Judge Juan Carlos Peinado, who is leading the investigation into Begoña Gómez, has officially warned the Spanish government about the possible consequences of failing to comply with court orders. In a new resolution signed on Wednesday, he insists on the immediate handover of all requested materials concerning the wife of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and her assistant. Should the request be ignored, officials face criminal prosecution for disobedience.
In his statement, the judge demands that the government either supply all the required information or provide an explanation for why this has not been done so far. Specifically, he requests official schedules, travel details, and comprehensive information about the professional and financial ties between the state and Begoña Gómez’s assistant, Cristina Álvarez.
What exactly the court is demanding
The court order covers a broad range of information. Among other things, the judge insists on receiving all documents related to the appointment of assistants to current and former prime ministers’ spouses. Details on the number of appointed assistants, their salaries, and complete data on Cristina Álvarez’s earnings for the entire year of 2025 are also required.
Special attention is given to supporting documents: official salary certificates, monthly payroll statements, information on social benefits, and any changes in employment relations. All these records must be submitted in full and on official letterhead.
Details on trips and business expenses
The judge is demanding full disclosure of all travel by Cristina Álvarez funded by the state budget. The list includes travel orders, official permissions, invoices, expense reports, as well as proof of payment. In addition, all travel destinations, purposes of business trips, per diem amounts, representation expenses, and information on the use of official vehicles and any subordinates of Álvarez must be specified.
All this information must cover the period from July 16, 2018—the start date of Cristina Álvarez’s employment—up to the present. The judge emphasizes that any lack of response or explanation will be considered a direct violation of the law.
Consequences for the government
If the government fails to comply with the court’s demands and does not provide the requested documents or explain the reasons for any delay, officials may be held accountable for disobedience. Judge Peinado made it clear that ignoring court requests will not go without consequences.
Thus, the investigation into Begoña Gómez and her assistant is growing increasingly serious. Authorities now face a choice: either disclose all the details or face accusations of breaking the law.
