Administrative Liability in Córdoba: A Practical Guide
In Córdoba, individuals can seek compensation from the Administration when they suffer damages caused by the operation of public services, such as poorly maintained sidewalks, potholes in the road, or deficiencies in municipal services. The City Council of Córdoba, accessible through its electronic office (cordoba.es/sede), is the competent body for claims related to public roads, municipal facilities, cleaning, or urban transport services.
Administrative Courts and the Andalusian High Court: Jurisdiction
Claims for administrative liability that are not resolved through administrative channels may end up before the Administrative Courts of Córdoba, located at the Ciudad de la Justicia (C/ Isla Mallorca, s/n, 14011 Córdoba). If the amount or subject matter requires it, the appeal may be brought before the Administrative Chamber of the High Court of Justice of Andalusia, based in Seville.
Typical Cases in Córdoba: Damages from Public Roads and Services
Common local cases include injuries from falls due to loose or broken paving stones, accidents caused by potholes, material or personal damages in municipal sports facilities, administrative errors such as unjustified fines or sanctions, and deficiencies in essential public services (cleaning, waste collection, urban transport).
Legal Value: Requirements for Administrative Liability
Administrative liability is governed by Articles 32 and following of Law 40/2015 and Article 67.1 of Law 39/2015. The following requirements must be met:
- Actual, economically assessable, and individualized damage: The harm must be real and quantifiable.
- Causal link: The damage must be a direct consequence of the normal or abnormal operation of a public service.
- Normal or abnormal functioning of the public service: There is no need to prove fault by the Administration; it is sufficient that the damage results from administrative activity.
- Limitation period: The affected party has one year from the occurrence or discovery of the damage to file a claim.
Administrative liability is objective, meaning it does not depend on fault or negligence, except in very specific cases. However, the causal link and the actual damage must be proven.
Indicative Compensation Amounts in Córdoba
According to case law and administrative practice, compensation for falls in public spaces in Córdoba can range from €3,000 to €30,000, depending on the severity of the injuries. Damages for administrative errors (e.g., unjust sanctions or undue delays) may range from €5,000 to €50,000, always subject to proof of the harm and the causal relationship.
Procedure in Córdoba: Claim, Evidence, and Deadlines
- Mandatory prior administrative claim: A claim must be filed with the competent body (e.g., Córdoba City Council). The claim must detail the facts, damages suffered, and the amount sought, providing all supporting documents and evidence (medical reports, invoices, photographs, witnesses).
- Decision period: The Administration has six months to decide. If this period passes without a response, the claim is considered dismissed by administrative silence.
- Administrative court appeal: If the claim is expressly or tacitly rejected, the interested party can file an appeal with the Administrative Courts of Córdoba within two months from notification or silence.
- Expert evidence: It is common to provide reports from independent medical experts to prove injuries, sequelae, or incapacity. For claims exceeding €50,000, the opinion of the Andalusian Advisory Council may be required.
Why Choose Our Firm in Córdoba
We have experience handling administrative liability claims against the Córdoba City Council and the Andalusian Regional Government and are familiar with the practices of the local Administrative Courts and the High Court of Justice of Andalusia. We offer in-person and online consultations in Córdoba for those living in the province or elsewhere. We collaborate with independent medical experts for damage assessment. You can request a no-obligation initial consultation to evaluate the viability of your claim and receive advice on the necessary documentation and evidence.
