# Law & More — full text of the core pages > Law & More is an English-speaking full-service law firm in Eindhoven and Amsterdam that advises internationals, expats and foreign businesses on Dutch law — from immigration and employment to company formation, commercial contracts, real estate and family matters. This file contains the full text of the firm pages and service pages of lawandmore.eu, so that AI assistants can read them in one pass. The index with links to all guides is https://lawandmore.eu/llms.txt. Verifiable firm facts are on https://lawandmore.eu/law-more-key-facts/. The Dutch counterpart is https://lawandmore.nl/llms-full.txt. This file contains general information about Dutch law. It is not legal advice for an individual case. Last updated: 4 October 2026. --- # Law & More: key facts Source: https://lawandmore.eu/law-more-key-facts/ ## Frequently asked questions ### When was Law & More founded? Law & More was founded in 2008. The firm operates as Law & More B.V. and is registered with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KvK) under number 27313406. The head office is at Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven. ### How many lawyers does Law & More have? Law & More has five lawyers: managing partner Tom Meevis, Ruby van Kersbergen, Aylin Acar, Michelle Marjanovic and Jade Vaneerdewegh. All are registered with the Netherlands Bar (NOvA) and work from Eindhoven and Amsterdam. ### Where is Law & More located? The head office is at Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven, phone +31 40 369 06 80. The visiting location in Amsterdam is at Pietersbergweg 291, 1105 BM Amsterdam, phone +31 20 369 71 21. Visits to Amsterdam are by appointment. ### What are the rates of Law & More? The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting costs 300 euros including VAT. For further assistance, a lawyer charges 250 to 350 euros per hour and a partner 300 to 400 euros per hour, both excluding VAT. We do not work on legal aid or no cure no pay. ### Which areas of law does Law & More cover? We work in ten areas: corporate, employment, family, criminal, real estate, immigration, civil, energy, IT and administrative law. Tax advice, inheritance law and personal injury fall outside our practice. We assist businesses as well as individuals, including expats and international companies. ### What are the opening hours and working languages? We are available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 22:00 and on Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00. We advise in Dutch and English. For first contact, our staff also speak German, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Arabic and Turkish. --- # A Multidisciplinary Dutch Law Firm Source: https://lawandmore.eu/about-us/ ## Legal Excellence with a Personal Touch Law & More is an English-speaking full-service law firm in Eindhoven and Amsterdam that advises internationals, expats and foreign businesses on Dutch law — from immigration and employment to company formation, commercial contracts, real estate and family matters. We combine the breadth of a full-service practice with the attention to detail and direct contact you would expect of a boutique firm. Our clients range from corporations and institutions to private individuals, and many of them are international: expats settling in the Netherlands and technology companies in the Brainport Eindhoven region. We work in English and Dutch from our offices in Eindhoven and Amsterdam. [Law & More](https://lawandmore.eu/) has at its disposal a dedicated team of multilingual lawyers with in-depth knowledge in the fields of Dutch contract law, corporate law, employment law, immigration law, family law and real estate law. The firm also advises on Dutch energy [law](https://lawandmore.eu/) and real estate transactions. Whether you are a multinational corporation, an SME, an emerging business or a private individual, you will find that our approach remains the same: total commitment to being accessible and responsive to your needs, at all times. We offer more than just technical legal excellence – we deliver sophisticated, multidisciplinary solutions with a personalized service and approach. Founding year, number of lawyers, offices, languages, fees and the matters we do and do not take on: see Law & More key facts. ## Areas of Practice We provide comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas, tailored to meet your specific needs. ### Business Lawyer ### Family Lawyer ### Immigration Lawyer ### Criminal Lawyer [Law & More](https://lawandmore.eu/) also provides legal dispute resolution and litigation services to companies and individuals. It conducts well-balanced assessments of the opportunities and risks before all legal procedures. It assists clients from the early to final stages of the legal proceedings, basing its work on a well-thought-out, advanced strategy. The firm also acts as an in-house lawyer for various Dutch and international companies. In addition, the firm has expertise in conducting complex negotiation and mediation procedures in the Netherlands. Last but not least, we offer our clients in-company training courses on a variety of legal topics that are important to the company in question, tailored to suit the needs of their employees. You are welcome to visit our website, where you will find further information about Law & More. If you wish to discuss a specific legal matter or have a question about our services, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our firm’s expertise is further validated by our memberships in prestigious organizations such as the World Law Alliance (WLA), the Association of European Attorneys (AEA), and Justinian Lawyers (JL). These affiliations underscore our commitment to excellence and our ability to provide top-tier legal services. ### “Law & More is holding on and keeping the other side under pressure” Client Stories ## Our Philosophy Our multidisciplinary approach to Dutch legal services is juridical, commercial as well as practical. We always firstly penetrate into the core of our clients’ business and needs. By anticipating their requirements our lawyers are able to provide professional services at the highest quality level. Our reputation is built on a profound commitment to address and meet the individual requirements of each of our clients irrespective of whether they are multinational corporations, Dutch ventures, expanding innovative enterprises or private individuals. We strive to assist our clients in the most effective way to achieve their goals while taking into consideration the often complex international environment in which they operate and develop their business. Our clients are at the center of everything we do. Law & More is therefore fully committed to excellence as a foundation on which we permanently develop our professional credibility and integrity. From our inception we have been committed to attract talented and dedicated lawyers who deliver the best results for our clients, whose satisfaction is at the forefront of who we are and what we do. our blog ### Latest Insights ### Framework agreement: what do you record, and what not? A framework agreement (raamovereenkomst) sets the terms for future orders, such as prices, delivery times and liability. It can also ### Contribution agreement: who pays the mortgage after divorce? A contribution agreement (draagplichtovereenkomst) governs the relationship between you and your ex-partner: who ultimately bears the mortgage payments, interest, repayments ### Disrupted working relationship: dismissal on the g-ground Can a Dutch employer dismiss an employee because the working relationship has broken down? Yes, but only with a decision ### Our Philosophy Historically, the Netherlands has always been a highly attractive jurisdiction to structure its EU and worldwide activities from, to invest, to develop and to do business. The Netherlands continuously draws a large number of technological and sophisticated multinational companies as well as the “citizens of the world”. Our Corporate Client practice focuses on a wide range of internationally active corporations such as public and private companies incorporated both in the Netherlands and cross-border. The [Private Clients](https://lawandmore.eu/our-services/private-clients/) practice of Law & More focuses on the assistance of individuals and international families, which structure their business activities through the Dutch jurisdiction. Our international clients come from different countries and backgrounds. They are successful entrepreneurs, highly qualified expats and other personalities with interests and assets in various jurisdictions. Our Corporate and Private Clients always receive an equally high quality of tailored, dedicated and confidential legal services, specifically designed to meet their particular requirements and needs. Meet the Team ### Our Team ## Tom Meevis Managing Partner / Advocate ## Tom Meevis Managing Partner / Advocate - Phone:+1 (859) 254-6589 - Email:info@example.com ## Ruby van Kersbergen Attorney-at-law ## Ruby van Kersbergen Attorney-at-law - Phone:+1 (859) 254-6589 - Email:info@example.com ## Aylin Acar Attorney-at-law ## Aylin Acar Attorney-at-law - Phone:+1 (859) 254-6589 - Email:info@example.com ## Michelle Marjanovic Attorney-at-law ## Michelle Marjanovic Attorney-at-law - Phone:+1 (859) 254-6589 - Email:info@example.com ## Jade Vaneerdewegh Attorney-at-law ## Jade Vaneerdewegh Attorney-at-law - Phone:+1 (859) 254-6589 - Email:info@example.com ### Do you want to know what Law & More can do for you? As a law firm in Eindhoven and Amsterdam, we’re here to help with all your legal needs. ## Frequently asked questions ### When was Law & More founded? Law & More was founded in 2008. The firm operates as Law & More B.V. and is registered with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KvK) under number 27313406. Its head office is at Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven, with a visiting location in Amsterdam. ### Are the lawyers of Law & More registered with the Netherlands Bar? Yes. Our lawyers are registered with the Netherlands Bar (Nederlandse orde van advocaten, NOvA). They are bound by the Dutch rules of professional conduct for lawyers, including the duty of confidentiality. Complaints are first handled through our internal complaints procedure. ### How many lawyers work at Law & More? Five lawyers work at Law & More: managing partner Tom Meevis, Ruby van Kersbergen, Aylin Acar, Michelle Marjanovic and Jade Vaneerdewegh. They work from our offices in Eindhoven and Amsterdam for businesses and individuals throughout the Netherlands. ### In which languages can I work with Law & More? We advise in Dutch and English. For first contact, our staff also speak German, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Arabic and Turkish. This allows expats and international companies to explain their situation without a language barrier. ### What does Law & More not do? We do not give tax advice and do not handle inheritance law or personal injury matters. We do not work on legal aid (toevoeging) or on a no-cure-no-pay basis. If your matter falls outside our practice, we tell you so straight away. --- # Meet Our Lawyers Source: https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/ ## Tom Meevis Managing Partner & Attorney Tom is the founding attorney of Law & More. He focuses on corporate law, criminal law and energy law. He leads our firm’s strategic direction, business development, and content strategy, ensuring that Law & More remains at the forefront of legal innovation. Tom has extensive experience advising international clients from around the world on complex legal matters, from corporate transactions to criminal defense. Tom is fluent in Dutch, English, and German, and has worked with clients from across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond. His practical approach and deep understanding of both legal and business considerations make him a trusted advisor to entrepreneurs, business leaders, and individuals facing serious legal challenges. - [tom.meevis@lawandmore.nl](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-meevis/) ## Aylin Acar Attorney Aylin practices Family Law and employment law , with a focus on the intersection of technology and workplace matters. Her expertise in data protection, privacy law (GDPR), and employment regulations makes her particularly valuable to tech companies and businesses undergoing digital transformation. Aylin’s language skills enable her to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. Aylin is known for her systematic approach to complex regulatory matters and her ability to explain technical legal requirements in clear, practical terms. She is fluent in Dutch, English, and Turkish. - [aylin.acar@lawandmore.nl](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/aylinselamet/) ## Ruby van Kersbergen Attorney Ruby focuses on business law, immigration law, and real estate law, providing strategic guidance to companies and entrepreneurs navigating Dutch commercial, immigration, and property regulations. She has particular expertise in helping international businesses establish operations in the Netherlands and assisting highly skilled migrants and entrepreneurs with their immigration matters. Ruby’s attention to detail and ability to manage complex multi-jurisdictional matters has earned her the trust of numerous business clients and international professionals. Whether structuring a new Dutch entity, negotiating commercial agreements, handling real estate transactions and property matters, or securing residence permits for key personnel, Ruby provides practical, solution-oriented advice that supports business growth and compliance. Ruby is fluent in Dutch and English. - [ruby.van.kersbergen@lawandmore.nl](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rubyvankersbergen/) ## Michelle Marjanovic Attorney Michelle focuses on employment law, family law, and immigration law, providing expert guidance in both workplace matters and sensitive personal legal issues. Her background in both corporate and family practice allows her to serve diverse clients, from companies managing employment relationships to individuals navigating divorce and custody matters. Michelle regularly advises businesses on employment contracts and dismissal procedures, and also assists individuals and families with immigration law matters such as residence permits and family reunification, while providing compassionate representation to individuals in family law cases. She is fluent in Dutch and English. - [michelle.marjanovic@lawandmore.nl](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-marjanovic-966566182/) ## Jade Vaneerdewegh Attorney Jade focuses on criminal law and family law, representing clients in both criminal defense matters and family law proceedings. Her experience spans criminal investigations, prosecutions, and complex family law disputes including international custody cases. Jade’s clear communication style and strategic approach ensure that clients understand their legal position and options from the outset. Whether defending against criminal charges or advocating in family court, Jade provides robust representation focused on achieving the best possible outcome. She is fluent in Dutch and English. - [jade.vaneerdewegh@lawandmore.nl](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jadevaneerdewegh/) ## Our Collaborative Approach While each lawyer has individual areas of expertise, we work as an integrated team to serve our clients’ needs. Complex matters often require input from multiple practice areas, and our collaborative structure ensures that clients benefit from the full breadth of our firm’s knowledge and experience. ## Continuing Education and Professional Development Our team is committed to staying current with legal developments, market trends, and best practices. We regularly participate in continuing legal education, industry conferences, and professional networks to ensure that we provide the highest quality legal services. ### Ready to Discuss Your Legal Needs? Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced [lawyers](https://lawandmore.eu/) to explore how we can help. ## Frequently asked questions ### Who works at Law & More? Five lawyers work at Law & More: Tom Meevis (managing partner), Ruby van Kersbergen, Aylin Acar, Michelle Marjanovic and Jade Vaneerdewegh. They work from our head office in Eindhoven and our visiting location in Amsterdam, for businesses and individuals throughout the Netherlands. ### Which lawyer will handle my matter? In the free introductory meeting we discuss your situation and the area of law involved. We then tell you which lawyer will handle your matter and who your point of contact is. Where a matter touches several areas of law, our lawyers work together. ### Are the lawyers registered with the Netherlands Bar? Yes. All lawyers at Law & More are registered with the Netherlands Bar (NOvA). They are bound by the Dutch rules of professional conduct, including the duty of confidentiality. Complaints are first dealt with under our internal complaints procedure. ### Which languages does the team speak? Our lawyers advise in Dutch and English. For first contact, our staff also speak German, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Arabic and Turkish. You can raise your question in your own language before our advice follows in Dutch or English. ### What is the difference in rate between a lawyer and a partner? The hourly rate for a lawyer is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT. For a partner it is 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT. We agree the applicable rate with you before we start. The introductory meeting is free of charge. --- # Lawyer fees in the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/lawyer-fees-netherlands/ ## Our hourly rate What you pay per hour depends on who handles your case and what kind of case it is: - lawyer: 250 to 350 euro per hour - partner: 300 to 400 euro per hour All rates are exclusive of 21 percent VAT. For a private client, a rate of 300 euro per hour therefore comes to 363 euro including VAT. Across the full range that is 302.50 to 484 euro per hour. Businesses can usually reclaim the VAT, private clients cannot. We bill on the basis of the hours worked and invoice periodically. In some cases a fixed price can be agreed. We are willing to give an estimate of the expected costs in advance, and afterwards you receive a specification of the hours spent and the work carried out. ## What is charged on top of the hourly rate Alongside the hourly rate and VAT you pay the disbursements: third-party costs that your case requires, such as court registry fees, bailiff costs and extracts from registers. We charge these separately. We do not add an office-costs surcharge. ## The introductory conversation is free An introductory conversation costs you nothing. In it you get to know us, we look at which lawyer suits your case best, and you hear what your case is expected to cost. It is not the conversation in which you receive a substantive answer to your legal question; that is the consultation. You can request an introductory conversation through [contact](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/). ## A consultation costs 300 euro including VAT If you want to discuss your case with a lawyer and get an answer to it, that is a consultation. A consultation costs 300 euro including VAT. It is available for certain standard matters; whether your case qualifies is something you hear before you pay anything. You can [book a consultation here](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/). ## We are not registered with the Dutch Legal Aid Board Law & More is not registered with the Raad voor Rechtsbijstand, the Dutch Legal Aid Board, and therefore does not take on cases on the basis of a toevoeging, the subsidised legal aid scheme. If you do qualify for subsidised legal aid, you can turn to [Het Juridisch Loket](https://www.juridischloket.nl/) or to a firm that works under the scheme. ## Frequently asked questions about costs ### What does a lawyer cost per hour? A lawyer charges 250 to 350 euro per hour and a partner 300 to 400 euro per hour, both exclusive of 21 percent VAT. Including VAT that comes to 302.50 to 484 euro per hour. ### What does an introductory conversation cost? Nothing. An introductory conversation is free. You get to know us, we look at which lawyer suits your case and you hear what your case is expected to cost. A substantive answer to your legal question comes in a consultation. ### What does a consultation cost? A consultation costs 300 euro including VAT. In a consultation you put your case to a lawyer and get an answer to it. This is available for certain standard matters; whether your case qualifies is something you hear before you pay anything. ### Are there any other costs? Alongside the hourly rate and VAT you pay the disbursements: third-party costs your case requires, such as court registry fees, bailiff costs and extracts from registers. We charge these separately. We do not add an office-costs surcharge. ### Is a legal adviser cheaper than a lawyer? A legal adviser often charges a lower rate but may not represent you in every proceeding. In criminal cases and in most proceedings before the district court other than subdistrict cases, only a lawyer may act on your behalf. If your case goes to court, that difference weighs more heavily than the rate. ### Do you work under the legal aid scheme? No. Law & More is not registered with the Raad voor Rechtsbijstand, the Dutch Legal Aid Board, and does not take on cases on the basis of a toevoeging, the subsidised legal aid scheme. If you qualify for it, you can turn to Het Juridisch Loket or to a firm that works under the scheme. --- # Visit Our Offices in Eindhoven and Amsterdam Source: https://lawandmore.eu/offices/ ## Law & More Eindhoven Our Eindhoven office serves as the headquarters of [Law](https://lawandmore.eu/) & More. Located near the city center with convenient parking options nearby. ### Address Eindhoven Law & More B.V.Marconilaan 135612 HM EindhovenNetherlands ### Phone Eindhoven +31 40 369 06 80 ### Email Eindhoven info@lawandmore.nl ## Getting There Eindhoven - By Car: Our Eindhoven office is easily accessible by car with parking available in the streets next to the office. - By Public Transportation: Eindhoven Central Station is approximately 2.6 km from our office, accessible by bus or a short taxi ride. ## Office Features Eindhoven - Modern, professional meeting rooms - Video conferencing facilities - Comfortable waiting area - Confidential consultation spaces - Accessible facilities ## Law & More Amsterdam Our Amsterdam visiting location provides convenient access for clients in the Amsterdam metropolitan area and Randstad region. ### Address Amsterdam Law & More B.V.Pietersbergweg 2911005 BM AmsterdamNetherlands ### Phone Amsterdam +31 40 369 06 80 ### Email Amsterdam info@lawandmore.nl ## Getting There Amsterdam - By Car: Parking is available at the office parking space. - By Public Transportation:Well-connected to Amsterdam's public transportation network. Schiphol Airport is easily accessible via train. ## Office Features Amsterdam - Professional meeting facilities - Video conferencing capabilities - Modern amenities - Confidential consultation rooms - Accessible location ## Virtual Meetings In addition to our physical offices, we offer secure video consultations for clients who prefer remote meetings or are located outside the Netherlands. Our virtual meeting capabilities allow us to serve clients efficiently regardless of location. ## What to Expect During Your Visit You'll be welcomed by our professional staff We'll provide a comfortable, confidential space to discuss your legal matters Your consultation will be conducted in your language of choice We'll provide clear next steps and follow-up information ## Schedule a Visit Ready to meet with us? We look forward to welcoming you to Law & More. ## Frequently asked questions ### Where are the offices of Law & More? Our head office is at Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven (phone +31 40 369 06 80). We also have a visiting location at Pietersbergweg 291, 1105 BM Amsterdam (phone +31 20 369 71 21). From both locations we work for clients throughout the Netherlands. ### Can I visit without an appointment? We recommend that you always make an appointment, so the lawyer handling your matter can set time aside for you. In Amsterdam we receive visitors by appointment only. You can book through +31 40 369 06 80, info@lawandmore.nl or the form on our website. ### How do I get to the Eindhoven office? The office at Marconilaan 13 is about 2.6 km from Eindhoven Centraal station. If you come by car, you can park in the surrounding streets. Let us know when booking if you would like directions. ### How do I get to the Amsterdam location? Our location at Pietersbergweg 291 is well served by public transport. If you come by car, you can park at the office car park. From Schiphol Airport you can travel there by train. Visits to Amsterdam are by appointment only. ### What are the opening hours of the offices? Both locations are available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 22:00 and on Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00. This lets you schedule a meeting outside regular office hours or at the weekend. We reply to messages within one working day. ### Do I have to come to an office for a meeting? No. Besides a meeting in Eindhoven or Amsterdam, you can speak to us by phone or video call. This is useful if you live further away or are abroad. You can send documents to info@lawandmore.nl in advance, so we can prepare the meeting properly. --- # Law & More Eindhoven Source: https://lawandmore.eu/eindhoven/ ## About Our Eindhoven Office Our Eindhoven office serves as the headquarters of Law & More and is strategically located in the heart of Brainport Eindhoven, one of Europe’s leading technology and innovation hubs. This location enables us to work closely with the region’s dynamic ecosystem of tech companies, startups, research institutions, and established enterprises. ## Serving the Brainport Ecosystem Eindhoven and the surrounding Brainport region are home to major technology companies, innovative startups, and world-class research facilities. Our Eindhoven team has deep expertise in serving this unique ecosystem, understanding both the legal needs and the fast-paced culture of technology-driven businesses. We regularly work with: - Technology startups and scale-ups - Manufacturing and industrial companies - Research and development organizations - International companies establishing Dutch operations - Investors and venture capital firms active in the region ## Practice areas in Eindhoven For these areas of law we have a dedicated page for clients in Eindhoven and the Brainport region: | Area of law | Typical matters | | --- | --- | | [Employment law](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-lawyer/employment-lawyer-eindhoven/) | dismissal, settlement agreements, non-competes, illness | | [Divorce](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/divorce-lawyer-eindhoven/) | international divorce, parenting plan, home, pension | | [Immigration law](https://lawandmore.eu/immigration-lawyer-eindhoven/) | highly skilled migrants, family reunification, IND objections | | [Corporate law](https://lawandmore.eu/corporate-lawyer/) | contracts, negotiations, shareholder disputes | | [Tenancy law](https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/tenancy-lawyer/) | rent, defects, termination | | [Criminal law](https://lawandmore.eu/criminal-lawyer/) | police interviews, summons, penalty orders | ## Local Knowledge, International Perspective While we’re rooted in the Eindhoven business community, our team brings international experience and language capabilities that enable us to serve clients from around the world. Many of our Eindhoven-based clients are international companies or employ international talent, and we’re equipped to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps. ### Accessibility Our Eindhoven office is easily accessible by car and public transportation. We’re located near the city center with convenient parking options nearby. The office is also accessible from Eindhoven Airport and Eindhoven Central Station. ## Contact Details - Marconilaan 13 5612 HM Eindhoven The Netherlands - [info@lawandmore.nl](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/) - +31 40 369 06 80 ### Meeting Facilities - Modern, professional meeting rooms - Confidential consultation spaces - Video conferencing facilities - Accessible facilities - Comfortable waiting area ### Ready to Visit Us? Schedule an appointment at our Eindhoven office or arrange a video consultation. ## Frequently asked questions ### Where is the Law & More office in Eindhoven? The head office of Law & More is at Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven. You can reach us by phone on +31 40 369 06 80 and by e-mail at info@lawandmore.nl. From Eindhoven we work for businesses and individuals in the region and throughout the Netherlands. ### How do I get to the Eindhoven office? The office is about 2.6 km from Eindhoven Centraal station. If you come by car, you can park in the surrounding streets. We recommend booking an appointment in advance, so the right lawyer is available for you. ### Which matters can I bring to Law & More in Eindhoven? We handle corporate, employment, family, criminal, real estate, immigration, civil, energy, IT and administrative law matters. We regularly work for international companies and expats in the Eindhoven region. We do not give tax advice and do not handle inheritance law or personal injury matters. ### When is the Eindhoven office available? We are available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 22:00 and on Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00. You can therefore also schedule a meeting in the evening or at the weekend. We reply to messages sent to info@lawandmore.nl within one working day. ### Do you advise international clients in Eindhoven in English? Yes. We advise in Dutch and English, and we work for expats and international companies. For first contact, our staff also speak German, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Arabic and Turkish. Meetings can take place at the office, by phone or by video call. ### What does a lawyer at Law & More in Eindhoven cost? The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. For further assistance, the hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer and 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT for a partner, discussed in advance. --- # Law & More Amsterdam Visiting Location Source: https://lawandmore.eu/amsterdam/ ## About Our Amsterdam Visiting Location Our Amsterdam location is a professional visiting office that extends Law & More’s accessibility to clients in the Amsterdam metropolitan area and throughout the Randstad region. While our lawyers are based at our Eindhoven headquarters, we regularly meet with clients at our Amsterdam location for consultations, meetings, and discussions. ## Convenient Amsterdam Access Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ business and financial capital and attracts professionals and businesses from around the world. Our Amsterdam visiting location provides convenient access for clients who prefer to meet in Amsterdam rather than traveling to Eindhoven, while ensuring they receive the same high-quality legal services from our experienced team. ## Full Range