Understanding Puerto Rico’s New Professional Conduct Rules and CLE Accreditation
On June 17, 2025, the Tribunal Supremo de Puerto Rico adopted the new Reglas de Conducta Profesional through Resolución ER-2025-02. These rules update the ethical framework governing legal and notarial practice in Puerto Rico, reinforcing the standards that guide the profession.
As part of the implementation process, the Tribunal Supremo has established a one-time continuing legal education (CLE) requirement to ensure that legal professionals become familiar with this new set of rules. Providers who offer CLE programs in Puerto Rico should be aware of the requirements and CLE accreditation procedures tied to this special mandate.
What Is the Special CLE Requirement?
Except for limited exceptions, all attorneys in Puerto Rico must complete a minimum of 6 CLE credits focused on the new Reglas de Conducta Profesional by December 31, 2026. This requirement is unique in that it applies only once and specifically targets the adoption of the new ethical standards.
Does This Create New Obligations for Providers?
No. The special requirement does not add new obligations beyond those already established in the Reglamento del Programa de Educación Jurídica Continua. Providers must continue following the existing processes for course CLE accreditation submission, approval, administration, attendance reporting, and certification.
What Courses Qualify?
To qualify, a course must:
- Be presented in accordance with the Reglamento del Programa, and
- Address primarily the ethics of the new Reglas de Conducta Profesional.
Only courses created and offered after June 17, 2025, are valid. Pre-existing courses will not satisfy this requirement. Qualifying courses will receive a distinct “Reglas de Conducta Profesional” (RCP) code for easier tracking.
Course Submission and Approval Process
Providers must comply with the same procedures already in place under the Reglamento del Programa. This includes submitting:
- A course approval form (OAT1809),
- A curriculum outline with applicable legal sources,
- Full course materials,
- Documentation of instructor qualifications, and
- A draft of the course announcement or promotional material.
These materials must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the planned course date. After the course is held, providers must remit participant certifications, attendance lists, evaluation results, and payment within the required deadlines.
Certification and Instructor Credit
Providers are required to issue participation certificates that include the provider name, participant details, course title, code, hours granted, and signature of an authorized representative. Instructors may also apply for CLE credit under Rule 34 of the Reglamento del Programa by submitting the appropriate form (OAT1411) along with provider certification.
Communicating the Requirement to Participants
The Programa de Educación Jurídica Continua encourages providers to take a few minutes during their programs to inform participants about the special requirement. Clear communication helps attorneys keep track of their compliance and strengthens professional ethics across the bar. Providers are also authorized to share an official document prepared by the Programa, “Lo que todo(a) abogado(a) debe saber sobre el requisito especial de las Reglas de Conducta Profesional de Puerto Rico (ER-2025-02),” which contains FAQs and guidance.
Practical CLE Accreditation Takeaways for Providers
- Build courses that clearly focus on the ethical dimensions of the new Reglas de Conducta Profesional.
- Use the distinctive RCP coding in your course submissions to streamline recognition.
- Factor in the 45-day submission window when planning course launches for late 2025 and throughout 2026.
- Communicate the requirement proactively to participants, as this adds value to your programs and ensures compliance.
- Keep accurate records of attendance, certificates, and evaluations, as Puerto Rico’s system emphasizes documentation and timely reporting.
For providers managing accreditation across multiple jurisdictions, the Puerto Rico requirement may feel like an added layer of complexity. Aligning your compliance process with existing U.S. state CLE accreditation standards, while adapting to Puerto Rico’s specific documentation requirements, can help reduce duplication and streamline operations.
This is where external guidance can be valuable: support in reviewing materials, preparing CLE accreditation submissions, and managing jurisdiction-specific nuances ensures that your CLE offerings remain compliant and accessible. Providers who proactively manage these requirements can help attorneys meet their obligations efficiently and maintain high standards in continuing legal education.
External Resource: Programa de Educación Jurídica Continua – Puerto Rico Judicial Branch