Family Guardian Instructions in Amsterdam
The family guardian instructions are binding directives given by a family guardian to parents during a supervisory order (OTS) in Amsterdam. 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 Rechtbank Amsterdam at Parnassusweg 220.
Why Family Guardian Instructions in Amsterdam?
During an OTS, the juvenile court judge of the Rechtbank Amsterdam appoints a family guardian through certified institutions such as Leger des Heils or William Schriber. The guardian supports Amsterdam families with instructions to address issues such as parenting problems, addiction, or domestic violence. These are mandatory and linked to the care plan.
Instructions are tailored, aimed at safe parenting, and based on the Youth Act. They are evaluated during hearings at the Rechtbank Amsterdam.
Legal Basis
Foundation in the Youth Act:
- Art. 1.3(3): Duties of certified institution, including instructions.
- Art. 4.1: Care plan with measures.
- Art. 4.4: Parents' obligation; failure leads to judicial intervention.
- Art. 1.5: Review and amendment by juvenile court judge.
When and How in Amsterdam?
Instructions commence immediately after the OTS ruling, often at the first home visit. They are included in the signed care plan. Examples:
- Attend parent training with Amsterdam providers.
- Stop alcohol use with weekly tests.
- Ensure child's school attendance and supervise homework.
- Limit contact with ex-partner in cases of violence.
The guardian monitors compliance through visits, conversations, and reports to Rechtbank Amsterdam. Adjustments are possible in changed circumstances.
Rights and Obligations
Obligations of parents:
- Follow reasonably (art. 4.4 Youth Act).
- Cooperate with guardian.
- Share family information.
- Consent/object to care plan with the court.
- Privacy except in child risk situations.
- Request review.
- Complaint with institution, Children's Ombudsman, or Juridisch Loket Amsterdam, Vijzelstraat 77.
Non-compliance: written application to court for sanctions or out-of-home placement.
Practical Examples Amsterdam
Example 1: Mother with alcohol problem: 'Weekly urine tests and AA participation.' After non-compliance: hearing at Rechtbank Amsterdam extends OTS with treatment.
Example 2: Father ignores school: 'Daily reporting and mentor consultation.' Compliance leads to termination after six months.
Example 3: Domestic violence: 'No unsupervised contact.' Leads to crisis out-of-home placement.
Examples illustrate child-centered approach in Amsterdam.
Comparison: Instructions vs. Voluntary Help
| Aspect | Family Guardian Instructions (OTS) | Voluntary Youth Care |
|---|---|---|
| Binding? | Yes | No |
| Sanctions | Judicial | None |
| Duration | Max. 1 year, extendable | As needed |
| Review | Rechtbank Amsterdam | Internal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I refuse?
No, follow reasonably. Refusal: guardian involves court. Discuss objections first. Help via Juridisch Loket Amsterdam.
Unreasonable instruction?
Written objection to guardian, submit to juvenile court judge Rechtbank Amsterdam. Court assesses necessity.