Family Courts in Getxo: Practical Information and Local Context
In Getxo, family law matters such as divorce, custody, and child support are handled by the Courts of First Instance and Instruction located at Calle Los Fueros, 10, 48990 Getxo (Vizcaya). Public service hours are from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. These courts have jurisdiction over civil matters, including separation, divorce, annulment, custody, and child support proceedings. The proximity and accessibility of the courthouse make it easier for Getxo residents to process family law matters without needing to travel to Bilbao or other districts.
The judicial district of Getxo covers only the municipality itself, allowing for somewhat faster processing times compared to larger jurisdictions. If you need to visit the Civil Registry for divorce registrations or marriage files, it is also located at Calle Los Fueros, 10, with the phone number 946 02 39 70. The concentration of judicial services in one building streamlines the management of all family law procedures.
Types of Divorce: Mutual Agreement and Contentious
The Spanish Civil Code regulates two main divorce modalities: mutual agreement divorce and contentious divorce. Mutual agreement divorce is usually faster and less expensive, as both parties jointly submit a settlement agreement. In Getxo, this type of procedure can be resolved in approximately 2 to 3 months from the filing of the petition, provided there are no complications or additional requirements.
In contentious divorces, where no agreement exists, the process is more complex and can take between 6 and 12 months, depending on the court's workload and the evidence to be presented. The cost of a divorce proceeding in Getxo varies by type: mutual agreement cases typically range from €800 to €1,500 (indicative fees for lawyer and court representative), while contentious proceedings are usually more expensive due to increased duration and complexity.
Settlement Agreement: Minimum Content and Key Aspects
The settlement agreement is mandatory in mutual agreement divorces and advisable in contentious ones if an agreement is reached. It must include at least the following (Article 90 of the Civil Code):
- Determination of parental authority and child custody.
- Visitation, communication, and stay arrangements for the non-custodial parent.
- Child support and, if applicable, spousal maintenance.
- Use and enjoyment of the family home.
- Division of joint assets, if applicable.
Child Support and Custody: Criteria and Reference Figures
Criteria for setting child support in Getxo follow Supreme Court doctrine and Article 146 of the Civil Code: contributions must be proportional to each parent's financial resources and the children's needs. In practice, courts in Bizkaia typically set average child support between €150 and €400 per month per child, depending on the parents' income, number of children, and specific needs.
Regarding custody, shared custody is increasingly common in Getxo courts unless circumstances advise otherwise (Article 92 CC). In cases of sole custody, the standard visitation schedule usually includes alternate weekends and half of school holidays for the non-custodial parent, unless otherwise agreed.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Family Law Case in Getxo
We offer a comprehensive approach to family law in Getxo, combining mediation and extrajudicial negotiation to reach satisfactory agreements before going to court. Our firm provides in-person and online services in Getxo, adapting to each client's needs. You can request a no-obligation initial consultation to assess your situation and available legal alternatives.
We collaborate with independent medical experts when a child's situation or custody suitability needs assessment, and we defend your rights to obtain fair compensation according to the legal scale when applicable. Our knowledge of the operation of Getxo's courts and local regulations allows us to anticipate the usual criteria of judges regarding support payments, custody, and use of the family home.
If you require advice on divorce proceedings, modification of measures, enforcement of judgments, or any family law issue in Getxo, you can request an appointment for a no-obligation initial consultation.
