History, Mission and Role in Puerto Rican Society

The Colegio de Abogados y Abogadas de Puerto Rico (Puerto Rico Bar Association) is one of the island's oldest professional organizations and an important institution in the development of Puerto Rico's legal system. Founded in the 19th century, the organization has spent generations representing the interests of attorneys, promoting professional ethics, and supporting the principles of justice and equal rights. Beyond serving the legal profession, the Colegio has also played an important role in public discussions involving civil rights, constitutional issues, and the future of Puerto Rican society.

A History Dating Back to 1840

The history of the Colegio de Abogados de Puerto Rico dates back to June 27, 1840, when a group of Puerto Rican attorneys, along with one attorney from Venezuela and another from the Dominican Republic, established the organization. At the time, Puerto Rico was under Spanish colonial rule, and the legal profession was still developing on the island.
The organization's original purpose was straightforward but important: provide free legal representation to people who could not afford an attorney, oversee the professional conduct of lawyers, and protect attorneys against unjustified accusations or attacks. One of its first official actions was to distribute cases involving poor residents among its members so they could receive legal representation without charge.
Juan Vicente de Goicoechea was selected as the organization's first president, known at the time as the Dean. This early commitment to public service established a tradition that would continue throughout the institution's history.
Following the Spanish-American War and the change in Puerto Rico's political status in 1898, the organization experienced several changes. Its modern institutional structure was formally established under Puerto Rico Law No. 43, approved on May 14, 1932. This legislation recognized the Colegio as a quasi-public corporation and established its legal responsibilities and functions.
Over the decades, the organization became an important voice within Puerto Rico's legal community and a participant in discussions about the island's laws, government, and public policies.
Colegio de Abogados

Mission and Purpose

The primary mission of the Colegio de Abogados y Abogadas de Puerto Rico is to strengthen the legal profession while promoting justice, professional responsibility, and the protection of individual rights.
One of its central responsibilities is to represent and support attorneys throughout their professional careers. This includes defending the interests of its members, promoting high ethical standards, and providing opportunities for continuing legal education. The organization also encourages cooperation among attorneys and helps professionals stay informed about changes in Puerto Rico's laws and legal procedures.
Another important part of its mission is promoting access to justice. The organization recognizes that access to legal representation and fair treatment under the law are essential elements of a democratic society. It has historically supported initiatives involving civil rights, constitutional protections, and the rights of individuals and communities.
The Colegio also participates in public discussions about proposed legislation and legal matters that could affect Puerto Rico. Through its committees and professional members, it evaluates legislative proposals, organizes educational forums, and provides legal perspectives on important public issues.

Supporting Attorneys and the Community

The Colegio offers a variety of services and professional resources to its members. These include educational conferences, seminars, legal discussions, networking opportunities, and specialized committees covering different areas of law.
Its numerous commissions allow attorneys to participate in discussions and projects involving subjects such as civil law, family law, labor law, professional ethics, technology, and constitutional rights. These groups provide opportunities for legal professionals to exchange knowledge and contribute to the development of Puerto Rico's legal system.
The organization also works to maintain the dignity and independence of the legal profession. By encouraging ethical conduct and professional development, it helps promote public confidence in attorneys and the justice system.
Although membership requirements have changed over the years, the Colegio continues to operate as a professional organization supported by participating attorneys and members of the legal community.

An Important Institution in Puerto Rico

With a history spanning more than 185 years, the Colegio de Abogados y Abogadas de Puerto Rico remains an important part of the island's professional and civic landscape. Its responsibilities extend beyond representing attorneys, encompassing broader issues involving justice, individual freedoms, and the rule of law.
From its original commitment to providing free legal representation to those in need to its modern role in examining legislation and defending civil rights, the organization has maintained a connection to the development of Puerto Rico.
For residents interested in understanding the island's legal institutions and the organizations that have helped shape its history, the Colegio de Abogados de Puerto Rico represents an important chapter in the story of Puerto Rico's professional, social, and civic development.
Dirección Física
808 Avenida Ponce de León
Miramar, Puerto Rico 00907
Dirección Postal
PO Box 9021 San Juan
Puerto Rico 00908-0021
Teléfono
787-721-3358