Arrested on Holiday in Spain? All may not be Lost

The last thing that most people expect to happen when they go on holiday is to be arrested. Unfortunately, this is a reality for some tourist when on holiday in Europe. Any brush with the wrong side of the law can be daunting but to be arrested abroad with little or no support and not knowing the language can be a recipe for disaster. Regardless whether you (or your relative) brought about your own downfall or found yourself in a situation that you were drawn into that got out of hand, the one thing you really need is an experienced criminal lawyer that speaks your language who can help get you out of your predicament. The criminal lawyers in Giambrone’s Barcelona office have an outstanding record of successfully assisting our clients who find themselves in difficulties with the police.

The law and for that matter, the approach of the police to perceived wrongdoing, can be very different from country to country. You will need to keep a cool head and not do anything to compound your position. Under Spanish law, you can only be held for 72 hours without being brought before a court where the Judge will decide whether you are to be released or detained. In keeping with most regimes you are entitled to the following:

• Medical assistance where necessary
• A telephone call to a relative or friend
• A telephone call to a lawyer, if you do not know of a lawyer a legal aid lawyer will be assigned to you
• The right not to make a statement or acknowledge guilt

If the reason you were arrested is not considered by the police to be in the most serious category you may be set free before the 72 hour deadline but this must not be taken as a sign that this is the end of the matter. Your case will be reviewed by a Judge who will decide whether further action will be taken. If you receive any documentation from the Spanish authorities when you return home it would be very unwise to think that you can ignore it.

If you are detained and accept the services of the legal aid lawyer you may find yourself with a lawyer with as much English and you have Spanish. You will need a truly bilingual lawyer who can fully understand your side of things and quickly grasp the facts and devise a strategy to stand any chance of being able to navigate a path to gain your freedom. Giambrone’s lawyers have had considerable experience in dealing with a whole range of criminal matters from minor misdemeanours to extremely serious cases. In many matters we have been able to present viable arguments that have resulted in a reduction in the sentence handed out or a dismissal of the case.

Sleeping in a cell in a foreign country instead of your hotel room can be a soul-destroying experience, especially if you believe you have been the victim of an unjustifiable accusation. 

For further information about how Giambrone’s criminal team can help please click here.