Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Puerto del Rosario

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Puerto del Rosario, Spain

Founded in 2015
English
ABOGADOS FUERTEVENTURA NOEMÍ MOLINERO is led by Noemí Molinero Payueta, a lawyer licensed in law by the University of Deusto with more than 25 years of professional experience. The practice operates across two locations, at Cuchillería, 15 - 1º B, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and at C/ Secundino Alonso 84,...
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Spain Divorce & Separation Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 1 legal question about Divorce & Separation in Spain and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

divorce
Divorce & Separation Family
I was not in Spain and my ex-wife lied to me in court without my presence, explaining the reason for my marriage, and got a divorce decree and took my child. Is there anything that can be done? I just found out that 2 years have passed since the decree.
Lawyer answer by SJ Law Experts

Thank you.

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1. About Divorce & Separation Law in Puerto del Rosario, Spain

Divorce in Puerto del Rosario, located on Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, follows national Spanish family law. The two main routes are divorce by mutual agreement and contested divorce. In mutual consent cases, spouses file a joint petition with a convenio regulador that sets out custody, visitation, child support and property division.

Contested divorce occurs when one party seeks dissolution and the court decides on issues such as custody, alimony and the division of assets. Residents of Puerto del Rosario also navigate how separation of property or community property is applied to assets acquired during the marriage. The process is handled by the Spanish court system with guidance from local judicial offices.

Family law matters in Puerto del Rosario benefit from national rules but can be influenced by local administration and court availability. For practical guidance, many residents consult a solicitor or attorney specializing in divorce to prepare documents, negotiate terms and manage filings. Official sources provide detailed explanations of procedural steps and forms used in the Canary Islands and across Spain. Ministerio de Justicia provides general guidance on divorce procedures in Spain, including mutual and contested routes.

Source: Spain's national justice system emphasizes timely, transparent processes for family matters, with guidance available from the national Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Divorce and separation involve complex legal topics that can affect your future financial arrangements and parenting responsibilities. In Puerto del Rosario, a lawyer helps you navigate both the process and the substantive outcomes.

Example 1: You need a formal convenio regulador for a mutual consent divorce - You and your spouse agree on child custody, visitation, child support and asset division, but you want a legally binding agreement drafted and filed with the court. A solicitor ensures all terms are enforceable and consistent with Spanish law.

Example 2: You are contesting custody or access arrangements - If your spouse seeks arrangements you believe are unsafe or unsuitable for your child, an attorney can present evidence, prepare a custody plan and advocate for your interests in court.

Example 3: You own property on Canary Islands real estate - Property division can involve a detailed inventory of assets and how they are valued, especially when assets are located in different islands or abroad. A lawyer coordinates valuation, division and any transfer of title.

Example 4: One parent plans a relocation or long-term travel with the child - If you anticipate moving to another island or country, a lawyer can assess how relocation affects custody, access and child support obligations under local rules.

Example 5: You want to address child support or spousal maintenance - A legal professional calculates appropriate maintenance based on income, needs, and the Child Support Guidelines, and ensures a binding order is entered if applicable.

Example 6: You need to correct or amend a previously signed convenio regulador - If circumstances change, such as income or custody needs, a lawyer can help modify the agreement through the court or by notarized agreement under the right procedure.

Consulting a lawyer in Puerto del Rosario helps ensure that deadlines, filings and documentation comply with Spanish law and local court practices. For official guidance on divorce procedures, see the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary for procedural details. Poder Judicial and Ministerio de Justicia provide authoritative information on filing steps, court timelines and related forms.

3. Local Laws Overview

Divorce and separation are governed primarily by national laws in Spain, applied across the Canary Islands including Puerto del Rosario. The key statutes that shape divorce and related family matters are:

  • Código Civil - Governs marriage formation, matrimonial regimes, and dissolution, including aspects of property division and spousal rights. This is the primary civil code used across Spain and is periodically updated by parliamentary reforms.
  • Ley de Enjuiciamiento Civil - Establishes the procedural framework for civil cases, including divorces, petitions, summons, evidence, and appeals. Reference to the law is through the official publication in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE).
  • Ley 15/2015, de 2 de julio, de Jurisdicción Voluntaria - Regulates non contentious civil matters and some non litigated family procedures. This law affects how certain amicable divorce procedures can be conducted, including notarial and registry actions when there is no dispute or minor children in some cases.

