Parenting Plan Visitation Rotterdam

Parenting Plan and Visitation Arrangement in Rotterdam

A parenting plan visitation is a mandatory document for parents in case of divorce or dissolution of a registered partnership with minor children. It records agreements on the visitation arrangement, such as residence with the non-custodial parent. This provides clarity and stability for the child and prevents disputes. In Rotterdam, you can go to the Rotterdam District Court (Wilhelminaplein 100-125) or the Rotterdam Legal Aid Office (Westblaak 180) for help.

What does a parenting plan entail?

The parenting plan encourages parents to make their own arrangements for upbringing and care after a relationship breakdown. Pursuant to Article 1:247 DCC, both parents with parental authority over a child under 18 must draw up a plan. Important elements are:

• Division of care and upbringing;
• The visitation arrangement;
• Exchange of information and consultation in decision-making.

Child support can be included, but often separately. The plan does not need to be notarised, but must be practical. No agreement? The court decides (art. 1:251 DCC), for example at Rotterdam District Court.

Visitation Arrangement within the Parenting Plan

The visitation arrangement safeguards the child's right to contact with both parents. Article 1:377 DCC states that visitation with the non-trusted parent is the norm, unless harmful.

Parents specify in Rotterdam practice:

• Frequency and duration (e.g. alternating weekends);
• Holidays and vacations (Christmas alternating, summer equal);
• Transport (pick-up/drop-off);
• Review (annually).

Examples of Visitation Arrangements Rotterdam

For an 8-year-old child: first and third weekend with father, Wednesday evening until 19:00, half summer and alternating New Year's Eve. Young children start with day visitation. For expats in Rotterdam, the Hague Visitation Convention applies.

Legal Framework and Steps

Central in Book 1 DCC:

Without a plan, the court holds up the divorce at Rotterdam District Court. Approved plan has res judicata effect.

Rights and Obligations

Rights:

• Child's right to visitation (art. 1:377(1) DCC);
• Parents demand reasonable arrangement.

Obligations:

• Facilitate visitation (art. 1:378 DCC);
• Non-compliance: penalty payment or criminal sanction via court.

In Rotterdam, mediation first often.

Frequently Asked Questions