Procedures
Oral civil procedure since the 2018 code
The Civil Procedure Code (Ley 9342) took effect in October 2018, replacing a written process with oral hearings, concentrated evidence and stricter time limits. Contentious-administrative claims against the state follow a separate 2006 code.
Key rules
- The ordinary process concentrates evidence into a single oral hearing wherever possible.
- Appeal lies to a Tribunal de Apelación, with a further cassation to the Sala Primera on limited grounds.
- Provisional measures are available on a showing of appearance of right and urgency.
- Monitorio procedure gives a fast route for documented money claims.
- Foreign judgments require exequátur before the Sala Primera.
Governing law
- Código Procesal Civil (Ley 9342 of 2016)In force from 8 October 2018.
- Código Procesal Contencioso-Administrativo (Ley 8508)Claims against the administration.
- Ley RAC (Ley 7727)Arbitration and mediation.
In practice
Notifications are served electronically to a registered address for service, and failure to maintain it is a frequent cause of default. Arbitration under Ley 7727 is common in construction and commercial contracts.