Tenerife Lawyer Ordered to Compensate Client Over Negligence in Property Deal

A court in Tenerife has ruled that a lawyer must compensate a client with more than 165,000 euros after neglecting to pursue a claim against a developer. The client had sold land in La Laguna for a residential project, expecting a new home in return. However, due to the lawyer’s inaction, the claim period expired, leaving the client without the property or its equivalent value.

The judge found the lawyer guilty of severe professional misconduct, noting that he misled the client about the status of the legal action. Despite claims of progress, no steps were taken, with the lawyer blaming personal and workload issues. The court emphasized the lawyer’s duty to inform the client about the risk of the claim’s expiration.

This case highlights the critical need for reliable legal advice in property transactions, especially for international buyers unfamiliar with local laws. The court awarded half of the claimed amount, recognizing doubts about the claim’s timing and the developer’s ability to pay. The lawyer has appealed, adding further uncertainty to the proceedings.

For those considering property investments in the Canary Islands, this situation underscores the importance of engaging competent legal counsel. Ensuring all legal avenues are explored and deadlines met is crucial to protecting investments and avoiding costly mistakes.