Question 1

What does a women's advocacy lawyer handle?

Accepted Answer

Women's advocacy attorneys represent women in matters where gender is central: domestic and sexual violence protection, workplace discrimination and sexual harassment, pregnancy and maternity-leave rights, equal pay, and divorce and custody. They combine family, employment, and civil-rights law to protect a client's safety, income, and legal standing.

Question 2

How does a protection order work under Law 54 in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

Puerto Rico's Law 54 of 1989 lets a victim of domestic violence petition the Court of First Instance for a protection order that can require the aggressor to stay away, leave the home, and surrender firearms. Petitions may be filed at any time — including ex parte in cases of immediate danger — with no filing fee. An attorney can prepare the petition, present evidence at the hearing, and seek extensions or a criminal referral.

Question 3

What are my rights against gender or pregnancy discrimination at work?

Accepted Answer

Puerto Rico prohibits sex and pregnancy discrimination in employment under Law 100 and Law 3, alongside federal Title VII and the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. Employees are protected against discriminatory dismissal, unequal pay, denial of maternity leave, and sexual harassment (Law 17). Remedies can include reinstatement, back pay, and double damages under Law 100, but the deadlines are short, so consult an attorney promptly.

Women's Advocacy Lawyers in Puerto Rico

Sonia M Carrasquillo Nieves, Esq.

Frequently Asked Questions — Women's Advocacy

Are you a Women's Advocacy attorney in Puerto Rico?