of Services All of our legal services—business [law](https://lawandmore.eu/), employment law, immigration law, family law, criminal law, IT law, and civil law—are available through consultations at our Amsterdam location. Our lawyers travel to Amsterdam regularly to meet with clients, providing the same comprehensive legal guidance you would receive at our Eindhoven headquarters. ## Practice areas in Amsterdam For these areas of law we have a dedicated page for clients in Amsterdam: | Area of law | Typical matters | | --- | --- | | [Employment law](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-lawyer/employment-lawyer-amsterdam/) | dismissal, settlement agreements, highly skilled migrants | | [Divorce](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/divorce-lawyer-amsterdam/) | expat divorce, children moving abroad, residence permit | | [Immigration law](https://lawandmore.eu/immigration-lawyer-amsterdam/) | residence permits, family reunification, IND objections | | [Corporate law](https://lawandmore.eu/corporate-lawyer/) | contracts, negotiations, shareholder disputes | | [Tenancy law](https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/tenancy-lawyer/) | rent, defects, termination | | [Criminal law](https://lawandmore.eu/criminal-lawyer/) | police interviews, summons, penalty orders | ## Scheduling Amsterdam Consultations To schedule a consultation at our Amsterdam visiting location, please contact us at +31 20 369 71 21 or info@lawandmore.nl. We’ll coordinate a convenient time for you to meet with one of our lawyers in Amsterdam. ### Accessibility Our Amsterdam visiting location is conveniently situated with good access to public transportation. Amsterdam Central Station and Schiphol Airport are both easily accessible, making it convenient for both local and international clients. ## Getting Here ### By Car Our Amsterdam office is accessible by car with parking options nearby. ### By Public Transport Well-connected to Amsterdam's extensive public transportation network, including trams, buses, and metro lines. ### From the Airport Convenient access from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) via train and taxi. ## Contact Details - Pietersbergweg 291 1105 BM Amsterdam - [info@lawandmore.nl](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/) - +31 20 369 71 21 ### Meeting Facilities - Modern, professional meeting rooms - Confidential consultation spaces - Video conferencing facilities - Accessible facilities - Comfortable waiting area ### Ready to Visit Us? Schedule an appointment at our Amsterdam office or arrange a video consultation. ## Frequently asked questions ### Where is the Law & More location in Amsterdam? Our Amsterdam visiting location is at Pietersbergweg 291, 1105 BM Amsterdam. You can reach it by phone on +31 20 369 71 21 or by e-mail at info@lawandmore.nl. Our head office is in Eindhoven, at Marconilaan 13. ### Do I need an appointment to visit the Amsterdam location? Yes. We receive clients in Amsterdam by appointment only. You can book a meeting by calling +31 20 369 71 21, by e-mailing info@lawandmore.nl or through the form on our website. We reply within one working day to arrange a time. ### How do I get to the Amsterdam location? The location at Pietersbergweg 291 is well served by public transport. If you come by car, you can park at the office car park. If you are travelling from Schiphol Airport, you can reach us by train. ### When can I schedule a meeting in Amsterdam? Meetings can be scheduled Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 22:00 and on Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00. This allows you to meet a lawyer outside regular office hours. If you prefer not to travel, you can also meet us by phone or video call. ### Which matters can I discuss at the Amsterdam location? You can discuss all matters we handle, including corporate, employment, family, immigration, real estate and civil law. We advise in Dutch and English and often work for expats and international companies. We do not give tax advice and do not handle inheritance law or personal injury. ### What does a meeting in Amsterdam cost? The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. For further assistance, the hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer and 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT for a partner. --- # Our Legal Services Source: https://lawandmore.eu/our-services/ ## ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A LAW FIRM IN THE NETHERLANDS? ### OUR LAWYERS ARE EXPERIENCED IN DUTCH LAW We are used to work for local and international clients. High service level for every client, individuals as well as companies or institutes. We are available. Also today. ## Explore Our Services ### Business Expertises - [Corporate Law](https://lawandmore.eu/corporate-lawyer/) - [Employment Law](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-lawyer/) - [Energy Law](https://lawandmore.eu/energy-lawyer/) - [Philanthropy & Charity Foundations](https://lawandmore.eu/philanthropy-and-charity-foundations/) - [ICT Law](https://lawandmore.eu/it-lawyer/) - [Collections](https://lawandmore.eu/international-debt-collection/) - [Bankruptcy Law](https://lawandmore.eu/bankruptcy-lawyers/) - [Intellectual Property Law](https://lawandmore.eu/intellectual-property-lawyer/) - [Interim Legal Councel](https://lawandmore.eu/interim-lawyer/) - [Environmental Law](https://lawandmore.eu/environmental-law/) - [Cooperation Agreement](https://lawandmore.eu/cooperation-agreements/) - [Software Law](https://lawandmore.eu/it-lawyer/#Software-Law) - [Transport Law](https://lawandmore.eu/transport-law/) ### Particular Expertises - [Expat Services](https://lawandmore.eu/corporate-lawyer/) - [Family Law](https://lawandmore.eu/family-business-lawyer/) - [Migration Law](https://lawandmore.eu/immigration-lawyer/) - [International Law](https://lawandmore.eu/international-lawyer/) - [Pension Law](https://lawandmore.eu/pension-law/) - [Privacy Law](https://lawandmore.eu/privacy-lawyer/) - [Divorces](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/) - [Criminal Law](https://lawandmore.eu/criminal-lawyer/) - [Civil Law](https://lawandmore.eu/civil-law/) - [Civil Procedural Law](https://lawandmore.eu/civil-procedural-lawyers/) - [Real Estate Law](https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/) - [Contract Law](https://lawandmore.eu/contract-lawyer/) - [Media Law](https://lawandmore.eu/media-lawyer/) - [Liability Law](https://lawandmore.eu/liability-lawyer/) ## Business Expertises #### Corporate Law #### Employment Law #### Transport Law #### Energy Law #### Philanthropy & Charity Foundations #### ICT Law #### Collections #### Bankruptcy Law #### Intellectual Property Law #### Interim Legal Councel #### Environmental Law #### Cooperation Agreement #### Software Law ## Particular Expertises #### Expat Services #### Family Law #### Migration Law #### International Law #### Pension Law #### Privacy Law #### Divorces #### Criminal Law #### Real Estate Law #### Contract Law #### Civil Law #### Civil Procedural Law #### Media Law #### Liability Law ## Who are the lawyers at Law & More? We are a dynamic Dutch [law](https://lawandmore.eu/) firm with an international character, focuses on various areas of Dutch law. Our lawyers advise in English and Dutch; among our staff are also speakers of German, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Arabic and Turkish. Our firm offers services in a large number of areas of law for companies, governments, institutions and individuals. Our clients come from the Netherlands and abroad. We are known for our committed, accessible, driven, no-nonsense approach. You can contact Law & More for virtually all matters for which you need a lawyer or legal adviser. Your interests are always paramount to us;We are directly approachable;Appointments can be made by phone (+31403690680or+31203697121), email (info@lawandmore.nl) or via our online tool[lawyerappointment.nl](https://lawandmore.eu/book-a-consultation/);We charge reasonable rates and work transparently;We have offices in Eindhoven and Amsterdam. Is your specific question or situation not on our website? Do not hesitate to contact us. Probably we can help you as well. ## Contact us and our staff will be happy to help you [Tom Meevis](https://lawandmore.eu/tom-meevis/) Managing Partner / Advocate [Ruby van Kersbergen](https://lawandmore.eu/ruby-van-kersbergen/) [Aylin Acar](https://lawandmore.eu/aylin-acar/) ## Articles ### Framework agreement: what do you record, and what not? ### Contribution agreement: who pays the mortgage after divorce? ### Disrupted working relationship: dismissal on the g-ground ### Contact details Eindhoven Address: De Zaale 11 Zip code: 5612 AJ Eindhoven Country: The Netherlands E-mail: info@lawandmore.nl Tel: +31 40 369 06 80 Chamber of Commerce: 27313406 ### Contact details Amsterdam Address: Thomas R. Malthussstraat 1 Zip code: 1066 JR Amsterdam Country: The Netherlands E-mail: info@lawandmore.nl Tel: +31 20 369 71 21 Chamber of Commerce: 27313406 ## Frequently asked questions ### Which legal services does Law & More offer? We advise, negotiate and litigate for businesses and individuals. For businesses, we handle matters such as corporate, employment, energy, IT, intellectual property and insolvency law. For individuals, we handle family, immigration, employment, criminal, real estate and civil law matters, including services for expats. ### Do you assist both businesses and private clients? Yes. We work for start-ups, SMEs and international companies, and for private individuals and expats. The services page is divided into business and private expertise, so you can quickly find the area that fits your question. If in doubt, contact us and we will tell you within one working day whether we can help. ### Which matters does Law & More not handle? We do not give tax advice and do not handle inheritance law or personal injury matters. We also do not work on legal aid (toevoeging) or on a no-cure-no-pay basis. If your matter falls outside our practice, we tell you so at first contact. ### What do your services cost? The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. For further assistance, the hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer and 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT for a partner, agreed in advance. ### Can you assist with cross-border matters? Yes. We advise in Dutch and English and regularly work for international companies and expats on Dutch law matters. For first contact, our staff also speak German, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Arabic and Turkish. Meetings can take place in Eindhoven, in Amsterdam, by phone or by video. --- # Immigration Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/immigration-lawyer/ You want to hire a specialist from outside the EU, bring your partner to the Netherlands or become a Dutch citizen. Or the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) has refused your application and the four-week objection period is already running. As an immigration lawyer in the Netherlands, we advise employers, expats and families on residence permits and challenge IND decisions in court. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## When do you need an immigration lawyer in the Netherlands? You need an immigration lawyer when a residence right is at stake and a mistake would cost time, money or your stay. Dutch immigration law has strict conditions and short statutory periods, and the IND rarely corrects errors on its own initiative. Clients usually contact us in one of these situations: - you are an employer and want to hire a highly skilled migrant or an EU Blue Card holder; - your company wants to become a recognised sponsor, or the IND is auditing your compliance; - you want your spouse, partner or children to join you through family reunification; - you are an entrepreneur or startup founder and need a residence permit to run your business; - you are an EU citizen, or a family member of one, and want your residence documented; - you have lived here for five years and want permanent residence or Dutch citizenship; - the IND has refused, withdrawn or failed to decide on your application. Only a lawyer (advocaat) registered with the Netherlands Bar may use that protected title. A Dutch immigration lawyer is bound by confidentiality and disciplinary rules. We can conduct your case up to the Council of State. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Immigration lawyer in Eindhoven](https://lawandmore.eu/immigration-lawyer-eindhoven/) - [Immigration lawyer in Amsterdam](https://lawandmore.eu/immigration-lawyer-amsterdam/) - [Highly skilled migrant lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/highly-skilled-migrant-lawyer/) - [Family reunification lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/family-reunification-lawyer/) - [Dutch citizenship lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/dutch-citizenship-lawyer/) - [Objection against an IND decision](https://lawandmore.eu/ind-objection-lawyer/) - [Legal services for expats](https://lawandmore.eu/expat-services/) - [Lost your job as a highly skilled migrant?](https://lawandmore.eu/highly-skilled-migrant-lawyer/lost-job/) ## Which residence permit do you need? The residence permit you need depends on the purpose of your stay: work, study, family, business or protection. Each purpose has its own conditions, and a permit for one purpose does not automatically allow another. The legal basis is the Aliens Act 2000 (Vreemdelingenwet 2000), which you can read on [wetten.overheid.nl](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0011823/). Nationals of countries outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland need a residence permit for a stay of more than 90 days. Under Article 25 of the Aliens Act 2000, the IND must decide on a regular application within 90 days. That period can be extended by up to 90 days in specific cases. If your situation changes, for example through dismissal or divorce, your residence right may lapse. As immigration lawyer in the Netherlands, we then check quickly which permit with a different purpose fits. ### What is a provisional residence permit (MVV)? A provisional residence permit (machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf, MVV) is an entry visa for a stay of more than 90 days. Many non-EU nationals must obtain it at a Dutch embassy or consulate before travelling to the Netherlands. Usually the sponsor in the Netherlands, such as an employer or partner, starts the entry and residence procedure. Nationals of, among others, the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea are exempt from the MVV requirement. They still need a residence permit after arrival. Applying for the wrong visa type can lead to refusal, so check the route before anyone books a flight. ## How do employers bring in highly skilled migrants? An employer that is a recognised sponsor with the IND applies for the highly skilled migrant permit itself. The employee must earn at least the statutory salary criterion for his or her age group. The highly skilled migrant scheme (kennismigrantenregeling) is the most common route for qualified employees from outside the EU. The employer does not need a work permit from UWV. Through a recognised sponsor, the IND usually decides within a few weeks, well within the statutory 90 days. There are separate salary criteria for employees aged 30 and over, for employees under 30 and a reduced criterion for recent graduates. The IND adjusts these amounts every year on 1 January, so always check the current figures on [ind.nl](https://ind.nl/en). The salary must also be in line with the market. ### What duties does a recognised sponsor have? A recognised sponsor (erkend referent) must inform the IND, keep records and select migrants with care. Changes such as the end of employment or a lower salary must be reported within four weeks. If a sponsor breaches these duties, the IND can impose an administrative fine or suspend or withdraw the recognition. Acting as immigration lawyer in the Netherlands for sponsors, we review your administration before an IND audit. ### When is the EU Blue Card the better choice? The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for highly qualified employees based on European rules. It can suit employees who may later move within the EU, or employers that are not recognised sponsors. The employee needs higher education or, for certain ICT roles, comparable professional experience. The employment contract must last at least six months. A separate salary criterion applies, which the IND also sets every year. ### What else must an employer arrange? Outside the exempt schemes, the employer usually needs a work permit (TWV) from UWV or a combined permit (GVVA). Employing someone without it breaches the Foreign Nationals Employment Act (Wet arbeid vreemdelingen). The Netherlands Labour Authority (Nederlandse Arbeidsinspectie) checks compliance and can impose a fine per employee. We help employers choose the right route in advance. ## How can your partner and children join you? Through family reunification or family formation, a partner or minor child can come to live with you in the Netherlands. You act as the sponsor and must meet requirements on age, income and the relationship. The main requirements for partner permits are: - you and your partner are both at least 21 years old; - you have sufficient and lasting independent income, linked to the statutory minimum wage; - you are married, in a registered partnership or in a long-term exclusive relationship; - your partner often needs an MVV and must pass the civic integration examination abroad. More generous rules apply to family members of highly skilled migrants. They do not have to take the civic integration examination abroad and may work in the Netherlands. The income requirement has limited exceptions, for example if you are permanently and fully unable to work. ## Which routes exist for entrepreneurs, startups and students? Entrepreneurs, startup founders and students each have their own residence permit. The IND assesses the business plan or the study programme, together with the institution or advisers involved. - Startup: a permit for one year, on condition that you work with a facilitator recognised by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). - Self-employed: a permit for which RVO assesses whether your business serves an essential Dutch interest, using a points system. - American entrepreneurs: under the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, US nationals can qualify under easier conditions. - Students: the educational institution must be a recognised sponsor; work alongside your studies is only allowed within limits. - Orientation year: graduates may stay up to one year to find work, applying within three years after graduation. During the orientation year you may work freely. If you then find a job as a highly skilled migrant, the reduced salary criterion applies. ## What rights do EU citizens and their family members have? EU citizens enjoy free movement and do not need a residence permit to live and work in the Netherlands. Non-EU family members can obtain a residence document under the Citizens' Rights Directive 2004/38/EC. As an EU citizen you register with the municipality if you stay longer than four months. Your non-EU partner or child applies to the IND for an EU residence document, and the IND must decide within six months. After five years of lawful residence you can apply for permanent residence. ## How do you obtain permanent residence or Dutch citizenship? After five years of continuous lawful residence you can apply for a permanent residence permit or for naturalisation. Both routes have additional conditions, such as civic integration and, for permanent residence, sufficient income. For permanent residence you must, among other things, have passed the civic integration examination. Not every residence period counts; time on a study permit, for example, counts only partially or not at all. Article 8 of the Kingdom Act on Dutch Nationality (Rijkswet op het Nederlanderschap) generally requires five years of continuous lawful residence. You apply through your municipality. In principle you must give up your original nationality, with exceptions, for example for spouses of Dutch nationals. Under Article 6 of the same Act, the option procedure is simpler and faster for certain groups. A longer naturalisation period has been under political discussion, so check the current rules first. ## Does Law & More handle asylum applications? No, Law & More does not handle asylum cases. An asylum application is lodged at the registration centre in Ter Apel and assessed by the IND. For an asylum application, contact a specialised asylum lawyer or VluchtelingenWerk Nederland. As immigration lawyer in the Netherlands, we focus on regular residence, labour and family migration, naturalisation and IND objections. ## How do you challenge an IND decision? You object to an IND refusal or withdrawal within four weeks. That period follows from Article 69 of the Aliens Act 2000 and is shorter than the usual six weeks. The period starts on the day after the decision is announced. The IND will usually declare a late objection inadmissible, which means your case is not reviewed on its merits. If necessary, file a brief notice of objection first and add the grounds later. | Step | Authority | Period | | --- | --- | --- | | Decision on a regular application | IND | 90 days, extendable by up to 90 days | | Objection against the decision | IND | 4 weeks after announcement | | Appeal against the decision on objection | District court (immigration chamber) | 4 weeks after announcement | | Preliminary relief | Preliminary relief judge of the district court | During objection or appeal | | Higher appeal | Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State, The Hague | Short; have the period checked at once | ### When do you request preliminary relief? Preliminary relief (voorlopige voorziening) is an urgent measure by the preliminary relief judge under Article 8:81 of the General Administrative Law Act. You request it when you cannot wait for the outcome of the objection or appeal. An objection does not always stop the IND from enforcing its decision. If you risk losing your right to stay or work, the judge can allow you to stay until a decision is made. ### What if the IND does not decide on time? If the IND misses the decision period, you first send a written notice of default. If the IND still does not decide within two weeks, you can appeal to the district court. For regular applications, a penalty under Article 4:17 of the General Administrative Law Act then accrues for at most 42 days. The court can also order the IND to decide within a set period. ## How does working with Law & More work? Working with us as your immigration lawyer in the Netherlands follows four phases. In each phase you know what we do and which periods apply. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we discuss your situation, your documents and any periods already running. 2. Advice. We assess which permit or route fits and what the risks are. You receive a concrete plan with the documents needed. 3. Application or negotiation. We prepare the application or objection and handle contact with the IND, and for employers also with HR and UWV. 4. Proceedings. After a refusal we conduct the objection and the appeal. If needed, we request preliminary relief or lodge a higher appeal. ## What does an immigration lawyer in the Netherlands cost? Our hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer. For a partner it is 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT. We agree the rate with you in advance. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. In addition to our fee, you pay the IND application fee and, in an appeal, the court fee. The current amounts are published by the IND and on rechtspraak.nl. Government-funded legal aid exists through the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand), but Law & More does not work on that basis. Our office is at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, with a visiting location in Amsterdam. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Ruby van Kersbergen and Michelle Marjanovic. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? - [The Dutch highly skilled migrant scheme](https://lawandmore.eu/highly-skilled-migrant-netherlands/) - [Recognised sponsor in 2026: supervision and information duties](https://lawandmore.eu/recognised-sponsor-in-2026-navigating-intensified-supervision-and-expanded-information-duties/) - [Family reunification in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/family-reunification-netherlands/) - [Working after graduation: the orientation year permit](https://lawandmore.eu/working-in-the-netherlands-after-graduation-all-about-the-orientation-year-permit/) - [Self-employment visa in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/self-employment-visa-netherlands/) - [How to get Dutch citizenship](https://lawandmore.eu/dutch-citizenship-process/) - [Suspensive effect in Dutch immigration law](https://lawandmore.eu/suspensive-effect-in-dutch-immigration-law-what-expats-and-employers-need-to-know/) ## Frequently asked questions ### How long do I have to object to an IND decision? You have four weeks, counted from the day after the decision is announced. This follows from Article 69 of the Aliens Act 2000. A late objection is usually declared inadmissible, so act as soon as you receive the decision. ### How long does a residence permit application take? For a regular application the IND has 90 days, which can be extended by up to 90 days. A highly skilled migrant application through a recognised sponsor is usually handled within a few weeks. If the IND is late, you can send a notice of default. ### Does my employer have to be a recognised sponsor? Yes, for the highly skilled migrant scheme the employer must be a recognised sponsor with the IND. For the EU Blue Card this is not required. Recognition brings duties, such as reporting changes within four weeks. ### What income do I need for family reunification? You need sufficient and lasting independent income, linked to the statutory minimum wage. The IND adjusts the amounts periodically and publishes them on its website. Different rules apply to family members of highly skilled migrants and in a few special situations. ### Immigration lawyer in the Netherlands: can a visa consultant do the same? A visa consultant may help you fill in forms, and legal representation is not compulsory before the Dutch administrative courts. A lawyer registered with the Netherlands Bar, however, is bound by professional confidentiality and disciplinary rules. A lawyer also assesses your legal position and conducts the objection, appeal and preliminary relief proceedings. ### After how many years can I become a Dutch citizen? For naturalisation you generally need at least five years of continuous lawful residence in the Netherlands. You must also have completed civic integration and, in principle, give up your original nationality. A longer period has been under political discussion, so check the current rules before you apply. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on immigration law Recent articles by Law & More on immigration law. --- # Highly skilled migrant scheme: salary, sponsor and duties Source: https://lawandmore.eu/highly-skilled-migrant-netherlands/ --- # Expat services Source: https://lawandmore.eu/expat-services/ Expat legal services cover the Dutch law you meet after arriving: your employment contract, your rental home, your family and, perhaps, your own business. We advise expats, international employees and their families in English across the Netherlands, and we coordinate with our immigration lawyers where your permit is involved. The first step is a free introductory meeting in which we list your questions and what needs attention first. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## What can we help you with? - reviewing an employment contract or a settlement agreement before you sign; - dismissal, sick leave or a conflict with your employer; - a dispute with your landlord about rent, deposit or defects; - divorce, partner alimony, child support or children moving abroad; - a prenuptial or cohabitation agreement; - starting a business or setting up a private limited company (BV); - residence permits, through our [immigration lawyers](https://lawandmore.eu/immigration-lawyer/). We do not give tax advice. For questions about the 30% ruling or your tax return, consult a tax adviser. ## What should you check in your Dutch employment contract? Check the type of contract, the probation period, the notice period and any non-compete clause. These terms determine how easily your employment can end, and whether you can switch jobs. A Dutch employment contract is fixed-term or permanent. A probation period is only valid in writing and is never allowed in a contract of six months or less. During sickness, your employer generally pays at least 70% of your wages for up to 104 weeks, under Article 7:629 of the Dutch Civil Code. Your employer cannot simply dismiss you. Dismissal requires a permit from the UWV, a decision of the subdistrict court, or your consent. If you sign a settlement agreement, you may revoke your consent within 14 days, under Article 7:670b of the Dutch Civil Code. Our [employment lawyers](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-lawyer/) and the article [employment law for expats](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-law-in-the-netherlands-what-every-expat-should-know/) explain more. ### And if your residence permit depends on your job? As a highly skilled migrant, losing your job affects your permit. You generally have three months to find a new employer who is a recognised sponsor. Act quickly and check your options before you sign any agreement ending your employment. ## What are your rights as a tenant in the Netherlands? Dutch tenants have strong protection: a landlord cannot simply end a residential lease, and many rents are capped. Since 1 July 2024, fixed-term residential leases are only allowed in exceptional cases. The Permanent Leases Act (Wet vaste huurcontracten) made permanent leases the norm from 1 July 2024. The Affordable Rent Act (Wet betaalbare huur), from the same date, extended rent regulation based on the points system to many mid-market homes. Read more about the [indefinite rental contract](https://lawandmore.eu/indefinite-rental-contract/). Under the Good Landlordship Act, a deposit for leases concluded from 1 July 2023 may not exceed two months' basic rent. The landlord must generally repay it within 14 days after the lease ends, or 30 days if there is damage. Disputes about rent levels and service charges can go to the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie). As a tenant, you can usually end the lease with a notice period of one month. ## Which family law rules apply to you as an expat? Dutch courts often have jurisdiction over your divorce or child arrangements if you habitually live in the Netherlands. Which law applies to your property and maintenance depends on your nationality, your residence and the date of your marriage. Within the EU, Regulation (EU) 2019/1111 governs jurisdiction in divorce and parental responsibility. Matrimonial property for marriages from 29 January 2019 falls under EU Regulation 2016/1103. A prenuptial agreement can bring certainty in advance, especially if you may move again. Moving abroad with your children requires the consent of the other parent with parental authority, or permission from the court. Taking children abroad without it can amount to international child abduction. See our [family lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/family-lawyer/) page and [international divorce in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/international-divorce-netherlands/). ## How do you start a business in the Netherlands? You choose a legal form, register with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK) and, as a non-EU national, check that your residence permit allows self-employment. A private limited company (BV) is set up by notarial deed and has no minimum share capital. A sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak) is quick to set up, but you are personally liable for business debts. A BV separates business and private assets, although directors can be personally liable in specific cases. You register with the KVK from one week before until one week after you start. Practical government information is available on [business.gov.nl](https://business.gov.nl/). Non-EU nationals usually need a residence permit for self-employment. American and Japanese nationals may benefit from specific treaty arrangements. Read more in [setting up a company in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/business-register-netherlands/) and [the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty](https://lawandmore.eu/dutch-american-friendship-treaty-daft/). ## How does working with Law & More work? 1. Introductory meeting: free of charge, in English, by phone, video or at our office. 