The municipal parking company of Lisbon, EMEL, may face a lawsuit aimed at the return of millions of euros in fines collected since 2020. The 37.7 million euros paid in fines during this period are presented as a bill that, according to the authors of the action, is not necessarily ready to be returned, but which raises questions about the legality of a significant part of these fines.
The law firm Carlos Barroso & Associados intends to take EMEL to the administrative courts, with the process expected to be filed at the beginning of September. This lawsuit has the potential to pave the way for the return of fines paid by motorists in Lisbon, should the courts rule in favor of the plaintiffs.
The action is based on three main accusations against EMEL. First, it claims that the municipal company inspects outside the zones and hours under its management, meaning it issues fines in locations or at times when it should not operate. Second, it argues that EMEL ignores drivers' right to defense, not ensuring fair procedures. Third, it states that the company charges for cases that have already expired, meaning fines whose claim should no longer be legally possible.
