Family Courts in Oviedo: Key information for your legal matters
Oviedo, as the capital of Asturias, has a robust judicial structure for handling Family Law matters. Divorce proceedings, child-related measures, and other family issues are processed at the First Instance Courts located at Calle Carlos López Otín, 3 (33005 Oviedo) and Calle Concepción Arenal, 3 (33005 Oviedo), according to the current distribution of the Oviedo Court of Instance (source: poderjudicial.es). These courts handle most civil cases, including separations, divorces, and proceedings regarding child custody.
The judicial district of Oviedo centralizes family law proceedings for the city and several surrounding municipalities, which may affect processing times, especially during periods of higher caseload. While there are no recent public figures on the exact number of divorces in Oviedo, the increase in applications in recent years highlights the importance of specialized advice within the local jurisdiction.
Types of divorce: mutual agreement and contentious. Timeframes and costs in Oviedo
In Oviedo, as in the rest of Spain, there are mainly two ways to process a divorce:
- Divorce by mutual agreement: The fastest and most cost-effective option. Both spouses jointly submit a regulatory agreement proposal to the First Instance Court, which can be judicially approved. The average resolution time is typically 2 to 3 months from the filing of the petition, provided there are no incidents.
- Contentious divorce: Initiated when the parties do not reach an agreement. The process is more complex, requires judicial intervention, and usually lasts between 6 and 12 months, depending on the court's workload and the case's complexity.
The cost of a divorce procedure in Oviedo varies depending on the chosen route. For mutual agreement, lawyer and court representative fees usually start at around €600-€1200 (indicative, non-binding), while a contentious divorce can exceed €1800-€2500, depending on duration and the need for expert reports or other professionals. Prices may vary depending on case complexity and the agreements reached.
The regulatory agreement: content and legal scope
The regulatory agreement is essential in mutual agreement divorce proceedings. It must include at least the following issues:
- Determination of parental authority and child custody for minors.
- Visitation schedule and communication with the non-custodial parent.
- Use of the family home and division of joint property.
- Amount and payment method of child support and, if applicable, spousal support.
This agreement must be approved by the judge, who will ensure it is not detrimental to the children or either spouse.
Child support and custody in Oviedo: criteria and typical figures
Child support is determined according to Article 146 of the Spanish Civil Code, which states that "the amount of support shall be proportional to the means of the provider and the needs of the recipient." Oviedo's courts, as in the rest of Spain, apply this principle, assessing both parents' income and the children's needs.
In practice, the average child support in Spain ranges between €150 and €400 per month per child, although in Oviedo the amount may vary depending on each family's financial situation and the number of children. Judges can adjust these amounts in exceptional circumstances (disability, extraordinary expenses, etc.).
Regarding custody, Oviedo courts increasingly favor joint custody, in line with Supreme Court case law, provided it benefits the children. However, sole custody remains common, especially for very young children or when there is an agreement between the parties. The standard visitation schedule typically includes alternate weekends and half of school holidays, but can be adapted to the family's circumstances and the distance between homes.
Why choose our firm in Oviedo
Our firm has extensive experience in the Oviedo judicial district, offering in-person service in the city and online legal advice for those living elsewhere or with mobility challenges. We prioritize mediation and out-of-court negotiation as preferred methods to resolve family conflicts, avoiding unnecessary litigation and facilitating lasting agreements. We collaborate with independent medical experts when the case requires, especially in proceedings involving complex personal or financial assessments.
We offer a no-obligation initial consultation so you can present your case, address questions about procedures, and learn about your legal options before making any decisions. Our commitment is to defend your rights and always seek the solution best suited to your personal and family situation, in accordance with current legislation in Oviedo and Asturias.
