What is a third-party seizure (derdenbeslag) under Dutch law?

Dutch term: Derdenbeslag | Legal basis: Articles 475 e.v. Rv

A third-party seizure (derdenbeslag) under articles 475 and following of the Dutch Code of Civil Procedure is an attachment served on a third party who holds assets or owes money to the debtor. The most common example is a bank seizure: the attachment is served on the debtor's bank, which then freezes the debtor's account to the extent of the attached amount.

The third party (derde-beslagene) must file a declaration specifying what it holds or owes to the debtor. If the third party fails to file, it can be held personally liable for the full amount of the creditor's claim. Derdenbeslag can target bank accounts, trade receivables from customers, insurance claims, and any other monetary obligation owed by a third party to the debtor.

Why it matters for international businesses

For commercial creditors, third-party seizure on bank accounts is often the most effective enforcement step because it immediately affects the debtor's liquidity and forces a commercial resolution.