2. Advice and cost estimate: we explain your position under Dutch law, the options and the expected costs. 3. Approach and negotiation: we review documents and negotiate with your employer, landlord, former partner or business partner. 4. Procedure or completion: we start or defend proceedings where needed, or finalise the agreement. ## What do expat legal services cost? We work on an hourly rate that we agree with you in advance. The rate for a lawyer is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT, and for a partner 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. External costs, such as court fees (griffierecht), bailiff's costs or notary fees, are charged separately. Legal aid exists through the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand), but we do not work on that basis. ## Who handles your case? That depends on your question. Employment matters are handled by Aylin Acar and Michelle Marjanovic, and family matters by Aylin Acar, Michelle Marjanovic and Jade Vaneerdewegh. Tenancy and immigration questions go to Ruby van Kersbergen, and company formation to Tom Meevis and Ruby van Kersbergen. See our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Frequently asked questions ### Do you offer legal services for expats in English? Yes. We advise, correspond and draft documents in English, and we explain Dutch legal terms as we go. Court proceedings in the Netherlands are generally conducted in Dutch, and we handle that for you. Documents in other languages may need a certified translation. ### Do you give tax advice to expats? No. We do not give tax advice, for example on the 30% ruling or your income tax return. We focus on employment, tenancy, family, corporate and immigration law. For tax questions, consult a tax adviser before you sign agreements with tax consequences. ### Can my landlord end my rental contract? Not freely. A landlord can only end a residential lease on a statutory ground, and if you do not agree, the court must decide. Since 1 July 2024, most new leases are permanent. A landlord who wants you to leave cannot change the locks or remove your belongings without a court order. ### What happens to my permit if I lose my job as a highly skilled migrant? You generally have three months to find a new job with a recognised sponsor that meets the salary requirements. If you do not, the IND can withdraw your permit. Check your options before signing a settlement agreement, because the end date affects your search period. ### Can I divorce in the Netherlands if we married abroad? Often yes, if you or your spouse habitually live in the Netherlands. The Dutch court then applies Dutch law to the divorce itself. Other rules may apply to your property and maintenance, so have those checked early. Also check whether your home country will recognise the Dutch divorce. ### Do I need a BV to start a business in the Netherlands? No. Many people start as a sole proprietor, which is quick and inexpensive. A BV limits your personal liability and may suit larger activities or investors. A BV is set up by notarial deed and has no minimum share capital. Discuss the tax consequences with a tax adviser. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. Use our [contact form](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. Law & More, Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven (+31 40 369 06 80) and visiting location Pietersbergweg 291, 1105 BM Amsterdam (+31 20 369 71 21). Available Monday to Friday 08:00-22:00, Saturday and Sunday 09:00-17:00. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on immigration law Recent articles by Law & More on immigration law. --- # Employment Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/employment-lawyer/ Your employer has offered you a settlement agreement, or you have been summarily dismissed. Or you are an employer who wants to part ways with an employee without a long dispute. As an employment lawyer in the Netherlands, we assess your position and calculate your entitlements. We also watch the periods that start running at once. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). Dutch employment law is mainly found in Book 7 of the Dutch Civil Code, supplemented by collective labour agreements (CAOs). We assist both employers and employees, in English and Dutch. Since 1 January 2020 most civil servants also fall under ordinary Dutch employment law. ## When do you need an employment lawyer in the Netherlands? You need an employment lawyer as soon as a period is running or someone asks for your signature. The earlier you seek legal assistance, the more options you have. Employees and employers typically contact us about: - a threatened dismissal, a dismissal letter or an invitation to a "bad news" meeting; - a settlement agreement or termination agreement you must assess within 14 days; - a summary dismissal, or the question whether you may take that step as an employer; - a conflict with your manager, or a dispute about wages, bonus or working hours; - illness, reintegration or a wage stop imposed by the employer; - a non-competition clause that blocks a new job; - a reorganisation, collective dismissal or a request for advice to the works council; - drafting employment contracts, staff handbooks or contracts for directors and expats. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Dismissal lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/dismissal-lawyer-netherlands/) - [Employment contracts](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-contract/) - [Employment lawyer Amsterdam](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-lawyer/employment-lawyer-amsterdam/) - [Employment lawyer Eindhoven](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-lawyer/employment-lawyer-eindhoven/) ## Which employment contract do you have? An employment contract exists when an employee works for an employer in return for wages (Article 7:610 of the Dutch Civil Code). Whether the contract is fixed term or permanent determines how and when it can end. The employer must inform you in writing about the essential employment terms. Since August 2022 this must happen within one week of starting work for the core terms. The minimum holiday entitlement is four times the weekly working hours (Article 7:634): 20 days for a full-time job. ### How does the chain rule for fixed-term contracts work? Under Article 7:668a of the Dutch Civil Code, a permanent contract arises after more than three fixed-term contracts or 36 months. The chain is only broken by an interval of more than six months. A CAO can deviate from these rules on certain points. For a fixed-term contract of six months or longer, the employer must give written notice about renewal. This must happen at least one month before the end date (Article 7:668). If the employer fails to do so, you are entitled to compensation of up to one month's salary. Changes to the chain rule have been proposed, so check the current rules before relying on an interval. ### What are the rules on probation? A probationary period must be agreed in writing (Article 7:652 of the Dutch Civil Code). No probation is allowed in a contract of six months or shorter. For a contract of up to two years the maximum is one month. For a longer or permanent contract it is two months. During probation both parties can terminate with immediate effect. At your request the employer must state the reason in writing, and the prohibition of discrimination also applies. ## How can an employer end an employment contract? An employer cannot simply terminate a permanent contract. Dutch employment law requires a reasonable ground (Article 7:669 of the Dutch Civil Code) and a prior check on redeployment. The statutory grounds are exhaustive. The dismissal procedure depends on the ground: | Reasonable ground | Route | | --- | --- | | Economic reasons, such as a reorganisation | Permit from UWV | | Long-term incapacity for work (two years or more) | Permit from UWV | | Frequent sickness absence with unacceptable consequences | Subdistrict court | | Poor performance, after an improvement plan | Subdistrict court | | Culpable acts or omissions of the employee | Subdistrict court | | Disrupted working relationship | Subdistrict court | | Combination of grounds (cumulation ground) | Subdistrict court | If the employee agrees to the dismissal in writing, no permit from UWV or the subdistrict court is needed. The employee can revoke that consent within 14 days (Article 7:671). The employer's notice period is one to four months, depending on the length of employment (Article 7:672). As employment lawyer in the Netherlands, we see that a well-documented file often decides a dismissal case. ### When is a summary dismissal valid? A summary dismissal is only valid for an urgent cause (Articles 7:677 and 7:678 of the Dutch Civil Code). The employer must dismiss immediately and state the reason at once. Examples of an urgent cause are theft, fraud or serious threats. The court weighs all circumstances, such as length of service and the consequences for the employee. An employee who wants to challenge the dismissal must ask the subdistrict court within two months to annul it (Article 7:686a). A valid summary dismissal usually also ends your right to unemployment benefits (WW). ## What should you know about a settlement agreement? A settlement agreement (vaststellingsovereenkomst) ends the employment by mutual consent. The employee may dissolve it within 14 days of signing without giving reasons (Article 7:670b of the Dutch Civil Code). If the agreement does not mention this reflection period, it becomes three weeks. There is no statutory transition payment in a settlement agreement; everything is negotiable. Check the end date, the notice period, the compensation, any non-compete clause and a neutral reason for termination. With the right wording, the employee usually keeps the right to unemployment benefits from UWV. Employers often contribute to the employee's legal fees. ## Which payment do you receive on dismissal? On dismissal at the employer's initiative, the employee is entitled to a transition payment (Article 7:673 of the Dutch Civil Code). It amounts to one third of a monthly salary per year of service, from the first working day. The transition payment is capped at an amount indexed every year, or at one annual salary if that is higher. For 2026 the cap is 102,000 euros gross. If the dismissal results from seriously culpable conduct of the employee, the payment lapses. On dissolution on the cumulation ground, the court can award an extra payment of up to half the transition payment. In addition, the court can award fair compensation (billijke vergoeding) if the employer acted seriously culpably. There is no fixed formula: the court looks at all circumstances, including lost income and the chance of new work. | What | Period | Article | | --- | --- | --- | | Dissolving a settlement agreement | 14 days after signing (three weeks if not stated) | 7:670b | | Annulment of a summary dismissal or notice | Two months after the end of employment | 7:686a | | Claim for the transition payment | Three months after the end of employment | 7:686a | | Appeal against a subdistrict court decision | Three months after the decision | 7:683 | ## What are the rules on illness and reintegration? During illness the employer pays at least 70 percent of the wages for up to 104 weeks (Article 7:629 of the Dutch Civil Code). In the first year this is at least the statutory minimum wage, and many CAOs require 100 percent. During the first two years of sickness a prohibition of dismissal applies (Article 7:670). Employer and employee must work together on reintegration under the Gatekeeper Improvement Act (Wet verbetering poortwachter). If the employee refuses to cooperate without good reason, the employer may stop the wages. If the employer did too little, UWV can extend the wage obligation by up to 52 weeks. After 104 weeks the employee may receive a WIA benefit, applied for by week 93 of sickness. ## When is a non-competition clause valid? A non-competition clause is only valid if agreed in writing with an adult employee (Article 7:653 of the Dutch Civil Code). In a fixed-term contract it is void unless the employer explains in writing which substantial business interests require it. A non-solicitation clause, which prohibits contact with clients, is subject to the same rules. The subdistrict court can annul a clause fully or partly if it unfairly disadvantages the employee. As employment lawyer in the Netherlands, we assess whether your clause will hold and negotiate a limitation where possible. ## What applies to reorganisations and the works council? A company with 50 or more employees must have a works council (ondernemingsraad). Under Article 25 of the Works Councils Act, the works council has a right of advice on a reorganisation. Article 27 gives it a right of consent on certain regulations. Consent covers schemes on, for example, working hours, appraisal and sickness absence. If the employer does not follow the works council's advice, the works council can appeal to the Enterprise Chamber within one month. For economic dismissals the employer must apply the reflection principle per age group within interchangeable positions. The Collective Redundancy Notification Act applies if an employer intends to dismiss 20 or more employees in one work area within three months. The employer must notify UWV and the trade unions. UWV in principle handles the dismissal requests only one month after that notification. ## What is different for directors and expats? A statutory director of a Dutch BV usually has a dual position: director under the articles of association and employee. Under Article 2:244 of the Dutch Civil Code, the general meeting can dismiss the director at any time. No permit from UWV or the court is needed. With the dismissal as director, the employment contract in principle also ends, unless a prohibition of dismissal applies. The director must first be given the opportunity to state his or her view. A flawed resolution can lead to fair compensation. If you habitually work in the Netherlands, mandatory Dutch employment law protects you, even under a foreign contract. If your residence permit depends on your job, dismissal may also affect your stay. We then coordinate with our immigration practice. ## How does working with Law & More work? Working with an employment lawyer in the Netherlands at Law & More follows four phases: intake, advice, negotiation and, if needed, proceedings. In each phase we discuss in advance what we will do and what it will roughly cost. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we discuss your situation and any running periods. We ask for your employment contract, CAO, payslips and correspondence. 2. Advice. Your Dutch employment lawyer assesses your position and explains the risks and chances, in English or Dutch. 3. Negotiation. We conduct the talks with the other party or its lawyer. Many disputes end in a settlement agreement, and mediation can be a faster route. 4. Proceedings. If no settlement is reached, we litigate before the subdistrict court and, on appeal, the court of appeal. ## What does an employment lawyer in the Netherlands cost? At Law & More the hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer. For a partner it is 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT, and we discuss the rate in advance. The introductory meeting with your employment lawyer in the Netherlands is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. Government-funded legal aid exists through the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand), but Law & More does not work on that basis. Our office is at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, with a visiting location in Amsterdam, and we act throughout the Netherlands. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Aylin Acar and Michelle Marjanovic. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? - [Employment contracts in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/employment-contracts-in-the-netherlands/) - [Probation period: the Dutch rules](https://lawandmore.eu/probation-period-dutch-rules-you-must-know/) - [Settlement agreement](https://lawandmore.eu/settlement-agreement-lawyer-netherlands/) - [Transition payment 2026](https://lawandmore.eu/transition-payment-2026-why-e102000-isnt-the-maximum-payout/) - [Fair compensation in dismissal cases](https://lawandmore.eu/fair-compensation-in-dismissal-cases-legal-framework-strong-arguments-and-practical-case-law/) - [Facing immediate dismissal](https://lawandmore.eu/facing-immediate-dismissal/) - [Employee sickness rights](https://lawandmore.eu/employee-sickness-rights-what-you-need-to-know/) - [Dismissal of a company director](https://lawandmore.eu/dismissal-of-a-company-director/) You can read the statutory text in [Book 7 of the Dutch Civil Code](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0005290/). ## Frequently asked questions ### When should I contact an employment lawyer in the Netherlands? Call an employment lawyer as soon as a period starts or a signature is requested. Think of a settlement agreement, a summary dismissal or a UWV dismissal application. Advice at that stage keeps your options open. ### Can my employer dismiss me without my consent? Not without a reasonable ground and a permit from UWV or a decision of the subdistrict court. Exceptions are dismissal during probation and summary dismissal for an urgent cause. Statutory directors can also be dismissed by the general meeting. ### How long do I have to reconsider a settlement agreement? You may dissolve a signed settlement agreement within 14 days without giving reasons. If the agreement does not mention this right, the period is three weeks. This follows from Article 7:670b of the Dutch Civil Code. ### Do I keep unemployment benefits after a settlement agreement? Usually yes, if the termination is initiated by the employer and there is no urgent cause. The agreement should state a neutral reason and respect the notice period. A lawyer checks the wording before you sign. ### How much is the transition payment? The transition payment is one third of a monthly salary per year of service. In 2026 it is capped at 102,000 euros gross, or one annual salary if higher. You must claim it within three months after the employment ends. ### May my employer dismiss me while I am ill? During the first two years of illness a prohibition of dismissal applies. The employer must continue to pay at least 70 percent of your wages and work on reintegration. A settlement agreement during illness requires extra care. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on employment law Recent articles by Law & More on employment law. --- # Divorce Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/ Have you decided to divorce, or has your spouse already filed a petition? A divorce lawyer in the Netherlands guides you through the divorce itself and everything around it: children, maintenance, the home, assets and pensions. On this page you read how a Dutch divorce works, which rules apply to expats and international couples, and what you need to arrange. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## When do you need a divorce lawyer in the Netherlands? You always need a lawyer for a divorce in the Netherlands, because the court only accepts a petition filed by a lawyer. A Dutch divorce lawyer also helps you record your agreements in a way that still works years later. Typical situations in which clients contact our divorce lawyers: - you and your spouse agree and want to record the arrangements quickly in a divorce agreement and a parenting plan; - your spouse does not want a divorce, or no longer responds to proposals; - you have received a divorce petition and must respond within six weeks; - you disagree about the children, alimony, the family home or your own company; - you married abroad, or one of you lives in another country; - your residence permit depends on your marriage. Divorce lawyers who focus on family law know the maintenance standards, the pension rules and the procedural rules of the court. A divorce lawyer in the Netherlands also knows how courts apply them in practice. That prevents mistakes in documents that are hard to correct after registration. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Applying for a divorce](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/applying-for-a-divorce-lawyers/) - [Mediation](https://lawandmore.eu/mediation/) - [Divorce lawyer Amsterdam](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/divorce-lawyer-amsterdam/) - [Divorce lawyer Eindhoven](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/divorce-lawyer-eindhoven/) ## How does a divorce in the Netherlands work? A Dutch divorce is granted by a district court on a petition filed by a lawyer. The marriage ends only when the court decision is entered in the civil status registers. Under Article 1:151 of the Dutch Civil Code, the only ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Dutch law has no fault-based divorce; you can read Book 1 of the Civil Code on [wetten.overheid.nl](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0002656/) (in Dutch). Your spouse therefore cannot prevent the divorce by refusing; a defence mainly makes sense against the ancillary arrangements, such as maintenance or the division of assets. ### Joint or unilateral petition? With a joint petition, you and your spouse file one request together. You usually attach a divorce agreement with the financial arrangements and, with minor children, a parenting plan. A hearing is then often not needed. With a unilateral petition, only you file. A bailiff serves the petition on your spouse, who then has six weeks to file a statement of defence. An oral hearing at the court usually follows. Read more on [divorce without your partner's consent](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-without-partners-consent-explained/). ### One lawyer or two? A lawyer must sign the divorce petition, even if you fully agree. With a joint petition, one divorce lawyer can file on behalf of you both. A joint lawyer may not advise either of you one-sidedly, and must withdraw if a conflict arises. With large interests or an unequal position, each spouse is better off with their own divorce lawyer. ### When are you officially divorced? You are divorced once the decision is registered in the civil status registers. Under Article 1:163 Dutch Civil Code this must happen within six months after the decision has become final. The appeal period is three months. If both of you waive an appeal by signing a deed of acquiescence (akte van berusting), registration can follow at once. Miss the six months and the decision lapses: you are still married. ## What do you arrange for the children? With minor children, a parenting plan is mandatory; this obligation has applied since 1 March 2009. You also agree on child maintenance, which the court checks against the child's needs and both parents' financial capacity. Our divorce lawyers help you draft the parenting plan. It covers the division of care, how you inform and consult each other on school and medical care, and the costs of the children. Joint custody in principle continues after the divorce (Article 1:251 Dutch Civil Code). Children aged 12 and older are invited by the court to give their views. Child maintenance follows the Trema standards of the Expertgroep Alimentatienormen. The duty of support runs until the child turns 21. A parent who wants to move abroad with the children needs the consent of the other parent or the court. If a child is taken abroad without consent, the Hague Child Abduction Convention of 1980 provides for a quick return procedure. Child abduction cases in the Netherlands are heard by the District Court of The Hague. Our divorce lawyers also deal with related questions, such as a step-parent adoption or a change of a child's surname later on. ## How long does spousal maintenance last? For petitions filed from 1 January 2020, spousal maintenance (partneralimentatie) lasts half the length of the marriage, with a maximum of five years. The law makes exceptions for young children, long marriages and spouses close to state pension age. | Situation | Maximum duration | | --- | --- | | Basic rule (petition from 1 January 2020) | Half the length of the marriage, at most 5 years | | Children under 12 | Until the youngest child turns 12 | | Marriage of more than 15 years, recipient within 10 years of state pension age | Until the recipient's state pension age | | Petition filed before 1 January 2020 | In principle 12 years (old rules) | You can agree on something else, such as a shorter period or a lump sum. If the end of alimony would be unreasonably harsh for the recipient, the court can extend it under the hardship clause. Alimony amounts are indexed every year on 1 January. ## How are property and debts divided? What you share depends on the date of your marriage and on any prenuptial agreement. A divorce lawyer in the Netherlands first maps all assets and debts, including mortgages, savings, shares and the company. ### Limited or general community of property? For marriages under Dutch law from 1 January 2018, the limited community of property applies. Assets and debts from before the marriage stay private, as do inheritances and gifts. Only what you build up during the marriage falls into the community. If you married before 1 January 2018 without a prenuptial agreement, the general community of property applies. In principle it includes all assets, also those from before the marriage, except inheritances and gifts with an exclusion clause. The community is dissolved on the day the divorce petition is filed (Article 1:99 Dutch Civil Code). It is then in principle divided into two equal halves. ### What if you have a prenuptial agreement? A prenuptial agreement (huwelijkse voorwaarden), made before a notary, determines what you settle. A frequent issue is a periodic settlement clause that was never carried out. Under Article 1:141 Dutch Civil Code, the assets are then in principle settled as if the clause had been carried out. A foreign prenuptial agreement must first be assessed under the law that governs it. ### What happens to the family home? For an owner-occupied home there are three routes: sell, one spouse takes over, or you remain joint owners for a while. Both of you usually remain jointly and severally liable for the mortgage until the bank releases the departing spouse. A divorce lawyer in the Netherlands can prepare that request together with your mortgage adviser. The court can allow one spouse to keep using the home for up to six months after registration (Article 1:165). During proceedings you can ask for provisional measures on the home under Article 822 of the Dutch Code of Civil Procedure. ## What happens to your pension? Old-age pension built up during the marriage is in principle shared equally under the Pension Equalisation on Divorce Act (Wet verevening pensioenrechten bij scheiding). Each spouse receives half of the pension the other built up during the marriage. You must notify the pension provider within two years after the divorce is registered. Otherwise the provider does not pay you directly. You can also agree on conversion, which gives you an independent pension right that continues if your former spouse dies. Your divorce lawyer records that choice in the divorce agreement. ## What does a divorce lawyer in the Netherlands check in an international divorce? In an international divorce, the first questions are which court has jurisdiction and which law it applies. International family law answers these questions separately for the divorce, the children, maintenance and property. International family law is a field of its own, with EU regulations and Hague conventions next to Dutch law. Our divorce lawyers handle these cases in English and Dutch, for clients in Amsterdam, Eindhoven and abroad. ### Can you divorce in the Netherlands as an expat? Within the EU, jurisdiction follows from Regulation (EU) 2019/1111, known as Brussels II-ter. A Dutch court usually has jurisdiction if you both have your habitual residence in the Netherlands, or in several other situations based on residence or nationality. Dutch nationals who live abroad can in certain cases file with the District Court of The Hague. A Dutch court applies Dutch law to the divorce itself (Article 10:56 Dutch Civil Code). Foreign law can still apply to property and maintenance. For marriages from 29 January 2019, EU Regulation 2016/1103 decides which law governs your property. An international divorce lawyer checks this before you file, because the choice of court can affect the outcome. ### Is a Dutch divorce recognised abroad? A Dutch divorce is recognised in the other EU member states, except Denmark, without a special procedure under Brussels II-ter. Outside the EU, recognition depends on the law of the country concerned. A certificate or apostille may be needed, so check this early. A divorce lawyer in the Netherlands can request the right documents from the court and the municipality. ### What does a divorce mean for your residence permit? If your residence permit is based on living with your spouse, it no longer has a basis after the divorce. You must report the change to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). In some situations, for example after a long period of residence or because of your children, an independent permit may be possible. Check the conditions on [ind.nl](https://ind.nl/en) and ask advice before you file. A permit based on your own work, such as a highly skilled migrant permit, does not depend on the marriage. ## When does a mediator help? A mediator guides the conversation between spouses neutrally, but advises neither of you. Mediation works well if you can still talk and want to avoid court proceedings. A mediator does not replace a lawyer. A divorce lawyer in the Netherlands must still file the petition, and you are wise to have the draft agreement reviewed. We can advise you alongside mediation, so that you know your rights before you sign. If talks with the mediator stall, we take over the negotiations. ## How does working with Law & More work? Every divorce lawyer at our firm works in four phases. In each phase we discuss in advance what we do and which documents you provide. