Spain’s legal community is abuzz once again: former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos, who is in custody over a high-profile corruption case, has changed lawyers. He is now represented by Mariño Turiel Gómez, a well-known specialist in criminal and economic law. His previous attorney, Carlos Bautista, withdrew from the case, a move promptly approved by the Supreme Court judge. Such a key change in legal counsel at a tense moment has not gone unnoticed.
Ábalos himself has openly stated that for him, a lawyer is more than just a courtroom representative—it is someone who becomes the closest and most vulnerable person in the process. He publicly thanked both Bautista and his team for their work, highlighting his appreciation for their efforts despite the brief cooperation. Now, all the former minister’s hopes rest with Turiel, whom he has known for years.
The Koldo Case
At the heart of the scandal are allegations of illegal commissions during the awarding of contracts for medical mask supplies at the height of the pandemic. Investigators believe millions of euros are involved, and Ábalos is one of the key suspects. His name dominates Spain’s front pages, and public opinion is deeply divided—some demand harsh punishment, while others see political motives behind the prosecution.
The trial promises to be lengthy and complicated. Already, the Supreme Court is demanding a substantial bail — 60,000 euros — from Ábalos and his former advisor Koldo. This is a condition for them to remain free while awaiting trial. However, both men currently remain in custody as their lawyers prepare a defense strategy.
Turiel’s Professional Career
Mariño Turiel is no incidental figure in Spanish legal circles. With three decades of experience, he specializes in economic crimes and disputes with tax authorities. He has defended not only businesspeople and officials but also victims of fraud. His clients have included city mayors, board members of municipal companies, and major entrepreneurs.
Turiel graduated from the Autonomous University of Madrid and quickly built a reputation as someone who does not shy away from complex cases. His expertise in compliance and criminal law enables him to navigate even the most intricate proceedings with confidence. This is why Ábalos entrusted him not only with the main case but also with related legal matters — from appeals to the Constitutional Court to lawsuits against ministerial audits.
Change of Defense Team
A sudden change of lawyer in the midst of an investigation is a risky move. Carlos Bautista, former prosecutor of the National Court and an expert in extradition cases, resigned as Abalos’ defense attorney of his own accord. The reasons have not been disclosed, though legal circles suspect that pressure and the complexity of the case may have played a role. Nevertheless, Bautista received thanks from the former minister for his prompt and professional work.
Now all responsibility falls on Turiel’s shoulders. He has already stated that he is ready to defend his client’s interests to the end and is not afraid of the public spotlight. In Spain, however, lawyers who take on high-profile cases often face intense scrutiny and even threats. Turiel is well aware of this, but he has no intention of backing down.
Legal battles ahead
In the coming months, attention on the Abalos case will only grow. Court hearings, new charges, possible interrogations — all of this is still ahead. Turiel will have to not only defend his client in court, but also work with public opinion in Spain, which can sometimes be as severe as the jury.
The situation surrounding the former minister is a litmus test for the entire Spanish political system. How will the court respond? Will the defense be able to prove his innocence or at least mitigate the sentence? These questions interest not only lawyers, but also ordinary citizens who are weary of corruption scandals.
