Handling Stolen Goods

Receiving stolen property lawyer

If you’ve been accused of receiving stolen goods (delito de receptación), you may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, or completely blindsided. In many cases, the person under investigation had no knowledge that the property in question was stolen, or did not fully understand the legal implications of their actions. With the guidance of a skilled receiving stolen property lawyer, you can navigate the process with clarity and protect your rights from the very beginning.

At Chabaneix Abogados, our experienced criminal defense lawyers are here to protect your rights, clarify your legal situation, and build a tailored strategy to safeguard your freedom, your reputation, and your future. 

Understanding the charge of receiving stolen goods in Spain

Under Article 298 of the Spanish Criminal Code, the crime of receptación involves assisting in the acquisition, use, or concealment of assets derived from a previous crime (typically theft, robbery, or fraud) knowing that the items were illegally obtained. 

To establish criminal liability, the prosecution must prove: 

• That you acquired, received, or handled property derived from a criminal act, 
• That you knew, or should have known, about the unlawful origin of the goods, 
• That your actions benefited you or a third party. 

These accusations can arise in the context of informal exchanges, business transactions, or digital purchases. It’s not uncommon for people to be investigated simply for possessing items tied to another person’s criminal act, without any active participation in the original offense. 

At Chabaneix Abogados, we defend clients involved in cases concerning: 

• Electronics, jewelry, or luxury items 
• Company assets or commercial goods 
• Vehicles or vehicle components 
• Digital items or financial assets 
• Online transactions involving unknown or fraudulent sellers 

The earlier you seek legal advice, the better. Having a lawyer by your side during preliminary proceedings (diligencias previas) can reduce legal exposure and, in some cases, avoid the case escalating to trial. 

Our defense approach: personalized, precise, and discreet

When facing a charge of receiving stolen goods, what you need isn’t just legal representation, you need a defense strategy designed around you, your story, and the specific facts of your case. 

At Chabaneix Abogados, we provide: 

In-depth legal and evidentiary analysis 

We examine all the facts, documentation, communications, and police records. Did you know the property was stolen? Was your involvement intentional? Were your rights respected during the investigation? 

Personalized criminal defense 

Your legal strategy may include demonstrating a lack of knowledge or intent, identifying procedural irregularities, or contesting the evidence presented during the investigative phase. 

Discretion, respect, and empathy 

We understand how difficult and stigmatizing a criminal accusation can be, especially for professionals and business owners. You will receive respectful, confidential, and human legal support from day one. 

In many cases, our clients have simply been caught in a situation they didn’t fully understand, or have been falsely accused based on weak or circumstantial evidence. Our job is to ensure your rights are respected and your voice is heard. 

Why choose Chabaneix Abogados?

When your freedom and reputation are at risk, you need a defense team with experience, judgment, and commitment. 

At Chabaneix Abogados, we offer: 

• Expertise in economic and property-related criminal law: We represent clients facing white collar offenses, including fraud, tax evasion, embezzlement, and crimes against property, such as receiving stolen goods or misappropriation. 
• Tailored, case-specific strategies: No two clients, or legal situations, are alike. We build a custom legal defense that fits your professional context, your background, and your specific legal risks. 
• Clear and supportive communication: We keep you informed at every stage, translating complex legal procedures into plain language and helping you understand your options. 
• Integrity and respect: You’ll be treated with the dignity and care you deserve, regardless of the accusations you’re facing. 

Schedule a confidential consultation

If you’re under investigation or have received notice of criminal proceedings, don’t wait for things to escalate. The sooner you speak with a defense lawyer, the more control you’ll have over the process. 

• Schedule a confidential consultation today
• 100% private, respectful, and nonjudgmental
• In-person or virtual appointments available 

Let us help you take control of your legal defense, and your future. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Receiving Stolen Property Lawyer​

What is the difference between theft and receiving stolen goods in Spain?

Theft (hurto or robo) involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property. Receiving stolen goods (receptación) means possessing, acquiring, or helping someone benefit from that property, knowing or suspecting it came from a prior offense. You can be charged even if you weren’t involved in the original theft.

What are the penalties for receiving stolen goods in Spain?

Under Spanish law, this offense can carry penalties of 6 months to 2 years of imprisonment, depending on the value of the goods and the degree of knowledge and intent involved. Aggravating or mitigating factors—such as cooperation, restitution, or previous criminal record—can affect the sentence.

Can I be convicted if I didn’t know the items were stolen?

Not if you genuinely lacked knowledge or suspicion. However, prosecutors may argue that you should have suspected the unlawful origin of the goods based on the circumstances (e.g., price, location, condition, or transaction type). A strong legal defense can demonstrate your lack of intent and protect your presumption of innocence.

Can the case be dismissed or avoided before trial?

Yes. In some cases, particularly during preliminary proceedings, your lawyer may present evidence or arguments that lead the court to close the case (archivo de diligencias) or avoid formal charges altogether.

Don’t let a single accusation define your future. At Chabaneix Abogados, we offer precise, discreet, and honest legal defense for individuals accused of receiving stolen goods under Spanish law. 

Contact us today to speak with a trusted defense attorney. 

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