The case against Begoña Gómez Who is Judge Peinado?

Judge Juan Carlos Peinado has initiated proceedings against Begoña Gómez, wife of President Pedro Sánchez, in a context marked by controversies and questions about the motivations and evidence behind this legal action.

A Controversial Judicial Context

In a recent turn in Spanish politics, Begoña Gómez has been denounced before the Court of Instruction number 41 of Madrid. The complaint, filed by the far-right group Clean Hands, accuses Gómez of alleged influence peddling. However, the basis of this accusation seems to waver in the air: it is based on press clippings from far-right media and hoaxes without clear evidentiary support. This episode stands out not only for its political nature but also for the figure of the judge in charge, Juan Carlos Peinado, whose judicial history is not without controversy.

History of Magistrate Peinado

Juan Carlos Peinado, who currently occupies Court of Instruction number 41 in Madrid, has a past full of episodes that intertwine politics and justice in ways that have frequently provoked public scrutiny. From his days as City Council secretary to his current position, Peinado has been a protagonist in several significant controversies:

• In 2015,, was involved in a controversy with Clean Hands when the pseudo-union denounced councilors of the Madrid City Council for offensive tweets, a case that was transferred to the National Court.
• In 2019,, accused journalists of reporting on the case of the CDR, accused of terrorism, a situation that ended with the filing of the proceedings after protests over the alleged violation of the secrecy of the summary.

Furthermore, Peinado's career has been marked by his aspirations within the judicial system, including a failed candidacy to be a member of the CGPJ and his selection as a reinforcement judge in the National Court, elections that have generated debates about his ideological alignment and his interpretation of the law.

Implications of Lawfare and the Politicization of Justice

The case against Begoña Gómez not only raises questions about the validity of the accusations but also about the possible use of the judicial system as a tool of lawfare – that is, using the law as a political weapon – something increasingly observed in Spain, following worrying trends. seen in Latin America. Peinado's relationship with political figures and entities has added an additional layer of complications to his role as an impartial judge, especially considering the political background of the complainant, Manos Médicas, and the dubious sources cited in the complaint.

The Future of the Case and Justice in Spain

As the proceedings against Gómez progress, the public and media eye will follow not only the details of the case but also Peinado's conduct in handling it. The implications for Spanish justice are profound: each action and decision in this case could reinforce or erode confidence in a judicial system that faces the challenge of maintaining its integrity in the face of political and media pressures.

Conclusion: A Challenge for Judicial Transparency and Impartiality

The current situation requires critical reflection on how judicial processes are influenced and sometimes manipulated by factors external to the law. The case of Begoña Gómez, beyond its specific legal merits, is an emblematic example of the challenges that Spain faces in its fight to preserve a judicial system that is not only fair but also perceived as such by citizens. The resolution of this case could set an important precedent for judicial independence in Spain and its ability to resist politicization.