Filing an objection with a [bestuursorgaan](https://rechtshulpilburg.nl/encyclopedie/bestuursorgaan-identificeren) in Utrecht costs nothing. However, you may incur expenses for legal assistance. If your objection is upheld, you can apply for a costs reimbursement.
Filing an Objection is Free of Charge
Drafting and filing an objection notice with the administrative authority in Utrecht is free. This differs from an appeal procedure, for which you must pay court fees.
What Costs Can You Expect?
| Type of Costs | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Legal Assistance | When engaging a lawyer |
| Legal Expenses Insurance | Often covers objection procedures |
| Advice from Lawyers | Free assistance via Juridisch Loket Utrecht |
| Administrative Costs | For copies of documents |
| Travel Expenses | Travel to a hearing |
Reimbursement of Procedural Costs
If your objection in Utrecht is declared (partly) well-founded, you can apply for reimbursement of procedural costs (Article 7:15 Awb). Conditions are:
- The objection is declared (partly) well-founded
- The decision is withdrawn due to an error by the administrative authority
- You must apply for the reimbursement before the decision on the objection
How Much Cost Reimbursement Can You Get?
The reimbursement is calculated via a points system:
- Filing objection notice: 1 point
- Participation in hearing: 1 point
- Value per point: € 597 (2024)
- Complexity determines the weighting factor
Note: the reimbursement often does not cover all costs incurred.
Frequently Asked Questions about Costs in Utrecht
Are lawyer costs fully reimbursed?
No, the reimbursement is a fixed amount per point and usually does not cover everything.
Do I have to apply for cost reimbursement myself?
Yes, you must explicitly state this in your objection notice or before the decision on the objection.
Is there free legal assistance in Utrecht?
Yes, you can go to Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55. If you have a low income, you can also apply for a subsidized lawyer.
Contact and Locations in Utrecht
For cases in Utrecht, you can go to Rechtbank Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1. For free advice, you can contact Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55.