Judgment Reviews Law at Puerto Rico (US)
Puerto Rico's judicial review system operates within a unique legal framework shaped by its status as a U.S. territory. While it has a constitutionally established judiciary, its relationship with federal law and the U.S. Supreme Court influences its judicial review processes.
⚖️ Judicial Review in Puerto Rico
1. Constitutional Basis:
The Constitution of Puerto Rico, adopted in 1952, establishes the judiciary as an independent branch of government. Article V mandates the creation of a Supreme Court, which serves as the highest appellate court in the Commonwealth. This court has the authority to interpret the Constitution and laws of Puerto Rico and to examine the constitutionality of laws passed by the Legislative Assembly and of official actions by other branches of government
2. Structure of the Judiciary:
Puerto Rico's judicial system comprises:
Supreme Court of Puerto Rico: The highest court, responsible for final appellate decisions.
Court of Appeals: An intermediate appellate court reviewing decisions from the Court of First Instance.
Court of First Instance: The trial courts, including Superior and Municipal Courts.
3. Judicial Review Mechanisms
Writ of Certiorari: Under 23 L.P.R.A. § 743, parties may petition the Supreme Court to review decisions from the Court of First Instance. The Court has discretion to grant or deny such petitions
Certiorari to U.S. Supreme Court: Final judgments from the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico can be reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court via certiorari, particularly when federal constitutional issues are involved. This process is outlined in 28 U.S. Code § 1258
🇺🇸 Federal Influence on Judicial Review
As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico's legal system is subject to federal oversight, and its courts must adhere to federal constitutional principle. For instance, in the 2016 case Puerto Rico v. Sánchez Valle, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Puerto Rico must comply with the federal double jeopardy rule, emphasizing the island's legal dependency on U.S. congressional authority
📌 Summary
Puerto Rico's judicial review system is characterized by a blend of local constitutional authority and federal oversigt While the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico holds significant interpretative power over local laws, its decisions are subject to review by the U.S. Supreme Court, especially when federal constitutional issues are at stae This dual-layered system reflects Puerto Rico's unique status as a U.S. territory.
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