P.R. Laws tit. 1, § 431

2019-02-20 00:00:00+00
§ 431. Right to freedom

All children have the right to the basic freedoms set forth in the Constitution of Puerto Rico for all citizens, though conditioned to their capacity to act under the rights and responsibilities recognized by law, to the sound exercise of patria potestas and guardianship, and taking into account the age and degree of development and physical, psychological and intellectual maturity of the children. This comprises but is not limited to the following freedoms:

(1) Freedom of thought.— That is, the formation of their own criteria in matters of conscience, under the sound direction and guidance of their parents or guardians.

(2) Freedom of expression.— The possibility to express their opinion on any matter that could affect them, taking into consideration their age and maturity. The State shall guarantee them the possibility to be heard personally or through their representative, in all judicial or administrative procedures to which they are a party or that could affect their rights and interests.

(3) Freedom of access to information.— The right to seek and receive information, taking into consideration their age and maturity and the generally accepted educational criteria leading to their sound and adequate psychological and intellectual development.

(4) Freedom of religion.— The right to practice the religion of their choice, although subject to the sound exercise of the authority of their parents or guardians.

(5) Freedom of association.— The right to relate and associate with other persons, with the consent of their parents or guardians and provided there is no motive or circumstance in conflict with the law, the public order, morals and propriety.

With respect to their intervention in enabling children to enjoy these freedoms, the parents or guardians shall exercise their authority and their power to direct, supervise and guide their children, aware that the imposition of criteria and ideas contrary to the law, morals and public order are harmful to the sound development of the personality and intellect of the children and may entail the intervention of the State.

History —Sept. 1, 2000, No. 289, § 12.