Case: John Smith, a resident of the state of Florida, came to Puerto Rico on vacation, and during his stay on the Island, he was hit by a motor vehicle in San Juan. As a consequence of the damages suffered, he spent six (6) months in a hospital, which caused him to lose his job. The damages suffered are estimated at $350,000.00.

Compare the federal judicial system with the judicial system of Puerto Rico. 1. Does the federal court have jurisdiction to hear this controversy? Why? 2. Does the court of Puerto Rico have jurisdiction to address this controversy? Why? 3. Who decides if the case is heard in the courts of Puerto Rico or in the federal court? Explain your answer. 4. What are the steps to initiate a judicial process? 5. How is the judicial process at the federal level different from the judicial process in Puerto Rico?