Whether you are buying property in Spain, making a will, investing or starting a business,  it is important to employ the services of an experienced Spanish lawyer (abogado in Spanish).  An abogado is the equivalent of a solicitor in the UK or an attorney in America, and many Spanish lawyers speak English which avoids any misunderstandings due to language problems.

As in most Northern European countries, most Spanish lawyers specialise in different areas.  For example a family lawyer would deal with divorce, child custody and wills, another with criminal law, conveyancing or any number of other legal matters.  Many legal firms have several lawyers working within the practice which usually means most legal requirements can be covered by one company.  However it is always best to check the lawyer you choose has the necessary experience to protect your interests whatever your requirements may be.

There is a Law society in Spain called the Colegio de Abogados.  It operates at provincial level and sets minimum levels of charges.  Do not hesitate to ask your lawyer for an estimate of his fees.  If you have a problem or are worried about what your lawyer tells you,  it is always possible to contact the provincial colegio to which your lawyer is a member for advice.

As in most Northern European countries, it is common practice for lawyers to pay taxes and fees on your behalf and it is normal for lawyers to ask you to pay funds into a client account.  Also it is not unusual for your lawyer to have power of attorney over your affairs especially if you are not based in Spain permanently.

You can find large amounts of information regarding Spanish law on various internet sites and reference books, but even though this will help you have a better understand on Spanish Law, it is no substitute for good professional legal advise.