Description
What is exequatur in Puerto Rico?
The exequatur is the legal procedure by which the courts of Puerto Rico recognize a foreign judgment—issued in another country or state—so that it has legal validity in the local jurisdiction.
This process does not reevaluate or modify the sentence. Its function is to formally recognize it if it complies with the applicable legal requirements.
How much does exequatur cost in Puerto Rico?
At Abogado Notario Online, exequatur is processed for a single fixed price, with no hidden fees.
The total cost will be one of the following:
- $1,850 – Standard Case (most cases)
- $2,650 – Complex Case (when additional legal work is required)
The final classification (Standard or Complex) is confirmed in writing after evaluating the information you provide on the Assessment Form, before you have to pay any fees.
What does the cost of the exequatur include?
- Attorney fees for the preparation and complete processing of the exequatur.
- Filing of the lawsuit with the Court of First Instance of Puerto Rico,
including court stamps. - Drafting and submission of the necessary motions.
- Guidance and coordination with the client regarding required documents and certifications.
Why is an exequatur necessary?
- Judgments issued outside of Puerto Rico do not automatically take effect on the island.
- The exequatur allows that decision to be legally recognized.
- It does not change or reevaluate the sentence; it merely validates it.
Why choose us?
- 🏠 100% remote process, no need to travel.
- 🔧 Handling of complex cases, when required by the case file.
- 💰 Fixed price and all-inclusive, with no hidden fees.
- 📆 Flexible payment: option to pay only 50% at the start.
⏱ Processing times.
📅 Standard service:3 months.
⚡ Expedited service: 2 months, subject to the complexity of the case and the court's workload.
📦 Shipping
- 💲 Shipping costs are calculated when you place your order.
- 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico: federal mail.
- 🇺🇸 United States: USPS or FedEx.
- International: FedEx.
Evaluation Form
First, complete the form to analyze your case without obligation.
With this information, we will confirm whether your case is classified as
Standard or Complex and the applicable final price.
Frequently asked questions about exequatur in Puerto Rico
What is exequatur in Puerto Rico?
Exequatur is the legal procedure for recognizing in Puerto Rico a judgment issued in another jurisdiction (country or state) and allowing it to have legal effect on the island, provided that it meets the applicable requirements.
What is the total cost of exequatur in Puerto Rico?
At Abogado Notario Online is processed at a fixed price. Most cases are handled for $1,850 (Standard). Some cases that require additional work are classified as Complex for $2,650. The final amount is confirmed in writing after the free evaluation, before paying any fees. We never charge more than one of these two amounts.
What is included in the price of the exequatur?
Includes attorney fees for preparation and complete processing, filing of the lawsuit in the Court of First Instance of Puerto Rico (including stamps and ordinary court costs), drafting and filing of necessary motions, and coordination of required documents and certifications. Extraordinary expenses, such as official translations or international courier services, are only incurred with the client's prior approval.
Do I have to be in Puerto Rico to process the exequatur?
No. The process can be initiated and coordinated 100% remotely. We serve clients in Puerto Rico, the United States, and abroad without the need to travel to begin the process.
What types of cases usually require exequatur?
These commonly include name changes, divorces, adoptions, or other foreign judgments that need to be recognized in order to have legal effect in Puerto Rico. Applicability depends on the facts and the type of judgment.
What documents do I need for the free evaluation?
A copy of the foreign judgment and basic case details are generally requested to confirm feasibility and classify it as Standard or Complex. Specific requirements depend on the jurisdiction of origin and the type of judgment.
Why do I need to complete the Assessment Form first?
The form allows you to review the judgment, confirm whether the exequatur is viable, and determine whether the case is classified as Standard or Complex. This way, you receive a clear final price for both options, in writing and with no obligation, before paying any fees.
Does the exequatur modify or reevaluate the foreign judgment?
No. Exequatur does not reevaluate the merits of the case or change the judgment. Its purpose is for the court in Puerto Rico to formally recognize a foreign judgment so that it can have legal effect locally, if it meets the requirements.
How long does the exequatur procedure take?
The time required varies depending on the complexity of the case and the court's workload. As a reference, a standard service can take around 3 months and an expedited service around 2 months, subject to the nature of the case and the judicial process.
Last legal review: December 2025 · Content reviewed by a licensed attorney in Puerto Rico.
Marisol D. –
I highly recommend Ramón Olivencia, Esq., of Abogado Notario Online.
Gilbert –