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we map your marriage, children, income, home and pension, and the deadlines that run. 2. Advice. We set out your position: expected maintenance, the division of assets, the applicable law and the risks. 3. Negotiation. We draft the divorce agreement and parenting plan, or negotiate with your spouse's lawyer. If you agree, we file a joint petition. 4. Proceedings. If no agreement is reached, we file a unilateral petition or a defence and, if needed, ask for provisional measures. After the decision we arrange registration within six months. ## What does a divorce lawyer in the Netherlands cost at Law & More? A lawyer at Law & More works at an hourly rate of 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT. A partner charges 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT. We discuss the rate in advance, together with an estimate of the total costs. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. You also pay a court fee and, with a unilateral petition, the bailiff's costs. People with a low income can get state-funded legal aid through the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand). Law & More does not work on that basis. We are based at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, have a visiting location in Amsterdam and work for clients throughout the Netherlands. Clients in Amsterdam and abroad can also meet us online. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Aylin Acar, Michelle Marjanovic and Jade Vaneerdewegh. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? - [The divorce settlement agreement](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-settlement-agreement/) - [Partner alimony](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/partner-alimony/) - [Child support](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/child-support-lawyers/) - [Divorce and the marital home: who gets the house?](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-and-the-marital-home-who-gets-the-house/) - [Provisional measures in divorce proceedings](https://lawandmore.eu/provisional-measures-in-divorce-proceedings-quick-clarity-on-the-home-alimony-and-children/) - [International divorce in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/international-divorce-netherlands/) - [Divorce and your residence permit](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-and-residence-permit/) - [Family law](https://lawandmore.eu/family-lawyer/) ## Frequently asked questions ### Is a divorce lawyer in the Netherlands always mandatory? Yes, for a divorce you always need a lawyer, because only a lawyer can file the petition. With a joint petition, one lawyer can act for you both. A registered partnership without minor children can be ended without a court, with an agreement signed by a lawyer or notary. ### What if my spouse does not want a divorce? Then you file a unilateral petition. The court grants the divorce if the marriage has irretrievably broken down, and your statement on that is usually enough. Your spouse can still contest the arrangements on children, maintenance and property. ### How long does a divorce take in the Netherlands? A joint petition is usually decided within a few weeks to two months after filing. A contested unilateral divorce often takes six months to a year, and longer with an appeal. In urgent situations you can ask for provisional measures. ### How long do I have to pay spousal maintenance? For petitions from 1 January 2020, the basic rule is half the length of the marriage, with a maximum of five years. With children under 12, maintenance runs until the youngest turns 12. After a marriage of more than 15 years, longer periods can apply, linked to state pension age. ### Can we divorce in the Netherlands if we married abroad? Yes, if a Dutch court has jurisdiction, usually because you live in the Netherlands. The court applies Dutch law to the divorce itself. Foreign law may still govern your property or maintenance. ### Does Law & More work on legal aid? No. State-funded legal aid runs through the Legal Aid Board, but Law & More does not work on that basis. We work with an hourly rate agreed in advance, and the first meeting is free. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on divorce and family law Recent articles by Law & More on divorce and family law. --- # Family Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/family-lawyer/ Are you separating from your spouse, arguing about where the children will live, or unsure which country's court decides your case? A family lawyer in the Netherlands can bring structure to these questions. On this page you read which Dutch rules apply, which deadlines run, and how we assist international families in Dutch and English. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## When do you need a family lawyer in the Netherlands? You need a family lawyer as soon as a question about your relationship, children or family assets may reach a Dutch court. Early legal advice helps you make agreements that hold up later. Expats and international couples come to us with questions such as these: - you want a divorce, or you want to end a registered partnership or a cohabitation arrangement; - you have to draw up a parenting plan, or change an existing one; - your former partner does not respect the contact arrangement, or wants to move abroad with the children; - you want child or spousal maintenance set, changed or ended; - you want to recognise your child, deny paternity or change your child's surname; - you want to know which marital property regime applies to you, or you need a prenuptial agreement; - you have a residence permit and wonder what a separation means for your stay and your immigration status. The earlier you ask for advice, the more room there is for negotiation. Once a petition is filed, deadlines run, such as six weeks for a statement of defence. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Child support](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/child-support-lawyers/) - [Partner alimony](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/partner-alimony/) - [Divorce lawyer Amsterdam](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/divorce-lawyer-amsterdam/) - [Divorce lawyer Eindhoven](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/divorce-lawyer-eindhoven/) ## What does a family lawyer in the Netherlands actually do? A family lawyer advises on, negotiates and litigates matters of marriage, partnership, parenthood, custody and maintenance. Most of these rules are in Book 1 of the Dutch Civil Code. Family law rarely stands alone. A separation can affect the residence permit of a foreign spouse, a family company and the pensions you both built up. Entrepreneurs also face the valuation of their business. A Dutch family lawyer brings these issues together, so that a deal on one point does not cause a problem on another. Some family lawyers also act as mediators. A mediator does not take sides, while a family lawyer in the Netherlands acts for you alone. We can guide you alongside mediation, so that you know what you sign. You find the full text of Book 1 on [wetten.overheid.nl](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0002656/) (in Dutch). ## How do divorce and the end of a registered partnership work? A marriage in the Netherlands can only be dissolved by a court, on a petition filed by a lawyer. A registered partnership without minor children can also be ended outside court, by an agreement signed by a lawyer or a notary. The only ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage (Article 1:151 Dutch Civil Code). You can file a joint petition with your spouse, or a unilateral petition on your own. Your spouse cannot block the divorce by refusing to cooperate. The divorce takes effect only once the court decision is entered in the civil status registers. Under Article 1:163 Dutch Civil Code, this must happen within six months after the decision becomes final. If that deadline passes, the decision lapses and you are still married. If your marriage was never entered in a Dutch register, the divorce is registered in The Hague. Registered partners without minor children can end their partnership by mutual consent (Article 1:80c Dutch Civil Code). With minor children, the dissolution goes through the court. Unmarried cohabitants have no statutory separation procedure; their cohabitation agreement applies. Our page on [applying for a divorce](https://lawandmore.eu/divorce-lawyer/applying-for-a-divorce-lawyers/) explains the procedure step by step. ## How do you arrange the children after a separation? Parents with joint custody who separate must record their agreements in a parenting plan (ouderschapsplan). This plan has been mandatory since 1 March 2009 and is a required part of every divorce petition involving minor children. ### What must a parenting plan contain? A parenting plan covers at least three subjects: the division of care, how you inform and consult each other, and the costs of the children. You also state how you involved the children. Unmarried parents with joint custody also need a parenting plan when they separate (Article 1:247a Dutch Civil Code). The court invites children aged 12 and older to give their views. A family lawyer in the Netherlands makes the plan specific enough to prevent new disputes, for example about holidays abroad. ### What happens to custody and contact? Joint custody in principle continues after a divorce (Article 1:251 Dutch Civil Code). The court grants sole custody only if a child risks being trapped between the parents, or if the child's interest otherwise requires it (Article 1:251a). A child has a right to contact with both parents (Article 1:377a). If parents disagree on a major decision, such as a school or a move, either parent can ask the court to decide (Article 1:253a). A parent who wants to move abroad with the children needs the consent of the other parent or the court. ## How are child and spousal maintenance calculated? Maintenance follows from the needs of the person receiving it and the financial capacity of the person paying it. Dutch courts use the guidelines of the Expertgroep Alimentatienormen, known as the Trema standards. Parents must support their minor children (Article 1:404 Dutch Civil Code). Between the ages of 18 and 21, that duty continues for living and study costs (Article 1:395a). Child maintenance takes priority over spousal maintenance (Article 1:400). Amounts are indexed by law every year on 1 January. For spousal maintenance, new rules apply to petitions filed on or after 1 January 2020. The basic duration is half the length of the marriage, with a maximum of five years. There are statutory exceptions: | Situation | Maximum duration of spousal maintenance | | --- | --- | | Basic rule (petition from 1 January 2020) | Half the length of the marriage, at most 5 years | | Children under the age of 12 | Until the youngest child turns 12 | | Marriage of more than 15 years, recipient reaches state pension age within 10 years | Until the recipient's state pension age | | End of maintenance would be unreasonably harsh | Extension by the court under the hardship clause | | Petition filed before 1 January 2020 | Old rules, often 12 years | A court can change maintenance when circumstances change, for example after a job loss. A family lawyer in the Netherlands will check the calculation before you agree to it. If child maintenance is not paid, the National Bureau for the Collection of Maintenance Payments (LBIO) can collect it. ## How do recognition, paternity and name changes work? Legal parenthood arises from birth within a marriage or registered partnership, from recognition, from a court ruling or from adoption. It determines maintenance duties, inheritance rights and the child's surname. A father or co-parent can recognise a child at the civil registry or before a notary (Articles 1:203 and 1:204 Dutch Civil Code). For a child under 16, the mother must consent, and a child of 12 or older must consent as well. If the mother refuses, the court can grant substitute consent. Since 1 January 2023, recognition by an unmarried partner in principle leads to joint custody automatically. A mother or legal parent can ask the court to deny parenthood (Article 1:200). The deadline is one year after learning that the legal parent is probably not the biological parent. The child has three years from the moment it learns this. A change of surname is requested from Justis, part of the Ministry of Justice and Security. A change of first name requires a court petition. ## Which marital property regime applies to you? If Dutch law governs your marriage and you married on or after 1 January 2018 without a prenuptial agreement, a limited community of property applies (Article 1:94 Dutch Civil Code). If you married before that date, a general community applies in principle. In the limited community, assets from before the marriage remain private, as do inheritances and gifts. What you build up during the marriage falls into the community. In a divorce, the community is dissolved on the day the petition is filed (Article 1:99). Prenuptial agreements (huwelijkse voorwaarden) are made before a notary. A common issue is a periodic settlement clause that was never carried out; it can still lead to a settlement at divorce. A family lawyer in the Netherlands reviews these terms before you negotiate. For international couples, the first question is which country's law governs your property. For marriages from 29 January 2019, EU Regulation 2016/1103 decides this in the participating EU member states, including the Netherlands. ## What applies in an international family case? In an international family matter you answer two questions first: which court has jurisdiction, and which law that court applies. The answer can differ for divorce, children, maintenance and property. ### Which rules decide jurisdiction? Within the European Union, jurisdiction in divorce and parental responsibility follows from Regulation (EU) 2019/1111, known as Brussels II-ter. It applies from 1 August 2022 and mainly looks at habitual residence. For maintenance, Regulation (EC) No 4/2009 and the Hague Protocol of 2007 apply. The Hague Child Protection Convention of 1996 also plays a role in cases with countries outside the EU. ### What if a child is taken abroad? If a parent takes a child abroad without consent, the other parent can request the child's return under the Hague Child Abduction Convention of 1980. In the Netherlands, the District Court of The Hague hears these return cases. Act fast: delay can weaken your position. ### What about inheritance? A separation or remarriage often raises questions of inheritance law. Under EU Regulation 650/2012, the law of your habitual residence at death in principle governs your estate, unless you chose your national law. A family lawyer in the Netherlands flags this and involves a notary where a will is needed. ## When is a lawyer mandatory in Dutch family proceedings? A lawyer is mandatory for a divorce and for maintenance proceedings, because only a lawyer may file the petition. For some requests on custody or contact, you may act without a lawyer. Your lawyer files the petition with the competent district court, usually where you, your spouse or your children live. The other party can file a statement of defence, after which an oral hearing follows. In urgent cases, the court can grant provisional measures, for example on the family home. Information on Dutch court procedures is available on [rechtspraak.nl](https://www.rechtspraak.nl/). | Deadline | What it applies to | | --- | --- | | 6 weeks | Statement of defence against a divorce petition | | 3 months | Appeal against a family court decision to the court of appeal | | 6 months | Registration of the divorce in the civil status registers | | 1 year / 3 years | Denial of parenthood by a parent / by the child, after discovery | ## How does working with Law & More work? As your family lawyer in the Netherlands, we guide you through four phases that we discuss in advance. In each phase you know the next step and the expected costs. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we map your situation, the deadlines that run and your goals. 2. Advice. We explain which rules and which country's law apply, which risks you face and which route has the best chances. 3. Negotiation. We negotiate with your former partner or their lawyer, or support you in mediation. We record the outcome in a divorce agreement or parenting plan. 4. Proceedings. If no agreement is reached, we file the petition and represent you at the hearing and, if needed, on appeal. ## What does a family lawyer in the Netherlands cost at Law & More? A lawyer at Law & More charges 250 to 350 euros per hour excluding VAT. A partner charges 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT, and we discuss the rate in advance. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. In proceedings you also pay a court fee. State-funded legal aid exists in the Netherlands through the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand) for people with a low income. Law & More does not work on a legal aid basis. Our office is at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, with a visiting location in Amsterdam, and we work for clients throughout the Netherlands. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Aylin Acar, Michelle Marjanovic and Jade Vaneerdewegh. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? - [The parenting plan in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/parenting-plan-netherlands/) - [Children across borders: Dutch custody law explained](https://lawandmore.eu/child-custody-laws-in-the-netherlands/) - [What if the custody arrangement is not being followed?](https://lawandmore.eu/what-if-the-custody-arrangement-isnt-being-followed/) - [Alimony in the Netherlands: child and spousal support](https://lawandmore.eu/alimony-in-the-netherlands-complete-guide-to-child-and-spousal-support/) - [Property within and after marriage](https://lawandmore.eu/property-within-and-after-marriage/) - [International divorce in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/international-divorce-netherlands/) - [Changing first names](https://lawandmore.eu/changing-first-names/) - [Mediation](https://lawandmore.eu/mediation/) ## Frequently asked questions ### Family lawyer in the Netherlands: is a lawyer mandatory in my case? For a divorce and for maintenance proceedings, yes: only a lawyer may file the petition with the court. For some requests on custody or contact you may act on your own. Even then, a lawyer helps you support your request and keep track of deadlines. ### Can we divorce in the Netherlands if we are not Dutch? In most cases, yes. A Dutch court usually has jurisdiction if you and your spouse have your habitual residence in the Netherlands. Which law applies to maintenance, children and property can differ per subject, so check this before you file. ### How long do I have to pay spousal maintenance? For petitions filed from 1 January 2020, the basic duration is half the length of the marriage, with a maximum of five years. Exceptions apply, for example when there are children under 12, or after a marriage of more than 15 years when the recipient is close to state pension age. ### Do I automatically get custody when I recognise my child? For recognitions from 1 January 2023, joint custody of both parents in principle arises automatically. For an earlier recognition, joint custody must be registered separately in the custody register of the court. ### Can my former partner move abroad with our children? A parent with joint custody needs the other parent's consent for a move that significantly changes the child's life. Without consent, the court decides under Article 1:253a Dutch Civil Code. After a wrongful removal abroad, a return procedure under the 1980 Hague Convention may be possible. ### Does Law & More work on legal aid? No. State-funded legal aid runs through the Legal Aid Board and lawyers who work on that basis. We work with an hourly rate that we agree with you in advance, and the introductory meeting is free. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on family law Recent articles by Law & More on family law. --- # Corporate Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/corporate-lawyer/ As a corporate lawyer in the Netherlands, Law & More supports you in doing business: negotiating and drafting contracts, working with partners and co-shareholders, and resolving disputes with suppliers, customers or business partners. We work for entrepreneurs, founders, investors and international companies, in English and Dutch. The first step is a free introductory meeting in which we discuss your question and any deadlines. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## What can we help you with? We help businesses at the moments when something is at stake commercially. Most topics have their own page with more detail: - negotiating and drafting commercial contracts, such as supply, service and distribution agreements: [contract lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/contract-lawyer/); - recording arrangements with a business partner or joint venture: [cooperation agreements](https://lawandmore.eu/cooperation-agreements/); - a conflict with a fellow shareholder or a deadlock in the BV: [shareholder dispute lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/shareholder-dispute-lawyer/); - a claim against you as a director: [directors' liability in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/directors-liability-netherlands/); - buying or selling a company: [business acquisition lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/business-acquisition-lawyer/); - setting up a Dutch BV or subsidiary: [company formation in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/company-formation-netherlands/); - payment problems, restructuring or a threatened bankruptcy: [bankruptcy lawyers](https://lawandmore.eu/bankruptcy-lawyers/); - day-to-day legal support for your company: [business lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/business-lawyer/). Dutch corporate law is mainly found in Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code (legal entities), and contract law in Book 6. Where needed, we combine it with insolvency law and employment law. ## How do you negotiate and sign contracts with less risk? You reduce risk by testing the key terms before you negotiate and recording the deal completely and unambiguously before signing. A corporate lawyer in the Netherlands prepares the negotiation with you, conducts it on your behalf where useful and turns the outcome into a contract that works in practice. A sound contract covers at least price, delivery, liability, term and termination, governing law and dispute resolution. A limitation of liability and a penalty clause usually belong in it too. Under Dutch law, oral arrangements and e-mails can already create a binding agreement. We therefore also advise before you confirm a quotation or sign a letter of intent. If you agree no payment term with another business, a term of 30 days applies by law. An agreed term may in principle not exceed 60 days (Article 6:119a of the Dutch Civil Code). Late payment triggers statutory commercial interest. ### What should your general terms and conditions cover? General terms and conditions must be provided before or at the conclusion of the contract (Articles 6:233 and 6:234 of the Dutch Civil Code). Otherwise the other party can annul them. Towards consumers, a black list and a grey list of unreasonably onerous clauses also apply (Articles 6:236 and 6:237). Large companies, such as those with 50 or more employees, cannot rely on these grounds for annulment. If both parties refer to their own terms, Article 6:225 determines which set applies. ### How do you structure a cooperation with a business partner? A cooperation is recorded in a cooperation agreement, or in a joint venture with its own BV if you set up a joint business. It sets out each party's contribution, the split of costs and revenues, control and how a party can exit. If you cooperate with a competitor, competition law applies. Article 6 of the Dutch Competition Act prohibits agreements that restrict competition, such as price fixing and market sharing. The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) supervises compliance. Franchise agreements are subject to the Dutch Franchise Act since 1 January 2021, including a standstill period of at least four weeks before signing. ## What can you do in a dispute with a supplier, customer or business partner? In a business dispute, first put your position on paper: what was agreed, what went wrong and what loss you suffer. A notice of default, negotiation and, if that fails, litigation usually follow. If a party fails to perform, you can claim performance, damages or termination (Articles 6:74 and 6:265 of the Dutch Civil Code). In most cases you must first give written notice of default with a reasonable period to perform (Article 6:82). If you receive defective goods or services, you must complain within a reasonable time (Article 6:89). Waiting too long can cost you your rights. For unpaid invoices, a prejudgment attachment (conservatoir beslag) can be strong leverage. It requires leave from the preliminary relief judge. Claims up to 25,000 euros go to the subdistrict court; larger claims go to the district court, where you need a lawyer. In urgent cases, such as a supplier that suddenly stops delivering, summary proceedings (kort geding) can produce a decision within weeks. Many business disputes end in a settlement agreement (vaststellingsovereenkomst). Your corporate lawyer in the Netherlands negotiates that settlement on your behalf and litigates where needed. ### Which court decides a cross-border dispute? Within the EU, jurisdiction and recognition of judgments follow from the Brussels I bis Regulation. A clear choice of law and forum in your contract prevents a dispute about where and under which rules you litigate. The Netherlands Commercial Court in Amsterdam hears international commercial disputes in English if the parties agree. Arbitration is an alternative, especially when a judgment must be enforced outside the EU. Where several jurisdictions are involved, your Dutch corporate lawyer coordinates with your lawyers abroad. ## How do you organise the relationship with your co-shareholders? Arrangements between shareholders are laid down in the articles of association and a shareholders' agreement. The articles are public and bind every shareholder; the shareholders' agreement is confidential and binds only its parties. A corporate lawyer in the Netherlands aligns both documents. A good shareholders' agreement covers at least: - which resolutions require unanimity or a qualified majority; - rules on selling shares, such as a right of first refusal, drag-along and tag-along; - what happens on departure, incapacity or death (good leaver and bad leaver); - how a deadlock is resolved; - dividend, financing and a non-compete. ### What can you do in a shareholder dispute? You can negotiate, mediate or use the statutory dispute settlement procedure (Article 2:335 and following of the Dutch Civil Code). Investigation proceedings before the Enterprise Chamber are the strongest remedy when there is serious doubt about the company's policy. Through expulsion, shareholders can demand that another shareholder transfers his shares if he seriously harms the company's interest (Article 2:336). Through exit, a shareholder can demand that the others buy his shares if his rights or interests are seriously harmed (Article 2:343). The court can appoint experts to set the share price. The Enterprise Chamber of the Amsterdam Court of Appeal can order an investigation into the company's policy (Article 2:344 and following). For most BVs, shareholders holding together at least 10 percent of the issued capital may file the request. The Enterprise Chamber can also take immediate measures, such as suspending a director or appointing a temporary director. ## When is a director personally liable? A director is personally liable if he can be seriously blamed for his management. That liability exists towards the company itself (Article 2:9 of the Dutch Civil Code) and, through tort, towards creditors (Article 6:162). In a bankruptcy, the trustee can hold the directors liable for the entire deficit (Article 2:248). This requires manifestly improper management in the three years before the bankruptcy, as an important cause of it. Improper management is presumed if the accounting duties were breached or the annual accounts were filed late. A BV must file its annual accounts with the Chamber of Commerce (KVK) no later than twelve months after the financial year ends. Distributions to shareholders also carry risk. The board must approve every distribution, and directors who knew the BV could not pay its debts afterwards are liable for the shortfall (Article 2:216). If the BV cannot pay payroll taxes, VAT or pension contributions, report this within two weeks to the Tax Administration or the pension fund. Received a liability claim? Let a corporate lawyer in the Netherlands assess it before you respond. ## How does a corporate lawyer in the Netherlands guide an acquisition? A corporate lawyer in the Netherlands guides the purchase or sale of a business from letter of intent to closing. Every transaction is tailor-made, because the risks differ per company. 1. Letter of intent: the main deal terms, often with exclusivity and confidentiality. 2. Due diligence: an investigation of the legal, financial and tax risks of the target. 3. Share purchase agreement: price, payment, warranties and indemnities. 4. Closing: transfer of BV shares by notarial deed before a Dutch civil-law notary; an asset deal transfers each asset separately. In an asset deal, employees transfer to the buyer by law (Article 7:663 of the Dutch Civil Code). A works council has a right of advice on an acquisition. Larger deals must be notified to the ACM in advance. That applies if the combined worldwide turnover exceeds 150 million euros and at least two parties each achieve 30 million euros in the Netherlands. ## What are your options when the business runs into financial trouble? A company in financial difficulty can restructure through talks with creditors, a composition under the WHOA or a suspension of payments. The earlier directors act, the more options remain. The Act on Confirmation of Extrajudicial Restructuring Plans (WHOA) has applied since 1 January 2021. It allows a company to offer a plan to creditors and shareholders outside bankruptcy. The court can make that plan binding, also on creditors who voted against it. During preparation, the court can order a cooling-off period of up to four months, extendable to a maximum of eight months. If restructuring fails, bankruptcy often follows, and the trustee investigates the role of the board. A corporate lawyer in the Netherlands with insolvency experience advises directors and shareholders on their obligations and assists creditors with their claims. ## Which legal form suits your business? The legal form mainly determines who is liable for business debts. A sole proprietor is liable with private assets, and each partner in a general partnership (vof) is jointly and severally liable. A private limited company (BV) is a legal entity, so in principle only the BV is liable. Since 1 October 2012 a BV needs no minimum capital; it is incorporated by notarial deed (Article 2:175 of the Dutch Civil Code). A public limited company (NV) requires at least 45,000 euros. Foreign companies can also operate through a Dutch branch. The practical steps are explained on [business.gov.nl](https://business.gov.nl/). ## How does working with Law & More work? Working with us follows four steps. In each step we discuss in advance what we will do and roughly what it will cost. 1. Introduction. In a free meeting we discuss your question and any deadlines. We ask for contracts, articles and correspondence. 