Even without parental authority over your child, you have the right to essential information in Utrecht. The other parent and institutions such as schools and doctors are obliged to keep you informed of important matters.
Legal Basis for the Right to Information
The right to information is regulated in article 1:377c of the Dutch Civil Code. This applies to parents without parental authority and concerns, among other things:
- Personal development and behavior of the child
- Financial situation of the child
- Crucial decisions regarding the child
Who is Obliged to Provide Information?
| Source of Information | Type of Information |
|---|---|
| Parent with parental authority | General progress and important events |
| Educational institution | School performance, reports, parent-teacher conferences |
| Medical care providers | Health information |
| Childcare organization | Development updates and incidents |
| Leisure clubs | Activities and progress |
Limitations of the Right to Information
There are some restrictions on this right:
- No direct access to full files, only relevant data
- No daily updates required
- Information may be refused if it harms the child's well-being
- Medical professional secrecy may apply in exceptional cases
Steps to Obtain Information in Utrecht
- Approach the other parent for updates
- Register yourself with schools and care providers for direct communication
- Request documentation such as reports and records
- Request participation in parent-teacher conferences and events
What to Do in Case of Refusal?
If information is withheld by the other parent or an organization:
- Send a formal written request with reference to the law
- Consider legal assistance via a lawyer
- A court may enforce the provision of information
Is the parent with parental authority obliged to inform me?
Yes, the parent with parental authority must inform you of significant matters concerning your child, even if you yourself do not have parental authority.Must a school inform me separately?
You can request the school to inform you independently, for example via a separate mailing list. Although the school is not obliged to make extra effort, they may not ignore your request.Can a doctor withhold information due to professional secrecy?
In general, you have the right to medical data of your child. A doctor may only refuse this if it is not in the child's interest, which rarely occurs.Frequently Asked Questions in Utrecht
Do I have the right to school information without parental authority?
Yes, you can request the school for updates on performance, reports, and events. They may not refuse you, but are not obliged to do double work. Ask to be placed on a separate list.
What if the other parent does not share information?
Send a written request with reference to article 1:377c of the Dutch Civil Code. In case of persistent refusal, you can seek legal assistance, for example via the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55. A court may enforce the provision of information.
Can a doctor refuse data due to professional secrecy?
Normally not. You have the right to medical information, unless it harms the child, which is exceptional. Request data in writing and consider legal steps in case of refusal.
Must I request information myself?
Although the parent with parental authority has a duty, it is wise to take action yourself. Register with relevant institutions in Utrecht for direct updates and to avoid misunderstandings.
Do I get access to my child's entire file?
No, you have no right to full files, but you do have the right to important content such as reports and medical updates. Request specifically what you need; institutions must provide this.
Important institutions in Utrecht:
- Rechtbank Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55