What is the timeline of Dutch civil proceedings?

Dutch term: Tijdlijn civiele procedure | Legal basis: Rv

A typical commercial case at the Dutch District Court follows this approximate timeline: Week 0: summons (dagvaarding) is served on the defendant. Weeks 6-8: defendant files statement of defence (conclusie van antwoord). Weeks 10-16: court schedules case management hearing (comparitie na antwoord). Week 16-24: comparitie takes place; settlement is explored. If no settlement: Weeks 24-40: further written submissions (repliek/dupliek) if ordered, witness hearings or expert investigations if needed. Weeks 40-70: final hearing (if any) and judgment. Total: approximately 12 to 18 months for a standard commercial case.

For summary proceedings (kort geding): Week 0: summons is served. Weeks 2-4: hearing before the voorzieningenrechter. Weeks 4-8: provisional judgment. Total: 4 to 8 weeks. For pre-judgment attachment (conservatoir beslag): Day 0: request filed. Days 1-3: court grants leave. Days 3-5: bailiff serves attachment. Total: 1 to 5 working days.

Why it matters for international businesses

For international businesses, the Dutch litigation timeline is faster than most Western European alternatives. Summary proceedings and pre-judgment attachment provide rapid interim relief while the main case proceeds. MAAK Advocaten discusses realistic timelines and costs before any commitment.