2. Advice and cost estimate. Your Dutch corporate lawyer assesses your position and explains the risks and chances, in English or Dutch. 3. Approach and negotiation. We negotiate with the other party or its lawyers and record the outcome. 4. Proceedings or completion. If no settlement is reached, we litigate before the district court, the Enterprise Chamber or in arbitration, in summary proceedings where urgent. ## What does a corporate lawyer in the Netherlands cost? At Law & More the hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer and 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT for a partner. We agree the rate and a cost estimate in advance. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. Legal aid exists via the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand), but Law & More does not work on that basis. External costs, such as court fees, bailiff costs and notary fees, are charged separately. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Tom Meevis, founder and managing partner, or Ruby van Kersbergen. Both work as corporate lawyers at Law & More; read more about them on [our team](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/) page. ## Which articles help you further? - [From idea to BV: the legal steps you cannot skip](https://lawandmore.eu/from-idea-to-bv-the-legal-steps-you-cannot-skip/) - [BV in formation: pre-incorporation liability](https://lawandmore.eu/b-v-in-formation-the-complete-guide-to-pre-incorporation-liability/) - [Shareholder agreement guide for Dutch companies](https://lawandmore.eu/shareholder-agreement-guide-for-dutch-companies/) - [Shareholder disputes: from warning to Enterprise Chamber](https://lawandmore.eu/shareholder-disputes-in-the-netherlands-a-practical-roadmap-from-warning-to-enterprise-chamber/) - [Understanding directors' liability](https://lawandmore.eu/understanding-directors-liability/) - [M&A transactions: warranties, indemnities and escrow](https://lawandmore.eu/ma-transactions-the-complete-legal-guide-to-warranties-indemnities-escrow-and-liability/) - [General terms and conditions: why copying them costs you](https://lawandmore.eu/general-terms-and-conditions-why-copying-them-will-cost-you-dearly/) - [Insolvency and restructuring in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/an-introduction-to-insolvency-restructuring-in-the-netherlands/) ## Frequently asked questions ### When do you need a corporate lawyer in the Netherlands? A corporate lawyer in the Netherlands adds most value before you sign: a major contract, a cooperation, a shareholders' agreement or an acquisition. At that stage you can still negotiate risks away. In a dispute, a liability claim or payment problems, quick advice matters because deadlines may run, such as the duty to complain about defective goods and the two-week notification of payment incapacity. ### A supplier does not deliver. What can I do? Give the supplier written notice of default with a reasonable period to deliver (Article 6:82 of the Dutch Civil Code). If delivery still fails, you can claim performance, damages or termination. Check your contract and general terms first, because they often limit liability. In urgent cases, summary proceedings before the preliminary relief judge can produce a decision within weeks. ### Am I personally liable as a director of a BV? In principle the BV itself is liable for its debts. A director is only personally liable if he can be seriously blamed, for example for manifestly improper management before a bankruptcy or for approving a distribution the BV could not afford. Timely notification of payment incapacity to the Tax Administration limits that risk. A personal guarantee to a bank or landlord is a separate source of liability. ### What can I do if a fellow shareholder blocks every decision? First check the articles and the shareholders' agreement for a deadlock or buy-out clause. If talks and mediation do not help, the statutory dispute settlement procedure allows a court-ordered transfer of shares. Investigation proceedings before the Enterprise Chamber of the Amsterdam Court of Appeal are the strongest remedy, with possible immediate measures such as appointing a temporary director. ### Do you also work for foreign companies and investors? Yes. We advise foreign companies, founders and investors on Dutch subsidiaries, contracts, shareholder relations and acquisitions, in English. We work alongside the Dutch civil-law notary for incorporations and share transfers. Where foreign law applies, we coordinate with lawyers in the other jurisdiction, so you have one point of contact for the Dutch side. ### Can you negotiate a deal on my behalf? Yes. We can work behind the scenes on your drafts, or conduct the negotiation with the other party or its lawyer directly. Often a combination works best: you keep the commercial relationship, while we guard the legal points such as liability, warranties and termination. We then record the result in a contract or, in a dispute, in a settlement agreement. ### When must an acquisition be notified to the ACM? Notification is required if the combined worldwide turnover of the parties exceeds 150 million euros and at least two of them each have 30 million euros of turnover in the Netherlands. The transaction may not be completed before the ACM has cleared it. We check these thresholds early in the process, so the timetable for signing and closing is realistic. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. Law & More, Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven (+31 40 369 06 80) and visiting location Pietersbergweg 291, 1105 BM Amsterdam (+31 20 369 71 21). Available Monday to Friday 08:00-22:00, Saturday and Sunday 09:00-17:00. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on corporate law Recent articles by Law & More on corporate law. --- # Contract Lawyer Source: https://lawandmore.eu/contract-lawyer/ As a contract lawyer in the Netherlands, we draft, review and enforce commercial contracts under Dutch law. We work for businesses and entrepreneurs, Dutch and international, from a single supply agreement to a full set of general terms and conditions. The first step is to send us the contract or the draft, with a short note on what worries you. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## What can we help you with? - drafting commercial contracts, such as supply, service and licence agreements; - reviewing a contract before you sign, with a clear list of risks; - drafting general terms and conditions and making them apply; - a counterparty that does not perform, pays late or delivers defective goods; - terminating or dissolving a contract, including long-term relationships; - limitation of liability, penalty clauses and force majeure; - negotiating amendments or a settlement when a contract goes wrong. ## What should a commercial contract under Dutch law contain? A good contract records what each party must deliver, when, at what price and what happens if things go wrong. Under Dutch law a contract can be concluded orally, but a written text avoids disputes about what was agreed. Key clauses cover the scope of performance, payment terms, liability, intellectual property, confidentiality, duration and termination. Add a choice of law and a forum clause, certainly in cross-border contracts. Between businesses, an agreed payment term may in principle not exceed 60 days (Article 6:119a of the Dutch Civil Code). A longer term is only valid if expressly agreed and not grossly unfair to the creditor. Without an agreed term, payment is due within 30 days. Late payment then entitles the creditor to statutory commercial interest. Our article on [essential clauses in commercial contracts](https://lawandmore.eu/types-of-commercial-agreements/) goes into more detail. ## When do your general terms and conditions apply? General terms apply if the other party accepted them, usually by a reference in the offer or order confirmation. They must also be made available to the other party before or when the contract is concluded. If you fail to provide them, the other party can in principle annul onerous clauses (Articles 6:233 and 6:234 of the Dutch Civil Code). In a battle of forms, Article 6:225 gives priority to the terms referred to first, unless the second party explicitly rejects them. For consumers, the law lists clauses that are always or presumed unreasonable. Smaller businesses can sometimes rely on that protection as well. We draft terms that fit your business and check how they are incorporated in practice. See also our article on [general terms of purchase for B2B](https://lawandmore.eu/general-terms-and-conditions-of-purchase-b2b/). ## What can you do if the other party breaches the contract? You can claim performance, compensation or dissolution of the contract. In most cases the other party must first be in default, which usually requires a written notice of default (ingebrekestelling) with a reasonable term to perform. The notice of default is regulated in Article 6:82 of [Book 6 of the Dutch Civil Code](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0005289/). It is not needed if a fatal deadline has passed or performance is permanently impossible. Once the counterparty is in default, you can claim damages under Article 6:74. You can also dissolve the contract in whole or in part under Article 6:265, unless the breach is minor. A contractual penalty clause may replace damages; the court can reduce a penalty that is manifestly excessive (Article 6:94). Act within the limitation periods. A claim for performance of a contract generally becomes time-barred after five years (Article 3:307 of the Dutch Civil Code). The period can be interrupted by a written demand that clearly reserves your right to performance. Read more in our guide on [dissolving a contract under Dutch law](https://lawandmore.eu/dissolving-a-contract-dutch-law-guide/). ## How do you end a long-term contract? A fixed-term contract normally ends at the agreed date, without early termination unless the contract allows it. A contract for an indefinite period can usually be terminated, but often only with a reasonable notice period. What is reasonable depends on the duration of the relationship, the dependence of the other party and the investments made. Dutch courts sometimes award compensation if the notice period was too short. Special statutory rules apply to commercial agency and franchise agreements; see our page on [cooperation agreements](https://lawandmore.eu/cooperation-agreements/). In exceptional cases, unforeseen circumstances allow a court to amend or dissolve a contract (Article 6:258 of the Dutch Civil Code). ## How does working with Law & More work? 1. Introductory meeting: we discuss the contract, the relationship and what you want to achieve. 2. Advice and cost estimate: we give our view on the risks or your position, with a fixed budget for drafting where possible. 3. Approach and negotiation: we draft or amend the text, or send a notice of default and negotiate with the counterparty. 4. Proceedings or completion: we finalise the contract or, if needed, start proceedings or summary proceedings. ## What does a contract lawyer cost? Our hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer and 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT for a partner. We agree the rate in advance and can give a budget for drafting or reviewing a contract. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. In a dispute, court fees (griffierecht) and bailiff's costs are charged separately. Legal aid via the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand) exists, but we do not work on that basis. ## Who handles your case? Commercial contracts are handled by our corporate lawyers [Tom Meevis](https://lawandmore.eu/tom-meevis/), founder and managing partner, and [Ruby van Kersbergen](https://lawandmore.eu/ruby-van-kersbergen/). You can meet the whole team on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Frequently asked questions ### Why have a contract lawyer review a contract before signing? Once signed, a contract binds you, and Dutch courts are reluctant to set aside clearly agreed terms between businesses. A contract lawyer identifies one-sided liability clauses, unclear payment terms and missing termination rights before they cost you money. A review is usually a limited, budgeted task. The negotiation that follows is often where the real value lies. ### Is an oral agreement valid under Dutch law? Yes. Most contracts under Dutch law do not require a written form and can be concluded orally or by e-mail. The difficulty is proof: if a dispute arises, you must show what was agreed. Exceptions apply, for example to the purchase of a home by a consumer and to certain employment clauses, which must be in writing. ### Do I always need to send a notice of default? Usually, yes. Under Article 6:82 of the Dutch Civil Code, the debtor is in default after a written notice giving a reasonable term to perform. A notice is not needed if an agreed fatal deadline has passed or performance has become impossible. The same applies if the debtor has said it will not perform. Without default, claims for damages or dissolution often fail. ### Can I limit my liability in a contract? Yes, between businesses limitation clauses are generally valid, for example a cap linked to the contract value or insurance cover. A clause cannot protect you against liability for intent or deliberate recklessness of yourself or your management. In general terms, the clause must also have been properly made available to the other party. Against consumers, stricter rules apply. ### When can I dissolve a contract? You can dissolve a contract if the other party fails to perform and is in default (Article 6:265 of the Dutch Civil Code). The exception is a breach so minor that dissolution is not justified. Dissolution is done by a written statement. Obligations already performed may then have to be undone. Consider the effects on your damages claim before you choose this route. ### How long do I have to bring a contract claim? A claim for performance of a contract generally becomes time-barred after five years. Other limitation periods can apply to specific claims, and contracts sometimes agree shorter periods. You can interrupt the limitation period by sending a clear written demand. Do not wait until the end of the period, as evidence becomes harder to gather. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. Use our [contact form](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. Law & More, Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven (+31 40 369 06 80) and visiting location Pietersbergweg 291, 1105 BM Amsterdam (+31 20 369 71 21). Available Monday to Friday 08:00-22:00, Saturday and Sunday 09:00-17:00. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on corporate law Recent articles by Law & More on corporate law. --- # Criminal Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/criminal-lawyer/ You have been arrested, the police have invited you for questioning, or a penal order or summons has arrived in the post. A criminal lawyer in the Netherlands protects your rights from the first police interview to a possible appeal. On this page you will read how a criminal case runs in the Netherlands, which deadlines apply and what you can do straight away. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). Dutch criminal law is laid down in the Criminal Code (Wetboek van Strafrecht) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (Wetboek van Strafvordering). Articles cited below refer to these codes. Criminal procedure works with short, strict deadlines. ## When do you need a criminal lawyer in the Netherlands? You need a Dutch criminal defence lawyer as soon as the police or the Public Prosecution Service (Openbaar Ministerie) treat you as a suspect. The earlier your lawyer is involved, the more influence you have on the case file and on the decision to prosecute. Clients usually contact us in situations like these: - you have been arrested, or you are suspected of a criminal offense and invited for a police interview; - a family member is detained and you want to know how long police custody and pre-trial detention can last; - you received a penal order (strafbeschikking) from the Public Prosecution Service and are unsure whether to object within 14 days; - you received a summons for a criminal trial; - you are suspected of fraud, money laundering, a drugs offence, assault, theft or a traffic offence; - you are a foreign national and worry about the consequences for your residence permit; - you were convicted and want to lodge an appeal within 14 days; - you are a victim of a crime and want to claim compensation. ## What happens after an arrest by the police? After an arrest you are taken to a police station and brought before an assistant public prosecutor. Detention can then continue in stages up to the examining magistrate (rechter-commissaris). Anyone may arrest a person caught in the act (Article 53 of the Code of Criminal Procedure). Outside that situation, the police may arrest you only on suspicion of an offence for which pre-trial detention is allowed (Article 54). Every stage of detention has a statutory maximum. If a deadline is exceeded, your lawyer can challenge the lawfulness of the detention. ### How long can the police hold you? The police may first hold you for questioning for up to nine hours, with the hours between midnight and 9 a.m. not counted. After that, any further detention requires a custody order or a decision by a judge. | Stage | Maximum duration | Who decides | Statutory basis | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Holding for questioning | 9 hours (midnight to 9 a.m. not counted) | (assistant) public prosecutor | Article 56a | | Police custody (inverzekeringstelling) | 3 days, once extendable by 3 days in case of urgent necessity | (assistant) public prosecutor; extension by the public prosecutor only | Articles 57 and 58 | | Appearance before the examining magistrate | no later than 3 days and 15 hours after the arrest | examining magistrate | Article 59a | | Remand in custody (bewaring) | 14 days | examining magistrate | Articles 63 and 64 | | Further detention (gevangenhouding) | up to 90 days | chambers of the district court | Articles 65 and 66 | Remand and further detention together form pre-trial detention (voorlopige hechtenis). It is in principle only possible for offences carrying a prison sentence of four years or more (Article 67). There must also be a ground, such as a risk of flight or of reoffending (Article 67a). Your lawyer can ask the court to suspend pre-trial detention under conditions (Article 80). ## What are your rights during police interrogations? As a suspect you do not have to answer questions, and the police must tell you so before the interview (Article 29). You are also entitled to consult a lawyer before the first interview and to have a lawyer present during it. The right to consultation is set out in Article 28c and the right to assistance during the interview in Article 28d. If you are arrested, the police will call a duty lawyer (piketadvocaat) through the Legal Aid Board, unless you choose your own lawyer. Your statements are recorded in an official police report and can later be used as evidence. Discuss first with your lawyer whether silence or a statement serves your defence best. Everything you discuss with your lawyer is covered by professional privilege (Article 218). Lawyers in the Netherlands are independent and are regulated by the Netherlands Bar (NOvA). If you need medical care in custody, you can ask the police for a doctor. ### Which extra rights do foreign nationals have? If you do not speak or understand Dutch, you are entitled to an interpreter free of charge during police interrogations and at trial. If you are detained, you can ask the police to inform your consulate. That right follows from Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. A criminal conviction can also affect your residence permit. The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) weighs the sentence against the length of your lawful stay. We assess these consequences together with you before you accept a penal order or plead your case. ## How does a criminal case proceed after the investigation? After the police investigation, the public prosecutor decides whether you will be prosecuted. The Public Prosecution Service can drop the case, issue a penal order, or summon you to appear before a criminal court. ### What decisions can the Public Prosecution Service take? The prosecutor can decide not to prosecute (sepot), for example because the evidence is insufficient (Article 167). Such a decision can also be conditional. Before that decision, your lawyer can point out weaknesses in the evidence or relevant personal circumstances to the prosecutor. A victim who disagrees with a decision not to prosecute can complain to the court of appeal (Article 12). ### What can you do against a penal order? You can lodge an objection (verzet) against a penal order with the Public Prosecution Service within 14 days after it was handed to you or sent to you (Article 257e). After an objection, your case will normally be heard by a criminal court. With a penal order, the prosecutor imposes the penalty himself, such as a fine, community service or a driving ban (Article 257a). If you pay or let the 14 days pass, the penalty becomes final without any judge having assessed the facts. A penal order for a crime is entered in your criminal record. That can affect your certificate of conduct, your job or travel abroad. ### How do you prepare for the summons and the trial? A summons (dagvaarding) is the formal notice to appear at a criminal trial. It states the charge, the hearing date and the court. The police judge (politierechter) hears simpler cases and can impose a prison sentence of up to one year (Article 369). More serious cases go to the full-bench chamber of the district court, with three judges. Minor offences usually go to the subdistrict court. A criminal case can be heard in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague or any other district court. You and your lawyer are entitled to access the case documents (Article 30). As your criminal lawyer, Law & More studies the file for procedural errors and gaps in the evidence. Your lawyer can also ask the examining magistrate to hear witnesses or appoint an expert. ## When do you appeal or go to the Supreme Court? You can appeal against a judgment of the district court to the court of appeal within 14 days (Article 408). Against a judgment of the court of appeal, you can lodge an appeal in cassation with the Supreme Court within 14 days (Article 432). On appeal, the court of appeal hears the whole case again, both the facts and the sentence. The court of appeal can also impose a heavier sentence, so weigh the chances and risks first. In cassation, the Supreme Court (Hoge Raad) only reviews whether the law was applied correctly and procedural rules were followed. ## Can you claim compensation after pre-trial detention? If your case ends without a penalty or measure, for example through acquittal or a decision not to prosecute, you can request compensation for the time you were detained. You file the request with the court within three months after the case has ended (Article 89). The court grants compensation if fairness requires it. It can cover an amount per day of detention and lost income. Under Article 591a you can also request a contribution towards your lawyer's fees. ## What does a criminal case mean for your criminal record and VOG? A conviction or penal order for a crime is registered in the judicial documentation system, the Dutch criminal record. When you apply for a certificate of conduct (Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag, VOG), the screening authority Justis assesses whether that record is relevant to the job. A decision not to prosecute or an acquittal can also appear in the judicial documentation, although it weighs less heavily for a VOG. A good defence therefore also looks at these long-term consequences. If Justis refuses a VOG, you can object within six weeks. ## Which criminal cases does a Dutch criminal defence lawyer handle? A Dutch criminal defence lawyer handles cases across the whole field, from minor offences to serious crimes. We defend suspects and assist victims in, among others, the following areas: - Fraud, such as obtaining property by deception (Article 326 of the Criminal Code). - Money laundering (Article 420bis of the Criminal Code), often combined with seizure of cash or assets. - Drugs offences under the Opium Act, from possession to trafficking and cultivation. - Assault and other violence (Article 300 of the Criminal Code onwards). - Theft, burglary and receiving stolen goods. - Traffic offences, such as drink-driving (Article 8 of the Road Traffic Act 1994), speeding and accidents causing injury. - Cybercrime and organized crime investigations. ## How do we assist victims of crimes? As a victim, you can join the criminal case as an injured party and claim compensation (Article 51f of the Code of Criminal Procedure). In cases of serious crimes you also have the right to speak at the hearing (Article 51e). If the court awards your claim, it can also impose a compensation order on the offender (Article 36f of the Criminal Code). The Central Judicial Collection Agency (CJIB) then collects the amount on your behalf. After a violent crime, you may also apply to the Violent Offences Compensation Fund. ## How does working with Law & More work? As your criminal lawyer in the Netherlands, we work in four phases. For each phase, we discuss in advance what we will do and what it will cost. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we discuss the accusation, your position and the deadlines that are running. 2. Advice. We request the case file and assess the facts, the evidence and possible procedural errors. You receive clear advice in English or Dutch. 3. Negotiation. We engage with the Public Prosecution Service, for example about dropping the case, the level of a penal order or further investigation by the examining magistrate. 4. Proceedings. We represent you at trial before the district court and can also defend you on appeal at the court of appeal. ## Criminal lawyer in the Netherlands: what are the costs? The hourly rate of a lawyer at Law & More is between 250 and 350 euros excluding VAT. For a partner, it is between 300 and 400 euros excluding VAT. We always discuss the rate and an estimate of the costs in advance. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. We are based at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, have a visiting location in Amsterdam and act as criminal lawyer in the Netherlands. If your income is low, you may qualify for subsidised legal aid (toevoeging) through the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand). You then pay an income-related personal contribution. Law & More does not work on a legal aid basis. If you are placed in police custody, a duty lawyer is assigned free of charge for the first stage. You can also instruct a privately paid criminal lawyer in the Netherlands, who stays with your case throughout. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Tom Meevis and Jade Vaneerdewegh. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? These articles explain the topics a criminal lawyer in the Netherlands deals with most often: - [What to expect during a police interrogation in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/what-to-expect-during-a-police-interrogation-in-the-netherlands/) - [The right to remain silent: misconceptions and strategy](https://lawandmore.eu/the-right-to-remain-silent-misconceptions-and-strategic-considerations-netherlands/) - [Suspension of pre-trial detention](https://lawandmore.eu/suspension-of-pre-trial-detention/) - [The penal order and the prosecutor's hearing](https://lawandmore.eu/om-hearing-penalty-order/) - [Appeal in criminal law](https://lawandmore.eu/appeal-in-criminal-law/) - [Cassation in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/cassation-in-the-netherlands/) - [Criminal record and employment: the VOG](https://lawandmore.eu/criminal-record-and-employment-vog/) - [Compensation after acquittal](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/compensation-after-acquittal/) The full text of the Dutch Code of Criminal Procedure is available on [wetten.overheid.nl](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0001903/). ## Frequently asked questions ### When should I contact a criminal lawyer in the Netherlands? Contact a criminal lawyer in the Netherlands as soon as you are treated as a suspect, ideally before your first police interview. Fast help is also essential after a penal order or summons, because the deadlines are short. ### Do I have to make a statement to the police? No. As a suspect you have the right to remain silent under Article 29 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the police must tell you so. Whether silence is wise depends on the file, so discuss it first with your lawyer. ### How long can I be held in pre-trial detention? After police custody, the examining magistrate can order remand for up to 14 days. The district court can then order further detention for up to 90 days. Pre-trial detention can therefore last up to 104 days before the first hearing, and it can continue after that. ### How much time do I have to object to a penal order? You have 14 days after the penal order was handed or sent to you to lodge an objection. If you do nothing or pay, the penalty becomes final. After an objection, a judge usually assesses the case. ### How long do I have to appeal a criminal judgment? You must lodge an appeal within 14 days after the judgment of the district court (Article 408 of the Code of Criminal Procedure). The court of appeal then hears the case again. It can reduce, confirm or increase the sentence. ### What does a criminal lawyer in the Netherlands-based cost at Law & More? A lawyer at Law & More charges 250 to 350 euros per hour and a partner 300 to 400 euros per hour, both excluding VAT. The introductory meeting is free. A one-off advice meeting costs 300 euros including VAT. ### Does Law & More work on legal aid? No, Law & More does not work on subsidised legal aid. You can apply for legal aid through a lawyer who works with the Legal Aid Board. If you are placed in police custody, you will be assigned a duty lawyer free of charge. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on criminal law Recent articles by Law & More on criminal law. --- # Real Estate Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/ Is your house purchase about to fall through, did you discover a serious defect after the transfer, or is your contractor delivering poor work? A real estate lawyer in the Netherlands helps you before you sign and when a dispute arises. On this page you read which Dutch rules apply to buying, renting, building and owning property, which deadlines run and how we assist you. