For a divorce in Rijswijk with minor children, a parenting plan is a must. It records all arrangements regarding the care and upbringing of the children with your ex-partner.
Legal Requirement in Rijswijk
Since 2009, drawing up a parenting plan is mandatory for divorce or termination of a registered partnership when minor children are involved. The District Court of The Hague, under which Rijswijk falls, will not process your divorce request without this plan.
Essential Topics
According to the law, a parenting plan must at least contain arrangements on the following points:
| Topic | 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 how costs are shared |
Additional Arrangements
Often, the plan also includes other matters, such as:
- Choice of school and education
- Decisions on medical care
- Upbringing standards and religion
- Arrangements for holidays and special days
- Introduction of new partners
- Relocation plans
- Contact between parents
Types of Care Divisions
| Type of Arrangement | Ratio | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Co-parenting | 50/50 | Equal time spent with both parents |
| Primary residence with visitation arrangement | 60/40 or 70/30 | Child has primary residence with one parent |
| Weekend arrangement (classic) | 85/15 | Every other weekend with the other parent |
Involving the Child
Children from 12 years old are invited by the District Court of The Hague to share their view on the situation. Younger children may sometimes also be heard. Their input is considered but is not always decisive.
What to do in case of disagreement over the parenting plan?
If you and your ex-partner cannot reach agreement, a mediator in Rijswijk can help. If this does not provide a solution, the judge will make a decision in the best interest of the child.Is adjustment of the parenting plan possible?
Yes, in case of changed circumstances, the plan can be revised. If there is agreement, you draw up a new plan together. In case of conflict, the judge in The Hague can be asked for a ruling.Is a parenting plan mandatory for unmarried parents?
For parents in Rijswijk who are not married or do not have a registered partnership, a parenting plan is not mandatory. However, it is recommended to record arrangements in writing.Contact and Support in Rijswijk
For legal assistance in drawing up a parenting plan, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk. They offer free advice and support. In case of disputes or complex matters, your case will be handled by the District Court of The Hague.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parenting Plans
Is a parenting plan mandatory for divorce in Rijswijk?
Yes, for a divorce or termination of a registered partnership with minor children, a parenting plan is mandatory. Without this document, the District Court of The Hague will not process your request. The plan includes arrangements on care, communication, and costs, and is ideally drawn up together with your ex-partner, possibly with a mediator.
What if we cannot reach agreement on the plan?
If you cannot agree together, you can engage a mediator via the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk. If that does not help, the judge in The Hague will decide on the care arrangement, always with the best interest of the child as priority. Children from 12 years old may give their opinion, but it is not binding.
Can I change the parenting plan later?
Yes, in case of changes such as a relocation or new work situation, you can adjust the plan. If there is agreement, you make a new document together. In case of disagreement, the District Court of The Hague can be asked for a decision. Ensure that adjustments are always recorded in writing.
How are the costs of children divided?
In the parenting plan, you record how the costs, including child support, are shared. This can be via a monthly contribution or direct payment of costs. Often, the parent with the higher income contributes more. Additional expenses, such as for school or sports, can also be included. A calculation helps with a fair division.
What distinguishes co-parenting from a weekend arrangement?
In co-parenting, the child spends approximately equal time with both parents (e.g., 50/50), which requires good coordination and proximity. In a weekend arrangement, the child mainly resides with one parent (e.g., 85/15), with a visit to the other parent every other weekend.