The Child Protection Board is a government agency that assesses whether children are growing up in a safe environment and provides the court with advice on protective measures and parental authority matters.
What does the Board do?
The Child Protection Board has three core functions:
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Safety | Analysing whether a protective measure is necessary |
| Divorce issues | Providing advice on parental authority and contact arrangements after a divorce |
| Juvenile delinquency | Guidance and advice regarding juvenile suspects |
When is the Board involved?
- Upon signals regarding a child's safety (via Safe at Home)
- When parents cannot reach agreement on the children after a divorce
- In cases of criminal offences committed by a minor
- Upon applications for changes to parental authority
- When a court requires advice on parental authority issues
How does a Board investigation proceed?
During a Board investigation:
- The Board collects data from all involved parties
- Conducts interviews with parents, the child, schools, and support services
- Thoroughly analyses the situation
- Prepares an advice report for the court
Cooperating with an investigation
It is not mandatory to cooperate with a Board investigation, but:
- Non-cooperation may have adverse consequences
- The Board can still formulate advice based on available data
- The court may take your refusal into account in the decision
Your rights during an investigation
- Right to clear information about the process
- Right to share your opinion
- Access to the preliminary report with opportunity for corrections
- Right to support from a lawyer or trusted representative
What is the duration of a Board investigation?
An average investigation takes approximately 12 weeks. In urgent cases, it can be faster; in complex cases, it may take longer.Can I view the Board's report?
Yes, you receive the report before it is sent to the court. You can request corrections for inaccuracies and add a written response.What if I dispute the Board's advice?
You can present your objections to the court. The court makes an independent decision and is not obliged to follow the advice. You can appeal against the judgment.Frequently asked questions
What is the role of the Child Protection Board?
The Board investigates whether children are safe and advises the court on appropriate protective measures.
When does the Board intervene?
Upon suspicions of unsafety, child abuse, or in divorces where parents cannot reach agreement on the children.
What happens during a Board investigation?
The Board conducts interviews with those involved and prepares advice for the court or support services.
Can I challenge the Board's advice?
You can share your position with the court, which makes its own decision and is not bound by the advice.
How long does an average investigation take?
An investigation usually takes about 3 months, but this may vary depending on the situation.
Summary
The Child Protection Board investigates risks to children and advises the court on protective measures.
Key points
- Analyses risks to children
- Advises on protective measures
- Investigation lasts on average 3 months
- Court makes the final decision
Relevant agencies in Rijswijk: District Court of The Hague (district), Legal Aid Office Rijswijk