The Puerto Rico Supreme Court has approved changes to the inactive status of several lawyers, affecting their ability to practice law in the territory. This decision, filed under docket number EM-2026-0007 on June 17, 2026, includes a list of attorneys who have been granted inactive status. This ruling is significant as it outlines the legal standing of these individuals and their future in the legal profession.

The court's ruling specifically names 14 attorneys who are now classified as inactive. This change means that these lawyers will not be able to represent clients or engage in legal practice until they change their status back to active. The decision was made public on June 23, 2026, and is part of the court's ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity of the legal profession in Puerto Rico.

Background

The lawyers affected by this ruling include well-known figures in the Puerto Rican legal community. Among them are Miguel Palou Sabater, Fernando L. Goyco Covas, and Ruth D. Torres Santiago. The decision to grant inactive status to these lawyers stems from various reasons, which may include personal choice, retirement, or other professional considerations. The court has the authority to approve such changes to ensure that the legal profession remains regulated and that only qualified individuals are practicing law.

The process leading to this ruling began with applications submitted by the lawyers seeking to change their status. The Supreme Court of Puerto Rico reviews these applications to determine if they meet the necessary criteria for inactive status. This ruling reflects the court's commitment to upholding the standards of the legal profession and ensuring that lawyers are fit to practice law.

The Ruling

The court ruled to approve the change to inactive status for the listed attorneys. The decision was made during a session of the court, and the names of the attorneys were officially documented in the court's resolution. The opinion states, "Durante el periodo de mayo de 2026, este Tribunal autorizó el cambio a estatus como Abogado(a) Inactivo(a) a las abogadas y los abogados siguientes." This translates to, "During the period of May 2026, this Court authorized the change to inactive status for the following lawyers." The ruling emphasizes the court's role in regulating the legal profession in Puerto Rico.

Judge Javier O. Sepúlveda Rodríguez, the Secretary of the Supreme Court, certified the decision, ensuring that it is officially recognized and published. The ruling is part of the court's ongoing efforts to maintain oversight of the legal profession and ensure that all practicing attorneys are in good standing.

Impact

This ruling has significant implications for the affected lawyers. By changing their status to inactive, these attorneys will not be able to take on new clients or represent existing clients in legal matters. This change may affect their professional reputation and future opportunities within the legal field. Additionally, it serves as a reminder to other attorneys about the importance of maintaining their status and the potential consequences of not doing so.

The decision also reinforces the court's authority in managing the legal profession in Puerto Rico. It sets a precedent for how inactive status changes are handled and highlights the importance of compliance with the regulations governing legal practice. This ruling may encourage other attorneys considering a similar change to evaluate their options and understand the implications of going inactive.

What's Next

Details were not available in the court filing regarding whether any of the affected lawyers plan to appeal this decision or if there are related cases pending. However, the ruling stands as a formal acknowledgment of the changes in status for these attorneys and will be part of their professional records.