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## When do you need a real estate lawyer in the Netherlands? You need a real estate lawyer when a contract on property must be checked before signing, or when a dispute about property arises. In a standard house purchase a lawyer is not legally required, but early advice often prevents expensive mistakes. Clients come to us in situations such as these: - the buyer or seller wants to get out of the purchase agreement, or a penalty of 10 percent of the price is claimed; - after the transfer you find defects the seller should have reported, such as damp, foundation problems or asbestos; - your contractor finishes late, delivers poor work or charges extra work you did not order; - you have a dispute with your tenant or landlord about rent, maintenance, termination or eviction; - the owners' association takes a decision you want to have annulled; - you have a conflict with your neighbours about a boundary, a right of way or trees; - you invest in Dutch property through a company and need help with drafting and reviewing the transaction documents. Some deadlines in real estate law are short, such as one month to challenge a decision of an owners' association. After the transfer or delivery your negotiating position is often weaker, so act early. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Tenancy lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/tenancy-lawyer/) - [Construction lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/construction-lawyer/) ## What should you watch out for when buying or selling property? The purchase of a home by a private buyer must be in writing (Article 7:2 Dutch Civil Code). Under Article 3:89 Dutch Civil Code, you become the owner only when the notarial deed of transfer is registered. Registration takes place in the public registers of the Land Registry (Kadaster). ### Is there a cooling-off period? A private buyer of a home has a reflection period of three days after receiving the signed purchase agreement. After that the purchase is binding, unless a condition applies, such as a financing condition. Such a condition only works if you invoke it on time and in the right way. Check the dates in the contract carefully. ### What is the role of the notary? The transfer of real estate always requires a civil-law notary (notaris), who draws up the deed and has it registered. The notary is impartial and acts for both parties. A real estate lawyer, by contrast, acts only for you and can negotiate the contract terms on your behalf. ### What if a party does not perform? If a party fails to perform, the other party can give notice of default and then claim performance, termination or damages. Many standard purchase agreements contain a penalty of 10 percent of the purchase price. The court can reduce a penalty if full application would be clearly unacceptable (Article 6:94 Dutch Civil Code). A real estate lawyer in the Netherlands checks these clauses. Read more about the [preliminary purchase agreement and its risks](https://lawandmore.eu/preliminary-purchase-agreement-what-does-it-really-contain-and-what-are-the-risks/). ## What can you do about hidden defects? A property must have the qualities you could expect on the basis of the purchase agreement (Article 7:17 Dutch Civil Code). If it does not, there is non-conformity and you can hold the seller liable. Your chances depend on the seller's duty to disclose and the buyer's duty to investigate. A seller must report defects he knows of. A buyer must investigate what he could reasonably discover, for example with a building survey. An age clause or asbestos clause in the contract can limit your rights. You must notify the seller within a reasonable time after discovery (Article 7:23 Dutch Civil Code). For a consumer buying from a professional seller, notice within two months is in any case on time. A claim is in principle time-barred two years after that notice. A real estate lawyer in the Netherlands assesses, with a building expert if needed, whether the defect was visible to you. ## Which rules apply to residential and commercial leases? Dutch lease law in Book 7 of the Civil Code draws a sharp line between residential and commercial property. Residential tenants enjoy extensive protection: the lease ends only if the tenant agrees or the subdistrict court decides so (Articles 7:272 and 7:274). Since 1 July 2024, residential leases are in principle for an indefinite period, under the Act on fixed-term rental contracts (Wet vaste huurcontracten). From the same date, the Affordable Rent Act extended rent regulation to a large part of the mid-rental segment. Landlords must also follow the Good Landlordship Act, in force since 1 July 2023, which limits a deposit to two months' basic rent. ### Retail space or office space? For commercial property there are two regimes: - Retail, hospitality and craft premises fall under Article 7:290 Dutch Civil Code. The lease term is in principle five plus five years, and the landlord can only terminate on statutory grounds. - Offices and other commercial premises fall under Article 7:230a Dutch Civil Code. The tenant has only limited protection against eviction after the lease ends. The difference has large financial consequences for both landlord and tenant. A real estate lawyer in the Netherlands first checks which regime applies. Many commercial leases use the ROZ model, whose general provisions deviate from the law in places. Our lawyers review lease contracts before you sign and handle disputes about rent, defects and eviction. The statutory lease rules are on [wetten.overheid.nl](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0005290/) (Book 7, in Dutch). ## What are your rights in construction and renovation? Under a construction contract, the contractor undertakes to build and deliver a work (Article 7:750 Dutch Civil Code). Since 1 January 2024, the Quality Assurance for Construction Act (Wet kwaliteitsborging voor het bouwen) applies. The contractor is now also liable after delivery for defects not discovered at delivery, unless they cannot be attributed to him. A contractor working for a private client must provide a completion file (Article 7:757a). A private client may deposit at most 5 percent of the contract price with a notary (Article 7:768). That deposit secures the repair of defects found at delivery. A claim for a construction defect is time-barred at the latest twenty years after delivery (Article 7:761). Extra work is work outside the original order. The contractor can in principle only charge more if he warned you in time (Article 7:755). The exception is extra cost you should have understood yourself. Always record changes and their price in writing. Business projects often use the UAV 2012 or UAV-GC 2005 standard terms. These usually refer disputes to arbitration by the Netherlands Arbitration Board for the Construction Industry (Raad van Arbitrage voor de Bouw). A real estate lawyer in the Netherlands assesses whether arbitration or the court is the better route. ## What do owners' associations, leasehold and neighbour law mean for you? If you buy an apartment, you acquire an apartment right and automatically become a member of the owners' association (Vereniging van Eigenaars, VvE). The deed of division and its regulations determine which parts are private and how costs are shared. An owners' association must reserve money each year for major maintenance (Article 5:126 Dutch Civil Code). The reserve follows a long-term maintenance plan, or is at least 0.5 percent of the rebuilding value. If you disagree with a decision of the meeting, you can ask the subdistrict court to annul it within one month (Article 5:130). Before buying, ask a lawyer to review the association's documents, minutes and reserves. ### Which rights of others can limit your ownership? Ownership can be limited by rights of others, which are registered in the public registers and pass to the new owner on a sale. The rules are in [Book 5 of the Dutch Civil Code](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0005288/). - Leasehold (erfpacht) gives the right to use someone else's land, usually against an annual ground rent (Article 5:85). Check the term and the revision dates, especially in Amsterdam, where much land is let on leasehold. A real estate lawyer in the Netherlands reads the leasehold conditions before the transfer. - A right of superficies (opstalrecht) gives the right to own buildings or works on, in or above someone else's land (Article 5:101), such as solar panels on another roof. - An easement (erfdienstbaarheid) is a burden on one plot for the benefit of another, such as a right of way (Article 5:70). Neighbour law is in Book 5 as well. You may not cause your neighbours unlawful nuisance, for example noise or smell (Article 5:37). Trees must in principle stand at least two metres from the boundary, hedges and shrubs half a metre (Article 5:42). ## What should investors and companies ask a Dutch real estate lawyer? Foreign investors and companies often hold Dutch property through a private limited company (BV). The structure of the deal, a share deal or an asset deal, has consequences under corporate law and tax law. Real estate law and corporate law then meet in one transaction, with due diligence on title, leases, permits and liabilities. The corporate law side covers the company structure, the share purchase agreement and warranties. The buyer usually pays transfer tax (overdrachtsbelasting), which the notary collects. Rates differ for owner-occupied homes, homes bought by investors and non-residential property, and they change regularly. Young first-time buyers may qualify for an exemption, subject to a value limit. We work together with your tax adviser on these points. Planning and permits fall under administrative law, not under civil law. A real estate lawyer in the Netherlands developers instruct therefore combines real estate law with administrative law. Since 1 January 2024 the Environment and Planning Act (Omgevingswet) governs zoning and permits, and environmental law sets conditions for soil, noise and energy. Against a permit decision you can usually lodge an objection within six weeks. A municipality selling land must in principle give all interested parties an equal chance. That follows from the Didam ruling of the Supreme Court of 26 November 2021. ## How does working with Law & More work? A real estate lawyer in the Netherlands at our law firm works in four phases. In each phase we discuss in advance what we do and roughly what it costs. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we discuss your situation and the deadlines that run. We request the key documents, such as the purchase agreement, lease or deed of division. 2. Advice. We assess your rights and obligations and explain your risks and chances, in English or Dutch. 3. Negotiation. We give notice of default or hold the other party liable, and lead the negotiations. Many property disputes end in a settlement agreement (vaststellingsovereenkomst), a binding contract that resolves the dispute. 4. Proceedings. If no settlement is reached, we litigate before the subdistrict court, the district court or in arbitration, including summary proceedings and appeal. Lease cases always go to the subdistrict court. Other property claims go to the subdistrict court up to 25,000 euros and above that to the district court, where a lawyer is mandatory. You can appeal a judgment to the court of appeal within three months. ## What does a real estate lawyer in the Netherlands cost at Law & More? A lawyer at Law & More charges 250 to 350 euros per hour excluding VAT; a partner charges 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT. We always discuss the rate and an estimate of the costs in advance. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. Law & More does not work on state-funded legal aid. Our law firm is based at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, has a visiting location in Amsterdam and works for clients throughout the Netherlands. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Ruby van Kersbergen. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? - [Real estate law](https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/) - [Dutch real property law: how to avoid common pitfalls](https://lawandmore.eu/dutch-real-property-law-how-to-avoid-common-pitfalls/) - [Dutch construction law](https://lawandmore.eu/dutch-construction-law/) - [Dutch tenancy law explained](https://lawandmore.eu/dutch-tenancy-law-explained/) - [Commercial leases and the ROZ model lease](https://lawandmore.eu/commercial-lease-netherlands-roz-model-lease/) - [How transfer tax changes affect investors](https://lawandmore.eu/how-transfer-tax-changes-affect-investors/) ## Frequently asked questions ### When should I hire a real estate lawyer in the Netherlands? Hire a real estate lawyer before you sign, or as soon as a dispute arises about a purchase, lease, construction or ownership. Early advice prevents you from missing short deadlines, such as one month to challenge a decision of an owners' association. ### Can I still withdraw from a house purchase? As a private buyer you have three days to reflect after receiving the signed agreement. After that you can only withdraw through a condition, such as a financing condition, or if the seller fails to perform. Withdrawing without a valid ground can cost you a penalty, often 10 percent of the purchase price. ### Is the seller liable for defects found after the transfer? That is possible if the property lacks the qualities you could expect and the seller knew of the defect without reporting it. You also had a duty to investigate yourself. Report the defect to the seller in writing as soon as possible after discovery. ### Do I need a lawyer or a notary to buy property? A civil-law notary is mandatory for the transfer, because only a notary can draw up and register the deed. A lawyer is not required, but a real estate lawyer in the Netherlands buyers instruct can review the contract and act for you alone in a dispute. ### Can my contractor charge for extra work without my consent? In principle not. The contractor must warn you in time that a change will increase the price, unless you should have understood this yourself. Record every change and its price in writing before the work starts. ### Does Law & More work on legal aid? No, Law & More does not work on state-funded legal aid. We work with an hourly rate that we agree with you in advance, and the introductory meeting is free. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on real estate law Recent articles by Law & More on real estate law. --- # Tenancy Lawyer in the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/tenancy-lawyer/ Renting in the Netherlands is governed by Book 7 of the Dutch Civil Code, and the rules differ sharply depending on what is being rented and to whom. Residential tenants enjoy far-reaching protection that cannot be contracted away. Business premises fall into two regimes with very different outcomes. Most disputes we see begin with a clause that was never tested against those rules. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## What is at stake For a residential tenant, the question is usually whether the landlord may end the tenancy at all, whether the rent is lawful, and what happens to deposits and maintenance. For a landlord, it is whether the contract holds up, how to deal with arrears or nuisance, and how long a court route will take. For a business, the stakes are the term, the renewal rights and whether the premises can be kept at all once the lease ends. ## Residential tenancies A tenant of independent living space has security of tenure. The landlord cannot simply give notice: termination is only possible on the statutory grounds of article 7:274 of the Dutch Civil Code, and if the tenant does not agree the landlord must go to court. Since the Fixed Tenancy Contracts Act entered into force on 1 July 2024, an open-ended contract is again the norm for independent living space; temporary contracts are only permitted in a limited number of defined situations. Rent is regulated as well. The Affordable Rent Act extended the points system to the mid-market segment, so that for a large part of the rental stock the maximum lawful rent follows from the quality of the property rather than from what the market will bear. Disputes about rent level, service charges and maintenance in the regulated and mid-market segments are heard by the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) rather than by the civil court. A defect within the meaning of article 7:204 is anything that deprives the tenant of the enjoyment he may expect. The landlord must repair it on request (article 7:206), and for as long as a serious defect persists the tenant can ask for a rent reduction (article 7:207). ## Business premises: two regimes Retail and hospitality space falls under article 7:290 and following: leases run for five years plus five, and the tenant has substantial protection on termination. Offices, warehouses and practice space fall under article 7:230a, where protection is limited to a postponement of the obligation to vacate, which the court can extend by a maximum of three years in total. Which regime applies is decided by the actual use of the premises, not by the label in the contract. That single question often determines the value of a lease, which is why it is worth settling before signing rather than after notice has been given. ## Eviction A landlord may never evict on his own authority. Changing the locks or removing a tenant's belongings is unlawful, whatever the arrears. Eviction requires a judgment and enforcement by a bailiff, and in summary proceedings the court will only grant it where the breach is serious enough to justify it. ## What we do We review and draft residential and commercial leases, advise on rent level and indexation, act on arrears, nuisance and termination, conduct proceedings before the civil court and the Rent Tribunal, and advise on defects, service charges and deposits. We act for landlords and for tenants, including international tenants and companies leasing space in the Netherlands. ## What it costs An introductory conversation is free of charge. A single advisory meeting, without further steps, costs 300 euro including VAT. For further work we charge an hourly rate of 250 to 350 euro excluding VAT for a lawyer and 300 to 400 euro excluding VAT for a partner, depending on the complexity of the matter. Law & More does not work on the basis of government-funded legal aid. ## Direct contact Send the lease and the correspondence to info@lawandmore.nl and we will tell you where you stand and what the realistic options are. Our offices are in Eindhoven, with a visiting location in Amsterdam, and we work throughout the Netherlands. ## Read more Background on the individual subjects can be found in our articles on [tenant rights in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/tenant-rights-netherlands/), [rent increases](https://lawandmore.eu/rent-increase-netherlands/), [deposits and service charges](https://lawandmore.eu/rental-deposit-service-charges-netherlands/), [eviction](https://lawandmore.eu/eviction-netherlands-tenant/), [the Affordable Rent Act](https://lawandmore.eu/affordable-rent-act-netherlands/) and [open-ended rental contracts](https://lawandmore.eu/indefinite-rental-contract/). For business premises, see [the difference between 7:290 and 7:230a premises](https://lawandmore.eu/commercial-lease-290-versus-230a/) and [the ROZ model lease](https://lawandmore.eu/commercial-lease-netherlands-roz-model-lease/). For the wider picture, see our guide to [real estate law in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/) and our [real estate lawyers](https://lawandmore.eu/real-estate-lawyer/). ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Ruby van Kersbergen. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which related services may be relevant? Your question may touch on other areas as well. These pages explain how we can help. - [Construction lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/construction-lawyer/) ## Frequently asked questions ### Can my landlord end my tenancy because he wants to sell the house? Sale in itself is not a ground for termination of a residential tenancy. The sale does not break the lease: the buyer steps into the landlord's shoes and the tenancy continues on the same terms. ### My rent was increased. Can I challenge it? In the regulated and mid-market segments the maximum rent follows from the points system, and both the level and the increase can be put to the Rent Tribunal. Time limits are short, so it is worth checking the date on the letter first. ### I rent an office. Do I have the same protection as a shop? No. Offices fall under article 7:230a, which gives a postponement of the obligation to vacate rather than a right to continue the lease. Shops and hospitality premises fall under article 7:290 and are protected far more strongly. ### The landlord will not repair a serious defect. What can I do? You can demand repair and, if the defect seriously reduces the enjoyment of the property, ask for a reduction of the rent for the period it lasts. For regulated and mid-market housing the Rent Tribunal is the quickest route. ### How long does an eviction procedure take? That depends on the ground and on whether summary proceedings are appropriate. A judgment in summary proceedings can sometimes be obtained within weeks; a case on the merits takes considerably longer. We will say at the outset which route fits the facts. Law & More, Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven (+31 40 369 06 80) and visiting location Pietersbergweg 291, 1105 BM Amsterdam (+31 20 369 71 21). Available Monday to Friday 08:00-22:00, Saturday and Sunday 09:00-17:00. ## Latest articles on real estate law Recent articles by Law & More on real estate law. --- # IT Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/it-lawyer/ Your software supplier misses its deadline, your SaaS platform is down for days, or you discover a data breach on a Friday evening. Or you want to launch an AI tool and do not know which European rules apply. We act as IT lawyer in the Netherlands on IT contracts, software, data and digital regulation, and on disputes when an IT project fails. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). A lawyer in the Netherlands carries the protected title advocaat and is registered with the Netherlands Bar (NOvA). A Dutch IT lawyer combines that status with knowledge of technology and contract law. ## IWhen do you need a t lawyer in the Netherlands? You need an IT lawyer in the Netherlands when contracts, rights or obligations around software, data or digital services are at stake. You instruct one to manage risks before signing, or to resolve a dispute with a supplier, customer or regulator. Companies and technology businesses contact us in situations like these: - you are negotiating a SaaS, licence or software development agreement and want to know which liability and exit terms to accept; - an IT project overruns, costs far more than budgeted or delivers software that does not work; - you want to know who owns custom software, source code or a database; - you have a data breach and must decide within 72 hours whether to notify the Dutch Data Protection Authority; - you develop or use AI and want to know what the AI Act requires of you; - your organisation may fall under NIS2, the Data Act or the Digital Services Act; - someone uses your trade mark in a domain name, or your webshop receives a complaint about consumer law. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Compliance and GDPR](https://lawandmore.eu/compliance-lawyer/) - [Intellectual property](https://lawandmore.eu/intellectual-property-lawyer/) - [Media lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/media-lawyer/) ## What should IT contracts such as SaaS, licences and SLAs cover? A sound IT contract states what is delivered, which availability applies, who owns the software and the data, and how you exit. If one of these elements is missing, disputes about what the supplier actually had to do are almost inevitable. Under a SaaS agreement you use software as a service over the internet. You receive access, not a copy of the software. Terms on availability, security, data location and the return of your data at the end of the contract are therefore essential. Under a licence you receive a right of use, while the developer keeps the copyright. The licence defines the number of users, locations and permitted purposes. If you exceed those limits, you infringe and the licensor can claim additional fees or damages. A Service Level Agreement (SLA) sets the agreed service quality in measurable terms. Think of availability of 99.5 per cent per month, response times per priority level and a service credit if the supplier fails to meet them. Source code escrow protects you if the supplier goes bankrupt or stops maintenance. The source code is deposited with an independent agent and released to you on a defined trigger event, such as bankruptcy. Under a software development agreement, a supplier builds custom software for you. Record the expected functionality, how acceptance testing works and when the software counts as delivered. A fixed acceptance procedure, for example 10 working days of testing, prevents many disputes later. | Contract element | What you agree | | --- | --- | | Description of services | Functionality, specifications and what falls outside scope | | SLA | Availability, response and repair times, service credits | | Intellectual property | Assignment or licence, open source components, pre-existing building blocks | | Data and privacy | Data location, security, data processing agreement | | Liability | Cap, excluded damage, notice periods for complaints | | Exit | Return of data, migration support, escrow, notice period | General terms and conditions of a supplier apply only if they were made available in time. Under Article 6:233 of the Dutch Civil Code an unreasonably onerous clause can be annulled. That protection does not extend to large companies (Article 6:235 of the Dutch Civil Code). ## What can you do when an IT project fails? If a supplier fails to deliver or delivers defective work, you can claim performance, termination or damages. In most cases you must first give the supplier formal written notice and a reasonable period to put things right. A failure to perform entitles you to damages under Article 6:74 of the Dutch Civil Code, unless the failure cannot be attributed to the supplier. Formal notice of default (ingebrekestelling) is governed by Article 6:82. In it, you set a concrete period, for example 14 days, to remedy the defects. Termination of the contract is possible under Article 6:265. In an IT project, termination does not always mean you get everything back. Parts already delivered and usable often fall outside the termination. There is also a duty to complain. Under Article 6:89 you must complain within a reasonable time after discovering a defect, or you may lose your rights. Record defects in writing straight away, with dates, screenshots and ticket numbers. Suppliers usually cap their liability, for example at 12 months of fees, and exclude consequential loss. Such a cap generally does not protect a supplier that acted intentionally or with deliberate recklessness. Relying on it can also be unacceptable under standards of reasonableness and fairness (Article 6:248(2)). Claims up to 25,000 euros go to the subdistrict court; larger claims to the district court. ## Who owns software, source code and databases? Copyright in software belongs to its creator, unless the law or a written deed provides otherwise. If an external company builds software for you, it keeps the copyright as long as there is no written assignment. The Dutch Copyright Act (Auteurswet) protects computer programs as works. If an employee writes software in the course of employment, the employer is regarded as the author under Article 7. That rule does not apply to external developers or freelancers. Assignment of copyright requires a deed, meaning a signed written document (Article 2). Without an assignment, you hold at most a licence. That can become a problem in an acquisition or funding round, where IT law meets corporate law, because a buyer wants to see that you own your core software. An IT lawyer in the Netherlands checks this first in any technology due diligence. A database can also be protected under the Databases Act (Databankenwet) if the maker made a substantial investment in it. Watch out for open source components as well. Some licences, such as the GPL, require you to release your own source code when you distribute the software. ### Who owns AI-generated content? Copyright protects a work that reflects the author's own intellectual creation, made through free and creative human choices. Output generated by AI without meaningful human creative input is therefore unlikely to be protected by copyright. In practice, ownership of AI output is regulated mainly by contract and by the terms of the AI provider. Check those terms for rights of use, confidentiality of your input and liability if output infringes third-party rights. ## What does the GDPR require of your organisation? The GDPR requires a legal basis for processing personal data, appropriate security and notification of data breaches within 72 hours. The Dutch Data Protection Authority (Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens) supervises compliance and can impose fines of up to 20 million euros or 4 per cent of worldwide annual turnover. If a supplier processes personal data on your behalf, such as a hosting provider or SaaS vendor, it acts as a processor. Article 28 GDPR then requires a data processing agreement. It covers the purpose of processing, security measures, sub-processors and deletion of data afterwards. Under Article 33 GDPR you must report a personal data breach to the Dutch Data Protection Authority within 72 hours of becoming aware of it. That does not apply if the breach is unlikely to result in a risk to individuals. If the risk is high, you must also inform the data subjects (Article 34). Document every breach internally, including those you do not report. For processing with a high privacy risk, such as large-scale profiling, a data protection impact assessment (DPIA) is required in advance (Article 35). For more on privacy and data protection, see our [privacy lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/privacy-lawyer/) page. ## Which EU technology rules apply to your company? Besides the GDPR, a growing set of EU rules applies to digital products and services, including the AI Act, NIS2, the Data Act and the Digital Services Act. Which rules apply to you depends on your sector, your size and the services you offer. ### What does the AI Act require? The AI Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/1689) classifies AI systems by risk. Some practices are prohibited, high-risk systems must meet strict requirements and other systems mainly face transparency duties. The regulation entered into force on 1 August 2024 and applies in phases. | Date | What applies | | --- | --- | | 2 February 2025 | Ban on prohibited AI practices and the AI literacy duty for staff | | 2 August 2025 | Rules for general-purpose AI models and the governance framework | | 2 August 2026 | Most remaining obligations, as originally scheduled | | 2 August 2027 | Rules for high-risk AI in products already covered by EU product legislation | The EU has discussed postponing the start of the rules for high-risk systems. Check which date currently applies to your specific system before you plan compliance. ### What does NIS2 mean for your cybersecurity? The NIS2 Directive (Directive (EU) 2022/2555) requires medium-sized and large organisations in critical sectors to manage cyber risks and report significant incidents. In the Netherlands, NIS2 is implemented through the Cyber Security Act (Cyberbeveiligingswet). NIS2 requires an early warning within 24 hours of a significant incident, a notification within 72 hours and a final report within one month. Management is personally responsible for overseeing the measures. Even if NIS2 does not apply to you directly, customers often impose its requirements by contract. ### What do the Data Act and the Digital Services Act change? The Data Act (Regulation (EU) 2023/2854) has applied since 12 September 2025. Users of connected products gain access to the data they generate, and cloud providers must make switching to another provider possible. The Digital Services Act (Regulation (EU) 2022/2065) has applied in full since 17 February 2024. It sets rules for hosting services, marketplaces and platforms on illegal content. In the Netherlands, the Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) supervises compliance. ## What applies to domain names and e-commerce? A domain name that resembles your trade mark or trade name can infringe your rights. A webshop must meet statutory information duties, or it loses rights against consumers. For .nl domain names, you can bring a dispute under the dispute resolution scheme of SIDN, the .nl registry. It is usually faster and cheaper than court proceedings. For generic domains such as .com, the UDRP procedure is available. If you sell online to consumers, they generally have a 14-day withdrawal period (Article 6:230o of the Dutch Civil Code). If you fail to inform them of that right, the period is extended by up to 12 months. You must also state your identity, the total price including VAT and delivery costs in advance. ## How does working with Law & More work? As your IT lawyer in the Netherlands, working in English or Dutch, we follow four phases. For each phase we agree in advance what we will do and what it will cost. