Family law – litigation
The lawyer
The lawyer assists one party. This means he or she is partial and represents the interests of one of the spouses. He or she may do this in court proceedings, but also as an advisor to a party attempting to discuss matters with the other parties in order to reach agreement. The lawyer may even just give background advice, if the party is involved in mediation.
In other words, the lawyer is not necessarily someone who just stands up in court. Our lawyers will always attempt to first reach agreement with the other party out of court.
Divorce procedure
If the parties really cannot reach agreement or if communications have broken down, then they may ask the court to rule on any outstanding areas of dispute.
In court proceedings, both parties are given the opportunity to explain to the court how they believe their differences should be resolved. After the parties have done this – in writing and orally – the court will issue its ruling based on the law and the principles of reasonableness and fairness. The law prescribes that, in court proceedings, both parties must have a lawyer to represent them.
Care to know more?
Family and inheritance law are sensitive subjects that often involve strong emotions. Matters that once seemed routine can take on a new significance as a result of all kinds of events, causing a breakdown in communications and thrusting the parties involved into far-reaching and invasive legal proceedings. SmeetsGijbels advises its clients on what route to take. We do so with empathy and support, adding our specialist legal knowledge as necessary.
Care to know more? Our lawyers and mediators are ready to help you. Obviously, we guarantee complete confidentiality.
Family law
lawyers
Find out more about our family law lawyers in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. They can advise you on what decisions to take.
