Two high court justices object to how changes to reputation panel were implemented

Puerto Rico Supreme Court Chief Justice Maite Oronoz Rodríguez

By The Star Staff

Two members of Puerto Rico’s Supreme Court have criticized the way the majority of the tribunal carried out recent changes to the Commission on Reputation for the Practice of Law, arguing that the process departed from long-standing traditions of transparency and collegial deliberation.

Chief Justice Maite Oronoz Rodríguez, joined by Associate Justice Ángel Colón Pérez, issued a dissenting opinion earlier this month after the court announced several new appointments to the commission, which evaluates the character, reputation and mental fitness of individuals seeking admission to the bar. The commission also reviews petitions for reinstatement.

Oronoz Rodríguez said the decision replaced “half of the associate members” without prior discussion among the full court, a practice she described as essential for ensuring continuity and stability.

“In the past, these matters were discussed openly within the Plenary,” the chief justice wrote. “Each member of the Court would usually submit a name for consideration, allowing us to evaluate performance and credentials before making changes that could disrupt the commission’s work.”

Oronoz Rodríguez lamented the removal of professors Belén Guerrero Calderón and Mayté N. Rivera Rodríguez, the latter a scholar in ethics and professional responsibility.

“Both are first-rate academics whose input is invaluable for the proper functioning of the commission,” the dissent noted.

Despite the criticism, the court confirmed the appointments of Guillermo Arbona Lago as chair, along with Jocelyn López Vilanova, Miguel Candelario Piñeiro, Rafael G. Rocher Valera, Luis M. Barnecet Vélez, Yolanda Doitteau Ruiz and Luisa Colom García as members. Dr. Robert Stolberg and Bruno E. Cortés Trigo were also named to the body. Terms will range from four to five years, according to the resolution.

The Supreme Court expressed gratitude to the new appointees and those who previously served. The commission is authorized to hold hearings and conduct investigations as part of its mandate to safeguard the integrity of the legal profession.