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SabahAbogados

Debt claims

Being owed money is frustrating. We help you claim it in an orderly way, amicably first and, if not, in court.

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What it involves

A debt claim (reclamación de cantidad) is used to recover money someone owes you: a loan that has not been repaid, an unpaid invoice, or work you paid for that was never done. It usually starts with a formal demand, such as a burofax (a certified letter with proof of content), and if there is no response, you go to court through the most suitable procedure.

Is this your case?

  • You lent money to a friend or family member and they will not pay it back.
  • A client will not pay your invoice for work already delivered.
  • You paid for building work or a service that was never finished.
  • You sold a car or an item and the buyer stopped paying the agreed instalments.

How we help

We review what you have, such as messages, transfers, contracts or invoices, and assess whether the debt can be proven and whether the debtor has the means to pay. We send a demand for payment and negotiate an agreement where possible. If there is no response, we choose the right procedure, file the claim and, once there is a judgment, apply for its enforcement. We can help you in Spanish, Arabic, Tamazight, French and English, at our offices in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Málaga and Barcelona or online, wherever you are in Spain.

If the debt is well documented, an order for payment procedure is often the right fit, and once there is a judgment, we move on to enforcement.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to claim a debt?
It depends on the type of debt: a loan is not the same as an invoice or damage. Debts cannot be claimed indefinitely, and a formal demand can interrupt the time limit. If you have an old debt, talk to us soon.
Can WhatsApp messages be used as evidence of a debt?
They can, especially if the debtor acknowledges the debt or the transfers can be seen. Keep the full conversations, do not delete them, and we will assess how to present them.
Can I claim against someone who has moved to another country?
In many cases, yes, especially within the European Union, where there are procedures designed for this. Outside the EU it depends on the country. We explain what real options there are of getting paid.

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Let's talk

Tell us about your case.

A first conversation — confidential and without obligation — to understand whether we can help, and how.

We speak Spanish, Arabic, Tamazight (Berber), French and English.