Puerto Rico Pro Bono & Community Legal Resources

There is no question that there is an urgent need for pro bono services and community legal resources in the commonwealth of Puerto Rico, which is a territory of the United States. Out of its population of approximately 3.7 million people, a whopping 45% are believed to be living at or below the U.S. federal poverty line. The feasibility of such individuals being able to afford their own legal representation is just about nil. Fortunately, there is a topnotch pro bono services organization available on the island.

Pro Bono Services in Puerto Rico

The vast majority of pro bono and community legal assistance that takes places in Puerto Rico is coordinated by Pro Bono, Inc. This organization was founded back in 1981. Since then, it has handled the cases of more than 100,000 indigent and low-income Puerto Rico residents. To say that Pro Bono, Inc. does a great deal of work would be an understatement. Anyone who lives on the island and can't afford legal help should contact one of the organization's many local offices. A listing of these offices is outlined below; additional information is available through the organization's website at www.probonopr.org.

Ave. San Luis 526 C Interior
Apartado 143565
Arecibo, P. R. 00614-3565
Phone: 787.879.2012

Centro Judicial, 4to. Piso
Apartado 1270
Caguas, P. R. 00726
Phone: 787.746.7660

Ave. Padre Rivera 10
Apartado 8548
Humacao, P. R. 00792
Phone: 787.852.6286

Centro Judicial Tercer Piso
91 Ave Hiram D. Cabassa
Mayaguez, P. R. 00680-2561
Phone: 787.833.5121

Centro de Diagnóstico y Tratamiento
Ave. Hostos 216, Playa de Ponce
Apartado 7677
Ponce, P. R. 00732
Phone: 787.840.3260

Ave. Ponce de León 808
Parada 11½ Miramar
PO Box 13820
San Juan, P. R. 00908-3820
Phone: 787.721.3398

If you or someone you know lives in Puerto Rico and is unable to afford legal representation, one of the preceding offices may be able to help. Keep in mind that such assistance is contingent on meeting certain eligibility requirements; Pro Bono, Inc. does not handle all cases. Still, making the call is the important first step in protecting the legal rights of you, your family and your loved ones.