JUDICIAL SYSTEM - The judicial system is based upon Spanish Law,
which is different in essence from English Law upon which is based
the United States judicial system. The Puerto Rico system comprises a
district court, a superior court, an appelate court and, ultimately, the Puerto Rico
Supreme Court. Decisions of the Puerto Rico Supreme Court may be
appealed through the Federal District Court for Puerto Rico and,
ultimately, to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Lawyers are plentiful in Puerto Rico. In addition to legal work,
lawyers are the only group authorized to do notary public work in
Puerto Rico. Rates for some notary public work are established by
law. Any other fees are generally a matter of negotiation and/or
shopping around for the most convenient.
The Puerto Rico Bar Association (Colegio de Abogados de Puerto Rico)
is a compulsory association that includes all lawyers on the island.
It is a likely source of preliminary information such as getting in
touch with a lawyer specialized in a particular subject of law.
It is also the place to file complaints if you ever run into
difficulties in your dealings with a particular attorney. Telephone
(787) 721-3358, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
You may also file complaints about attorneys at the Supreme Court of
Puerto Rico (Tribunal Supremo de Puerto Rico).
If you cannot find the information you need, and we will try to help you find it.
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