Consequences of a Void Probationary Period for Dismissal Protection in Leiden

In Leiden, a vibrant university city with many temporary contracts at Leiden University, a void probationary period is strictly assessed by the subdistrict court of the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location. When the probationary period is declared void – for example, because it was not recorded in writing or lasted too long for the type of contract – the special dismissal rules no longer apply. The employee enjoys full dismissal protection, as if the probationary period never existed. Employers cannot unilaterally dismiss the employee without reasonable grounds and without following the required procedure, such as obtaining a dismissal permit from the UWV in Leiden or initiating proceedings at the local subdistrict court. Article 7:668 of the Dutch Civil Code stipulates that dismissal must comply with the general rules of the Civil Code. Recent cases at the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, show that judges declare dismissals void and grant employees the right to continued payment of wages, including holiday pay. This is particularly common in Leiden’s academic and healthcare sectors. Employees can invoke nullity in case of violations. Employers risk liability for compensation. In case of disputes, it is advisable to have the employment contract reviewed immediately by an employment lawyer in Leiden, such as at the Legal Counter on Nieuwe Rijn or specialized law firms. Advice: seek professional assistance to claim your rights and recover damages. This significantly strengthens your position in local labor disputes.