Spain offers foreign creditors several effective tools for commercial debt recovery. The key is knowing which procedure matches your claim type.
Why Use an Agency in Spain
Spanish court proceedings require Spanish-language documentation, local representation (abogado and procurador for claims above EUR 2,000), and familiarity with regional court variations. An agency with Spanish operations handles all of this.
The Monitorio Advantage
Spain's proceso monitorio is one of Europe's most creditor-friendly procedures: zero court fees, available for any amount, 20-day payment deadline, enforceable title if unopposed. Professional agencies in Spain use this as the primary tool for documented claims.
Regional Court Efficiency
Madrid: 8-12 months for contested claims. Barcelona: 6-10 months. Valencia: 10-14 months. Basque Country: 6-9 months. Your agency should know these differences and factor them into strategy.
Costs
Contingency: 15-25% amicable, 25-35% litigated. Court costs for monitorio: EUR 0. Court costs for juicio ordinario: EUR 300-500+ depending on claim value. Legal fees vary by complexity.
Statute of Limitations
5 years (Article 1964, Código Civil). Engage an agency before year 4 at the latest.