Testamentary Guardianship in Zoetermeer
Testamentary guardianship allows parents in Zoetermeer to designate a trusted person as guardian for their minor children via their will in the event of death. This provision under Dutch family law gives you control over your children's future, rather than relying on default rules. For residents of Zoetermeer, it is essential for parental authority and child protection, and you can seek advice from Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
Legal Basis of Testamentary Guardianship
Testamentary guardianship is enshrined in Book 1, Title 15 of the Civil Code (CC). Article 1:307 CC permits the surviving parent to appoint a guardian for children under 18 in a notarial deed or will. This aligns with parental responsibility under Article 1:247 CC.
Without such an appointment, the district court judge at the District Court Zoetermeer steps in, potentially appointing a family member as guardian (Article 1:309 CC). Article 1:308 CC requires court approval if the appointing parent lacks authority, and Article 4:39 CC governs the form of the will. The foundation stems from the Act of 5 July 1956, now codified in the CC since 1992, prioritizing the child's best interests in line with the UNCRC (Article 3).
How Testamentary Guardianship Works for Residents of Zoetermeer
Begin by drafting a will with a notary in or around Zoetermeer. Designate a family member, friend, or partner as guardian, optionally with a substitute. Upon death, the testamentary guardian takes effect automatically, unless the District Court Zoetermeer rules otherwise (Article 1:310 CC).
The guardian must file a confirmation request with the district court judge at the District Court Zoetermeer within one month, who assesses the child's best interests and any unsuitability. In cases of both parents' death, the guardian collaborates with a co-guardian (Article 1:312 CC). For unmarried partners, court approval is required for parents without authority.
Differences from Other Guardianship Forms
For comparison with other options available to residents of Zoetermeer:
| Guardianship Form | Description | When Applicable | Required Procedure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Testamentary guardianship | Parents in Zoetermeer designate guardian via will | Upon death of parent(s) | Will + confirmation by District Court Zoetermeer |
| Statutory guardianship | Automatic for partner or joint authority | Upon death of one parent | None, unless dispute |
| Extraordinary guardianship | District Court Zoetermeer appoints guardian | No will or conflict | Request to district court judge |
Read more about guardianship in our Zoetermeer article on guardianship.
Practical Examples for Zoetermeer
A single parent from Zoetermeer appoints her brother as testamentary guardian for her school-age children. After an accident, he assumes care and inheritance without interference from Gemeente Zoetermeer foster care.
Or: Parents in Zoetermeer designate a friend in mutual wills. Upon joint death, the District Court Zoetermeer approves; the guardian then handles local school choices and finances, with court approval for major decisions like emigration.
For separated parents in Zoetermeer, conflicts may arise; the court evaluates based on the child's best interests, possibly including a hearing for children aged 12 and up (Article 1:377 CC).
Rights and Duties of the Testamentary Guardian
The testamentary guardian in Zoetermeer has responsibilities with safeguards:
- Care and upbringing: Decisions on schooling in Zoetermeer, healthcare, and residence (Article 1:313 CC).
- Financial management: Administration of assets with annual accounts to the District Court Zoetermeer; major expenditures require approval (Article 1:318 CC).
- Representation: Acting on behalf of the child in legal matters.
- Duties: Always prioritize the child's best interests, avoid conflicts of interest, and report periodically. The guardian may resign with court approval. Contact Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer for guidance.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wie erft zonder testament?
Zonder testament erven partner en kinderen eerst. Als geen partner of kinderen: ouders, broers/zussen, etc. volgen de wettelijke erfrechtsregels.
Kan ik alles aan één kind geven?
Ja, je mag met een testament bepalen wie erft. Kinderen hebben echter soms wettelijk recht op een verplicht deel.
Moet ik erfbelasting betalen?
Erfbelasting hangt af van je relatie tot de overledene en de erfenis grootte. Naasten betalen vaak minder.
Hoe lang duurt een erfopvolgingsprocedure?
Dit kan variëren van enkele maanden tot meer dan een jaar, afhankelijk van de complexiteit.
Kan ik een erfenis weigeren?
Ja, je kunt een erfenis weigeren. Dit moet snel na het overlijden schriftelijk aan de rechter worden gemeld.