Originally from Dispute Resolution Journal

Both civil and common law traditions have influenced many Puerto Rican institutions. Concepts developed in the Roman, Germanic, British, and American legal systems have played an important role in shaping Puerto Rican arbitration practices. The author calls for a new arbitration system that will better integrate the best features of  both civil and common law.

Arbitration in Puerto Rico goes back many centuries. It draws from many sources. A review of its development throws light on some present problems.

Arbitration is, of course, older than Roman law. In Genesis, reference is found to this method of dispute resolution. It is to Roman law, however, that we must look in tracing the growth of this institution.