Protección patrimonial de niños y adolescentes ecuatorianos: marco normativo y aplicación del procedimiento voluntario

This study analyzes the voluntary procedure for the disposal of children's and adolescents' assets in Ecuador, based on the current regulatory framework. Ecuadorian regulations establish that minors have limited legal capacity, which prevents them from entering into acts of property disposition without the intervention of a legal representative. The objective of this research is to examine the scope and application of the voluntary procedure in these cases, with special emphasis on the protection of the child's best interests and the right to be heard. A qualitative and analytical approach was used based on a review of relevant regulations, doctrine, and jurisprudence. The results show that the General Organic Code of Processes (COGEP) regulates this procedure by requiring prior judicial authorization and convening a hearing to evaluate the appropriateness of the transaction. However, in practice, shortcomings are observed in the application of the right to be heard and in the appointment of guardians ad litem when there are potential conflicts of interest. It is concluded that, while the regulations provide an adequate protection framework, their implementation presents gaps that may affect the property rights of children and adolescents. It is necessary to strengthen the application of child protection principles through greater rigor in the judicial evaluation of these cases, ensuring the effective participation of minors in proceedings that affect their property, and promoting an interpretation that safeguards the best interests of the child.