In Rotterdam, the maintenance obligation of parents for young adults automatically ends at the age of 21, but local courts such as those in Rotterdam often make exceptions for students at Erasmus University or Hogeschool Rotterdam. Article 1:395a DCC provides for continuation in cases of study delay or special circumstances in this vibrant port city.
Automatic Lapse in Rotterdam Cases
Without intervention by the Rotterdam District Court, the obligation stops precisely on the 21st birthday. Parents from neighborhoods such as Kralingen or Feijenoord no longer need to contribute, unless an ongoing judgment from the Family and Youth Law sector provides otherwise.
Exceptions at Rotterdam Courts
If a young adult remains dependent due to illness, disability, or unforeseen study delay – think of corona measures that disrupted classes at Erasmus University – the Rotterdam cantonal judge may extend the obligation. In co-parenting Rotterdam families, this applies equally to both parents, taking into account the high housing costs in the city.
Transition to Partner Maintenance in Rotterdam
After 21 years, a Rotterdam young adult may claim partner maintenance if he or she cohabits with a studying partner in a shared apartment in Delfshaven or Rotterdam-South. This requires a petition to the Rotterdam District Court with proof of joint financial need and income details.
Local practice: In a recent Rotterdam case, the cantonal judge extended the parental contribution to 23 years due to corona-related delay at Hogeschool Rotterdam, with €350 monthly adjusted to urban cost of living. Advice: file disputes timely with the Rotterdam District Court to secure payments and use local legal assistance via the Juridisch Loket in the city.