Even without parental authority over your child, you have the right to essential information in Leiden. The other parent and institutions such as schools and doctors are obliged to keep you informed of important matters.
Legal basis of the right to information
The right to information is regulated in article 1:377c of the Dutch Civil Code. This right applies to parents without parental authority and concerns, among other things:
- Personal development and behavior of the child
- Financial situation of the child
- Crucial decisions regarding the child
Institutions responsible for providing information
| Source | Type of information |
|---|---|
| Parent with parental authority | General updates and important events |
| Educational institution | School performance, reports, parent-teacher conferences |
| Medical care providers | Health data |
| Childcare | Development reports, incidents |
| Leisure clubs | Progress and activities |
Limitations of the right to information
There are some restrictions on this right:
- No direct access to full files, but to relevant data
- No obligation for daily updates
- Institutions may refuse if the child's best interests are at stake
- Medical professional secrecy may be an impediment
Steps to obtain information
- Approach the other parent for updates
- Register yourself with schools and care providers for direct communication
- Request documentation such as reports and records
- Request invitations to school meetings and consultations
What to do in case of refusal?
If information is refused by the other parent or an institution:
- Submit a written request referring to the law
- Consider legal assistance via a lawyer
- The court may enforce the provision of information
Is the parent with parental authority obliged to inform me?
Yes, the parent with parental authority must inform you of significant matters concerning the child, even if you yourself do not have parental authority.Must a school inform me separately?
You can request the school to inform you separately, for example via your own mailing list. Although the school is not obliged to make extra effort, they may not refuse your request.Can a doctor withhold information due to professional secrecy?
In general, you have the right to medical data of your child. A doctor may only refuse this if it is not in the child's best interests, which is exceptional.Frequently asked questions
Do I have the right to information from the school without parental authority?
Yes, even without parental authority, you can request information about your child. Ask the school to inform you about results, reports, and activities. They may not refuse you, but are not obliged to do double work. For example, ask to be placed on a separate list.
What if the other parent does not give me information?
Send a written request referring to article 1:377c of the Dutch Civil Code. If this does not help, you can seek legal assistance via a lawyer or the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location. Keep all correspondence as evidence.
Can a doctor refuse medical information?
Normally not. You have the right to health information about your child. Only in rare cases, if it is not in the child's best interests, may a doctor refuse. Request the data in writing and consider legal steps in case of refusal.
Must I request information myself or will I be informed automatically?
Although the parent with parental authority has an obligation to provide information, it is wise to take the initiative yourself. Register with relevant institutions in Leiden, such as schools and doctors, for direct updates and to avoid misunderstandings.
Do I have the right to the full file of my child?
No, you do not have access to complete files, but you do have access to important information such as reports and medical records. Request the specific data needed from the relevant institution.
Contact in Leiden:
For legal support, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46, or submit matters to the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location.