Rafael Hernández Matos

Rafael Hernández Matos Cardoza (October 24, 1902 – June 7, 1996) served as Associate Justice of the Puerto Rico Supreme Court.

Born in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico Rafael Hernández Matos was a graduate from the University of Puerto Rico School of Law, in 1926 opened his law office in Ponce, Puerto Rico. was married to Dora Colón Clavell, public servant and first woman candidate for mayor of the city of Ponce. They had 3 sons, one of them is former Governor of Puerto Rico Rafael Hernández Colón. Was appointed associate justice of the Puerto Rico Supreme Court appointed by Puerto Rico Governor Luis Muñoz Marín. Held that position until his retirement in 1972. He returned to law practice in Ponce.

He died on June 7, 1996, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, at the age of 93.