Betekenen

Service of process constitutes an essential step in Dutch civil procedural law. It ensures that a party is formally notified of proceedings or a claim, enabling it to respond appropriately and exercise its rights.

Without valid service, proceedings cannot lawfully be commenced, and the claimant risks subsequent annulment of judgments on procedural grounds. The bailiff prepares a certificate of service as evidence of due execution.

In practice, service is frequently required in debt collection matters, divorce proceedings and employment disputes, with the associated costs borne by the claimant.