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PC 666

Para añadir una nueva Regla 510A a las de Evidencia de Puerto Rico, adoptadas por el Tribunal Supremo de Puerto Rico el 9 de febrero de 2009 y aprobadas por la Asamblea Legislativa mediante la Ley Núm. 46-2009, a fin de establecer el privilegio de la confidencialidad en la comunicación entre padre e hijo; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Bill PC 666 creates parent-child communication privilege in Puerto Rico's evidence rules, shielding confidential family conversations from court disclosure, affecting litigation and family law proceedings.

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Bill Summary · PC 666

Legislative bill overview

This bill proposes adding Rule 510A to Puerto Rico's Rules of Evidence to establish a parent-child communication privilege, similar to existing attorney-client or doctor-patient privileges. The new rule would protect confidential communications between parents and children from being disclosed in legal proceedings.

Why is this important

Currently, Puerto Rico's evidence rules do not explicitly protect parent-child communications, meaning such conversations can be compelled as testimony in court cases. This bill would create a legal shield for family communications, potentially affecting custody disputes, criminal cases, and civil litigation where family dynamics are relevant. The change would align Puerto Rico with several U.S. jurisdictions that recognize this privilege.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope definition: Unclear whether the privilege applies to all parent-child relationships (biological, adoptive, step-parents) and at what age children's communications gain protection
  • Criminal justice impact: Law enforcement and prosecutors may argue the privilege could obstruct investigations or shield evidence of child abuse, neglect, or crimes
  • Exceptions and limitations: The bill doesn't specify when the privilege might be waived (such as in cases involving child safety, parental unfitness, or allegations of abuse between parent and child)
  • Implementation clarity: Courts will need guidance on how to apply the privilege in complex family situations or when multiple family members are parties to litigation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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