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This guidance concerns the law in the Netherlands. Translations provide a starting point; seek individual advice if anything is unclear.
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Need a lawyer but worried about the cost?

Subsidised legal aid is provided through a Dutch legal aid certificate, called a toevoeging. The Legal Aid Board assesses eligibility. A personal contribution and other costs may apply.

Read the Legal Aid Board’s explanationFind a family lawyer
Am I eligible?

Your income, assets and the nature of your case are considered. Have your circumstances assessed.

Sources and attribution1

Official information supporting this page. Our preparation and help-selection tips are editorial.

  1. Legal Aid Board: eligibility for subsidised assistancerechtsbijstand.nl

Sources consulted:

What do I need to pay?

Ask about your personal contribution, court fees and other costs. Legal aid is not always free.

Sources and attribution2

Official information supporting this page. Our preparation and help-selection tips are editorial.

  1. Legal Aid Board: personal contributionrechtsbijstand.nl
  2. Legal Aid Board: court fees and other costsrechtsbijstand.nl

Sources consulted:

How do I apply for help?

Find a lawyer who accepts legal aid cases. The lawyer usually applies for the certificate for you.

Sources and attribution1

Official information supporting this page. Our preparation and help-selection tips are editorial.

  1. Legal Aid Board: how assistance is requestedrechtsbijstand.nl

Sources consulted:

Your next step

A clear route to help

01

Gather information about your income, family and legal question.

02

Ask a family lawyer whether they can handle your case under subsidised legal aid.

03

Discuss the assessment, costs and possible next steps before agreeing.

Sources and attribution1

Official information supporting this page. Our preparation and help-selection tips are editorial.

  1. Legal Aid Board: how assistance is requestedrechtsbijstand.nl

Sources consulted:

Worried about costs?

Ask about your personal contribution, court fees and other costs. Legal aid is not always free.

Legal Aid Board: personal contribution
Sources and attribution1

Official information supporting this page. Our preparation and help-selection tips are editorial.

  1. Legal Aid Board: court fees and other costsrechtsbijstand.nl

Sources consulted:

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I want to separateRead what you need to prepare for a divorce in the Netherlands and what assistance is appropriate.
I want to arrange care for our childrenA parenting plan helps to record agreements about the children clearly and executably.
I have a question about parental authorityAuthority determines who can and must make important decisions about a minor child.
I want to arrange maintenanceUnderstand how to discuss and carefully record your child's financial care.
I need help with legal costsClarify costs in advance and have possible financial assistance assessed.
I am worried about safetyWhen there is fear, coercion or violence, appropriate support comes before new negotiations.

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