Famous Spanish Lawyers & Judges

Francisco de Vitoria was a Spanish Roman Catholic philosopher, theologian, and jurist known for founding the School of Salamanca in Renaissance Spain. He is renowned for his contributions to the development of just war theory and international law. Vitoria has been recognized as a key figure in the history of international law, with scholars considering him a significant influence alongside other notable figures. His ideas on the right to trade overseas have also played a role in shaping the concept of "freedom of commerce."

Clara Campoamor Rodríguez was a prominent Spanish politician, lawyer, and writer known as a key figure in the Spanish feminist movement. She tirelessly advocated for women's suffrage and played a significant role in its inclusion in the Spanish Constitution of 1931. Campoamor was elected to the Constituent Assembly in 1931, prior to women gaining the right to vote. Despite facing challenges, she also briefly served as a government minister before fleeing the country during the Spanish Civil War.

Niceto Alcalá-Zamora y Torres, a Spanish lawyer and politician, made significant contributions to the Second Spanish Republic. He served as its first prime minister, as well as its president from 1931 to 1936. Throughout his career, Alcalá-Zamora worked diligently to uphold democratic principles and promote political stability in Spain. His leadership during a tumultuous period in Spanish history showcased his commitment to public service and his dedication to fostering positive change within the government.

Baltasar Garzón Real is a Spanish former judge known for his work on Spain's central criminal court, the Audiencia Nacional, and as the examining magistrate of the Juzgado Central de Instrucción No. 5. He specialized in investigating significant criminal cases such as terrorism, organized crime, and money laundering. In 2011, he was suspended from judicial activity and later convicted of illegal wiretapping, resulting in an 11-year disbarment. Throughout his career, Garzón provided legal assistance to individuals such as Julian Assange.

María Margarita Robles Fernández is a prominent Spanish judge and politician known for her groundbreaking achievements in the legal field. She has held various significant roles, including serving as Minister of Defence and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Spanish government. Robles has made history as the first woman to chair a contentious-administrative chamber, preside over a provincial court, and reach the Supreme Court of Spain. She has also held positions such as Secretary of State for Security and Justice at the Supreme Court. Additionally, she has been an active member of the progressive judge association Judges for Democracy.

Manuela Carmena Castrillo is a retired Spanish lawyer and judge who served as Mayor of Madrid from June 2015 to June 2019. Before her political career, she was a respected member of the judiciary, having served on the General Council of the Judiciary. Carmena's experience in law and her dedication to public service enabled her to bring a unique perspective to her role as Mayor of Madrid, where she focused on issues such as transparency, citizen participation, and social justice.

María Pilar Llop Cuenca is a Spanish judge and politician who has held various prominent roles in Spanish government. She served as the minister of Justice of Spain and ex officio First Notary of the Kingdom from 2021 to 2023, and prior to that, she was the 61st president of the Senate of Spain. Llop has also been a Spanish Senator designated by the Assembly of Madrid and Government Delegate for Gender Violence. Throughout her career, she has been actively involved in legislative and judicial reforms, including efforts to simplify bankruptcy proceedings and meet EU recovery fund conditions.

Torcuato Fernández-Miranda y Hevia, 1st Duke of Fernández-Miranda, was a prominent Spanish lawyer and politician. He held significant positions in the Spanish State under Francisco Franco's regime and played a crucial role in the transition to democracy in Spain. Fernández-Miranda was known for his dedication to public service, legal expertise, and political acumen. He was a key figure in shaping Spain's political landscape during a time of significant change and transition, leaving a lasting impact on the country's history.

Miriam González Durántez is a prominent Spanish international trade lawyer with extensive experience and expertise in the field. She currently serves as the vice chair of UBS Europe, where she plays a key role in shaping the organization's strategic decisions. Additionally, she is the founder of Inspiring Girls, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young women and girls worldwide. Through her professional endeavors, González Durántez has made significant contributions to the legal and financial sectors, advocating for gender equality and inspiring future generations.

Inés Arrimadas García is a Spanish lawyer and former politician known for her roles in the Citizens party. She began her political career as the spokesperson of the party's youth section, eventually becoming an MP in the Catalan parliament after the 2012 election. Arrimadas later served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Catalan Parliament from 2015 to 2019, showcasing her leadership and political acumen. In March 2020, she was voted as the party leader, further solidifying her position within the political landscape.

Alejandro Lerroux García was a Spanish politician known for leading the Radical Republican Party. During his career, he served as Prime Minister three times between 1933 and 1935 and held various cabinet positions. Lerroux was recognized for his charisma and employed a demagogical and populist political style, which set him apart in the political landscape. His leadership and political acumen allowed him to make significant contributions to Spanish governance during his tenure in office.

Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola was a Spanish jurist and amateur archaeologist known for his discovery of the Altamira cave paintings. He owned the land where the cave was found, and his exploration led to the identification of the prehistoric art within it. Despite skepticism from the scientific community initially, his findings eventually gained recognition as some of the most important examples of Paleolithic art in the world. Sanz de Sautuola's work significantly contributed to the understanding of prehistoric human culture and artistic expression.

Nuria Piera is a prominent Dominican journalist known for her expertise in investigative journalism. As the CEO of NCDN, a news production company affiliated with CDN channel 37, she plays a crucial role in delivering quality news content. Additionally, she is the owner of Provideo, further solidifying her presence in the media industry. Piera's dedication to uncovering the truth and delivering impactful stories has earned her a reputation as a respected figure in journalism, making her a key player in the Dominican media landscape.

Esperanza Aguirre is a prominent Spanish politician affiliated with the People's Party (PP). She has held several key positions in the Spanish government, including President of the Senate (1999-2002), President of the Community of Madrid (2003-2012), and Minister of Education and Culture (1996-1999). Notably, she was the first female politician to serve as President of the Senate. Aguirre also played a significant role as the chair of the People's Party of the Community of Madrid from 2004 to 2016.

Adolfo Suárez Illana is a Spanish politician, lawyer, author, and aficionado-practitioner of bullfighting. He studied at the University CEU San Pablo in Madrid and Harvard in the United States. In 1998, he founded the Madrid law firm "Suárez & Illana S.L." He was chosen as the People's Party (PP) candidate for the post of Premier of the Autonomous Community of Castile-La Mancha in 2002. Suárez has anti-abortion views and has aligned with Vox on certain political issues, breaking from his party's vote discipline.

Vasco de Quiroga was the first bishop of Michoacán, Mexico, and a judge in the second Real Audiencia of Mexico. With a background in law and judging, he was appointed to the Audiencia to restore order in Michoacán. He focused on congregating indigenous populations into Hospital-towns to teach them trades and Christian values. He established multiple hospitals in different regions. Vasco de Quiroga's legacy as a protector of the Indians is honored in America, Spain, and the Catholic Church.

José de Gálvez y Gallardo was a Spanish lawyer and Visitador general in New Spain, known for his role in implementing the Bourbon Reforms. He later served on the Council of the Indies, a significant position in the Spanish colonial administration. Gálvez was a key figure in shaping policies and reforms during his tenure, working to modernize and centralize the colonial governance system. His professional contributions left a lasting impact on the political and administrative structures in the Spanish territories during the 18th century.