How to Appeal a Breathalyzer Fine in Marismillas: Downloadable Template
Receiving a traffic fine for driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious matter in Spain. However, administrative errors, such as a "defecto de forma" (a formal defect), can sometimes invalidate the penalty. A formal defect occurs when the notification or the procedure fails to meet the strict legal requirements mandated by the Spanish Traffic Law (Ley de Seguridad Vial), such as incorrect identification of the driver, missing data on the breathalyzer calibration, or errors in the notification process. This template is designed to help you challenge the fine based on these procedural failures.
How and Where to Submit Your Appeal in Marismillas
To submit your appeal (recurso de alegaciones), you must act within 20 calendar days from the date you received the notification. In Marismillas, which falls under the administrative jurisdiction of the Seville province, you have several options:
- In-person: You can visit the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) headquarters in Seville. You will need to request an appointment (cita previa) beforehand.
- Online: The most efficient method is via the DGT "Sede Electrónica" using a Digital Certificate, Cl@ve, or DNIe.
- Post Office: You can submit the appeal via "Correo Administrativo" at any Correos office in the region. Ensure the envelope is open so it can be stamped with the date of submission.
- Local Town Hall: While the DGT handles traffic fines, you may be able to register the document through the "Registro General" of the local municipality if they have a collaboration agreement (ORVE system).
A LA JEFATURA PROVINCIAL DE TRÁFICO DE SEVILLA
DON/DOÑA: [Your Full Name], con DNI/NIE [Your ID Number], y domicilio a efectos de notificaciones en [Your Address], [Postal Code], Marismillas (Sevilla).
EXPONE:
Que habiendo sido notificado/a de la supuesta infracción con número de expediente [Expediente Number], por un supuesto positivo en alcoholemia, interpongo en tiempo y forma el presente escrito de ALEGACIONES basándome en los siguientes:
MOTIVOS:
PRIMERO: Defecto de forma. El boletín de denuncia carece de los requisitos esenciales exigidos por el artículo 87 de la Ley sobre Tráfico, Circulación de Vehículos a Motor y Seguridad Vial, al omitir [specify the error, e.g., la fecha de calibración del etilómetro / la identificación correcta del agente / la firma del denunciante].
SEGUNDO: Indefensión. La falta de información precisa en la notificación impide el ejercicio de mi derecho a la defensa garantizado por el artículo 24 de la Constitución Española.
SOLICITO:
Que tenga por presentado este escrito, se admita a trámite y, tras los trámites oportunos, se proceda al ARCHIVO y ANULACIÓN del expediente sancionador por los motivos expuestos.
En [City], a [Date].
Fdo.: [Your Signature]
Additional Documentation Required
When submitting your appeal, ensure you attach the following documents to strengthen your case:
- A photocopy of your DNI, NIE, or Passport.
- A copy of the original traffic fine notification (denuncia).
- Any evidence that supports your claim of a "defecto de forma" (e.g., photos, witness statements, or documents showing the device was not properly certified).
- If you are acting through a representative, a signed power of attorney (autorización de representación).
Expert Tip: Always keep a stamped copy of your appeal. If you submit it via the post office, keep the receipt as proof of the date. Be aware that by filing an appeal, you waive the 50% "pronto pago" (early payment) discount. If you are not 100% certain of the formal defect, consider consulting with a specialized traffic lawyer before proceeding, as an unsuccessful appeal will require you to pay the full amount of the fine.