When Is a Lawyer Mandatory?
In Spain, legal assistance is mandatory in most court proceedings. However, there are important exceptions.
You don't need a lawyer for:
- Verbal proceedings under 2,000 euros
- Minor offense trials (minor crimes)
- Initial petition of payment order proceedings
- Consumer arbitration board claims
- Prior labor conciliation (SMAC)
You do need a lawyer for:
- Any civil proceeding over 2,000 euros
- Criminal proceedings (except minor offenses)
- Appeal and cassation appeals
- Administrative litigation proceedings
- Mortgage foreclosures
When is it recommended even if not mandatory?
- If the other party has a lawyer (procedural disadvantage)
- If the matter is complex even if low value
- If there's a risk of setting a precedent that affects you
- If you need to negotiate an out-of-court settlement
Free legal aid
If your income doesn't exceed twice the IPREM (approx. 1,200 euros/month in 2026), you can request a free court-appointed lawyer.