The Puerto Rico Court of Appeals has dismissed an appeal involving Universal Protection and Maintenance, Corp. and Benítez Refrigeration & A/C Services, Inc. The dismissal comes after both parties reached a settlement agreement, effectively ending the legal dispute. This decision is significant as it resolves a matter that had been under review since December 2025.
The case, filed under docket number TA2025AP00669, originated in the Caguas Superior Court. It involved a civil matter concerning the collection of money, although specific details about the financial dispute were not disclosed in the court's opinion. The resolution of this case is important for both companies as it allows them to move forward without the burden of ongoing litigation.
Background
Universal Protection and Maintenance, Corp. and Benítez Refrigeration & A/C Services, Inc. are the two parties involved in this case. The dispute arose when Benítez Refrigeration filed an appeal on December 14, 2025, seeking a review of a previous judgment made by the Caguas Superior Court on March 11, 2024. The details of that judgment, including the specific issues at stake, were not elaborated upon in the court filing.
The appeal process began when Benítez Refrigeration sought to contest the lower court's ruling. However, as the case progressed, both parties engaged in negotiations that ultimately led to a settlement. This settlement indicates that both sides found a resolution that they deemed satisfactory, allowing them to avoid further court proceedings.
The Ruling
On April 9, 2026, the Puerto Rico Court of Appeals, under the leadership of Judge Trigo Ferraiuoli and joined by Judges Candelaria Rosa, Adames Soto, and Campos Pérez, ruled in favor of dismissing the appeal. The court acknowledged the notice of withdrawal submitted by Benítez Refrigeration, stating, "In consideration of the Notice of Withdrawal presented, we dismiss the Civil Appeal filed on December 14, 2025, with prejudice." This means that the appeal cannot be refiled in the future.
The court's decision to dismiss the appeal also included an order to close and archive the case, marking the end of the legal proceedings between Universal Protection and Maintenance and Benítez Refrigeration. This ruling highlights the court's adherence to Rule 83 of the Appeals Court Regulations, which allows a party to withdraw an appeal at any time.
Impact
The dismissal of this appeal has significant implications for both companies involved. By reaching a settlement, they can now focus on their business operations without the distraction of ongoing legal battles. This resolution is particularly beneficial for Benítez Refrigeration, as it allows them to avoid the uncertainties and expenses associated with further litigation.
Additionally, the case emphasizes the importance of settlement agreements in the legal process. It showcases how parties can resolve disputes amicably, which can often lead to more efficient outcomes than prolonged court battles. While the specific terms of the settlement were not disclosed, the fact that both parties reached an agreement suggests that they found a mutually acceptable resolution.
What's Next
With the appeal dismissed, there are no further actions required in this case. The parties have settled their dispute, and the court has ordered the closure of the case. There are no indications in the court filing that a related case is pending or that either party intends to appeal the settlement.