legal costs. Additionally, you may qualify for subsidised legal assistance (“toevoeging”) through the Legal Aid Board. In that case, you only pay a personal contribution depending on your income—only €188 for the lowest incomes.
At Arslan Advocaten, we always assess whether you qualify for a “toevoeging.” We believe everyone has a right to legal assistance, regardless of income.
Why Choose Arslan & Arslan Advocaten?
Our lawyers have years of experience with UWV procedures. We litigate daily against the UWV on objections, appeals and higher appeals. We cooperate with independent medical advisors and labour experts to strengthen your case as much as possible.
With offices in Rotterdam, Amsterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, Eindhoven, and Tilburg, we are always nearby. Contact us today for a free consultation without obligation.
Understanding the Appeals Procedure in Detail
When your objection to the UWV decision is rejected, it is crucial to understand the next step: appealing to the administrative court. This appeal is a formal legal process where the court reviews the UWV’s decision and the way it was made. You must file the appeal within six weeks of receiving the rejection of your objection. Failure to meet this deadline usually results in losing the right to challenge the decision further.
The appeal document should clearly state why you believe the UWV’s decision is incorrect. This involves presenting arguments and evidence that show errors in the UWV’s assessment or procedural mistakes. The court examines whether the UWV followed the law correctly, adequately considered all medical and other relevant evidence, and provided a clear explanation for its decision.
During the appeal, you have the right to receive a copy of all files the UWV used to make its decision. You can also request the appointment of independent experts, such as medical specialists or labour experts, who will provide an impartial assessment to assist the court. This expert evidence often plays a decisive role in social security cases.
It is essential to work with a lawyer who understands the administrative court process and how to gather and present evidence effectively. The court’s decision can take several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s workload.
What Happens After the Court Decision?
Once the administrative court gives its verdict, there are several possible outcomes. The court can fully uphold your appeal, in which case the UWV decision will be annulled or changed in your favour. Alternatively, the court might partially uphold your appeal, leading to a modification of the decision, or reject the appeal completely, confirming the UWV’s original ruling.
If the court rejects your appeal, you still have the option to file a further appeal with the Centrale Raad van Beroep (CRvB), the highest administrative court for social security matters. The CRvB reviews whether the lower court applied the law correctly but generally does not re-examine the facts.
This final appeal must be lodged within six weeks of the administrative court’s decision. It is a more complex and formal procedure, making it even more important to have expert legal representation. The CRvB can confirm, change, or annul the previous court’s decision and may send the case back for reconsideration if necessary.
How to Prepare for Your UWV Hearing and Appeal
Preparation is key to increasing your chances of success when challenging a UWV decision. If you are invited to a hearing during the objection phase, it is vital to come well-prepared. Gather all relevant documents, such as medical reports, employer statements, and any correspondence with the UWV. Make notes about your health condition, work limitations, and how your illness or disability affects your daily life and ability to work.
During the hearing, clearly and calmly explain your situation. Be honest and provide additional information that may not have been included in your written objection. The hearing is your chance to influence the decision-makers directly.
If you decide to proceed with an appeal, your lawyer will help you compile a strong case file. This often includes obtaining independent medical examinations, labour capacity reports, and legal arguments tailored to the circumstances of your case. Your lawyer will also handle all procedural requirements, ensuring the appeal is submitted correctly and on time.
Remember that the UWV and courts value well-documented cases supported by expert opinions. Taking the time to prepare thoroughly can significantly affect the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do I have to file an objection?
Usually 6 weeks after the decision date. Sometimes a shorter term of 2 weeks applies. Always check the letter from the UWV.
Do I have to pay legal fees for UWV cases?
If the objection is well-founded, the UWV reimburses your costs. Also, you may qualify for subsidised legal assistance (“toevoeging”), where you only pay a small personal contribution.
Can I file an objection myself without a lawyer?
Yes, but a specialised lawyer significantly increases your chances. UWV cases are complex and require knowledge of medical assessments, labour expert reports, and administrative law procedures.
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