The role of the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office
Divorce proceedings in Spain are quick and inexpensive when a couple does not have children together. It is not even necessary to go to court if there is an agreement on the conditions (distribution of assets, compensatory pension if applicable, etc.), which is enough to be settled in the notary with a lawyer. It is called a notarial divorce, and the process can be resolved in a few days. According to European legal philosophy, state intervention tends to be minimal in matters that are considered private, that is, in the intimate sphere of the couple. For this reason, legal agility is sought to protect marital decisions.
However, the situation changes radically when the couple has minor children, since then the state must ensure the well-being of them. Thus, initially private matters become a matter of public competence because there are minors involved.
In this situation, the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office plays a key role in divorce cases. Its main function is to protect the best interests of the child. Their intervention generally includes the supervision of divorce agreements, the defense of the rights of the child and even direct intervention in legal proceedings.
The abducting mother is still absent in the Magundayao Case
As this media has learned, the juvenile prosecutor's office filed a brief in the Spanish court where the divorce of the parents is being processed supporting the opening of a separate piece requested by the father of the abducted children.
This action is justified since, if there are indications of abuse, neglect or danger to the child, the Prosecutor's Office can request protection measures, such as suspending visitation or changing custody. In particular cases of international child abduction, it works with judges and security forces to ensure the return of the child.
The situation is complicated for Regina Magundayao Valdez. In her desire to flee from Spanish justice, she has now changed her Facebook profile under the name Regs Valdez. This behavior is part of the usual behavior of child abductors, who hope to fall into oblivion so that society ignores their evil acts.