.
Key points
- Checks child safety
- Advises on protection cases
- Investigation lasts on average 3 months
- Court makes final decision
Relevant agencies in Zoetermeer: District Court The Hague (district), Legal Counter Zoetermeer