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we discuss your situation, the parties involved and any deadlines, such as the 72-hour period for a data breach. 2. Advice. We review the contract, the general terms and the evidence. You receive written advice on your legal situation, the risks and the cost of each step. 3. Negotiation. In a dispute we send a notice of default and negotiate with the other side. Where useful, we propose mediation to preserve the business relationship. 4. Proceedings. If no settlement is reached, we litigate before the court. In urgent cases, such as a threatened shutdown of your systems, summary proceedings (kort geding) are possible. ## IWhat does a t lawyer in the Netherlands cost? We work on an hourly basis, agreed with you in advance. A lawyer charges 250 to 350 euros per hour and a partner 300 to 400 euros per hour, both excluding VAT. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. For defined assignments, such as reviewing a SaaS agreement, we give an estimate of hours in advance. Our law firm is based at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, with a visiting location in Amsterdam, and works for companies throughout the Netherlands. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by one of our lawyers. In the introductory meeting you hear who that is and how we approach your case. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? - [SaaS agreement explained](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/saas-agreement/) - [Service level agreements](https://lawandmore.eu/service-level-agreements-sla-templates-help/) - [Software escrow in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/software-escrow-netherlands/) - [Limitation of liability](https://lawandmore.eu/limitation-of-liability/) - [Copyright in software](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/copyright-in-software/) - [Data processing agreement](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/data-processing-agreement/) - [The Dutch Cyber Security Act and NIS2](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/dutch-cybersecurity-act-nis2/) - [Is your chatbot ready for the EU AI Act?](https://lawandmore.eu/is-your-chatbot-ready-for-the-eu-ai-act-a-compliance-checklist-for-dutch-businesses/) The text of the Dutch Copyright Act is available on [wetten.overheid.nl](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0001886/). ## Frequently asked questions ### Who owns software that an external agency builds for me? The external agency keeps the copyright unless you agree a written assignment. Under Article 2 of the Dutch Copyright Act, an assignment requires a deed. Without it you only have a right of use, whose scope follows from the contract. ### Within what period must I report a data breach? You report a personal data breach to the Dutch Data Protection Authority within 72 hours of becoming aware of it, under Article 33 GDPR. Notification is not required if the breach is unlikely to result in a risk to individuals. You must document every breach internally. ### Can my IT supplier fully exclude its liability? A supplier can limit its liability, for example with a cap or by excluding consequential loss. Such a limitation generally does not apply in case of intent or deliberate recklessness. Relying on it can also be unacceptable under standards of reasonableness and fairness. ### Do I need a data processing agreement with my SaaS provider? Yes, if the provider processes personal data on your behalf, Article 28 GDPR requires a data processing agreement. It covers the purpose, security, sub-processors and deletion of data. Many providers offer a standard version, which you should still check. ### Since when does the AI Act apply? The AI Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/1689) entered into force on 1 August 2024 and applies in phases. The ban on prohibited AI practices has applied since 2 February 2025 and the rules for general-purpose AI models since 2 August 2025. Later dates apply to high-risk systems, which you should check per system. ### IT lawyer in the Netherlands: when should I make contact? Contact an IT lawyer in the Netherlands before you sign a significant IT contract, and as soon as a project or supplier relationship goes wrong. Early advice protects your position, for example by meeting the duty to complain on time. With a data breach, contact us immediately because of the 72-hour deadline. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on IT law Recent articles by Law & More on IT law. --- # Civil Procedural Law Source: https://lawandmore.eu/civil-procedural-lawyers/ As a civil procedural lawyer in the Netherlands, we conduct civil proceedings for claimants and defendants, from the first demand letter to enforcement of the judgment. We act for individuals and businesses, Dutch and international, at the subdistrict court, the district court and in summary proceedings. If you received a summons, the first step is to send it to us straight away: the date on it is a deadline. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). ## What can we help you with? - a demand letter or notice of default before proceedings start; - starting proceedings by summons or by application; - defending you after you received a summons; - summary proceedings (kort geding) in urgent matters; - a pre-judgment attachment of bank accounts or assets; - evidence, witness hearings and court-appointed experts; - enforcing a judgment, or stopping wrongful enforcement; - a settlement during the proceedings. ## Which court will hear your civil case? Most civil cases start at a district court (rechtbank), which has a subdistrict sector (kantonrechter) for smaller and specific cases. The subdistrict court hears claims up to 25,000 euros and employment, tenancy, consumer credit and consumer purchase cases, regardless of the amount. At the subdistrict court you may conduct the case yourself. In other cases at the district court, representation by a lawyer is mandatory. There are eleven district courts. Cases from the Eindhoven area usually go to the District Court of Oost-Brabant, cases from Amsterdam to the District Court of Amsterdam. Proceedings are in Dutch. For international commercial disputes, parties can agree to litigate in English at the Netherlands Commercial Court. | Court | Typical cases | Lawyer required? | | --- | --- | --- | | Subdistrict court (kantonrechter) | Claims up to 25,000 euros, employment, tenancy, consumer cases | No | | District court, civil section | Claims above 25,000 euros and other cases | Yes | | Preliminary relief judge (kort geding) | Urgent provisional measures | Depends on the subject | | Court of appeal | Appeals against judgments of the district court | Yes | ## How do Dutch civil proceedings start? Most cases start with a summons (dagvaarding) that a bailiff serves on the defendant. Some cases, such as many family and employment matters, start with an application (verzoekschrift) filed with the court. Before you start, the other party usually needs to be put in default with a reasonable term to perform. A clear demand letter often resolves the matter without court costs. Check the limitation period: most contractual claims become time-barred after five years, but shorter periods apply to some claims. The summons states the claim, the grounds and the evidence, and names the date on which the defendant must appear. Our overview of the [steps in a civil case](https://lawandmore.eu/steps-in-a-civil-case/) explains this phase in more detail. ## What happens after the summons? The defendant submits a written defence, after which the court usually holds an oral hearing (mondelinge behandeling). The court then gives judgment or first orders evidence, for example by witnesses or an expert. ### The defence and the hearing The defendant generally has several weeks to file a statement of defence, often six, with limited extensions. At the hearing, the judge asks questions, explores a settlement and decides how the case will proceed (Article 87 of the Dutch Code of Civil Procedure). Many cases are settled at this stage. ### Evidence The party that relies on a fact generally has to prove it if it is disputed. Since 1 January 2025, the reformed rules on evidence require parties to put the relevant facts and evidence on the table early. They also make it easier to request access to specific documents. See our article on the [reformed right to inspect evidence](https://lawandmore.eu/lower-barriers-greater-access-the-reformed-right-to-inspect-evidence/). ### If the defendant does not appear If the defendant does not appear, the court can give a default judgment (verstekvonnis). The defendant can then lodge an objection (verzet), generally within four weeks. Read more in our article on [setting aside a default judgment](https://lawandmore.eu/application-to-set-aside-a-default-judgment-verzet-against-a-verstekvonnis/). ## How do you enforce a civil judgment? A judgment ordering payment or performance is an enforceable title that a bailiff can execute. The bailiff can attach bank accounts, salary, goods and real estate of the debtor. Most judgments are declared provisionally enforceable, so enforcement is possible even if the other party appeals. Do you fear that the debtor will hide assets? Then you can ask the preliminary relief judge for leave for a pre-judgment attachment (conservatoir beslag) before the case starts. You must then start the main proceedings within the period set by the court, at least 14 days (Article 700 of the Dutch Code of Civil Procedure). See our article on [asset freezing and pre-judgment attachment](https://lawandmore.eu/asset-freezing-and-pre-judgment-attachment-in-the-netherlands/). If you do not agree with the judgment, our [appeal lawyers](https://lawandmore.eu/appeal-lawyers/) can assess an appeal. ## How does working with Law & More work? 1. Introductory meeting: we discuss the dispute, the documents and any deadline in a summons or judgment. 2. Advice and cost estimate: we assess your position, the evidence, the chances and the costs risk. 3. Approach and negotiation: we send a demand letter or respond to one, and explore a settlement. 4. Proceedings or completion: we conduct the proceedings, attend the hearing and arrange enforcement. ## What does a civil procedural lawyer cost? Our hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer and 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT for a partner. We agree the rate in advance and give a cost estimate per phase of the proceedings. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. Court fees (griffierecht) and bailiff's costs are charged separately; the court fees depend on the value of the claim and are listed on [rechtspraak.nl](https://www.rechtspraak.nl/). The losing party usually pays a fixed contribution to the winner's legal costs, which is often far below the actual costs. Legal aid via the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand) exists, but we do not work on that basis. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by one of our lawyers; in the introductory meeting you will hear who. Where the dispute concerns a specific area of law, such as corporate or employment law, the lawyer who practises that area is involved. You can meet the lawyers on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Frequently asked questions ### I received a summons. What should I do? Note the date on which you must appear, and contact a lawyer immediately. At the district court you can only respond through a lawyer; at the subdistrict court you can respond yourself. If you do nothing, the court can give a default judgment in which the claim is usually allowed. Collect the contract, correspondence and other evidence in the meantime. ### Do I need a civil procedural lawyer? At the district court and the court of appeal, representation by a lawyer is mandatory. At the subdistrict court you can litigate yourself, but the rules of procedure and evidence still apply. A civil procedural lawyer assesses the chances, drafts the documents and speaks at the hearing. That also helps in settlement talks, which often take place at the hearing. ### How long do civil proceedings take in the Netherlands? A straightforward case at first instance often takes six months to a year. Cases with witness hearings or court-appointed experts can take considerably longer. Summary proceedings are much faster: a hearing within days or weeks, and a decision shortly afterwards. An appeal adds another one to two years. ### Can I recover my legal costs if I win? Usually only partly. Dutch courts award a fixed contribution to legal costs based on a scale, which depends on the value of the claim and the steps taken. That amount is often far lower than the actual lawyer's fees. Full cost recovery is the exception, for example in intellectual property cases. Court fees and bailiff's costs are generally recoverable from the losing party. ### What is summary proceedings (kort geding)? Summary proceedings are fast proceedings before the preliminary relief judge for urgent matters. The judge gives a provisional decision, such as an order to stop an act or to pay an advance. You must show an urgent interest. The decision does not finally settle the dispute, but in practice parties often accept it. ### Can a dispute be settled during the proceedings? Yes, at any time. Many civil cases end in a settlement, often during or after the oral hearing where the judge explores the options. A settlement is usually recorded in a settlement agreement (vaststellingsovereenkomst) or in an official record of the hearing. An official record can be enforced like a judgment. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. Use our [contact form](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. Law & More, Marconilaan 13, 5612 HM Eindhoven (+31 40 369 06 80) and visiting location Pietersbergweg 291, 1105 BM Amsterdam (+31 20 369 71 21). Available Monday to Friday 08:00-22:00, Saturday and Sunday 09:00-17:00. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on civil law Recent articles by Law & More on civil law. --- # Civil Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/civil-law/ Your customer does not pay, a supplier breaks the contract, or another party holds you liable for damage. These are civil law disputes: conflicts between private persons and companies. A civil lawyer in the Netherlands helps you from the first letter to judgment. On this page you read which rules of the Dutch Civil Code apply, which deadlines run and how we assist you. ## When do you need a civil lawyer in the Netherlands? You need a civil lawyer when a business or private dispute can no longer be solved between the parties. In most matters it concerns money, a contract that is not performed, or damage. Clients, both companies and private persons, come to our law firm in matters such as these: - unpaid invoices: a customer does not pay, even after reminders; - breach of contract: a supplier delivers late, too little or something other than agreed; - defects after a purchase: a car, machine or software is not what you could expect; - damage caused by another party without a contract, such as a faulty product or a false publication; - disputes about general terms and conditions, or about which court has jurisdiction; - you have received a writ of summons and must respond within a fixed period; - a foreign company wants to enforce a claim against a Dutch party, or the other way round. ## What is civil law in the Netherlands? Civil law governs the legal relations between private persons and companies. Most rules are in the Dutch Civil Code (Burgerlijk Wetboek); the procedure is in the Dutch Code of Civil Procedure. In criminal law the state prosecutes a suspect, and in administrative law the issue is a government decision. In civil law two private parties stand opposite each other, such as a buyer and a seller. The Civil Code is divided into books. Book 3 contains general property law, including limitation periods. Book 6 covers obligations: contracts, breach and tort. Book 7 covers specific contracts, such as sale, lease and construction. Civil law also includes family law, employment law and real estate law. These practice areas have their own pages at our law firm. This page focuses on contracts, liability, debt collection and civil procedure. Besides the Civil Code, EU regulations and sector regulations often play a role in commercial matters. ## When is there a breach of contract? A breach of contract (wanprestatie) means a party does not perform its obligations, or performs late or badly. Under Article 6:74 Dutch Civil Code, that party must compensate the resulting damage, unless the failure cannot be attributed to it. A contract is formed by offer and acceptance. A signature is not required, so an oral agreement is binding too, although it is harder to prove. Under Article 6:248, the contract also includes what follows from the law, custom and the standards of reasonableness and fairness. ### Why send a notice of default first? In most cases you must first give the other party notice of default (ingebrekestelling). This is a written demand giving a reasonable period to perform after all (Article 6:82 Dutch Civil Code). If the other party still does not perform, it is in default, and you can usually claim damages from that moment. Notice is not needed when a strict contractual deadline has passed (Article 6:83). The same applies when the other party states in writing that it will not perform. Many matters are lost on this point, so let a civil lawyer in the Netherlands draft these letters. ### What are your options after a breach? - Performance: you demand that the other party still does what was agreed, if needed with a penalty payment per day of non-compliance. - Termination: under Article 6:265 Dutch Civil Code you can terminate the contract, by written statement (Article 6:267). A minor breach does not always justify termination. - Damages: you claim the loss suffered and the profit lost (Article 6:96). You can combine this with performance or termination. Termination differs from annulment. With annulment, something was already wrong when the contract was made, such as mistake or fraud. Read more in our article on [contract law in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/contract-law-in-the-netherlands/). ## When do general terms and conditions apply? General terms and conditions only bind the other party if they were accepted and the user gave a reasonable opportunity to read them. Under Article 6:233 Dutch Civil Code, a clause can be annulled if it is unreasonably onerous or if the terms were not properly provided. For consumers, the law contains a black list and a grey list of clauses that are void or presumed unreasonable (Articles 6:236 and 6:237). Between businesses, a battle of forms often arises when both parties refer to their own terms. Under Article 6:225(3), the first reference in principle prevails, unless the second party explicitly rejects those terms. A civil lawyer in the Netherlands companies use for drafting checks that your terms are actually incorporated. ## When is someone liable without a contract? Without a contract, a party can be liable in tort. Article 6:162 Dutch Civil Code provides that whoever commits an unlawful act that can be attributed to him must compensate the damage caused. An act is unlawful if it infringes a right, breaches a statutory duty or conflicts with unwritten standards of proper social conduct. A civil lawyer in the Netherlands assesses whether each element can be proven. There must also be damage and a causal link. Examples are reputational damage from an incorrect publication or damage caused by a defective product. The text of Book 6 is on [wetten.overheid.nl](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0005289/) (in Dutch). ## When is your claim time-barred? A claim for performance of a contract is in principle time-barred five years after it became payable (Article 3:307 Dutch Civil Code). A claim for damages is time-barred five years after you learned of the damage and the liable person (Article 3:310). In any case, it lapses twenty years after the event. You can interrupt the limitation period with a written demand that clearly reserves your right to performance (Article 3:317). A new period then starts to run, usually again five years. Consumer buyers must also complain within a reasonable time after discovering a defect; two months is in any case on time (Article 7:23). ## How do you collect an unpaid invoice? Debt collection runs in two phases: first out of court, then if necessary through the court. You send reminders and a final demand stating a payment term and the next steps. You are entitled to statutory interest on the outstanding amount (Article 6:119 Dutch Civil Code). Between businesses, the higher statutory commercial interest applies (Article 6:119a). You can also claim extrajudicial collection costs. For a claim up to 2,500 euros these are 15 percent, with a minimum of 40 euros, and the percentage decreases above that amount. If the debtor is a consumer, you must first send a fourteen-day letter. It gives the consumer 14 days to pay without costs and states the collection costs that will otherwise follow (Article 6:96(6)). Without a correct letter, the court refuses those costs. A civil lawyer in the Netherlands can run the entire collection process, from first demand to enforcement. ### How do you secure assets with an attachment? A prejudgment attachment (conservatoir beslag) freezes assets of the other party before the court has ruled on your claim. You need leave from the preliminary relief judge (Article 700 Dutch Code of Civil Procedure). You can attach bank accounts, real estate, vehicles or shares. The judge sets a term to start the main proceedings, at least 14 days after the attachment; if you miss it, the attachment lapses. With a judgment, a bailiff can levy an executory attachment and sell the assets if necessary. ## How does a Dutch civil lawyer litigate in the Netherlands? Civil proceedings usually start with a writ of summons, which a bailiff serves on the other party. Which court has jurisdiction depends on the type of case and the amount of the claim. | Court | Which cases | Lawyer mandatory? | | --- | --- | --- | | Subdistrict court (kantonrechter) | Claims up to and including 25,000 euros, and always employment, lease, consumer sale and consumer credit cases | No, you may litigate yourself | | District court (rechtbank) | Claims above 25,000 euros and claims of unspecified value | Yes | | Preliminary relief judge | Summary proceedings (kort geding) in urgent matters | Yes for the claimant, except in matters for the subdistrict court | | Court of appeal (gerechtshof) | Appeal against a judgment of the subdistrict or district court | Yes | | Supreme Court (Hoge Raad) | Cassation on points of law | Yes, a lawyer admitted to the Supreme Court | After the summons, the defendant files a statement of defence. An oral hearing usually follows, where the court also explores a settlement. If you receive a summons, appear on time. If you do not, the court can give a default judgment. You can usually file an objection within four weeks (Article 143 Dutch Code of Civil Procedure). Practical information is on [rechtspraak.nl](https://www.rechtspraak.nl/). ### When do you choose summary proceedings? Summary proceedings (kort geding) are fast proceedings for matters that cannot wait for a full trial. You must show an urgent interest (Article 254 Dutch Code of Civil Procedure). A hearing often follows within days or weeks. The decision is provisional: in later main proceedings the court can rule differently. ### Can you appeal or go to cassation? You can appeal a judgment of the subdistrict or district court to the court of appeal within three months of the judgment (Article 339). No appeal is possible for claims of 1,750 euros or less (Article 332). Against a judgment of the court of appeal, cassation to the Supreme Court is possible within three months (Article 402). The Supreme Court only reviews the application of the law, not the facts. See our page on [appeal lawyers](https://lawandmore.eu/appeal-lawyers/). ## When is arbitration or another route better? Parties can agree that an arbitral tribunal rather than a court decides their dispute. Arbitration is governed by Book 4 of the Dutch Code of Civil Procedure and is common in construction, trade and international contracts. Arbitration is confidential and allows you to choose arbitrators with expertise in your sector. The Netherlands Arbitration Institute (NAI) is a well-known institution; construction disputes often go to the Netherlands Arbitration Board for the Construction Industry. Within the EU, the Brussels I bis Regulation (EU) No 1215/2012 determines which national court has jurisdiction and makes judgments enforceable in other member states. Many disputes also end in a settlement agreement (vaststellingsovereenkomst, Article 7:900), a binding contract that resolves the dispute. ## What does civil litigation cost? Besides your lawyer's fees, you pay a court fee (griffierecht) and bailiff's costs. Court fees depend on the court, the amount of the claim and whether you are a private person or a company. The amounts are adjusted every year. If you win, the court usually orders the other party to pay the costs of the proceedings. That award follows a fixed scale and usually covers only part of your actual legal fees. If you lose, you pay your own costs plus that fixed part of the other party's costs. A civil lawyer in the Netherlands clients instruct gives you a realistic estimate of this risk before you litigate. ## How does working with Law & More work? As your civil lawyer in the Netherlands, we work in four phases. In each phase we discuss which step suits your interests, and which costs and risks come with it. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we map your situation and check which deadlines run. Examples are a limitation period or a term to respond to a summons. 2. Advice. We review your documents and give clear advice on your position, chances, risks and expected costs. 3. Negotiation. We draft the notice of default, final demand or liability letter, and negotiate with the other party. Where possible we work towards a settlement. 4. Proceedings. If negotiations fail, we litigate: an attachment, summary proceedings, main proceedings, arbitration or an appeal. ## What does a civil lawyer in the Netherlands cost at Law & More? A lawyer at Law & More charges 250 to 350 euros per hour excluding VAT. A partner charges 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT. We discuss the rate in advance, with an estimate of the total costs. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. Court fees and bailiff's costs come on top in proceedings. People with a low income can get legal aid through the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand). Law & More does not work on that basis. Our law firm is based at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven and has a visiting location in Amsterdam. We work for clients throughout the Netherlands, in Dutch and English. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Debt collection in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/debt-collection-netherlands/) - [International debt collection](https://lawandmore.eu/international-debt-collection/) - [Civil proceedings](https://lawandmore.eu/civil-procedural-lawyers/) - [Claims for damages](https://lawandmore.eu/liability-lawyer/claims-for-damages/) - [Contract lawyer](https://lawandmore.eu/contract-lawyer/) - [Mediation](https://lawandmore.eu/mediation/) ## Which articles help you further? - [Steps in a civil case](https://lawandmore.eu/steps-in-a-civil-case/) - [Tort law](https://lawandmore.eu/liability-lawyer/) - [Dissolving a contract under Dutch law](https://lawandmore.eu/dissolving-a-contract-dutch-law-guide/) - [Debt collection in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/debt-collection-guide-netherlands/) - [Lifting a conservatory attachment](https://lawandmore.eu/lifting-conservatory-attachment-when-is-it-possible/) - [Cassation in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/cassation-in-the-netherlands/) - [Why and when to choose arbitration](https://lawandmore.eu/dutch-litigation-law/) - [How Dutch courts calculate legal fees](https://lawandmore.eu/understanding-the-high-cost-of-losing-how-dutch-courts-calculate-legal-fees/) ## Frequently asked questions ### Civil lawyer in the Netherlands: do I need one for my case? Before the subdistrict court you may litigate yourself, for claims up to and including 25,000 euros and for employment, lease and consumer cases. Before the district court, the court of appeal and the Supreme Court, a lawyer is mandatory. Even at the subdistrict court, a lawyer helps you build your case and keep track of deadlines. ### How long do I have to bring a claim? A claim for performance of a contract is in principle time-barred after five years (Article 3:307 Dutch Civil Code). A claim for damages is time-barred five years after you knew of the damage and the liable person. The absolute limit is twenty years. You can interrupt the period with a written demand. ### Must I give notice of default first? In most cases, yes. With a notice of default you give the other party a reasonable period in writing to perform after all (Article 6:82 Dutch Civil Code). Notice is not needed if a strict deadline has passed or the other party refuses in writing to perform. ### Will I get my legal costs back if I win? Usually only in part. The court orders the losing party to pay costs according to a fixed scale, which is normally lower than the actual costs. Extrajudicial collection costs can be claimed separately. ### How long do I have to appeal? The appeal period in a civil case is three months from the date of the judgment. No appeal is possible for claims of 1,750 euros or less. Have the deadline checked right after the judgment. ### Can I solve a dispute without going to court? Yes. Many disputes end in a settlement, recorded in a settlement agreement. Parties can also choose mediation, or agree on arbitration, in which arbitrators instead of a court give a binding decision. