Where people get caught out
Many civil claims in Spain have short deadlines. Owners who wait to see whether a defect, a debt or a builder problem sorts itself out sometimes find that the strongest action has expired.
Matters we handle
| Matter | Typical situation |
|---|---|
| Deposits and arras | Seller withdraws or keeps the deposit |
| Hidden defects | Damp, structure or installations concealed by the seller |
| Builders | Unfinished, defective or overcharged works |
| Debts | Unpaid invoices, loans, amounts owed |
| Boundaries and access | Rights of way, dry-stone walls, plot limits |
| Communities | Levies, works, common areas |
| Leases | Unpaid rent, evictions, deposits, seasonal contracts |
Our approach
- Assessment of documents, messages and photos, with a written view of your options and deadlines.
- Formal demand by burofax setting out the claim and a deadline.
- Negotiation or mediation where it serves you.
- Court proceedings in Maó or Ciutadella, with an estimate of cost and timing first.
- Enforcement of what the court awards.
Landlords and tenants
For a full guide, see landlord and tenant law in Menorca and property disputes.
Long-term housing leases are protected by minimum durations, and seasonal contracts must have a genuine temporary purpose. We draft leases that fit the real use and act quickly on unpaid rent through the court procedure. For holiday letting, see holiday rental licences.
Deposits and defects
A seller who withdraws under penitential arras usually returns double the deposit; a buyer who withdrew under a contractual condition is entitled to the deposit back. Hidden defects and false information about licences give rise to claims whose deadlines depend on the type of action. To prevent problems, see arras contract review and planning lawyer. Menorca.law is part of Castell.law.
An illustrative example
Based on situations we commonly see; not a specific client. An owner in Sant Lluís paid a builder in advance for a new bathroom and terrace; the works stopped half-way. We sent a formal demand, obtained an architect's report and filed a claim. The builder agreed to return part of the advance and pay for the repairs in a settlement approved by the court.
Before you sign or pay, ask a lawyer
Send us the document, the listing or a short summary of the problem. A lawyer will tell you what matters, what it could cost you and what to do next.
Questions about civil disputes in Menorca
Which court will hear my case in Menorca?
Maó or Ciutadella, depending on where the matter arises and the defendant's domicile.
How long does a civil case take?
From a few months for a payment order to a year or more for contested claims.
Can I recover my legal costs?
If you win, the court usually orders the other side to pay costs within legal limits.
Can I change the locks if my tenant stops paying?
No. Recovering the property requires a court procedure.