Unpaid child maintenance

Failure to pay all or part of a maintenance obligation. Civil recovery and the possible criminal offence of failing to pay family maintenance are distinct issues.

Preparing your consultation

Use one row per instalment showing the amount due, amount received, date and balance. Keep complete payment records and record partial payments. Avoid counting a transfer twice or applying an adjustment without checking the clause. Preserve relevant communications in their original form.

Official source

Ley de Enjuiciamiento Civil, art. 776 · BOE

Spanish law · Reviewed: 03/11/2026