Comparative Legal Systems: Explore the dynamic intersection of civil and common law in Puerto Rico during this immersive one-week program. Examine federalism, human rights, and the unique powers of notary public attorneys through site visits and expert-led sessions.
Sunday March 8, 2026 to Friday March 13, 2026
Classes are typically held in the morning each day, with legal site visits occurring several afternoons during the week.
Course Name and Credits:
- LAW 370 - Comparative Law Case Study - Puerto Rico
- Credits: 1 credit
Course Description:
This course provides a basic introduction to the methodology and substance of comparative law, focusing on a single jurisdiction. Students will learn to analyze and compare different legal systems and traditions from around the world, moving beyond a sole focus on common law. The course will explore the historical, political, and cultural factors that have shaped major legal traditions, including civil law, common law, and other legal systems such as those based on religious or customary law. Students will travel to a specific location that will serve as a case study for comparisons. While in that location, students will learn through substantive lectures, legal site visits, and cultural experiences.
Possible legal site visits include:
- U.S. Federal Court for the District of Puerto Rico
- Puerto Rico Legislature and Supreme Court of Puerto Rico
- Puerto Rico Notary Public Bar Association
- ACLU PR Chapter, PR Civil Rights Commission, and a Law Firm of a Special Education Lawyer
Possible Cultural Activities include:
- El Yunque Rainforest Visitor’s Center
- Salsa Dancing
- El Morro Fort and Old San Juan
- Puerto Rican Gastronomy
Faculty Program Director: Francisco Rivera
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about our Spring Break Abroad Programs:
- Spring Break programs are open to Santa Clara Law students or auditors for MCLE credit.
- All classes are taught in English.
- Spring Break programs do count towards the study abroad requirement of the International Law Certificates.
- October 20, 2025 - Spring Semester Enrollment Starts
- October 24, 2025 - Priority Enrollment Deadline
- January 2, 2026 - Abroad Ambassador Deadline
- January 16, 026 - Last Day to Enroll
Students sign up for their Spring Break abroad program by registering for the abroad course in WorkDay. There is no competitive application process.
Spring 2026 registration opens October 20, 2025.
Once you are registered for the course, you will be contacted to complete your abroad package (which includes travel, health and safety information).
We understand that cost is an important factor when considering study abroad. Below are some of the ways we work to make our programs more affordable and financially accessible for students.
- Reduced Tuition: Summer Abroad Tuition is $1,500 per credit, which is significantly lower than on-campus rates at most law schools. These tuition savings are intended to offset travel expenses and improve accessibility.
- No Application or Activity Fees: We only charge tuition. There are no application or activity fees. Tuition covers not only coursework but also program-related social, cultural, and networking events and International Emergency Medical and Travel Assistance.
- Financial Aid: All programs are eligible for federal financial aid. Santa Clara Law Dean’s Fellows may apply their academic scholarships. Other academic scholarships do not apply, since applying scholarships here would not fully leverage their intended value.
- For Santa Clara Students: Abroad Ambassador Program: This competitive program covers airfare for selected students who assist with program marketing.