Court Fees for Divorce | Rotterdam District Court
The Rotterdam divorce court fees are the fee Rotterdam residents pay to the Rotterdam District Court for handling a request to dissolve a marriage or partnership. This contribution funds the court registry and is mandatory to start the procedure. In 2024, a joint request costs €91 and a unilateral one €330, with a possible surcharge based on income. Learn more about rates, exemptions, and local arrangements for Rotterdam residents.
What do court fees mean for Rotterdam residents?
Court fees are a fixed cost for civil cases at the court, governed by the Court Fees in Civil Cases Act (Wgr). For divorce in Rotterdam, you pay this when filing the petition with the Rotterdam District Court. It is not a fine, but covers court costs. Without payment, your case will not start.
Within family law, specific rates from the Wgr Annex apply, depending on whether parties cooperate or not. Joint requests in Rotterdam are cheaper; unilateral ones are more expensive due to greater judicial effort.
Legal rules for court fees
The Court Fees in Civil Cases Act (Wgr) (Bulletin of Acts and Decrees 2001, 288) is the core legislation. Key provisions:
- Article 1 Wgr: defines court fees as compensation for case handling.
- Article 35 Wgr: sets tariff groups and amounts, adjusted annually.
- Article 40 Wgr: provides exemptions, including for legal aid.
Rates are set by royal decree. For 2024: Court Fees Decree 2024. Check current information on the Rechtspraak website, specifically for the Rotterdam District Court.
Rotterdam Divorce Court Fees: 2024 Rates
For proceedings at the Rotterdam District Court, these amounts apply in 2024:
| Type of Procedure | Low Rate | High-Income Surcharge | Maximum Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joint request (settlement, minimal dispute) | €91 | + €82 (rate 2) | €173 |
| Unilateral request | €330 | + €297 (rate 2) | €627 |
| With children under 21 (both types) | Same as above | Same | Same |
Note: Low rate applies for reference income below €31,500 (singles, 2024). Children do not change the base rate but may cause additional procedural costs at the Rotterdam District Court.
Practical Examples for Rotterdam
Example 1: Joint divorce without children. You and your partner from Rotterdam-Feyenoord agree and have a settlement. Joint request to the Rotterdam District Court: €91 at low income. Payment within 4 weeks via iDEAL.
Example 2: Unilateral divorce with children. Partner from Kralingen refuses; lawyer files unilateral request with Rotterdam District Court. At €40,000 income: €330 + €297 = €627. Judge decides after hearing.
Example 3: Coverage by legal aid. With a legal aid certificate, the Council for Legal Aid pays the court fee; no cost to you.
Rights and Obligations at Rotterdam District Court
Rights:
- Exemption via special assistance from the Municipality of Rotterdam (art. 40 Wgr).
- Coverage with legal aid certificate from the Council for Legal Aid.
- Partial refund if case is discontinued.
Obligations:
- Pay within 7 days of filing the petition.
- Send proof to the registry of the Rotterdam District Court.
- Non-payment = case shelved.
FAQs for Rotterdam Residents
Do I have to pay with a lawyer on legal aid?
No, the Council for Legal Aid covers it. Apply via Juridisch Loket Rotterdam or your lawyer.
Can I recover costs from my ex?
Yes, often in unilateral requests; Rotterdam District Court judge may order the other party to contribute. Joint: split costs.
No money for court fees?
Apply for special assistance from the Municipality of Rotterdam or exemption via Rotterdam District Court (form on rechtspraak.nl). Contact Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for help.
Extra costs for custody disputes?
Base rate the same, but hearings up to €627 extra at Rotterdam District Court.
Tips for Rotterdam Residents
Avoid hassle:
- Check reference income on rechtspraak.nl for Rotterdam District Court rate.
- Opt for joint request: saves a lot on costs.
- Consult Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for free advice on exemptions.
- Apply for special assistance from the Municipality of Rotterdam if low income.