The Spanish competition authority, CNMC, has concluded an investigation into the Ilustre Colegio de la Abogacía de Madrid (ICAM) regarding potential restrictive competition practices. The investigation focused on two main areas: the collective liability insurance and the membership fees imposed on its members.

CNMC found that ICAM's practices could limit the freedom of choice for its members. Specifically, the lack of clear separation of costs related to the collective liability insurance and the absence of a straightforward option to opt-out could create an impression of mandatory adherence. Additionally, the justification for the membership fee of 300 euros was deemed insufficient, as it did not align with the actual processing costs.

In response, ICAM proposed a series of commitments aimed at addressing these issues, which the CNMC has approved. These commitments will be monitored for three years and include measures to enhance transparency, such as issuing separate receipts for membership fees and insurance premiums, clearly stating the voluntary nature of the insurance, and allowing members to choose alternative insurance policies without penalties.

Furthermore, ICAM will implement a transparent selection process for future insurance providers and ensure that membership fees are aligned with actual costs. The CNMC's resolution does not include any declaration of infringement or financial penalties, but it mandates ICAM to adhere to these commitments as binding.