P.R. Laws Ap. tit. 34A, § 1–A, Rule 7.3
The minor shall plead either denying or admitting the facts. If the minor refuses to plead, or the court determines that he/she is voluntarily absent from the hearing, a plea of denial of the facts shall be entered.
(a) Plea bargaining.—
(1) In all cases in which a plea bargaining arrangement exists between the defendant’s defense and the Prosecutor for Minors’ Affairs, the procedure to be followed shall be that contemplated in Criminal Procedure Rule 72 insofar as it is not incompatible with the Puerto Rico Minors’ Act, §§ 2201 et seq. of this title, and these rules.
(2) When deciding whether to accept from a minor a guilty plea which derives from a plea bargaining arrangement, the Juvenile Court Judge shall ascertain that said plea has been entered into in the defendant’s full awareness, conformity and willingness; that his/her rights have been explained to him/her, as well as the implications of such a plea; that he/she was accompanied by his/her parents or by an adult with an interest in his/her welfare; that it is convenient to the sound administration of justice; and that said plea was reached pursuant to the law and ethics required from the defense attorney and the Prosecutor.
History —Amended Apr. 2, 2007, No. 30, § 2.