The indicative fee scales from Spanish bar associations (CGAE, ICAM, ICAB…) are reference fee tables. Since the 2009 Supreme Court ruling, lawyer fees in Spain are completely free (Art. 44 EGAE). This calculator uses those tables as a starting point to estimate a reasonable range based on procedure type, amount and complexity.
Estimate based on indicative scales from Spanish bar associations (2026). Actual fees depend on negotiation between lawyer and client. Does not constitute legal advice.
How are fees calculated?
Base fee by procedure: Each case type has an indicative minimum fee. For matters with a determined amount (civil, labor, commercial, succession) a decreasing percentage is applied with guaranteed minimums. For matters without a fixed amount (criminal, administrative, family) a flat reference fee is used.
Instance multiplier: First instance equals ×1. Appeal (Provincial Court / TSJ) multiplies by 1.5 due to higher dedication. Cassation (Supreme Court) multiplies by 2 for its exceptional complexity.
Complexity factor: Low complexity (−20%) for routine matters without litigation. Medium complexity (×1) for standard disputes. High complexity (+40%) for matters with experts, multiple parties or novel legal issues.
±20% range: The final result is presented as a ±20% range around the calculated fee, reflecting the real market variability between lawyers of different experience and geographic location.
Frequently asked questions
What is the indicative fee scale?
The indicative scale (baremo orientativo) is a fee guide published by Spanish Bar Associations (ICAM, ICAB, etc.). Since the 2009 liberalisation, it is not binding; purely indicative and used as reference for court cost taxation.
Are lawyer fees regulated by law?
No. Art. 44 EGAE (RD 135/2021) states fees are freely agreed. There is no mandatory minimum or maximum. Lawyer and client can agree on any price.
What does and does not the result include?
The result shows indicative attorney fees (excl. VAT) and the estimated total incl. VAT (21%). It does not include disbursements: court agent fees, court taxes, expert witness fees, notary or registry.
Can I use this to negotiate with my lawyer?
It is a useful starting point, but actual fees depend on the lawyer's experience, real case complexity, geographic location and the agreement between the parties. Getting multiple quotes is always recommended.
Questions about your lawyer's fees?
Lexiel explains how lawyer billing works, fee scale criteria and when you can challenge an invoice as a client.
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