Family Courts in Burgos: Key References and Practical Considerations
In Burgos, family law matters—such as divorces, custody, alimony, or modification of measures—are handled by the Courts of First Instance. These courts are located at Avda. Reyes Católicos, 51, Nuevos Juzgados Building, postal code 09005. Usual public service hours are Monday to Friday, from 9:00 to 14:00. For civil status matters (such as birth, marriage, or death registrations), the Civil Registry is also located on the same avenue (Reyes Católicos, 51 bis).
Although there are no specific divorce rates for Burgos in the available evidence, national statistics show a steady trend, with peaks following holiday periods. The Burgos judicial district centralizes virtually all family law procedures in the city, which facilitates access to information and judicial actions for residents.
Types of Divorce and Common Procedures in Burgos
As in the rest of Spain, there are two main types of divorce in Burgos: mutual agreement divorce and contentious divorce. Mutual agreement divorce can be processed in court or before a notary if there are no unemancipated minor children. The average timeframe to resolve a mutual agreement divorce in Burgos courts is typically 2 to 3 months, provided all documentation is complete and both parties cooperate. For contentious divorce, where there is no agreement, proceedings may last 6 to 12 months, depending on the court's workload and the complexity of the case.
The average indicative cost of a mutual agreement divorce in Burgos ranges from 800 to 1200 euros (including lawyer and court representative fees), while contentious cases often exceed 2000 euros due to increased duration and complexity. These amounts may vary if expert reports, asset inventories, or independent expert intervention are required.
The regulatory agreement is mandatory in mutual agreement divorces and must include, at a minimum:
- Child custody arrangements.
- Visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent.
- Child support and, where applicable, spousal support.
- Use of the family home.
- Distribution of joint assets and marital debts.
Alimony and Custody: Criteria and Reference Figures
Child support is determined according to the principle of proportionality established in Article 146 of the Civil Code: "The amount of support shall be proportional to the means of the provider and the needs of the recipient." In practice, Burgos courts apply criteria similar to those used nationwide, considering both parents' incomes and the specific needs of the children (food, education, housing, extracurricular activities, etc.).
In Spain, the average child support per child ranges from 150 to 400 euros per month, although each case is individually assessed. Courts may modify the amount if the economic or personal circumstances of the parents or children change.
Regarding custody, there are two main types:
- Joint custody: both parents alternately and equally share the care of their children. This option is increasingly common in Burgos, provided it is feasible and serves the children's best interests.
- Sole custody: one parent assumes care and custody, with a visitation schedule established for the other. In Burgos, the standard visitation schedule typically includes alternate weekends and half of the school holidays.
Judges always prioritize the child's best interests, as set out in Article 92 of the Civil Code and Supreme Court doctrine.
Why Choose Our Firm in Burgos
Our team of lawyers in Burgos specializes in family law and offers mediation and out-of-court negotiation services to reach agreements and avoid judicial conflict. We provide both in-person service at our Burgos office and online consultations, making it easier for those living outside the city or with mobility issues to access legal advice.
We collaborate with independent medical experts when it is necessary to assess personal or financial matters. The no-obligation initial consultation allows us to analyze your case and guide you on the steps to follow according to current regulations and judicial practice in Burgos.
