Valencia attracts thousands of foreign residents, retirees, investors, and digital nomads — but legal disputes are sometimes part of the experience. Whether it’s a problem with a property purchase, an inheritance issue, or an unpaid contract, understanding how litigation in Valencia works is key for defending your rights.
This article explains the civil litigation process for foreigners and outlines the most common types of disputes resolved in Valencia’s courts.
⚖️ 1. Why Foreigners File Legal Claims in Valencia
Foreign clients often find themselves in court due to:
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🏠 Real estate problems (delays, defects, contract breaches)
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🧾 Rental or deposit disputes
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👪 Inheritance conflicts involving property or assets in Spain
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💼 Breach of service or business agreements
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💰 Debt recovery against Spanish individuals or companies
📌 These issues typically fall under civil litigation — and can be resolved through the local courts, even if you are based abroad.
🏛️ 2. Which Courts Handle Civil Disputes in Valencia?
Valencia’s main venues include:
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Juzgados de Primera Instancia de Valencia – civil claims (property, inheritance, contracts)
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Juzgados de lo Mercantil – commercial and company-related litigation
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Administrative courts – for disputes with local government (e.g. permits or zoning)
💡 Your case will be assigned based on subject matter and the parties involved — your lawyer will ensure proper jurisdiction.
📑 3. What Kind of Evidence Do You Need?
To initiate litigation, you must present:
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A written contract or communication proving the legal obligation
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NIE number (identification for foreigners)
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Any relevant emails, invoices, or witness statements
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Notarized documents (e.g. property deeds, wills)
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Translations if the originals are not in Spanish
✅ Spanish courts rely heavily on documentary evidence, so compiling a clear case file early is crucial.
🔍 4. How the Litigation Process Works
Basic steps in a civil claim:
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Lawyer drafts and files the lawsuit
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Court reviews and notifies the defendant
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If uncontested → direct judgment
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If contested → written response + trial date
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Hearing before a judge (no jury)
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Judgment issued, can be appealed
⏳ Timeline: 6–18 months depending on complexity and court congestion.
🛡️ 5. Can You Litigate from Abroad?
Yes. Foreigners can take full legal action in Valencia without being physically present, if they:
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Grant power of attorney (POA) to a Spanish lawyer
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Work with a procurador (court representative) if required
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Provide ID and key documents
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Authorize legal translations as needed
📌 This allows you to protect your rights in Spain while staying in your home country.
👨💼 6. Why You Need a Specialized Litigation Lawyer
A local Spanish lawyer can:
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Evaluate your claim under Spanish law
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Prepare filings and evidence
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Represent you in court and during settlement talks
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Handle communications with the judge, opposing party, and registries
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Defend your interests even if the case involves cross-border elements
✅ At Borderless Lawyers, we connect you with Valencia-based litigation professionals who are bilingual and experienced with international clients.
📩 Conclusion & CTA
If you’re facing a legal issue in Valencia — don’t ignore it. Spanish courts offer strong protections for buyers, heirs, and investors, but the process must be done correctly from the start.
👉 Need help with litigation in Valencia?
Let Borderless Lawyers match you with a qualified local attorney who will defend your rights in Spain — even if you live abroad.