Criminal Lawyer in Las Palmas — English-Speaking Defence Available Now
If you have been arrested, are under investigation or have been charged in the Canary Islands, we provide immediate legal assistance in English.
24h
Emergency availability
English
Full service in English
4.8 ★ · 217
Google reviews
Who do we help?
We defend foreign nationals at every stage of the Spanish criminal process — from arrest to acquittal.
Tourists arrested in Gran Canaria
Holiday-makers detained by the Policía Nacional or Guardia Civil in Gran Canaria or elsewhere in the Canary Islands who need immediate English-speaking legal assistance.
Expat residents under criminal investigation
Foreign residents living in the Canary Islands who have been summoned by the court, notified of an investigation or placed under formal suspicion (investigado).
Foreign nationals charged with drug offences
People detained at Las Palmas port (Puerto de la Luz), Las Palmas airport (LPA) or Tenerife South (TFS) in connection with drug trafficking or possession charges.
Victims who need to file a denuncia
Foreign nationals who have been the victim of crime — theft, fraud, assault, scams — and need assistance filing a formal complaint with the Spanish authorities.
Traffic accidents with criminal implications
Drivers involved in serious road accidents in the Canary Islands that may result in criminal liability, including drink-driving or negligent driving charges.
Spanish criminal process — overview
Understanding each stage helps you know your rights and when to act.
| Stage | What happens | Time frame |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest (detención) | Police custody — max 72 hours | Immediate |
| Right to lawyer | From moment of arrest (Art. 17 CE) | Immediate |
| Preliminary hearing | Judge decides on charges | 72h after arrest |
| Investigation (instrucción) | Evidence gathered by court | Months |
| Oral trial (juicio oral) | Defence and prosecution present case | Months–years |
| Sentence | Conviction or acquittal | Final stage |
How we defend you
From the moment you call us to the final outcome — we are with you at every step.
Emergency call
You or a family member call us; we attend the police station or court immediately — day or night.
Right to silence
We advise you before any police statement. You are not obliged to answer questions without a lawyer present — this right is absolute.
Defence strategy
We review all evidence, challenge procedural irregularities and build the strongest possible defence for your specific situation.
Trial and outcome
We represent you fully at every hearing, in Spanish, so you never face the language barrier alone at any stage of the proceedings.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have the right to an English-speaking lawyer in Spain?+
Yes. You have the right to legal representation from the moment of arrest. While court proceedings are conducted in Spanish, you have the right to a qualified interpreter at all hearings, and you can hire a lawyer who communicates with you in your own language throughout the case.
Can the police hold me without charge in Spain?+
You can be held in police custody (detención) for up to 72 hours. In terrorism-related cases the court can extend this. After 72 hours, a judge must either formally charge you (imputar), apply for a remand hearing or order your release. We monitor this timeline strictly to protect your rights.
What should I do if I am arrested in Gran Canaria?+
Do not make any statement to the police without a lawyer present — even if the police tell you it will help your case. Say only that you wish to exercise your right to silence and contact a lawyer. Call us immediately at +34 633 572 607 and we will come to you as quickly as possible.
What crimes are most common for foreigners in the Canary Islands?+
Drug offences (especially at ports and airports), drink-driving, fraud and scams targeting tourists, property disputes, domestic incidents and theft are among the most frequent criminal cases involving foreign nationals in the Canary Islands. We have extensive experience in all of these areas.
Do I need to attend court in person?+
In most cases your personal attendance is required for formal hearings, particularly the oral trial (juicio oral). However, your lawyer can often handle preliminary procedural steps and written submissions without you being physically present. For EU nationals, video hearings are available in certain limited circumstances. We advise you on this for your specific case.
Can I be extradited from Spain?+
Spain participates in the European Arrest Warrant (EAW) system, which allows extradition to or from any EU member state on a streamlined basis. For non-EU nationals, extradition depends on the bilateral treaty between Spain and your country. Some countries have no extradition treaty with Spain. We assess your specific situation and advise on the risks and options in full.
Get immediate legal assistance
Whether you have been arrested, are under investigation or need to file a complaint — we are ready to help. English-speaking. Available 24 hours for emergencies.