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Cross-border family matters
If you married in Spain or own property there, a UK divorce often needs to be recognised in Spain before it has effect on Spanish records. I assess the appropriate route and handle it.
Recognising a UK divorce in Spain
Since 1 January 2021, UK divorces are no longer recognised in Spain under EU rules. Depending on the decree and its purpose, a UK divorce can be recorded through recognition by the Spanish Civil Registry, or it needs a court recognition procedure (exequatur). Recognition is needed, for example, to update a Spanish marriage record, to remarry in Spain, or to deal with Spanish property held by the former spouses.
Custody and support orders
UK orders on custody, contact and maintenance can be recognised and enforced in Spain. Where the 1996 Hague Convention on child protection applies, recognition is simpler. I tell you which instrument applies to your order.
Divorce and agreements in Spain
Couples divorcing by agreement, without minor children and where Spanish jurisdiction applies, can divorce before a Spanish notary. I also draft prenuptial and postnuptial agreements (capitulaciones) for couples who own, or will own, property in Spain.
Fees
| Service | Notes | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Recording a UK divorce through Civil Registry recognition | Where the decree allows it | £750 |
| Exequatur of a UK divorce, joint or unopposed | Includes procurador | £1,850 |
| Exequatur of a UK divorce, opposed | Includes procurador | £2,650 |
| Custody or support measures | Added to either of the above | +£595 |
| Divorce before a Spanish notary | By mutual agreement and where Spanish jurisdiction applies; notary fees separate | £1,750 |
| Prenuptial or postnuptial agreement (capitulaciones) | Notary fees separate | £750 |
Fixed fees in pounds sterling, confirmed in writing before any work begins. Applicable taxes are confirmed in your written quote. Third-party costs such as notary, registry, taxes, translations and apostilles are paid in euros at cost, unless expressly included. How fees work.
Common questions
Do I need to recognise my UK divorce in Spain?
Only if it has to have effect on Spanish records or proceedings. If you never married in Spain and own nothing there, you may not need to do anything. The free initial assessment answers this.
Does my former spouse have to take part?
Not necessarily. A joint or unopposed application is quicker and cheaper; if your former spouse opposes, the procedure continues before the court.
Start with a short description of your matter.
Tell me what you need. Within one business day you will receive a free initial assessment by email.
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