The courts hear both civil and criminal cases. Criminal cases are commenced by a prosecuting attorney, in behalf of the State or the People of Puerto Rico, against one or more individuals. The purpose of the action is to punish the person who is suspected of engaging in conduct that is prohibited by law and is classified as a crime. For that, the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the person committed the crime.

On this page, you will be able to access information about criminal proceedings, the rights of the parties, and other issues related to criminal law.

Revised: February 2023