Family Courts in Alzira: Where Family Matters Are Resolved
Alzira, as the head of its judicial district, centralizes family law proceedings in the Courts of First Instance and Instruction located at Plaza del Sufragi, 9 (CP 46600). Divorce cases, modification of measures, custody, child support, and other civil family matters are handled at this address. The Civil Registry, essential for birth, marriage, or certification procedures, is found at Ronda de Algemesí, 13. Both offices operate under the Provincial Court of Valencia and have staff specialized in family law.
Features of Alzira's Judicial District
The judicial district of Alzira covers not only the city but also neighboring municipalities, so the courts at Plaza del Sufragi handle a significant volume of civil cases, including family matters. This centralization means that divorce petitions, child support claims, and custody requests are all filed in the same court building, providing proximity and accessibility for residents.
Key Aspects of Divorce Proceedings in Alzira
Types of Divorce: Mutual Agreement and Contentious
In Alzira, as in the rest of Spain, there are two main ways to process a divorce:
- Mutual agreement divorce: Allows spouses to submit a consensual proposal regarding custody, support, and use of the family home. This process is usually resolved within 2 to 3 months from filing at the Plaza del Sufragi courts, provided there are no incidents.
- Contentious divorce: Initiated when there is no agreement between parties. The process is longer and can take between 6 and 12 months, depending on court workload and case complexity.
Indicative Costs and Contents of the Regulatory Agreement
The cost of a divorce proceeding in Alzira varies depending on the chosen path and professional involvement. As a guideline, legal fees for a mutual agreement divorce typically start at €400–600 (per spouse or jointly), while a contentious divorce can exceed €1,200, not including court fees or independent expert costs if needed.
The regulatory agreement, required in mutual agreement divorces and some modification cases, must regulate:
- Custody of minor children
- Visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent
- Child support and, where applicable, spousal support
- Use of the family home
- Division of shared assets (if agreed upon)
Child Support and Custody: Criteria and Reference Figures
Criteria for Calculating Child Support
In Alzira's courts, child support is determined in accordance with Article 146 of the Spanish Civil Code, prioritizing proportionality between each parent's income and the children's actual needs. Judges commonly consider:
- Net income of each parent
- Number and ages of children
- Ordinary and extraordinary expenses (education, health, etc.)
The average child support in Spain ranges from €150 to €400 per child per month, though the specific amount may be adjusted to each family's economic reality and living conditions in Alzira.
Shared vs. Sole Custody and Standard Visitation Arrangements
Shared custody is increasingly common in Valencian courts, but decisions are made case by case. If there is no agreement, the judge will consider factors such as each parent's prior involvement, distance between homes, and the child's best interest. If sole custody is granted, the standard visitation arrangement usually includes alternate weekends, half of school holidays, and one weekday afternoon, unless circumstances suggest otherwise.
Why Choose Our Law Firm in Alzira
We offer in-person service in Alzira and online consultations, adapting to the needs of those living in the city or nearby towns. We prioritize mediation and out-of-court negotiation to avoid lengthy and costly proceedings, but we defend your rights before the courts at Plaza del Sufragi when necessary. Your initial consultation is without obligation, and we provide guidance based on your specific case and local court practices. We collaborate with independent medical experts when required to protect our clients' interests.
