Training Pathway:

To become a lawyer in Puerto Rico, candidates must first earn a Título de Abogado (Professional Title of Lawyer) or Juris Doctor (JD) from a law school accredited by the Puerto Rico Supreme Court or the American Bar Association. Law programs typically last three years after the completion of a Bachelor’s Degree. It includes coursework in constitutional law, civil procedure, criminal law, property law, and legal ethics. Law students are also required to complete internships or legal clinics to gain practical experience in legal research, writing, and advocacy. The primary law schools in Puerto Rico include the University of Puerto Rico School of Law and Inter American University School of Law. All instruction is conducted in Spanish, and students are expected to have strong proficiency in legal Spanish.

Certification Requirements:

After obtaining their JD degree, graduates must pass the Puerto Rico Bar Examination, administered by the Puerto Rico Supreme Court. The exam is rigorous and consists of multiple components, including essay questions and practical legal problems. It tests candidates on their understanding of Puerto Rican civil law, ethics, and court procedures. After passing the exam, candidates must complete a character and fitness review and take the oath of office to be officially admitted to the Puerto Rican bar. Only then are they authorized to practice law within the jurisdiction.

Continuing Legal Education (CLE):

Continuing legal education is a requirement for lawyers in Puerto Rico to retain their license and remain in good standing with the bar. The Puerto Rico Bar Association and other legal organizations offer accredited seminars and workshops covering legal updates, professional ethics, and specialized areas of practice. Lawyers are required to complete a certain number of credit hours within each renewal period. Participation in ongoing education ensures that legal professionals remain informed about changes in the law and uphold high standards of legal service. Advanced legal education, such as a Master of Law (LLM) or specialized certifications, is also pursued by some attorneys to enhance their career prospects.