The decision to divorce can sometimes be difficult, but for expats divorce is also often complicated.
In addition to decisions about family, alimony, property and assets, you may need to consider future residence rights, international pensions, and travel arrangements. Even deciding in which country to file for divorce is not straightforward because of applicable law and competence. The good news is that if you are living in the Netherlands, you can probably apply for a divorce through the Dutch courts, and it is easier and faster to get divorced here than in many other countries. We will find out for you which law is applicable.
GMW lawyers has a team of experts who can assist you in English with even the most complex divorce. We have worked with expats for 30 years, and have the experience and knowledge to help you achieve the best possible solution.
Our divorce lawyers can mediate, litigate and advise you on all aspects of divorce, from the division of matrimonial property to partner alimony, child maintenance, custody and parenting plans.
Ask our experts a question about divorce law.
If you and your spouse can agree together the terms of your divorce, division of property, alimony and any special arrangements, such as for the children, then you can apply for a joint divorce. This is the fastest way to get divorced. Our lawyers can assist in your joint divorce by ensuring all agreements are legally valid, offering legal advice and representing you (both) in court.
If you and your spouse do not agree on getting divorced, or if you cannot agree on the terms of your divorce (division of property, partner alimony, child maintenance, custody, etc.), you can still file an individual petition for divorce. Our lawyers will help you file for divorce, advise you on how to get the best possible deal, and represent you in court. They can also represent you during negotiations with your spouse (or their lawyer) in order reach agreements on the necessary topics.
If you and your spouse wish to achieve an amicable divorce but you cannot agree on the terms, we can assist you with divorce mediation. We have specialised divorce lawyer-mediators who use the Harvard method to help you find a solution through confidential discussion. Within mediation, it is not a disadvantage to share the same lawyer-mediator, as they will give fair and equal care to both parties’ needs. An advantage to hiring a lawyer-mediator is that you do not have to engage a separate lawyer to represent you in court; the lawyer-mediator can represent both parties too.
Are you thinking of getting divorced? Would you like expert advice? Fill in the form or call us on 070-3615048
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"Lise-Milou Lagerwerf provided invaluable guidance throughout my divorce proceedings. She was always prompt with her responses and provided clear advice on all my options. Her assistance made an unpleasant situation much more bearable. I feel confident that we came to the best agreement possible due to her expertise and support."
Google review
Family law
"Even though you'd rather not have to do it, we contacted GMW lawyers to a dispute regarding alimony. This is handled very professionally, neatly and respectfully by, initially Mr. Ryanne van Manen and then Mr. Dylan Bertsch. Very pleasant contact and will certainly recommend GMW lawyers."
Google review
Family law
“My experience with GMW lawyers has been excellent. Mr. Thijs Sarneel was my lawyer in a highly difficult, complex and international case. He is creative, hardworking and effective. He communicates clearly and diplomatically, also with the counter-party. Mr. Sarneel managed to win the confidence of our counter-party, which I experienced as exceptionally strong. It highly facilitated the complex negotiations and I am thankful for that.”
Online review
Family law
"GMW Advocaten has provided me with excellent assistance with a family law issue. Smooth response, no-nonsense attitude, proactive communication. Recommended!"
Google review
Family law
26 August 2026
Divorce Day
On Friday 11 September 2026, it will be Divorce Day. This day was established by the Association of Family and Inheritance Lawyers Divorce Mediators (vFAS). On Divorce Day, you can visit us for free personal advice.
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How is maintenance for young adults determined in divorce proceedings?
How exactly are maintenance contributions for young adults determined in divorce proceedings? The Dutch Supreme Court provided clarification on this issue.
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Upon divorce or separation, the home may be allocated to either party. This is particularly the case where the property is jointly owned and the home is not sold.
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Just like drawing up a will, in many countries it is normal to contact a lawyer (or solicitor) to draw up a prenuptial agreement.
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The business in the event of divorce with a prenuptial agreement including a periodic set-off clause that has not been implemented
What about the set-off of the business’s value? In this article, we’ll explain various situations.
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How should unequal contributions to a jointly owned pre-marital home be handled in the event of divorce?
On 21 March 2025, the Dutch Supreme Court clarified how unequal financial contributions to a home purchased jointly before marriage should be treated. Before the marriage, one partner may have a claim against the other because they contributed more to the purchase price. But what happens when the couple later marries under the regime of the limited community of property?
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Waiving spousal maintenance by email: is that possible?
Can someone waive spousal maintenance through a simple email? This exact question arose in proceedings before the Rotterdam District Court. The case demonstrates that changes to maintenance arrangements must be handled with care.
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How can you prevent an inheritance from ending up with your child’s partner?
When drawing up a will, consideration is given to how the inheritance will be distributed. This is recorded in the will. A possible wish is to ensure that your future inheritance does not end up with your child’s partner.
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