We believe that calmness and overview are the foundation for good decisions in family conflicts.
That’s why we combine legal expertise with personal guidance and strategic insight. Not litigating for the sake of litigation, but steering towards the outcome that best suits YOUR situation.
Specialized in Family and Inheritance Law
Careful guidance, focused on sustainable solutions.
Clients in more than 20 Countries
International family law requires experience and knowledge due to complex legal aspects – which we have.
More than 500 Cases per Year
Experience that provides peace of mind and leads to effective decisions.
Legal Guidance in Family Law and Inheritance Law – Including International Cases
At Simmelink Advocaten, we combine in-depth knowledge of (international) family law, Dutch inheritance law, and international family matters. These areas are often intertwined in practice. A divorce affects asset distribution and inheritances, while custody issues frequently have international dimensions.
We guide clients in the Netherlands and abroad through complex family conflicts, with strategic insight and personal involvement. Whether it’s a divorce, a discussion about parental authority, an inheritance conflict, or an international division of assets – we ensure calmness, overview, and a plan of action.
Our approach is well-thought-out and result-oriented, without unnecessary procedures. We think ahead and take into account legal, personal, and international aspects. This way, you receive clear guidance, even when the situation is sensitive or cross-border.

Our Specializations in Family Law and Dutch Inheritance Law
Family Law
Solutions for divorce, parental authority, alimony, real estate, and asset division.
Our lawyers help you make workable agreements or start a procedure, with an eye for peace and strategy.
We also assist you in drawing up prenuptial agreements, dividing assets, or resolving family law disputes.
International Family Law
Legal advice on cross-border divorces, custody issues, and international relocations with children.
Our lawyers have extensive experience with international family law disputes and guide clients worldwide.
We advise on international aspects of divorce, parental authority, and visitation arrangements – always with an eye for the right court and applicable regulations.
Erfrecht
Clear legal advice on wills, legitimate portions, gifts, and conflicts over inheritances.
A specialized inheritance law attorney ensures careful, legally correct settlement, even with complex or international inheritances.
We help with accepting or rejecting an inheritance, advise on beneficiary acceptance, and guide you through conflicts between heirs.
Legal Advice that Brings Peace and Overview
At Simmelink Advocaten, we guide clients through (international) family law and Dutch inheritance law issues.
What distinguishes us is the conviction that calmness and overview are the basis for good decisions. We bring structure to legal and emotional complexity. We think ahead, advise strategically, and guide you personally.
Litigation is not an end in itself for us, but a means – and only when necessary. Whether it’s a divorce, asset division, a conflict over custody or an inheritance: we stand by you with expertise, discretion, and an approach that fits YOUR situation.
Family Law – Advice on Divorce, Custody, and Assets
Are you getting divorced or unsure about your rights regarding alimony, parental authority, or asset division? Our family law attorneys provide clear advice and guide you personally, including in disputes with an ex-partner or in consultation with other parties involved.
We help with drafting prenuptial agreements, questions about visitation arrangements, or when you want to bring peace to a complex family matter.
Our family law attorneys combine years of experience with personal guidance. Whether you need a good lawyer for discussions with an ex-partner or strategic guidance in complex situations, we think along with you.
Inheritance Law – Help with Inheritance, Estate, and Conflicts
Are you dealing with a death and want to know your rights as an heir? A specialized inheritance law attorney from our firm helps you with accepting or rejecting an inheritance, settling an estate, or disputes over the legitimate portion.
We guide clients throughout the Netherlands with wills, donations, and conflicts between heirs – carefully, legally correct, and discreetly. You can also turn to us for questions about wills, executors, forced heirship, or conflicts between heirs.
Mediation – Clear Agreements without Conflict through Good Consultation
Sometimes litigation is not the best way. As both lawyers and mediators, we guide you in making agreements that are legally sound and fit your situation. We provide peace of mind, overview, and effective solutions – without the need for a court case.
If you choose mediation, we work as a neutral facilitator for both parties. The goal of mediation is to achieve a solution that works for both parties. Do you need individual advice alongside an ongoing process? We offer that too, without disrupting the process. In this situation, we are present in the background to provide you with legal support.
- Guidance by experienced lawyer-mediator
- For divorce, parenting, and asset distribution
- Suitable for international situations
- Neutral, careful, and solution-oriented
- Clear agreements with legal validity

When Do Clients Engage Us?
Considering or Starting a Divorce
You want to separate and are looking for legal guidance, either through mediation or with your own lawyer.
Knowing where You Stand in Advance
You want to know your rights and options before making decisions.
Doubt about Previous Advice
You have doubts about the advice from your current lawyer and want a second opinion from a specialist.
Mediation and Legal Insight
You are in a mediation process but want to maintain legal insight and strategic overview.
Role Distribution in Inheritance
You are an heir, executor, or involved party seeking guidance in a complex inheritance.
Distribution or Arrangements with Multiple Layers
You seek clarity on asset distribution, care arrangements, or international aspects.
Making Well-Considered Choices
You wonder whether litigation is wise, or if negotiation or waiting is better.
Independent Sounding Board
You want to discuss scenarios with someone who thinks along with you, without escalating the conflict.
What Clients Say about our Approach
Legal matters are about more than laws and rules. Our clients choose Simmelink for the careful guidance, strategic advice, and personal attention. Read how they have experienced our collaboration.
After my father’s death, tensions arose within the family regarding the inheritance. Simmelink flawlessly found the right balance between professionalism and empathy. They not only handled the legal aspects excellently but, more importantly, brought peace to an emotionally charged situation. Their thoroughness and personal approach make them the logical choice for me in complex inheritance cases.
