In case of a divorce in Utrecht with minor children, a parenting plan is mandatory. This document contains all agreements regarding the care and upbringing of your children, drawn up together with your ex-partner.
Legal Requirement in Utrecht
Since 2009, parents in Utrecht must submit a parenting plan in case of divorce or termination of a registered partnership if there are minor children. The District Court of Midden-Nederland will only process your request after receipt of this plan.
Mandatory Agreements
According to the law, a parenting plan in Utrecht must at least contain the following points:
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Care and upbringing division | Where the child resides and when with which parent |
| Communication between parents | How parents inform each other about the child |
| Financial contribution | Child support and other cost sharing |
Additional Agreements
Many parents in Utrecht also add agreements about:
- Choice of school and education
- Decisions regarding health and medical care
- Upbringing values and religion
- Planning of holidays and special days
- Introduction of new partners
- Rules regarding relocation
- Contact methods between parents
Types of Care Divisions
| Type | Division | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Co-parenting | 50/50 | Child lives equally with both parents |
| Primary residence with contact | 65/35 or 70/30 | Child has one primary residence |
| Weekend arrangement | 80/20 | Child is with the other parent every other weekend |
Involvement of the Child
In Utrecht, children from 12 years old are asked by the court for their opinion on the parenting plan. Younger children may sometimes also be heard. Their input is taken into account, but is not binding.
What if we cannot reach agreement?
If you cannot reach agreement in Utrecht, a mediator can help. If this fails, the District Court of Midden-Nederland will decide on the care arrangement, always with the child's best interests paramount.Can I change the plan later?
Yes, a parenting plan can be amended in Utrecht in case of changed circumstances. If there is agreement, you draw up a new plan together; if there is disagreement, the court can make a decision.Is a plan mandatory for unmarried parents?
For cohabiting parents in Utrecht, a parenting plan is not legally mandatory, but it is strongly recommended to record agreements in writing for clarity.Contact and Support in Utrecht
For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55. Cases are handled by the District Court of Midden-Nederland, located at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1.