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on civil law Recent articles by Law & More on civil law. --- # Administrative Law Attorney in the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/administrative-law-attorney/ The municipality refuses your permit, imposes an order subject to a penalty or claws back your subsidy. Or a regulator fines your company and you believe the decision is wrong. As an administrative lawyer in the Netherlands, we help you challenge government decisions within the short periods that apply. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). This page explains how objection and appeal work under Dutch administrative law and which authorities decide. We assist individuals and companies in English and Dutch. ## When do you need an administrative lawyer in the Netherlands? You need an administrative lawyer when a government body takes a decision that affects your interests and you disagree. Think of decisions by a municipality, a province, a ministry, UWV or regulators such as the ACM. Clients typically contact us when: - a permit is refused, or a neighbour obtains a permit that harms you; - the municipality threatens enforcement, such as an order subject to a penalty; - your company receives an administrative fine from a regulator; - your licence for a restaurant, bar or event is refused or withdrawn after a Bibob investigation; - a subsidy is set at a lower amount or reclaimed; - your request under the Open Government Act (Woo) is refused or not answered on time; - a government body does not decide on your application within the statutory period. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Environmental law](https://lawandmore.eu/environmental-law/) - [Objection against an IND decision](https://lawandmore.eu/ind-objection-lawyer/) ## What is a decision and when can you object? A decision (besluit) is a written ruling by an administrative body with legal effect, such as a permit or a fine (Article 1:3 Awb). Against most decisions you first lodge an objection with the body that took it. The General Administrative Law Act (Algemene wet bestuursrecht, Awb) is the backbone of Dutch administrative law. It binds administrative bodies to rules of due care, proper reasoning and proportionality. Specific acts add their own rules, such as the Environment and Planning Act and the Aliens Act 2000. Only an interested party may object: your interest must be directly affected by the decision (Article 1:2). Ministers, water authorities, UWV, the IND and independent regulators all take decisions you can challenge. The full text of the Awb is available on [wetten.overheid.nl](https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0005537/). ## How long do you have to object? The objection period is six weeks (Article 6:7 of the General Administrative Law Act). It starts on the day after the decision was announced (Article 6:8). A late objection is declared inadmissible unless the delay is excusable. Absence or unopened post rarely counts as an excuse. The notice of objection must contain your name and address, the date, a description of the decision and the grounds (Article 6:5). If you cannot complete the grounds in time, file a pro forma objection and add the grounds later. In the objection procedure you generally have the right to be heard (Article 7:2). The body decides within six weeks after the objection period ends, or twelve weeks if an advisory committee is involved (Article 7:10). That period can be extended by six weeks. If the decision is revoked because it was unlawful, you can claim your legal costs (Article 7:15). Certain decisions follow a different route. Immigration decisions of the IND, for example, have an objection period of four weeks. ## How do appeal and higher appeal work? Against the decision on objection you can appeal to the district court within six weeks. In most cases a higher appeal is then possible within six weeks to one of three highest administrative courts. At the district court, the administrative law section handles your case. You file a notice of appeal and pay a court fee. The administrative body sends its case file, and usually a hearing follows. Representation by a lawyer is not compulsory, but the court applies periods and procedural rules strictly. An administrative lawyer in the Netherlands makes sure your grounds are complete and on time. If you win, the court can order the body to pay a contribution to your legal costs. | Highest administrative court | Type of cases | | --- | --- | | Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State | Most cases, such as environment and planning, enforcement, Woo, Bibob and immigration | | Central Appeals Tribunal (Centrale Raad van Beroep) | Social security, such as UWV and municipal benefits, and civil service cases | | Trade and Industry Appeals Tribunal (College van Beroep voor het bedrijfsleven) | Socio-economic administrative law, such as ACM decisions and certain agricultural and subsidy cases | For some decisions you skip the objection stage. Under the extended preparatory procedure (Section 3.4 Awb), you first submit your views on the draft decision. You then appeal directly to the court. ## When do you request preliminary relief? Objection and appeal do not suspend a decision (Article 6:16 of the General Administrative Law Act). To prevent enforcement in the meantime, you ask the preliminary relief judge for an interim measure (Article 8:81). Preliminary relief (voorlopige voorziening) is only available if you have also objected or appealed. You must show an urgent interest, for example because penalties are about to accrue or your business must close. A hearing often follows within a few weeks. ## How does an administrative lawyer help with permits under the Environment and Planning Act? The Environment and Planning Act (Omgevingswet) has applied since 1 January 2024. For building, renovating and other activities in the physical environment you apply for an environmental permit (omgevingsvergunning). The municipal environmental plan (omgevingsplan) replaces the former zoning plans. Most permits follow the regular procedure. The municipality decides within eight weeks, with one possible six-week extension (Article 16.64 of the Environment and Planning Act). Under the extended procedure, the decision period is six months. Environmental law covers more than building, including nature, heritage and tree felling. Neighbours and local residents can object to a permit granted to someone else. We advise applicants as well as residents who want to challenge a permit. As administrative lawyer in the Netherlands, we assess whether a refusal fits the environmental plan and the rules on deviation. ## What can you do against enforcement and administrative fines? Through enforcement, the government compels compliance with the rules. The main instruments are the order subject to a penalty, the administrative enforcement order and the administrative fine. - Order subject to a penalty (last onder dwangsom): end the violation in time, or forfeit a sum of money (Article 5:31d Awb). - Administrative enforcement order (last onder bestuursdwang): the government ends the violation itself and recovers the costs from you (Articles 5:21 and 5:25 Awb). - Administrative fine (bestuurlijke boete): a punitive sum imposed by an administrative body or regulator (Article 5:40 Awb). Administrative bodies must in principle enforce once they establish a violation. Every enforcement decision must still be proportionate. As a Dutch administrative law practice, we check whether the violation is established, whether the compliance period is reasonable and whether legalisation is realistic. A mayor can also close premises under Article 13b of the Opium Act if drugs are found. ## What if your permit is refused after a Bibob investigation? Under the Public Administration (Probity Screening) Act (Wet Bibob), an administrative body can refuse or withdraw a permit or subsidy. It can do so if there is a serious risk that it will be used for criminal offences. The body can ask the National Bureau Bibob (Landelijk Bureau Bibob) for advice. This mainly affects hospitality, operating and event licences and subsidies. Before a refusal you usually get an opportunity to give your views. That stage matters: it is where you can correct inaccurate or outdated facts. ## Which other administrative procedures do we handle? Besides permits and enforcement, an administrative lawyer in the Netherlands assists in several other procedures. Each has its own rules and periods. - Subsidies: a subsidy can be set lower or reclaimed if conditions were not met (Title 4.2 Awb). We assess whether the government has a proper legal basis. - Woo requests: a decision under the Open Government Act is due within four weeks, extendable by two weeks (Article 4.4 Woo). - Compensation for lawful decisions: if a lawful decision causes you damage beyond normal social risk, you can claim compensation (Article 4:126 Awb). - Social security: we handle objections and appeals against UWV and municipal benefit decisions, with higher appeal to the Central Appeals Tribunal. ## What can you do if the government does not decide on time? If an administrative body misses the statutory period, you can send a written notice of default. After two weeks the body forfeits a penalty of up to 1,442 euros (Article 4:17 Awb). You can then also appeal to the court (Article 6:12 Awb). The penalty for late decisions does not apply to every decision, for example not to Woo requests. In that case the court can still set a deadline and impose a penalty itself. The [Dutch judiciary website](https://www.rechtspraak.nl/) explains how to file an appeal for failure to decide. ## What does the proportionality test mean for your case? A decision may not have consequences for you that are disproportionate to its purpose (Article 3:4(2) of the General Administrative Law Act). Since a ruling of the Council of State of 2 February 2022, administrative courts review this more intensively. The court then asks whether a measure is suitable, necessary and balanced. This creates opportunities against heavy measures, such as closing a business or withdrawing a permit. Raise your personal circumstances concretely in the objection stage already. ## How does working with Law & More work? Working with an administrative lawyer in the Netherlands at Law & More follows four phases. In each phase we discuss in advance what we will do and what it will roughly cost. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we discuss the decision and the periods running. We request the relevant documents. 2. Advice. We explain your chances and risks, in English or Dutch. If needed, we file a pro forma objection at once to protect the deadline. 3. Consultation. We talk to the municipality, province or other authority. Sometimes the hearing leads to a new decision without proceedings. 4. Proceedings. If not, we represent you in appeal before the district court, in preliminary relief and in higher appeal. ## What does an administrative lawyer in the Netherlands cost? At Law & More the hourly rate is 250 to 350 euros excluding VAT for a lawyer. For a partner it is 300 to 400 euros excluding VAT, and we agree the rate in advance. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. Legal expenses insurance sometimes covers administrative proceedings, so check your policy. Government-funded legal aid exists through the Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand), but Law & More does not work on that basis. Our office is at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, with a visiting location in Amsterdam. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by one of our lawyers. In the introductory meeting you hear who that is and how we approach your case. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? - [Administrative law](https://lawandmore.eu/administrative-law-attorney/) - [Expert help for the objection procedure](https://lawandmore.eu/expert-help-for-objection-procedure/) - [Penalty payment orders and administrative enforcement](https://lawandmore.eu/penalty-payment-order-administrative-enforcement-netherlands/) - [Environmental permit in the Netherlands](https://lawandmore.eu/environmental-permit-netherlands/) - [The new proportionality review in administrative law](https://lawandmore.eu/new-proportionality-review-administrative-law/) - [Appeal lawyers](https://lawandmore.eu/appeal-lawyers/) ## Frequently asked questions ### When should I contact an administrative lawyer in the Netherlands? Contact an administrative lawyer as soon as you receive a decision you disagree with. The objection period is only six weeks, and arguments not raised in objection are hard to add later. An announced enforcement decision is also the moment to respond. ### How long do I have to object to a decision? You have six weeks, counted from the day after the decision was announced (Articles 6:7 and 6:8 Awb). A late objection is in principle inadmissible. You can file a pro forma objection first and add the grounds later. ### Does an objection or appeal suspend the decision? No. A decision remains in force during objection and appeal. To prevent that, you must ask the preliminary relief judge for an interim measure. ### Is a lawyer compulsory in Dutch administrative law? No, you can conduct objection and appeal yourself. The court does apply periods and procedural rules strictly, and the government is often well advised. A lawyer makes sure your grounds are complete and submitted on time. ### What can I do if the government does not decide on time? Send a written notice of default. After two weeks a penalty of up to 1,442 euros can accrue, and you can appeal to the court. For some decisions, such as Woo requests, the penalty does not apply. ### Can I get my legal costs back? If the decision is revoked in objection because it was unlawful, you can claim reimbursement of your costs. In appeal, the court can order the government to contribute if you win. These contributions are fixed amounts and rarely cover the full fee. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on administrative law Recent articles by Law & More on administrative law. --- # Energy Lawyerin the Netherlands Source: https://lawandmore.eu/energy-lawyer/ Your grid connection is refused because the network is full. A supplier wants to end an energy contract early, or you want to set up a private grid on an industrial site correctly. We act as energy lawyer in the Netherlands for companies, industrial users, utilities, developers and energy communities, on the Energy Act, grid connections, energy contracts and renewable energy projects. Clients rate Law & More 9.9 out of 10 on [Klantenvertellen](https://www.klantenvertellen.nl/reviews/1036642/law_en_more), the Dutch review platform (81 reviews, as of October 2026). Energy law in the Netherlands is changing fast. New legislation, scarce grid capacity and the energy transition affect almost every commercial and industrial user of electricity and natural gas. A Dutch energy lawyer helps you turn those rules into workable contracts and projects. ## When do you need an energy lawyer in the Netherlands? An energy lawyer advises on the supply, transport, generation and storage of energy, and on disputes about them. That ranges from contracts and permits to proceedings before the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) and the courts. You will probably recognise one or more of these situations: - as a utility company, you supply electricity, gas, steam or water to other companies on an industrial site and want to know which rules apply; - you operate a private grid on a business park and are unsure whether it is a closed distribution system that requires ACM recognition; - you want to transfer a grid, or part of it, to a system operator such as TenneT or a regional grid operator; - the grid operator offers no transport capacity, or only a flexible contract; - you are negotiating a supply agreement, a connection and transport agreement or a power purchase agreement (PPA); - your counterparty ends an energy contract early and you want to know which fee you can claim or must pay; - you are developing a solar park, wind project or battery energy storage and face permits, subsidies and a grid connection. ## Which related services can we help you with? For specific questions within this area of law, these pages go into more detail. - [Emissions trading](https://lawandmore.eu/emissions-trading-lawyers/) - [Environmental law](https://lawandmore.eu/environmental-law/) - [EU law](https://lawandmore.eu/european-law-firm/) ## What changes under the Energy Act? The Energy Act (Energiewet) has been in force since 1 January 2026 and replaces the Electricity Act 1998 and the Gas Act. The rules for electricity and natural gas are now in one act, with new numbering and partly new concepts. For companies, the rights of customers and the duties of grid operators matter most. The act now speaks of system operators (systeembeheerders) instead of grid operators. Customers may generate, store and sell energy themselves and offer their flexibility to the market. Energy communities, in which members jointly generate and share energy, have a statutory basis for the first time. For running contracts and proceedings, the old law may still apply under the transitional rules of the Energy Act. References in existing contracts to articles of the Electricity Act 1998 are often no longer correct. An energy lawyer in the Netherlands can review supply, connection and grid contracts from before 2026 for compliance with Dutch law as it now stands. ## When is your grid a closed distribution system? A closed distribution system is a grid that distributes energy within a geographically confined industrial or commercial site to a limited group of customers. It requires recognition by the ACM, and lighter obligations then apply than to a public grid. On many industrial sites one party, often a utility company, supplies energy to the other companies on site. The law then distinguishes between a closed distribution system, a direct line and an installation without network character. The name the parties use is not decisive. What counts are the facts: who owns the infrastructure, who is connected and how the site is set up technically. The core criteria come from the EU Electricity Directive (Directive (EU) 2019/944): - the grid is located on a geographically confined industrial or commercial site, or a site of shared services; - in principle, no household customers are connected; - the operations of the connected users are integrated for technical or safety reasons, or the grid mainly supplies the owner or operator and related companies. Under the Electricity Act 1998, an operator obtained an exemption from the ACM. Under the Energy Act, you apply for recognition. Existing exemptions should be tested against the new criteria. As operator of a closed system, you must still handle connection requests carefully and apply objective, transparent conditions and tariffs. ### What is involved in transferring a grid to a system operator? An industrial grid can be transferred to a system operator, for example a high-voltage grid to TenneT. Ownership, property rights and contracts with connected users must then be arranged properly. Under Article 5:20(2) of the Dutch Civil Code, cables and pipes belong to the grid operator or owner of the network, not to the landowner. A right of superficies (opstalrecht, Article 5:101 of the Dutch Civil Code) usually secures the right to keep cables in someone else's land. Valuation of the infrastructure and the position of existing users also need attention. ## What can you do about grid congestion or a refused connection? The grid operator must connect you, but may limit or refuse transport if capacity is demonstrably lacking. If you disagree, you can submit a dispute to the ACM and, in urgent cases, go to court. Grid congestion means the electricity grid in an area has reached its limit. The grid operator must then first investigate whether congestion management is possible. Under congestion management, the operator pays existing users to reduce consumption or feed-in at peak times. Since 2024, the ACM applies a prioritisation framework. Projects that relieve congestion and certain social functions, such as safety, healthcare and education, get priority in the queue. Grid operators increasingly offer flexible (non-firm) transport contracts. You get less certainty about capacity, for example only at certain times, in exchange for a lower tariff. Check the conditions under which the operator may curtail you and what that means for your production planning. In purchase, construction or lease agreements, include a condition precedent linked to capacity actually becoming available. ## What should energy contracts and PPAs cover? Energy contracts revolve around capacity, price, term, liability and the consequences of early termination. An early termination fee must be clearly calculated and proportionate to the actual loss or investment. | Contract | Counterparty | Key points | | --- | --- | --- | | Supply agreement | Energy supplier or utility company | Price formula, volumes, term, price review, termination | | Connection and transport agreement | Grid operator | Contracted capacity, tariffs, liability for outages; largely regulated | | Power purchase agreement (PPA) | Producer of renewable energy | Long-term price, volume and profile risk, guarantees of origin, credit support | A PPA is a long-term contract under which you buy electricity directly from a wind or solar park, outside the exchange. The producer gains financing certainty and you gain price certainty. You demonstrate green origin with guarantees of origin, which in the Netherlands are issued by VertiCer. ### Which fee applies on early termination? Many long-term energy contracts contain a fee for early termination. It often covers investments the supplier has not yet recovered, such as a connection or installation on site. If the fee is a penalty, the court can reduce it under Article 6:94 of the Dutch Civil Code where applying it would clearly be unacceptable. Reasonableness and fairness (Article 6:248) and unforeseen circumstances (Article 6:258) can also play a role. A claim for performance is in principle time-barred after five years (Article 3:307). Have the calculation checked before you pay or bring a claim. ## Which rules apply to solar, wind and energy storage? A renewable energy project usually needs an environmental permit, a grid connection and often a subsidy. Since 1 January 2024, the Environment and Planning Act (Omgevingswet) governs permits for these projects. The permit assessment covers spatial planning, noise, nature and safety, so environmental law is always part of the project. The municipality is usually the competent authority; for larger projects, the province or the Dutch government. Under the regular procedure, the authority decides in principle within eight weeks, with one extension of six weeks. Local residents and other interested parties can object or appeal within six weeks (Article 6:7 of the General Administrative Law Act). That partly determines when you can build with certainty. Battery energy storage raises its own issues: whether a permit is required, fire safety, the grid connection and your role on the energy market. Energy storage projects attract significant investments, so these points belong in the business case from the start. ### How do SDE++ subsidies work? The SDE++ scheme compensates the gap between the cost price of sustainable energy and the market price. You apply to the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) during an opening round. A subsidy decision contains conditions, such as a deadline for realisation. Missing it risks reduction or recovery of the subsidy. You can object to a refusal or final determination within six weeks. ### What does the end of net metering mean? The net metering scheme (salderingsregeling) ends on 1 January 2027. Small users with solar panels can then no longer offset electricity fed back into the grid against electricity consumed. Their supplier pays a feed-in compensation and may charge reasonable and transparent feed-in costs. For commercial contracts, the agreement mainly determines what applies. ## What about heat networks and hydrogen? Heat networks are governed by the Heat Act (Warmtewet), which protects small users. The ACM sets a maximum price for heat each year. A new Collective Heat Act (Wet collectieve warmte) is set to replace the current regime, with a larger role for public parties. For hydrogen, an EU legal framework for hydrogen networks and markets is being implemented. In the Netherlands, a national hydrogen transport network is being developed by a subsidiary of Gasunie. If you invest in hydrogen production or use, contracts on capacity, offtake and permits deserve early legal attention. ## How do you resolve an energy dispute before the ACM or the courts? A dispute with a grid operator about connection, transport or tariffs can be submitted to the ACM, which takes a binding decision. A dispute about a supply or other energy contract between companies is decided by the civil courts, unless you agreed on arbitration. The ACM is the main regulatory authority for the energy market and supervises grid operators. It sets tariffs and conditions for grid operators, can impose fines and settles disputes between grid operators and connected users. Against an ACM decision, an appeal ultimately lies with the Trade and Industry Appeals Tribunal (College van Beroep voor het bedrijfsleven, CBb). The period for that is six weeks (Article 6:7 of the General Administrative Law Act). In urgent cases, such as an imminent disconnection, you can start summary proceedings. ## How does working with Law & More work? As your energy lawyer in the Netherlands, we work in four phases. For each phase we agree in advance what we will do and what it will cost. 1. Intake. In a free introductory meeting we discuss your situation, your goal and the deadlines that are running. We request the relevant documents, such as contracts, correspondence with the grid operator and ACM decisions. 2. Advice. We analyse your position under the Energy Act, the contract and the ACM rules. You receive clear advice on risks, chances and approach, in English or Dutch. 3. Negotiation. We negotiate on your behalf with the grid operator, supplier, customer or other party. Many issues are resolved with a well-reasoned letter or amended contract terms. 4. Proceedings. If that fails, we file a dispute with the ACM, start objection or appeal proceedings, or litigate before the civil courts or in arbitration. ## What does an energy lawyer in the Netherlands cost? The hourly rate of a lawyer at Law & More is between 250 and 350 euros excluding VAT. For a partner, it is between 300 and 400 euros excluding VAT. We always discuss the rate and an estimate of the costs in advance. The introductory meeting is free of charge. A one-off advice meeting without further assistance costs 300 euros including VAT. Our law firm is based at Marconilaan 13 in Eindhoven, has a visiting location in Amsterdam and provides legal assistance to energy companies and users throughout the Netherlands. ## Who handles your case? Your case is handled by Tom Meevis. You can read more about their background on our [team page](https://lawandmore.eu/our-team/). ## Which articles help you further? - [The Energy Act explained](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/energy-act/) - [Grid congestion management: rights and legal remedies](https://lawandmore.eu/grid-congestion-management-rights-obligations-and-legal-remedies-for-dutch-energy-producers/) - [Power purchase agreement](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/power-purchase-agreement/) - [SDE++ subsidy](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/sde-subsidy/) - [Energy storage](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/energy-storage/) - [Net metering scheme](https://lawandmore.eu/legal-glossary/net-metering-scheme/) - [Transfer of cables and pipelines under Dutch law](https://lawandmore.eu/transfer-of-cables-and-pipelines-legal-framework-tax-aspects-and-practical-examples-under-dutch-law/) - [How the Heat Act protects you on heat grids](https://lawandmore.eu/how-the-heat-act-protects-you-on-heat-grids/) Information from the regulator is available on the [ACM energy pages](https://www.acm.nl/en/energy). ## Frequently asked questions ### When did the Energy Act enter into force? The Energy Act entered into force on 1 January 2026. It replaces the Electricity Act 1998 and the Gas Act. For running contracts and proceedings, the old law may still apply under the transitional rules. ### Does my grid on a business park need an ACM decision? That depends on how your grid qualifies. A closed distribution system on a confined industrial or commercial site requires recognition by the ACM under the Energy Act. A direct line or an installation without network character falls under different rules. ### Can a grid operator refuse my connection because of grid congestion? The grid operator must connect you, but may limit or refuse transport if capacity is demonstrably lacking. It must first investigate whether congestion management is possible. If you disagree with the refusal, you can submit a dispute to the ACM. ### Can a court reduce an early termination fee in an energy contract? If the fee is a penalty, the court can reduce it under Article 6:94 of the Dutch Civil Code where applying it would clearly be unacceptable. If it compensates unrecovered investments, the court mainly reviews the calculation and its reasonableness. Have the calculation checked in advance. ### When does net metering end? The net metering scheme ends on 1 January 2027. Small users then receive a feed-in compensation from their supplier, which may charge reasonable and transparent feed-in costs. For commercial users, the contract mainly determines what applies. ### When do I need an energy lawyer in the Netherlands rather than a general lawyer? You need an energy lawyer when your matter involves the Energy Act, ACM rules or grid operators. That applies to grid connections, closed distribution systems, PPAs and disputes before the ACM or the CBb. These areas combine regulation, contract law and administrative law. In doubt about your position? Tell us about your situation. We will let you know within one working day what your options are. [Contact us](https://lawandmore.eu/contact/), call +31 40 369 06 80 or e-mail info@lawandmore.nl. This page provides general information and does not replace advice on your specific situation. ## Latest articles on energy law Recent articles by Law & More on energy law.