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PC 178

Para crear la causa de acción denominada persecución maliciosa, a los fines de establecer que una persona que sufra daños como consecuencia de la presentación maliciosa y sin causa de acción probable de un proceso, sea civil, administrativo o criminal, tenga un remedio legal para resarcir los daños sufridos; y otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Creates malicious prosecution lawsuits in Puerto Rico, letting people sue for damages when others file frivolous civil, administrative, or criminal cases against them without probable cause.

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Bill Summary · PC 178

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 178 creates a new legal cause of action for "malicious prosecution" in Puerto Rico, allowing individuals to sue for damages when someone files a frivolous civil, administrative, or criminal case against them without probable cause. The bill aims to provide legal remedies for people harmed by the malicious use of the court system and is currently in its early legislative stage (first reading in the House).

Why is this important

This legislation addresses a real gap in Puerto Rico's legal system by protecting citizens from economic and reputational harm caused by baseless litigation. Malicious prosecution claims already exist in many U.S. jurisdictions and can help deter bad-faith legal actions, though they must be carefully balanced against protecting legitimate access to courts.

Potential points of contention

  • Chilling effect on legitimate claims: Defendants might cite malicious prosecution threats to discourage plaintiffs from pursuing valid cases, potentially restricting access to justice for vulnerable populations
  • Defining "without probable cause": The bill's effectiveness depends on clear definitions of what constitutes malicious intent versus good-faith legal error, which could lead to lengthy preliminary disputes
  • Burden on defendants: Defendants winning malicious prosecution cases must still afford attorneys and court costs upfront before recovering damages, creating financial barriers despite eventual vindication
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether administrative proceedings (licensing disputes, labor complaints) are included equally with criminal and civil cases, potentially creating inconsistent protections

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

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