Testamentary Guardianship in Leiden
Testamentary guardianship allows parents in Leiden to designate a trusted person as guardian for their minor children through a will in the event of their death. This is a key element of Dutch family law and enables Leiden residents to specify their preferences rather than relying on default rules. At Leiden Legal Aid Desk, you can get free advice on how this applies to your situation.
Legal Basis of Testamentary Guardianship
In the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 1, Title 15, testamentary guardianship is regulated, particularly under Article 1:307 DCC. This allows the surviving parent to appoint a guardian for children under 18 via a notarial deed or will. Parents have primary responsibility for upbringing (Article 1:247 DCC). Without such an appointment, the Leiden District Court steps in, for example under Article 1:309 DCC for family guardianship.
Article 1:308 DCC requires court approval if the appointing parent lacks parental authority, and Article 4:39 DCC governs the form of the will. Historically based on the Act of 5 July 1956, now codified in the DCC since 1992, with priority given to the child's best interests in line with the UNCRC (Article 3). In Leiden, local procedures are handled by the cantonal division of the Leiden District Court.
How Testamentary Guardianship Works in Practice in Leiden
Begin by drawing up a will with a notary in Leiden. Designate a family member, friend, or partner as guardian, possibly with alternates. Upon death, the guardian takes effect (Article 1:310 DCC), unless the Leiden District Court decides otherwise. Within one month, the guardian must seek confirmation from the cantonal judge, who assesses the child's best interests.
If both parents die, the guardian collaborates with a co-guardian (Article 1:312 DCC). For unmarried partners in Leiden, court approval is needed if the parent lacks authority. Contact Leiden Legal Aid Desk for guidance.
Differences with Other Forms of Guardianship
An overview of guardianship types relevant to Leiden residents:
| Type of Guardianship | Description | When Applicable | Required Procedure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Testamentary Guardianship | Parents appoint guardian in will | Upon death of parent(s) in Leiden | Will + Leiden District Court |
| Statutory Guardianship | Automatic for partner/joint parental authority | Death of one parent | None, unless dispute at Leiden District Court |
| Extraordinary Guardianship | Court appoints guardian | No will or conflict | Request to Leiden Cantonal Judge |
Read more in our article on Guardianship in Leiden.
Practical Examples for Leiden Residents
A single parent in Leiden appoints her brother as testamentary guardian for her children at a local primary school. In the event of an accident, he assumes care, including inheritance management, preventing out-of-home placement.
Married Leiden residents name a local friend as guardian in mutual wills. Upon double death, the Leiden District Court approves; the guardian handles school and finances, but relocation outside Leiden requires permission.
For separated parents in Leiden, conflicts may arise; the court assesses the child's best interests, possibly with a hearing for children aged 12 and up (Article 1:377 DCC). The Leiden Municipality provides additional youth support.
Rights and Duties of the Testamentary Guardian in Leiden
The guardian has responsibilities with safeguards:
- Care and Upbringing: Decisions on school in Leiden, healthcare, and residence (Article 1:313 DCC).
- Financial Management: Administer assets with annual accounts to the Leiden District Court (Article 1:318 DCC); court approval for major expenditures.
- Representation: Represent the child in legal matters, such as with the Leiden Municipality.
- Duties: Prioritize child's best interests, avoid conflicts, reporting obligations. Guardian may request discharge from court.
For personalized advice: visit Leiden Legal Aid Desk or a notary in the area.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wie erft zonder testament?
Zonder testament erven partner en kinderen eerst. Als geen partner of kinderen: ouders, broers/zussen, etc. volgen de wettelijke erfrechtsregels.
Kan ik alles aan één kind geven?
Ja, je mag met een testament bepalen wie erft. Kinderen hebben echter soms wettelijk recht op een verplicht deel.
Moet ik erfbelasting betalen?
Erfbelasting hangt af van je relatie tot de overledene en de erfenis grootte. Naasten betalen vaak minder.
Hoe lang duurt een erfopvolgingsprocedure?
Dit kan variëren van enkele maanden tot meer dan een jaar, afhankelijk van de complexiteit.
Kan ik een erfenis weigeren?
Ja, je kunt een erfenis weigeren. Dit moet snel na het overlijden schriftelijk aan de rechter worden gemeld.