Solicitors / Lawyers / Abogado
The Spanish word for a Solicitor or Lawyer is "Abogado".
The services of an experienced Abogado should definitely be employed when buying property in Spain, making a Spanish Will, or defending / instigating a law suit. Abogados specialise in different types of law, so make sure you check which kind of lawyer they are before hiring one.
You can get legal aid only if your income is below double the Spanish minimum wage. If this is the case, you can apply for legal aid, however this system is complicated and you will need a lot of paperwork to prove your income and assets. If you do not qualify for legal aid, you will need to pay legal fees. The Colegio de Abogados, has a legal aid office in each Law court.
As in other countries, family lawyers /solicitors help in cases of divorce or disputes over custody of children.
An Abogados can often pay taxes and fees on your behalf. Lawyers will ask you for a lump sum of money upfront, which you will receive a receipt for. When all the transactions are complete, you will receive the original receipts for all transactions. When the invoice arrives, there will be a breakdown of all costs and the legal fee for services charged.
The Law society in Spain is called the Ilustre Colegio de Abogados. This government body sets only a minimum level of charges. Always ask your Solicitor / Lawyer for a “presupuesto” (quote) before the lawyer / solicitor starts work if you wish. If you have any problems with your abogado’s work, you can take him to the Ilustre Colegio de Abogados.
