What happens if your teen or young adult is arrested in Spain?
Going abroad without parents for the first time is an exciting adventure for many young people. It’s a momentary spell of true freedom and fun in the sun with friends, but unfortunately, things don’t always go as planned. If your teenager or young adult is arrested abroad, it can be a stressful time, particularly if you’re back home in the UK as their parent. Spain’s legal system operates very differently from the UK system, so it’s important to understand their rights and the support options that are available.
At Gascon Bernabeu, we understand how overwhelming the experience of having a family member arrested abroad can be. That’s why our dedicated English-speaking solicitors are here to guide you through every step of the process. We specialise in criminal law cases involving foreign nationals, which means we have the necessary expertise to navigate the complexities that your loved one may experience in Spain during this challenging time.
If your son or daughter has been arrested while abroad in Spain and you’re looking for trustworthy legal assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Criminal liability for young people in Spain
In Spain, people 14 years and older can be held legally responsible for their actions if they commit a crime, but cases involving young people are still treated differently than those involving adults. Under the Basic Act on Juvenile Criminal Liability (AJCL), specific provisions are in place to ensure that young offenders are treated with fairness and understanding, considering that they are still developing.
If a young person finds themselves in trouble with the police, one of the most crucial things they need to know is that they need to cooperate fully during the process. Failure to cooperate can escalate the situation, potentially leading to more serious legal consequences. This advice applies to everyone: including those under 18 and young adults aged 18 and older, who may still be navigating the complexities of adolescence.
These interactions between the police and young adults can become even more challenging if there are language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings, potentially making the experience even more stressful. The best thing you can do is to get professional legal guidance as soon as you can to make sure that your son’s or daughter’s rights are protected.
What young people need to know to stay out of trouble in Spain
Spain is a beautiful place filled with stunning sights and vibrant culture, so it’s no surprise that it attracts young people in their droves every summer. However, in the excitement of that first getaway, young people can sometimes make rash decisions that land them in hot water.
Dress code mishaps
One common issue is dress code regulations. It’s easy to think it’s fine to stroll around town in swimwear, but many regions have strict rules against wearing beach attire outside designated areas. This can lead to unexpected fines or, in some cases, even arrest.
Excessive alcohol consumption and drug possession
The excitement of exploring a new destination can also sometimes lead to excessive consumption of alcohol. However, authorities are increasingly vigilant in popular tourist areas when it comes to public intoxication, and violations can result in serious penalties.
What’s more, Spain’s strict laws on drug possession mean that if someone is found to have even a small amount of an illegal substance on them, it can lead to severe legal consequences. It’s always a good idea to ensure that your young family members are well-informed about these laws prior to their Spain trip – it can go a long way to helping prevent complications during their holiday.
Cooperation with law enforcement
It’s worth repeating – if your teenager does find themselves in trouble, it’s essential to cooperate with authorities. Language barriers and intoxication can lead to misunderstandings, and if you don’t stay calm, a slight hiccup can turn into a bigger problem. Reminding young travellers to respect the police and remain compliant can really help diffuse tension and steer clear of any unnecessary additional hassle.
Legal representation in Spain
If arrested, your son or daughter has the right to request an English-speaking solicitor, like those on our team at Gascon Bernabeu. In Spain, both minors and adults have the right to legal representation during any legal proceedings. Still, it’s important to make sure that the solicitor you choose speaks your English well enough to explain everything clearly, as this will help avoid misunderstandings that could worsen the situation.
That’s where we can help. At Gascon Bernabeu, we offer expert legal advice and can help guide you through the complexities of the Spanish legal system. If your teenager or adult has been arrested in Spain, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. We understand how distressing this situation can be, and we are here to help you navigate it.
For more information, or if you need assistance, get in touch with our team of English-speaking solicitors today via email at info@gbabogados.co.uk, by calling +44 (0)20 3137 1320, or by reaching out through the form on our website. We’re here to help.