Criminal law · Spain
Your criminal lawyer in Spain when the stakes are high
Facing criminal proceedings in Spain can be overwhelming. We match you with a Spanish defence lawyer who understands the Criminal Procedure Act, the Investigating Courts and the Provincial Courts, so you can make informed decisions.
- Free matching with a Spanish criminal defence lawyer
- Verified Bar Association members across Spain
- First response from a matched lawyer in 24–48 hours
No cost to be connected. You choose whether to proceed with the lawyer.
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Why a local criminal lawyer matters
Criminal defence in Spain is built on the Criminal Procedure Act
When you face criminal allegations in Spain, the process is governed by the Criminal Procedure Act and handled by Investigating Courts and Criminal Courts. A criminal lawyer in Spain can help you understand the charges, attend police interviews and court hearings with you, and build a defence strategy. Because criminal procedure in Spain is different from common-law systems, having local guidance is essential. The lawyer must be a member of a Spanish Colegio de la Abogacía, and legal assistance is constitutionally guaranteed. We match you with a defence lawyer who handles your type of case and can explain every step, from the first court appearance to any appeal before the Provincial Courts or the Supreme Court. You are not expected to face this alone.
Spain specifics
How criminal defence works in Spain
Spanish criminal procedure follows the continental tradition, with Investigating Courts and Criminal Courts at first instance. Below you will find the essential rules on who may represent you, what courts handle the case and how costs and legal aid work. The table also lists key deadlines from other areas of Spanish law that sometimes intersect with criminal matters.
Criminal court structure
First-instance criminal cases are heard by the Investigating Courts (Juzgados de Instrucción) and Criminal Courts (Juzgados de lo Penal). Appeals against first-instance criminal judgments are heard by the Provincial Courts (Audiencias Provinciales), while cassation lies with the Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court. Certain serious crimes affecting the whole of Spain fall under the Audiencia Nacional.
Who may act as your criminal lawyer in Spain
Only a lawyer who is a member of a Spanish Colegio de la Abogacía may practise. To qualify, the person must hold a law degree, complete the specialised access training and pass the state aptitude examination. In criminal proceedings the defendant must be assisted by a lawyer, and legal assistance is constitutionally guaranteed.
Costs of criminal defence
The criminal order is not subject to the court fee (tasa judicial). Lawyers’ fees are freely agreed between the client and the lawyer, and bar associations publish non-binding guideline criteria. A losing party may be ordered to pay the other party’s costs; in declaratory proceedings a cap of one third of the amount in dispute applies.
Free legal aid in criminal matters
Free legal aid (asistencia jurídica gratuita) guarantees access to a lawyer, procurador and experts for persons lacking sufficient means. The right is recognised where gross annual household income does not exceed a threshold linked to the IPREM indicator, generally twice the IPREM, with higher limits for dependent family members. Applications are filed with the Bar Association of the competent court.
Regional languages and your right to understand
Spanish lawyers must know Spanish and, where applicable, the co-official regional language of the territory where they practise. If your case is in Catalonia, the Basque Country or Galicia, this can be relevant. Your matched lawyer can explain how language applies to your proceedings.
This page draws on official sources from Spanish authorities and the European e-Justice portal, retrieved in March 2025.
Common worries
Facing criminal proceedings in Spain can feel isolating
You may not know the language, the procedure or whom to trust. We help you take the first step with a verified defence lawyer.
You do not know how Spanish criminal courts work
The Investigating Courts, Criminal Courts and Provincial Courts follow a different procedure from what you may be used to. Your lawyer can guide you through each stage.
Language and distance make every step harder
Police interviews, court summons and official letters arrive in Spanish or a regional co-official language. A local lawyer can explain each document and be present for you.
You are worried about costs and legal aid
Lawyers’ fees in Spain are freely agreed, and the criminal order is not subject to the court fee. Free legal aid may be available if you meet the income thresholds.
Why use our matching service
A calmer way to find your criminal lawyer in Spain
We focus on the problem you need solved and match you with a qualified Spanish defence lawyer at no cost.
Free, no-obligation matching
Tell us about your case and we introduce you to a criminal lawyer in Spain who handles your type of matter. You pay nothing to be matched.
Verified Spanish Bar Association members
Every lawyer we suggest is a member of a Spanish Colegio de la Abogacía and holds the compulsory professional title, so you know they are authorised to practise.
Quick first response
Our network aims to connect you with a lawyer within 24 to 48 hours, so you can start getting legal guidance instead of waiting and worrying.
Clear communication in your language
We help you explain your situation and understand the lawyer’s advice, even when the proceedings are in Spanish or a co-official language.
Related jurisdictions
We also help in other European countries
If your case involves cross-border elements or you need support in another jurisdiction, our platform covers these countries. Each page provides country-specific guidance and matching.
Questions clients ask
Criminal lawyer in Spain: FAQs
Do I have the right to a lawyer when arrested in Spain?
Yes. In criminal proceedings in Spain the defendant must be assisted by a lawyer, and legal assistance is constitutionally guaranteed. If you do not choose a lawyer, a duty lawyer can be appointed. We can match you with a private criminal lawyer in Spain for ongoing representation.
What courts handle criminal cases in Spain?
First-instance criminal cases are heard by Investigating Courts and Criminal Courts. Appeals are heard by Provincial Courts, and cassation lies with the Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court. Serious crimes affecting the whole of Spain may fall under the Audiencia Nacional.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Spain?
Lawyers’ fees are freely agreed between you and the lawyer, so costs vary. The criminal order is not subject to the court fee. Free legal aid may be available if your household income is below the IPREM-linked thresholds. Ask for a clear fee agreement.
Can I get free legal aid for a criminal case in Spain?
Yes, free legal aid covers access to a lawyer, procurador and experts. Eligibility depends on gross annual household income, generally not exceeding twice the IPREM, with higher limits for dependants. Applications are filed with the Bar Association of the competent court.
Do I need to speak Spanish to work with a Spanish criminal lawyer?
Spanish lawyers must know Spanish and, where applicable, the co-official regional language. Confirm with your matched lawyer how communication will work in your language before you proceed.
What should I do if I receive a court summons in Spain?
Contact a criminal lawyer immediately. In Spain, criminal proceedings require lawyer assistance, and missing a hearing can have serious consequences. Your lawyer can check the court, the charges and the next steps, and attend with you.
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