Customs Seizure of Goods in Spain

This page is for owners and carriers whose goods, vehicle or cash were seized by customs in Spain. It explains why seizures happen, how they can be challenged and what an English-speaking registered lawyer does.
lawyers in Spain
6
cases in this service
2
clients' rating in Spain
4.95 ★

About Customs Seizure of Goods in Spain

A customs seizure of goods in Spain, also described as goods seized by customs, a vehicle or lorry seized, cash seized at the airport, or decomiso and aprehensión of goods, means the authorities have taken property they suspect broke customs rules. This page is for private owners, companies and transport firms. It is not about seizure of property for debts; for that, see debt collection. It is general information, not legal advice.

Why goods are seized

Typical reasons are suspected unpaid duties, undeclared goods or cash, restricted items, or papers that do not match the load. Vehicles and lorries can be held at the same time, which is why transport companies often face this.

What happens next

The authorities issue a seizure record and keep the goods. Depending on the case, an administrative procedure follows or, if smuggling is alleged, a criminal one; see smuggling offences. The owner can object or appeal within the legal time limits, either to the authority that seized the goods or before a court.

What an English-speaking lawyer does

English-speaking registered lawyers can read the seizure papers, identify the legal basis, prepare objections, deal with the authorities and represent the owner or carrier. For related penalties see fines and administrative penalties.

Questions and answers

Who can challenge a seizure?

The owner of the goods, and in many cases the carrier or driver whose papers and load are affected.

Can the goods be returned?

Return depends on the legal basis for the seizure and the outcome of the proceedings. Some items are returned, others are not.

What is the difference between a seizure and a fine?

A seizure takes the property; a fine is a financial penalty. Both can arise from the same case.

What if it was a rental car or a lorry?

The registered owner and any leasing or rental company are usually involved. A lawyer can coordinate the papers.

What about cash?

Cash can be held when it was not declared as required or when its origin is questioned. The same objection routes apply.

6 lawyers who provide Customs Seizure of Goods in Spain

Sorted by experience in this service. Write to any of them — the reply comes from the lawyer, without obligation.

  • Alvaro, lawyer in Fuengirola

    Alvaro

    Lawyer · Fuengirola, Spain

    • 1,584 cases handled · 1 in this service
    • 14+ years in practice
    • Speaks: English
    • Law, Jaén
    • 4.97(146 reviews)
    Contact Alvaro
  • Raffaele, lawyer in Barcelona

    Raffaele

    Lawyer · Barcelona, Spain

    • 1,553 cases handled · 1 in this service
    • 15+ years in practice
    • Speaks: English, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish
    • Spanish Law; Italian Law, Universitat Pompeu Fabra - Università degli Studi di Milano
    • 4.90(38 reviews)
    Contact Raffaele
  • Federico, lawyer in Madrid

    Federico

    Lawyer · Madrid, Spain

    • 440 cases handled
    • 25+ years in practice
    • Speaks: English, German, French, Spanish
    • Law, Complutense University Madrid (San Pablo)
    • 4.82(14 reviews)
    Contact Federico
  • Juan, lawyer in Madrid

    Juan

    Lawyer · Madrid, Spain

    • 164 cases handled
    • 10+ years in practice
    • Speaks: English, Spanish
    • Degree in Law, Deusto University (Bilbao, Basque Country)
    • 4.86(7 reviews)
    Contact Juan
  • Daniel, lawyer in Mallorca

    Daniel

    Lawyer · Mallorca, Spain

    • 137 cases handled
    • 11+ years in practice
    • Speaks: Spanish, Italian, English, Portuguese, French
    • Law, UIB
    • 5.00(5 reviews)
    Contact Daniel
  • Ramon, lawyer in Almeria

    Ramon

    Lawyer · Almeria, Spain

    • 13+ years in practice
    • Speaks: English, Spanish
    • Law, Almeria University
    Contact Ramon
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Enquiries are answered by lawyers of AdvocateAbroad. This site provides legal information, not legal advice.

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