Family Courts in Palma: References, Volume, and Specifics
In Palma, family law matters are primarily handled by the First Instance Courts located at C/ Travessa d'en Ballester, 20, 07002 Palma. This building houses the civil sections, including those specialized in family, as well as the Civil Registry. Divorce proceedings, modifications of custody or support, and matters involving minors are all managed here, centralizing cases for the city and most of Mallorca island.
The judicial district of Palma covers not only the city itself but also surrounding municipalities, significantly increasing the volume of family law cases. While there is no official updated figure on the annual number of divorces in Palma, the General Council of the Judiciary reports that the Balearic Islands have a higher-than-average rate of marital breakdowns per 1,000 inhabitants, ranking among the regions with the most family law litigation.
Divorce in Palma: Types, Timeframes, and Costs
In Palma, divorce may proceed in two ways:
- By Mutual Agreement: Both parties reach a consensus on all relevant issues (custody, support, use of the family home, division of assets). The case is filed with the First Instance Court and, after judicial ratification, a decree is usually issued within approximately 2 to 3 months.
- Contentious Divorce: If there is no agreement, the judge resolves the disputed issues. The average timeframe in Palma for a ruling is between 6 and 12 months, depending on the court's caseload and the case's complexity.
Regarding average legal costs, professional fees vary based on complexity and whether there is a prior agreement. For an uncontested divorce in Palma, fees typically range from 600 to 1,000 euros for both spouses, excluding any notarial or registry fees. For a contentious divorce, fees usually start at 1,200 euros and can exceed 2,000 euros, depending on the proceedings and the involvement of independent experts.
The settlement agreement must detail:
- Custody arrangements for minor children.
- Visitation and communication rights for parents.
- Amount and scope of child support and, if applicable, spousal support.
- Use of the family home.
- Division of common assets, if applicable.
Support and Custody in Palma: Criteria and Actual Figures
Child support is calculated according to Article 146 of the Spanish Civil Code: proportional to each parent's financial means and the children's actual needs. In practice, Palma courts apply criteria similar to the rest of Spain, where the average child support payment per child ranges from 150 to 400 euros per month, with possible adjustments for special circumstances such as disability, educational expenses, or parental income.
Regarding custody, Palma courts prioritize the best interests of the child. Joint custody is granted when parents communicate effectively and can both care for the children, while sole custody is reserved for high-conflict or neglect situations. The standard visitation schedule, in cases of sole custody, typically includes alternate weekends and half of school holidays, but can be adapted to work or school schedules.
Why Choose Our Firm in Palma
Our firm provides in-person service in Palma and online legal advice for those living elsewhere or with mobility issues. We specialize in mediation and out-of-court negotiation, seeking agreements that minimize emotional and financial impact. We collaborate with independent medical experts when special circumstances need to be proven. The no-obligation initial consultation allows you to present your situation and receive specific legal guidance before making any decisions.