As an entrepreneur with assets in multiple countries, I was looking for a law firm that truly understands international divorces. Simmelink combined in-depth legal knowledge with a proactive attitude. They act quickly, communicate clearly, and always think three steps ahead. Exactly what you need when it comes to serious interests. I immediately felt that I was in good hands.
Strategic Advice and Second Opinions
Clarity. Foresight. And when Necessary: Decisiveness.
Not every situation requires legal proceedings. Sometimes there’s primarily a need for clear advice: a second opinion that opens new perspectives. Someone who thinks along, adds nuances, and strengthens your position.
At Simmelink Advocaten, we look beyond the initial answer. We provide strategic advice that does justice to your situation – combining legal, practical, and personal considerations.
Do you already have a lawyer or mediator? We can still think along with you in the background. Tactically, discreetly, and focused on strengthening your position.
And if necessary? Then we litigate thoughtfully and convincingly. With an eye for what’s at stake.
Strategic Advice
We combine legal, practical, and personal considerations. Not a standard answer, but advice that fits your situation and future.
Second Opinion on Divorce or Inheritance
A fresh, independent look at complex issues. We identify what you’re missing, without compromising your ongoing process or collaboration.
Without Litigation – or Precisely with It
Not everything needs to go through court. But when it must, we act thoughtfully and convincingly. With an eye for timing, interests, and results.
Want to Know how We Can Assist You?
Get clear advice about your situation within 24 hours
Our Attorneys at Law
At Simmelink Advocaten, you work with lawyers specialized in family law, international family law, and inheritance law. We combine legal expertise with a personal approach, understanding that each case is unique.
Your situation is central. That’s why we listen carefully, think along with you, and look for solutions that fit your needs. Our lawyers provide clear advice and guide you professionally with an eye for discretion and peace of mind.
“Our lawyers are approachable, responsive and constantly keep you informed about the progress of your case.”
Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer
Dedicated lawyers and mediators
Simmelink Advocaten specializes in family law both in the Netherlands and internationally, and Dutch inheritance law. We offer tailored legal solutions, ensuring you have peace of mind, clarity, and results.
Our lawyers and mediators are known for their strategic, discreet, and decisive approach. Through our expertise in complex legal matters, you get a solution that is fully tailored to your situation, with an eye for both your immediate and long-term interests. At Simmelink Advocaten, your interest always comes first, supported by expertise and personal guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The first 30-minute introductory consultation is completely free and without obligation. During this meeting, we discuss your situation, provide initial legal advice, and inform you about possible next steps and associated costs.
During the first meeting, we take the time to listen to your story and answer your questions. We analyze the legal aspects of your situation and give you a clear picture of your rights, obligations, and possible strategies. Our goal is to offer you clarity and confidence from the first contact.
Our rates are based on the nature and complexity of your case. During an initial consultation, we discuss your specific needs and provide a clear cost indication. We offer customized solutions and ensure transparency, so you know exactly what to expect.
Family law is an important part of civil law that deals with the legal aspects of family life, from birth to after death. Family law in the Netherlands is laid down in the Civil Code and is also influenced by international treaties such as the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
Family law covers various topics such as prenuptial agreements, divorce, alimony, retirement pension, parenting plans, name changes, child custody, division of assets and inheritance law. These matters are often accompanied by strong emotions and require a careful approach to protect both the material and immaterial interests of all involved.
At Simmelink Advocaten, we offer expert legal assistance and personal guidance in family law matters. Whether you are dealing with a divorce, alimony, or child custody, our lawyers and mediators provide tailored solutions that are fully adapted to your situation. With our specialist knowledge, we help you understand your rights and obligations and solve complex legal problems.
Discretion and confidentiality are our top priorities. We adhere to strict confidentiality protocols and use secure communication tools. Our lawyers and staff are trained in handling sensitive information, ensuring that your privacy and interests are always protected.
Yes, our lawyers have extensive experience with complex and international family cases. We have assisted clients with cross-border divorces, international inheritance issues, and high-net-worth asset divisions. Our in-depth knowledge of both national and international legislation allows us to guide you expertly.
Legal support is often necessary for divorce, alimony, parental authority, visitation arrangements, or asset division. A family law attorney offers clear advice, protects your rights, and provides peace and overview during an emotional period.
Mediation is focused on cooperation: you make agreements together under the guidance of a neutral mediator. With legal assistance, a lawyer specifically represents your interests. We offer both options and are happy to advise you on what is most appropriate in your situation.
Yes, our lawyers have extensive experience with complex and international family cases. We have assisted clients with cross-border divorces, international inheritance issues, and high-net-worth asset divisions. Our in-depth knowledge of both national and international legislation allows us to guide you expertly.
We guide you through every step: from drafting a petition to making agreements about alimony, children, pension, and assets. Even if a mediator is already involved, we offer second opinions or strategic advice in the background.
An inheritance law attorney assists with settling an estate, drafting or contesting wills, and resolving conflicts between heirs. Specialized support is often necessary for questions about statutory shares, the role of an executor, or legally accepting or rejecting an inheritance.
With beneficiary acceptance, you accept an inheritance with reservation: you are an heir, but not liable for any debts that exceed the assets. This is especially relevant when there are doubts about the deceased’s financial situation.
Our specialized inheritance law attorneys guide you in making the declaration and the further legal steps.
Yes. In disputes over an estate, it’s important that your position is well-supported. A good inheritance law attorney provides legal advice, negotiates when possible, and litigates when necessary — always with an eye on your interests and the relationship with other heirs.
Absolutely. We believe in an integrated approach and work closely with your financial advisors, accountants, and other legal professionals. Through this collaboration, we can develop a holistic strategy that optimally serves all your personal and business interests.

