The Puerto Rico Supreme Court has issued a ruling suspending notary Félix A. Santiago Miranda for two months due to concerns about his professional conduct. This decision affects Santiago Miranda's ability to perform notarial services and requires him to notify clients and return any fees for services not rendered. The ruling emphasizes the court's commitment to maintaining professional standards within the notarial profession.
The court's decision, filed under docket number AB-2025-0278 on June 26, 2026, mandates that Santiago Miranda must inform any clients who have sought his notarial services of his suspension. He is also required to return any fees collected for work that has not been completed. This ruling is significant as it underscores the importance of accountability and ethical behavior among notaries in Puerto Rico.
Background
Félix A. Santiago Miranda is a notary public in Puerto Rico, a position that requires adherence to strict ethical and professional standards. The Office of Notary Inspection (Oficina de Inspección de Notarías), led by Director Manuel E. Ávila De Jesús, initiated the proceedings against Santiago Miranda. The specific details of the allegations against him were not disclosed in the court filing, but the suspension indicates that the court found sufficient grounds to take immediate action.
The case reached the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico after the Office of Notary Inspection evaluated Santiago Miranda's conduct and recommended disciplinary action. The court's involvement highlights the importance of oversight in the notarial profession, ensuring that notaries uphold their duties to the public and maintain trust in their services.
The Ruling
The Puerto Rico Supreme Court ruled to suspend Félix A. Santiago Miranda from exercising his notarial duties for a period of two months. The court stated, "Se suspende inmediatamente al Lcdo. Félix A. Santiago Miranda del ejercicio de la notaría por el término de dos (2) meses." This means that he will be unable to perform any notarial acts during this time.
Additionally, the court ordered Santiago Miranda to notify clients of his inability to fulfill pending notarial work and to return any fees collected for services that have not been completed. He must also inform relevant agencies or entities of his suspension. The court emphasized the importance of compliance, stating that failure to adhere to these requirements could affect his future reinstatement as a notary.
Impact
This ruling has significant implications for notaries in Puerto Rico. It serves as a reminder that notaries must adhere to high ethical standards and can face disciplinary action if they fail to do so. The two-month suspension not only affects Santiago Miranda but also sends a message to other notaries about the importance of maintaining professionalism in their work.
The decision may also influence how the Office of Notary Inspection conducts future evaluations and disciplinary actions. By taking a firm stand against misconduct, the court reinforces the need for accountability within the notarial profession, which plays a crucial role in legal transactions and public trust.
What's Next
Details were not available in the court filing regarding whether Santiago Miranda plans to appeal the ruling. However, he has the option to seek reinstatement after the suspension period if he complies with the court's directives. There are no related cases pending at this time.