Family Guardian Instructions in Tilburg
The family guardian instructions are binding directives given by a family guardian to parents during a supervisory order (OTS) in Tilburg. They ensure the safe development of the child and must be strictly followed. Non-compliance may result in sanctions, such as out-of-home placement via the District Court Zeeland-West-Brabant at Wilhelminapark 100.
Why family guardian instructions in Tilburg?
During an OTS, the juvenile court appoints a family guardian through an accredited institution, such as the Salvation Army or William Schriber in the Tilburg region. The guardian supports the family with instructions against issues such as parenting problems, addiction, or domestic violence. These are not advice, but obligations from the care plan.
These tailored instructions focus on safe parenting and stem from the Youth Act. They are regularly reviewed at hearings in the District Court Zeeland-West-Brabant.
Legal basis for family guardian instructions
Foundation in the Youth Act:
- Art. 1.3(3): Tasks of the accredited institution, including instructions.
- Art. 4.1: Care plan with measures by the family guardian.
- Art. 4.4: Parents must comply with instructions; otherwise, court measures.
- Art. 1.5: Court reviews and adjusts instructions.
When and how instructions in Tilburg?
Instructions start immediately after the OTS ruling, often at the first home visit. They are included in the signed care plan. Examples:
- Attend parent training at local agencies.
- Stop alcohol use with weekly tests.
- Ensure child's school attendance and support homework.
- Limit contact with ex-partner in cases of violence.
The family guardian monitors through visits and reports to the court. Adjustments possible in changed circumstances.
Rights and obligations regarding family guardian instructions
Obligations of parents:
- Reasonably implement instructions (art. 4.4 Youth Act).
- Cooperate with the guardian.
- Share family information.
- Consent to care plan or object to the court.
- Maintain privacy (except in child risk cases).
- Request review.
- File complaint with institution or Children's Ombudsman; in Tilburg also via Legal Aid Office Spoorlaan 364.
Non-compliance leads to a written application to the court for sanctions or out-of-home placement.
Practice examples Tilburg
Example 1: Mother with addiction: 'Weekly urine tests and AA participation.' After non-compliance: hearing at District Court Zeeland-West-Brabant, OTS extended with therapy.
Example 2: Father misses child's school: 'Daily reporting and consultation with mentor.' Upon success: instruction lifted after six months.
Example 3: Domestic violence: 'No unaccompanied contact with perpetrator.' Violation: emergency out-of-home placement.
These cases illustrate the practical, child-centered approach.
Comparison: instructions vs. voluntary assistance
| Aspect | Family Guardian Instructions (OTS) | Voluntary youth assistance |
|---|---|---|
| Binding? | Yes | No |
| Sanctions | Court enforcement | None |
| Duration | Max. 1 year, extendable | Flexible |
| Review | Juvenile court | Internal |
Frequently asked questions
Can I refuse instructions?
No, reasonable compliance is mandatory. Refusal: court involvement. First discuss with guardian or Legal Aid Office Tilburg.
Unreasonable instruction?
Written objection to guardian, submit to juvenile court at hearing. Court rules on necessity and reasonableness.