Procedures
The 2000 Civil Procedure Act with oral hearings and a fast payment route
The Civil Procedure Act of 2000 modernised litigation around oral hearings and concentrated evidence. Ordinary and simplified oral proceedings are distinguished by value and subject matter, and a monitory process handles documented debts.
Key rules
- The proceso monitorio gives a quick enforceable title for documented unpaid debts.
- Claims above the statutory threshold follow the ordinary procedure with a preliminary hearing.
- Cassation to the Supreme Court is limited to points of law of general interest.
Governing law
- Civil Procedure Act (Ley de Enjuiciamiento Civil) (Act 1/2000)
In practice
Representation by both an abogado and a procurador is required in most proceedings, and electronic filing through LexNET is standard.