In Tilburg, the parental maintenance obligation ends automatically at the age of 21, but local young adults must be aware of the exceptions. Article 1:395a DCC provides for continuation in cases of study delay at institutions such as Tilburg University or Avans University of Applied Sciences, or other circumstances in the region.
Automatic Lapse in Tilburg
Without intervention by the District Court of Zeeland-West-Brabant in Tilburg, the obligation ceases precisely on the 21st birthday. Parents from the municipality of Tilburg no longer need to contribute, unless an ongoing court decision provides otherwise.
Exceptions in Tilburg Practice
In cases of illness, disability or unforeseen study delay – think of delays due to local events or corona impact on Brabant campuses – the court may extend the obligation. In shared parenting situations, which are common in Tilburg, this applies equally to both parents. The court in Tilburg frequently handles these cases with attention to regional study loads.
Transition to Partner Maintenance
After 21 years, a young adult in Tilburg may claim partner maintenance when cohabiting with a studying partner, for example in shared accommodation in the Het Zand neighbourhood. This requires a petition with proof of joint need, filed with the local court.
Local practice: In a recent case at the District Court of Zeeland-West-Brabant, the judge extended the parental contribution until age 23 due to corona-related delay at Avans, with €350 monthly adjusted to Tilburg cost of living. Advice: promptly submit disputes to the cantonal judge in Tilburg to secure payments and use local legal assistance via the Juridisch Loket in the Spoorzone.