Preparing for fast-track criminal proceedings in Spain

Check the date and your role

Keep the complete police or court summons. Identify the venue, time and role in which you are called. Mention detention or an imminent appearance at first contact. Do not wait until the hearing day to arrange assistance or confuse a summons with a judgment.

Prepare information that can be checked

Organise a short timeline, documents received and details of potential evidence. Preserve messages, photographs and reports in their original format. Do not coordinate accounts with others or edit evidence. Explain which facts you know directly and which were reported to you.

What this procedure covers

Articles 795 onwards of the Criminal Procedure Act define the fast-track procedure. It is not available for every criminal matter. The duty court unit named in the summons handles the relevant initial steps; subsequent proceedings and resolution depend on the case.

Decisions requiring prior explanation

Before making a statement or accepting a proposal, ask for an explanation of the allegations, available evidence, alternatives and consequences. A plea agreement is not a formality: its effects must be understood. Attendance in fast-track proceedings does not itself guarantee a reduced sentence. Clarify who will provide assistance and which records are needed.

Related legal concept

Fast-track criminal proceedings

Official sources

• Ley de Enjuiciamiento Criminal, arts. 795 a 801 · BOE (opens a new tab)

Official Spanish legislation consulted on 3 November 2026. The English text explains Spanish law; it is not an official translation.