Individuals
Civil lawyer in Barcelona: tenancies, debts and claims
Tenancies, evictions, debts between individuals, defective products, neighbours and claims for damage are everyday disputes where a sound initial assessment avoids lengthy litigation. We explain your options and prepare the evidence if a claim is necessary.
At a glance
- Before suing, the law requires evidence of an attempt at negotiation (mediation, conciliation or another route) in most civil matters.
- A contract, receipt, messages or a bank transfer may suffice to prove a debt.
- New consumer goods have a three-year statutory warranty.
Situations in which we can help
Tenancies and evictions
Representing landlords and tenants in non-payment, contract termination and deposit disputes.
Debts between individuals
Acknowledgements of debt, payment schedules and claims.
Defective products
Claims concerning defects, hidden defects and warranties.
Civil liability
Damage caused by third parties, neighbours and owners' associations.
Contracts and sales
Review and claims for breach of contract.
Claims against insurers
Home, health and other insurance where the institution refuses cover.
What usually works in each dispute
In most cases, it is advisable to try the simplest route first and keep a written record.
| Dispute | First step | If it does not work |
|---|---|---|
| Unpaid rent | Written demand and negotiation | Eviction claim and recovery of rent |
| Debt between individuals | Written acknowledgement of debt and payment schedule | Payment order proceedings or trial |
| Defective product | Written claim to the seller: repair, replacement, price reduction or termination | Consumer authorities and court claim |
| Damage caused by a third party | Collect evidence and claim against the responsible party or their insurer | Civil liability claim |
How we work
Listen and review
We analyse the documents and what can be proved.
Explain options
We explain the routes, scope, cost and risks.
Negotiate
We attempt an agreement and document the negotiation attempt.
Claim or defend
Where necessary, we bring or defend a claim.
Deadlines and points to bear in mind
- Prior negotiation
- A civil claim requires evidence or a description of the prior attempt at a negotiated solution (Organic Law 1/2025). It is advisable to do this in writing and retain proof.
- Statutory warranty
- For new goods it lasts three years from delivery. A shorter period may be agreed for second-hand goods, but never less than one year.
- Tenancies in Catalonia
- In areas designated as stressed residential markets, rent under a new contract may be capped. Review the conditions before signing or claiming.
- Limitation
- Claim deadlines vary by type of claim. Do not let a matter go cold.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my tenant does not pay?
Demand payment in writing, keep the contract and supporting records, and assess eviction proceedings with a rent claim. Where there is vulnerability, the law may suspend or delay eviction; we analyse this with you.
How do I recover a debt from a friend or relative?
Ideally, obtain a written acknowledgement (even a clear message) and a payment schedule. Otherwise, a court claim can be brought using available evidence: transfers, messages or witnesses.
How much do civil proceedings cost?
It depends on the procedure, amount and complexity. We provide a written estimate and explain whether the other party may be ordered to pay costs.
Can I claim without a lawyer?
A lawyer is not compulsory in some low-value proceedings. Even so, a preliminary assessment avoids an incorrectly framed claim or allowing the action to become time-barred.
What should I do if the seller does not repair a defective product?
Claim in writing: first repair or replacement and, if these are not possible, a price reduction or termination. Keep the receipt, photographs and communications. If the seller does not respond, consumer authorities or court proceedings are available.
What is prior conciliation or mediation?
These are ways to attempt agreement before suing. We use them where there are realistic prospects of agreement and to satisfy the prior-negotiation requirement.
Guides on Civil Law
General information to help you prepare before we assess your case.
General information, not advice. Each case needs individual study. Deadlines and rules may change.
Contact
Tell us about your case.
Briefly tell us what you need. We will review your message and contact you to discuss an initial consultation. The consultation carries a fee, which we will explain in writing before confirming it.