In Utrecht, parents who do not pay maintenance contributions for children between 18 and 21 years of age run the risk of forced collection. The law provides students in the Domstad with powerful instruments, such as via local court registries and the LBIO, to enforce their rights.
LBIO and Coercive Measures in Utrecht
Via the Landelijke Bureaus Inning Onderhoudsbijdragen (LBIO), a young person from Utrecht can enforce a payment order. In case of persistent non-payment, attachment follows on salary, benefits, or bank accounts, often executed by bailiffs in the Utrecht region such as around the Neude or Kanaleneiland.
Legal Proceedings at the District Court of Midden-Nederland
Start with a formal notice of default by registered mail. Follow up with a writ of summons at the District Court of Midden-Nederland in Utrecht. The judge may award a penalty payment: €50 per day of delay, with a maximum of €10,000. Local law firms in the city centre specialize in this and offer free initial consultations via the Juridisch Loket Utrecht.
Practical Tips for Residents of Utrecht
Document all communication, messages, and payments carefully. In case of urgency: file a request for an interim measure with the family judge in Utrecht. Parents with financial problems can apply for reduction, for example at the Raad voor de Kinderbescherming Utrecht. In 2023, the LBIO collected €150 million nationwide for students, with Utrecht as a hotspot due to many UU and HU students. Success factor: act in time to prevent limitation after 5 years – the Juridisch Loket at Mariaplaats provides free assistance at the start.