Asked in Estate Planning and Real Estate Law for Puerto Rico

Q: Who can represent me regarding a property inheritance and sale negotiation in Puerto Rico, if I live in NY?

My uncle and father co-own two houses and land in Puerto Rico. My father died several years ago and his lawyer has contacted me requesting my birth certificate to finalize the inheritance. My Uncle also wants to negotiate buying my half of the property. Can I contact a lawyer in Puerto Rico to represent me if I live in New York City?

1 Lawyer Answer
Rafael  Pagan-Colon
Rafael Pagan-Colon
Answered
  • San Juan, PR
  • Licensed in Puerto Rico

A: You can retain the services of an attorney in Puerto Rico, even if you live in New York. You do not state who hired the attorney who requested your birth certificate. Neither do you mention whether you're an only child or whether you have siblings. It seems that your late father did not leave a Will, in which case, your birth certificate would be required for a Petition to the Court to Declare your father's heirs. Even if you did not retain that attorney, as an heir, you still have the right to have him explain the process and provide you with information regarding your father's estate.

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