Family Courts in Arganda del Rey: Where Family Matters Are Resolved
In Arganda del Rey, family law proceedings—such as divorces, modifications of measures, alimony, or custody—are processed at the Courts of First Instance and Instruction, located at Calle Camino del Molino, 3 (28500 Arganda del Rey). This judicial building centralizes the Civil Section, so all claims and filings related to family matters must be submitted there. The judicial district of Arganda del Rey covers not only the town but also surrounding municipalities, which can affect processing times due to court workload. For any procedures before the Civil Registry (marriages, birth registrations), you should also go to the same address. The direct contact phone number for the Civil Registry is 918 758 124.
Types of Divorce and Typical Timeframes in Arganda del Rey
Family law distinguishes mainly between mutual agreement divorce and contested divorce:
- Mutual agreement: The parties jointly submit a proposed settlement agreement. The process is faster and less expensive. The average timeframe to obtain a judgment in Arganda del Rey is typically between 2 and 3 months from the filing of the claim, provided there are no complications.
- Contested: When there is no agreement, each party submits their own proposal and the court decides. The process is longer and more complex; usual duration in the Arganda del Rey judicial district ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on court workload and evidence required.
In both cases, the process begins with a claim filed by a lawyer and court representative at the Arganda del Rey Court of First Instance. If minors are involved, the Public Prosecutor's Office must intervene.
Indicative Costs and Scope of the Settlement Agreement
The average cost of a mutual agreement divorce in Arganda del Rey is typically between €600 and €1,200 for both spouses, including drafting the settlement agreement, court processing, and legal assistance. For contested divorce, costs can increase significantly (from €1,500 per party and depending on case complexity).
The settlement agreement is the key document in the divorce process and must include, according to Article 90 of the Spanish Civil Code:
- Determination of custody of minor children.
- Visitation and communication arrangements with the non-custodial parent.
- Child support payments.
- Possible compensatory pension between spouses.
- Use and enjoyment of the family home.
Child Support and Custody Criteria in Arganda del Rey
Child support is set according to the principle of proportionality between both parents' incomes and the children's needs (Article 146 CC). In practice, courts in the province of Madrid—including Arganda del Rey—usually set an average child support payment ranging from €150 to €400 per child, depending on age, expenses, and parents' financial capacity.
Regarding custody, judges prioritize the best interests of the child. Joint custody is increasingly common, though not automatic. It is granted when both parents live nearby, communicate well, and can ensure the child's stability. Sole custody remains common in cases of conflict, distance, or lack of cooperation. The standard visitation arrangement usually includes alternate weekends and half of school holidays, although it can be adapted to the family's circumstances.
Why Choose Our Law Firm in Arganda del Rey
At our firm, with in-person service in Arganda del Rey and online consultation options, we offer a comprehensive approach to family law. We prioritize mediation and out-of-court negotiation to reduce conflict and resolve family matters quickly and less traumatically. Our aim is to defend your rights and seek stable agreements, avoiding lengthy court proceedings when possible. If you wish, you can request a no-obligation initial consultation to assess your situation and learn about your legal options in the Arganda del Rey judicial district.