Recent trends in Spain emphasize clearer, faster routes for mutual consent divorces and a focus on safeguarding children’s best interests. For procedural details, the BOE publishes the official text of these laws, and the judiciary provides guidance on how these rules are applied in practice. BOE and Poder Judicial are authoritative resources for the exact articles and procedural steps.

Note: In the Canary Islands, court locations and local administrative practices can influence the process timeline and required documentation. Official guidance is available from the regional government and national bodies.

For region-specific information, you can also consult the Canary Islands government portals. Gobierno de Canarias provides context on regional administration and can help identify local judicial offices and services.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between divorce by mutual consent and contested divorce?

Mutual consent divorce uses a jointly filed convenio regulador, while contested divorce involves one party requesting the court to decide terms. Mutual consent is typically faster if there are no disputes.

How do I start a divorce in Puerto del Rosario?

You file a petition at the local court or through your solicitor who handles civil matters for family law. A convenio regulador is attached if you are seeking mutual consent.

What is a convenio regulador and why is it important?

The convenio regulador is a legally binding agreement that details child custody, visitation, child support, and asset division. It guides the court’s final order.

What documents are usually required to file for divorce?

Common documents include a marriage certificate, birth certificates of children, proof of income, tax declarations, and any property titles or loan documents. Your attorney will provide a complete list.

How long does a typical mutual consent divorce take in Spain?

With no minor children and no disputes, it can take 1 to 3 months from filing to final resolution. Contested divorces generally take longer, typically several months to over a year.

Do I need a lawyer for a divorce in Puerto del Rosario?

While not legally mandatory in all cases, hiring a lawyer helps ensure correct filings, enforceable agreements and proper representation in court.

Can I modify a custody or child support order after a divorce?

Yes. Either the convenio regulador or a court order can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances in the best interests of the child.

What is the cost range for a divorce case in Puerto del Rosario?

Costs vary by complexity, attorney rates, and whether the divorce is contested. Budget for attorney fees, court fees, and potential expert evaluations if needed.

Is relocation of a parent with the child possible after divorce?

Relocation is possible but subject to court review. The court weighs the child’s best interests, stability, and access with the other parent.

What evidence helps strengthen a custody case?

Evidence may include school records, healthcare records, communication logs, and a detailed plan showing the child’s routine and support network.

Do I qualify for a no-fault divorce or automatic grounds?

Spain generally allows divorce on no-fault grounds, focusing on the dissolution of the marriage and arrangements for children and property rather than fault-based claims.

5. Additional Resources

  • Ministerio de Justicia - National guidance on divorce procedures, forms, and rights for spouses and children across Spain. mjusticia.gob.es
  • Poder Judicial - Official portal of the Spanish judiciary with case information, court locations, and procedural guidance for family law matters. poderjudicial.es
  • Gobierno de Canarias - Regional information for the Canary Islands, including judicial offices and local family law resources. gobiernodecanarias.org

6. Next Steps

  1. Clarify your goal: mutual consent divorce or contested divorce. Note whether there are minor children or property concerns.
  2. Gather essential documents: marriage certificate, birth certificates for children, financial records, and property titles if applicable.
  3. Identify potential lawyers in Puerto del Rosario who specialize in family law and offer consultations. Contact the local bar association for referrals if needed.
  4. Schedule consultations with 2-3 lawyers to discuss your case, fees, and strategy. Bring your documents and a list of questions.
  5. Ask for a written engagement agreement and a clear fee structure, including retainer, hourly rates, and potential extra costs.
  6. Choose a lawyer based on experience, communication style, and compatibility with your goals. Confirm the timeline they estimate for your case.
  7. Prepare a draft convenio regulador if pursuing mutual consent. Have your lawyer review and finalize it before filing.

For reliable, official information during your planning, consult resources from the government and judiciary. The Ministry of Justice and the Poder Judicial provide foundational guidance on divorce procedures and filings. Ministerio de Justicia | Poder Judicial.

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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.