Biography

Ricardo J. Casellas-Santana has served as lead counsel in bench and jury trials before Puerto Rico’s federal and local courts. His practice focuses on high-stakes commercial disputes, distribution and franchising matters, antitrust, and environmental litigation. He also advises companies on how to structure distribution and franchise relationships and prevent disputes under Puerto Rico’s Dealer and Sales Representative Acts (Laws 75 and 21). Drawing on his background in physics and economics, he approaches each case methodically, distilling complex disputes into manageable parts and shaping strategies that position his clients for success.

Before joining the firm, Mr. Casellas clerked for the Hon. Jay A. García-Gregory and the late Hon. Salvador E. Casellas at the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, and served as a student clerk for the Hon. Juan R. Torruella at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. These experiences offered a close view of judicial decision-making and refined the clarity and precision that distinguish his written advocacy.

Mr. Casellas’ recent work includes leading the trial team that secured a multimillion-dollar judgment for a condominium association in a landmark Hurricane María insurance case, serving as co-lead counsel in a complex insurance recovery action involving more than 140 properties across the island, and representing a technology company in a federal bench trial under the Federal Arbitration Act involving arbitration and contract formation issues.

Beyond his courtroom practice, Mr. Casellas regularly advises businesses on establishing and maintaining distribution and sales relationships, including negotiating agreements and addressing compliance under Puerto Rico’s Dealer and Sales Representative laws (Laws 75 and 21). He brings the same focus to counseling as he does to trial work, helping clients build strong partnerships and safeguard their interests with sound judgment and practical foresight.

Mr. Casellas is recognized in The Best Lawyers in Puerto Rico for his work in competition and antitrust law. He also serves on the board of the Federal Bar Association’s Hon. Raymond L. Acosta Puerto Rico Chapter, where he works to strengthen connections between the bench and the bar.