Trema standards maintenance in Leiden: how is the maintenance contribution calculated?
The Trema standards form the standard guidelines in the Netherlands, including Leiden, for calculating **maintenance** (maintenance contribution) between ex-partners or parents and children. They ensure a fair distribution of costs based on incomes, care tasks, and personal circumstances. In divorces or terminated cohabitation in the Leiden region, these standards are essential for a just arrangement. Local authorities such as the District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location and the Juridisch Loket Leiden (Stationsweg 46) apply them frequently.
What are the Trema standards in Leiden?
The **Trema standards** are government guidelines for maintenance calculations, based on the **Maintenance Act** (art. 1:270-1:285 CC). They are updated via the Trema scheme and provide an objective approach to avoid disputes. In Leiden, they assist in cases before the District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location.
Applicable to:
- Child maintenance between parents and children.
- Partner maintenance after divorce.
- Maintenance for adult children with special needs.
Factors:
- **Net income** of both parties.
- **Care distribution** for children.
- **Living circumstances** such as health or local costs in Leiden.
For free advice: visit the Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46.
Legal basis of Trema standards
No separate law, but ministerial guidelines based on:
- Art. 1:270 CC: Maintenance obligation of parents for children.
- Art. 1:272 CC: Amount determined by incomes and circumstances.
- Art. 1:274 CC: Partner maintenance in case of dependency.
Judges at the District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location follow these standards. Annual updates take inflation into account. Not binding, but standard; own agreements must be reasonable.
Trema standards calculation: step by step
Standard model for child and partner maintenance.
1. Determine net income
From gross to available income:
- Gross salary, benefit, or pension.
- Minus taxes and premiums.
- Minus standard costs (rent, energy, food – adjusted to Leiden prices).
Example: €4,000 gross becomes approx. €2,500 available after deductions.
2. Care obligations
Parents with children in Leiden:
- Shared care (almost equal, e.g., co-parenting plan).
- Majority care (>35% time, e.g., primary residence).
- Sole care: Full responsibility.
3. Capacity to pay and need
Split available income: 50-60% for living expenses, remainder for maintenance. Online calculation tools from the Government help in preparation for Leiden cases.
Help in Leiden
- District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location: For proceedings.
- Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46: Free intake.
- Consult a local family law attorney for custom advice.