Liability law

Yes, you can get divorced in the Netherlands even if you live abroad. Dutch courts have jurisdiction if you or your spouse are Dutch citizens, live in the Netherlands, or have a strong connection to the country. A Dutch lawyer will handle the process, and in most cases, you won’t need to be physically present. Make sure your marriage is properly registered and provide any necessary documents, such as a legalized marriage certificate.

To get divorced in the Netherlands, you need a Dutch lawyer to file a petition with the court. The court will review your case and issue a divorce decree, which must then be registered with the municipality where your marriage was recorded to finalize the divorce.

If you were disinherited, you may still be entitled to a statutory portion of the inheritance, known as the “legitime portie” in the Netherlands. This is a fixed share of the estate that children can claim, even if they were excluded from the will. The claim must be made within 5 years of the death of the deceased.

As an heir in the Netherlands, you can choose to accept the inheritance fully, accept it under the benefit of inventory (to avoid personal liability for debts), or reject it entirely. You must make this decision within three months of the inheritance becoming available.

A non-competition clause in your employment agreement usually remains valid even after the contract ends, unless it is deemed unreasonable or unfair. The enforceability depends on factors like the duration, scope, and your role. If in doubt, seek legal advice.