Legal Insights
Plain-language guides and case briefs on Philippine law — researched from the firm's law library of 184,000+ statutes, Supreme Court decisions, and agency issuances, and written so non-lawyers can understand and act on them.
Standing to Sue: When an Appointee Can Challenge a Disapproved Civil Service Appointment
An appointee has legal standing to challenge a CSC disapproval of an appointment, but must still possess the required eligibility.
Habeas Corpus and DNA Evidence: Limits of Post-Conviction Remedies in Paternity-Based Rape Cases
The Supreme Court explains when DNA evidence can—and cannot—challenge a final rape conviction through habeas corpus or new trial.
Public Land Cannot Be Burdened: Property Rights and Public Use in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on public dominion property, right of way easements, and possession claims over government land.
Beyond Irritants: Psychological Incapacity and the Limits of Marital Dissolution in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies that marital irritants and incompatibility do not amount to psychological incapacity under Article 36 of the Family Code.
Breach of Warranty: Proving Hidden Defects in Animal Feed Cases
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on what buyers must prove to claim breach of warranty for hidden defects in animal feed.
Contract Termination Unilateral Right NOT Implied Absent Express Agreement
Philippine Supreme Court ruling: a party cannot unilaterally terminate a contract unless the right is expressly stipulated or a substantial breach is proven.
Jurisdiction Over Labor Disputes When a Pending Case Shifts With the Law
Philippine Supreme Court explains how jurisdictional changes in labor law apply to pending cases, using UST v. Canicosa as the guide.
Option to Purchase vs Contract to Sell: Understanding Property Rights and Obligations
The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between an option to purchase and a contract to sell, and the consequences of failing to comply with their terms.
Parental Love vs Property Rights: When Family Land Disputes Reach Court
A Supreme Court ruling on ejectment between parents and children, and when a builder in good faith may claim indemnity for improvements under Article 448.
Cable TV Rates: NTC Has Exclusive Power Over Local Government Authority
Supreme Court ruling on whether local governments can regulate cable TV subscriber rates, clarifying NTC's exclusive authority.
How Court Deadlines and Extensions Are Computed: The Luz Rule
The Supreme Court clarifies how extensions of time are counted in Philippine courts, and when liberal interpretation may save a late filing.
Disbarment for Infidelity: Moral Standards in the Legal Profession
The Supreme Court disbarred a lawyer for marital infidelity, reaffirming that good moral character is a continuing requirement for all members of the bar.
Perfected Sale vs Mortgage: When a Seller's Breach Doesn't Void a Sale
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a seller's breach doesn't void a perfected sale, distinguishing sale from mortgage.
Upholding Employee Rights When Supervisor Instructions Shield Against Dismissal for Disobedience
Philippine Supreme Court rules an employee following supervisor orders in good faith cannot be dismissed for willful disobedience.
When Language Barriers Invalidate Estate Settlement Agreements
A Supreme Court ruling on when signing an English document without understanding it can void an estate settlement under Article 1332.
Liability for Unfounded Accusations: Upholding Personal Dignity in Theft Investigations
When a theft suspect is publicly accused without proof, Philippine law on human relations may award moral damages.
Judge's Erroneous Release of Supersedeas Bond and Rental Deposits in Ejectment Case
A judge who allowed a defendant to withdraw the supersedeas bond and rental deposits pending appeal in an ejectment case was held liable for gross ignorance of the law.
Void Donations: Absence of Public Instrument Nullifies Property Transfer Despite Intent
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on void oral donations of immovable property and the formal requirements under Article 749 of the Civil Code.
When Judges Overstep: The Cash Bond Rule and Simple Misconduct
A judge who personally received a cash bail bond violated Rule 114, but the Court ruled it was simple, not gross, misconduct.
Procedural Deadlines Matter: Why Second Extension Motions Can Sink Your Appeal
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why a second motion for extension to file an appeal can be fatal, and what litigants must know about Rule 42 deadlines.
Power Lines and Property Rights: Determining Just Compensation for Easements
When power lines cross private land, is the owner owed an easement fee or full property value? The Supreme Court clarifies.
Enforcing Time Limits: Carrier Liability Hinges on Timely Notice of Cargo Damage
Timely written notice of cargo damage is a condition precedent to suing a carrier. The Supreme Court explains why in Federal Express v. American Home Assurance.
Establishing Land Ownership The Critical Role of Property Identification in Acquisitive Prescription
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why identifying the exact property is essential before claiming ownership through acquisitive prescription.
Prejudicial Question Resolving Conflicts Between Civil AND Criminal Actions IN Philippine Courts
When civil and criminal cases collide, Philippine courts apply the prejudicial question doctrine. Learn how this affects tenant-landlord disputes.