Just Because it Was Filed Under Summary Procedure Doesn’t Mean Employers Can’t Strike Back
Arrow Down

Just Because it Was Filed Under Summary Procedure Doesn’t Mean Employers Can’t Strike Back

By: Gabriel Quintero O’Neill, Esq.

August 6, 2019

Puerto Rico’s Act No. 2 of October 17, 1961, also known as the Labor Claims Summary Procedure Act (“Act 2”), provides an expedite procedure (“summary procedure”) for employees seeking to enforce their labor and employment rights. Act 2 specifically prohibits employers from filing counterclaims in cases filed under said summary procedure. While some employment advocates argue that Act 2 absolutely bars employers from countersuing, on July 26, 2019, the Puerto Rico Supreme Court (the “Supreme Court”), in Bacardi Corporation v. Torres Arroyo, 2019 TSPR 133, 202 DPR __ (2019), held that the prohibition against counterclaims in Act 2, does not bar employers from filing independent lawsuits against employees.

In Bacardi, the employer performed a workforce reduction whereby plaintiff’s employment was terminated. As part of the reduction, plaintiff signed a separation agreement in which he admitted: (i) the employer had just cause for the dismissal; (ii) that the cause was not discriminatory; and (iii) that he had no claims against his employer. In addition to waiving potential claims, plaintiff agreed to indemnify the employer for costs, expenses and attorney fees if he were to file a future lawsuit.

A year later, plaintiff filed a lawsuit for unlawful termination and age discrimination under the summary procedure. The employer answered the complaint and invoked the terms of the separation agreement as an affirmative defense. At the same time, the employer filed a separate civil lawsuit for breach of contract seeking reimbursement for the amounts paid as per the separation agreement.

Eventually the Supreme Court held that Act 2 establishes a judicial summary procedure for certain cases but does not grant or abrogate causes of action. As per the Supreme Court’s opinion, any other interpretation runs counter to the public interest of promoting dispute resolution and settlement agreements. The Supreme Court concluded that Act 2 does not prohibit lawsuits brought by employers against employees when such suits are separate and independent from suits filed under Act 2.

Employers now have a better understanding of available legal actions and remedies in response to lawsuits by employees. Goldman Antonetti & Cordóva, LLC stands ready to assist you and your business in assessing your rights as an employer.

Vicente Antonetti
787.759.4112
[email protected]

Angel Berberena
787.759.4143
[email protected]

Romel Meléndez
787.759.4115
[email protected]

Luis Ortiz Abreu
787.759.4110
[email protected]

Howard Pravda
787.759.4101
[email protected]

Gabriel Quintero
787.759.4130
[email protected]

Jorge Rodíguez Micheo
787.759.4102
[email protected]

Javier Vazquez
787.759.4113
[email protected]

Disclaimer:

Although the information included in this document may concern legal issues, it is not a legal opinion or professional advice and clients shall not use it as such. We assume no responsibility or liability of any kind for any information contained herein, and we expressly disclaim all liability for any claim for damages arising from the use, reference to, or reliance on, such information. If legal or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.

Goldman Antonetti & Cordóva, LLC | 787-759-8000 | www.gaclaw.com