A legal framework determining where children live and how parenting time is divided between separated or divorced parents.
A child custody arrangement in Belgium is a legal agreement or court order that establishes where children will live and how parenting responsibilities are shared between separated or divorced parents. The arrangement covers both physical custody (where the child lives) and legal custody (decision-making authority).
Belgian family law prioritizes the child's best interests, often favoring joint custody arrangements where both parents maintain active roles. Common arrangements include alternating weeks, the 2-2-3 schedule, or primary residence with one parent and regular visitation with the other.
The arrangement must address practical matters like school enrollment, healthcare decisions, holiday schedules, and financial support. Parents can negotiate these terms through mediation or have a family court judge make the determination if they cannot agree.
Factors considered include each parent's living situation, work schedule, the child's age and preferences, and the parents' ability to cooperate. The goal is creating stability while maintaining meaningful relationships with both parents.
Laure Vervaeke at Advantius emphasizes that well-structured custody arrangements reduce conflict and provide children with predictability during a challenging transition.
For personalized guidance, consult a Family Law specialist on TinRate.
The following Family Law experts on TinRate Wiki can help with this topic:
| Expert | Role | Company | Country | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Dewit | Advocaat | Adverit legal | Belgium | EUR 180/hr |
| Elke Simon | Advocaat | Advocatenkantoor Kris Wellekens (Advocaat-bemiddelaar.gent) | Belgium | EUR 190/hr |
| Eva Hoedemakers | Advocaat | Faro Advocaten | Netherlands | EUR 150/hr |
| Evi Van den Perre | Advocaat | Advocatenkantoor Evi Van den Perre | Belgium | EUR 150/hr |
| John Thoen | Advocaat | Maatadvocaten | Netherlands | EUR 150/hr |
| Josie Gijbels | Advocaat familierecht en familiaal vermogensrecht | Josie Gijbels Advocaat | Belgium | EUR 130/hr |
| Katleen Veirman | advocaat | advocatenkantoor Veirman Katleen | Belgium | EUR 135/hr |
| Laure Vervaeke | Advocaat - Lawyer | Advantius | Belgium | EUR 80/hr |
| Mathias Hackert | Advocaat/avocat/lawyer | Advocaten Hackert | Belgium | EUR 100/hr |
| Philippe De Munck | Advocaat | Demulex Advocaten | Belgium | EUR 200/hr |