Consumer and Retail Law

We represent major national and local retailers doing business in Puerto Rico, many of which have gained valuable insight from our expertise and advice even before setting foot on the Island.  We offer comprehensive legal expertise and a keen perspective of Puerto Rico’s complex commercial law framework.  The Consumer and Retail Law practice group has significant experience in the review and implementation of commercial practices prior to the opening of locations in Puerto Rico, and providing legal advice on day-to-day operations.

Our wide-ranging consumer and retail law practice covers all areas of critical importance to businesses that sell goods and provide services to consumers in Puerto Rico.  These areas have very particular rules in Puerto Rico and include, among  others, misleading practices and advertisements, sweepstakes rules, consumer privacy, consumer warranties, product recalls, data security breaches, internet sales, product liability, labeling, commercial discrimination, notice and receipt requirements.

We also represent our clients in administrative procedures before the Puerto Rico Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO) in response to administrative actions and consumer complaints.  Complying with DACO’s requirements is a challenge that is unique to Puerto Rico’s business environment.  Failure to carefully monitor and understand DACO’s regulations could result in an uncontrolled spiraling of fines and litigation costs, as well as negative press.  Our experienced team of attorneys properly addresses these cases implementing preemptive and responsive strategies in a cost-effective manner for our clients.

Furthermore, our Consumer and Retail Law practice group works closely with our Real Estate practice group in the drafting, review and negotiations of shopping center leases and with the Government Affairs and Legislation group in keeping our clients informed of the latest legislative and administrative actions being considered by the local government in the consumer and retail law areas and are proactive in the development of strategies prior to and after the approval of new statutes and regulations that may have an impact on local retail operations.