After the hearing, the administrative judge delivers a judgment. This may mean that your appeal is declared well-founded or unfounded, and the decision may be upheld or declared invalid.
Timeframe for the judgment
The administrative judge usually issues a judgment:
- In most cases within 6 weeks after the hearing
- In complex cases, this may take more time
- The judgment is sent to you by post
Types of judgments
| Type of judgment | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Inadmissible | Your appeal does not meet the required conditions |
| Unfounded | The original decision remains in force |
| Well-founded | The decision is declared null and void |
What happens in the case of a well-founded appeal?
If the judge declares your appeal well-founded, these are the possible outcomes:
- The decision is declared invalid
- The administrative authority is ordered to issue a new decision
- The judge may itself decide the case
- The legal effects may be preserved despite the annulment
Reimbursements in the case of a well-founded appeal
If you are vindicated, you may claim:
- Refund of the paid court fee
- Reimbursement of procedural costs (standard amount)
- Damages, if separately requested
Possibility of appeal
Do you disagree with the judgment of the district court? Then you can lodge an appeal with:
- The Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State (general matters)
- The Central Appeals Tribunal (social security and civil servants matters)
- The Board of Appeal for Business (economic matters)
Frequently asked questions about judgments in Zoetermeer
Is the administrative authority obliged to follow the judgment?
Yes, the judgment is legally binding. The administrative authority must comply with the judge's ruling.
Is a new decision automatically taken after annulment?
Often the administrative authority must draw up a new decision, but in some cases the judge itself decides.
What is the time limit for lodging an appeal?
You have 6 weeks after the judgment to lodge an appeal.
Extra questions and answers
What do I do if the judgment takes longer than 6 weeks?
If you have not received a judgment after 6 weeks, you can contact the registry of the District Court of The Hague. They can inform you about the status of your case. In complex cases, the waiting time may increase, but you are entitled to an update.
How do I know if I have been vindicated?
The judgment clearly states whether your appeal is 'well-founded' (you win) or 'unfounded' (decision stands). The judge's reasoning helps you understand the ruling. If in doubt, you can seek advice from the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
Can I claim damages in the case of a well-founded appeal?
Yes, but you must request this separately. The standard procedural costs reimbursement is awarded automatically, but for damages a separate procedure is required, for example via the administrative authority or the civil court.
What if the administrative authority ignores the judgment?
The administrative authority must comply with the judgment. If not, you can demand a penalty payment or file a complaint with the National Ombudsman. A lawyer can help you with further steps.
Is appeal possible in case of inadmissibility?
Yes, you can also lodge an appeal against a declaration of inadmissibility within 6 weeks. The higher instance will then re-examine whether you have met all formal requirements.
How do I get my court fee refunded?
In the case of a well-founded appeal, the court fee is automatically refunded. This usually happens within a few weeks. Contact the registry of the District Court of The Hague if you receive nothing.
What does it mean if the judge itself decides the case?
If the judge 'itself provides for the case', this means that it not only annuls the decision but also immediately makes a new decision. This prevents delay by the administrative authority.