Question 1

What is civil litigation in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

Civil litigation resolves non-criminal disputes through the courts, such as contract, property, and damages claims. Cases are filed in the Court of First Instance and proceed through pleadings, discovery, and trial.

Question 2

How long does a civil case take in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

Timelines vary widely; simple matters may resolve in months while complex cases can take a year or more, especially with extensive discovery or appeals. Settlement or ADR can shorten the process.

Question 3

Are notaries in Puerto Rico different from notaries elsewhere in the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Puerto Rico follows a civil-law notarial system, so a notary must be a licensed attorney with significant authority to author public deeds and authenticate documents, far beyond a notary in most U.S. states.

Question 4

What kinds of documents require a notary in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

A notary-attorney is required to author public deeds for transactions such as real estate purchases, mortgages, wills, and powers of attorney, giving the document public faith (fe pública).

Carlos Gabriel Benítez Amaro

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