Offence of failing to pay family maintenance
Failure to pay family financial obligations that may constitute an offence when all Criminal Code requirements are met.
What to bear in mind
Not every missed payment is automatically criminal. The legal order, periods, obligation and circumstances, including ability to pay, must be analysed.
Preparing for your consultation
Keep summonses, complaints and court orders, note notification dates and obtain advice before giving a statement or missing a deadline. Preserve original documents.
Legal source
Criminal Code, article 227 · BOE (opens in a new tab)
Related content
General information on Spanish law. Application depends on the facts, current legislation and, where relevant, regional civil law or international rules. Reviewed: 26 October 2026.