Spanish Court Advances Trial of Begoña Gómez Over Patent Misappropriation

The Audiencia Provincial of Madrid has ordered a trial of Begoña Gómez, accused of appropriating patents that had been offered to the Complutense University and registering them in her name. The court unanimously approved the proceeding while simultaneously archiving two other alleged offences, including a case concerning precautionary measures.

Commentators have described the proceedings as an instance of "lawfare" and have highlighted the political context, noting remarks by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez about the prosecution. The case has attracted attention due to Gómez’s potential travel to New Jersey and her connections to prominent figures.

The legal action underscores ongoing concerns about alleged corruption within Spanish political circles and the handling of academic intellectual property.