Mediation in Divorce and Family Matters — to Sustainable Agreements in Peace and Consultation

Guided by attorney-mediators — legally sound and enforceable. We work fluently in Dutch and English.
Guided by attorney-mediators - legally sound and enforceable
Peace and clarity in complex situations
Clear, legally valid agreements that stand the test of time
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Heldere, juridisch geldige afspraken die standhouden • Online mogelijk • ma–vr 09:00–17:00

In brief

Mediation at Simmelink Advocaten

Mediation offers a safe environment to start talking again.
We guide clients in divorce and family matters with attention to peace, consultation and sustainable agreements.

Our attorney-mediators at Simmelink Advocaten in Maarssen guide you step-by-step to agreements that are legally sound and practically enforceable.
You retain control, avoid unnecessary costs and gain clear direction in an emotional process.

Schedule an appointment

Without obligation. Your situation will be treated with discretion.

“Result: peace, clarity and sustainable agreements.”

What is Mediation in Divorce or Family Matters?

Mediation is facilitated consultation in which you make agreements together, with an independent mediator who ensures structure and legal clarity.

Instead of litigating, you work together to find agreements on divorce, parenthood, alimony or inheritance.
The mediator helps translate emotions into workable agreements and safeguards balance and clarity.

Why Do Clients Choose our Attorney-Mediators?

At Simmelink Advocaten, you work with experienced attorney-mediators who understand both the legal and human aspects.
We combine mediation techniques with in-depth knowledge of family law. This creates solutions that stand the test of time — today and in five years.

Non-suitable disclaimer
Mediation is not suitable in situations where consultation is impossible or unsafe – in those cases, we advise on alternatives, such as legal assistance or a second opinion.

Our attorney-mediators work according to the rules of conduct of the Netherlands Bar Association

What are the Step-By-Step Stages of a Mediation Process?

  1. Introduction – goals, expectations and process at our office in Maarssen or via video calling.
  2. Inventory – facts, interests and agreements.
  3. Consultation – discussing options and scenarios.
  4. Recording – documenting agreements in a legally correct manner.
  5. Completion – compliance and possible court request.
    Signing and possible ratification by the court.

This way you always know what the next step is — and you maintain control over the progress.

When is Mediation the Right Choice?

Choose mediation if you want to make agreements together without legal battle.
Suitable for:

  • divorce or dissolution of partnership,
  • contact or custody disputes,
  • alimony issues,
  • inheritance disputes,
  • adjustment of existing regulations (aftercare phase).

Mediation often delivers faster, cheaper and more sustainable results than litigation.

What are the Benefits of Mediation at Simmelink?

  • Faster & cost-saving – less time and lower costs than a lawsuit.
  • Control in your own hands – you decide together, not the judge.
  • Sustainable agreements – greater chance of compliance and peace.
  • Legal certainty – control by attorney-mediators.
  • Discretion & customization – conversations in a safe, confidential setting.
  • Restoration of communication – mediation helps to talk to each other constructively again, even in case of tension or anger.
  • Preservation of relationships – especially for parents, mediation helps to be able to continue together as educators.

The result: agreements that are legally correct, practically enforceable and bring peace to the cooperation after the divorce.

What Clients Say about our Approach

Legal issues are about more than just laws and regulations. Our clients choose Simmelink for its careful guidance, strategic advice and personal attention. Clarity and peace in (international) divorces.

Thanks to Simmelink, we made fair agreements in a short time — without a fight, with peace for ourselves and the children.

Client divorce mediation (2024)

Fast, expert and with understanding for both sides.

Client from Amsterdam (2025)

What is the Difference between a Mediator, Attorney-Mediator and Attorney?

CharacteristicMediatorAttorney-mediatorAttorney at Law
RoleMediates between partiesMediates and guarantees legal validityRepresents one party
Legal knowledgeLimitedFamily law specialistFamily law specialist
NeutralityYesYesNo
LitigationNoCan advise on next stepYes
CostsLowEfficient due to correct knowledgeHigher due to process costs
Suitable forConsultation in good understandingConsultation with legal certaintyWhen consultation is not possible

The right approach depends on your situation. We think along about what yields peace, feasibility and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we supervise processes in Dutch and English.

We monitor jurisdiction and applicable law and ensure cross-border enforceable agreements.

Mediation prevents legal battles. The mediator guides the consultation, so that agreements on housing, finances and children are made in peace and are legally recorded correctly.

The costs depend on the number of sessions. During the intake, we provide a clear estimate and, if desired, a fixed-fee option. Mediation is almost always more economical than a procedure.

On average 4 to 8 weeks, depending on complexity and agendas. The conversations last 1.5 to 2 hours each time.

Yes. The agreements are laid down in a settlement agreement or (covenant and parenting plan in case of divorce) and can be ratified by the court.

Yes. Our attorneys have experience with cross-border family law and monitor choice of law and enforcement abroad.

Then we discuss alternatives. We provide clear scenarios and opportunities, so that you decide with confidence.

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Please contact us

We are available from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, at the phone number +31 (0)30 – 3078732.

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  • Response within 1 business day
  • An initial consultation is non-binding