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.
When Can You Sue a Building Official: Error vs. Bad Faith in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when building officials can be sued for graft—error of judgment is not enough; bad faith must be shown.
Delegation of Power and Sandiganbayan Jurisdiction: Salary Grade Determination for Public Officials
Explaining how DBM salary grade assignments determine Sandiganbayan jurisdiction over public officials, and why such delegation is constitutional.
Reopening a Criminal Case After Evidence Is Closed: The Santiago v. Sandiganbayan Guide
When can a court reopen a criminal case to hear more evidence? The Supreme Court explains the limits and the due process rights of the accused.
Reopening a Closed Case: Abuse of Discretion and Due Process in Philippine Courts
When can a court reopen a criminal case after evidence is closed? The Santiago ruling explains the limits and due process requirements.
Reopening a Criminal Case: When Courts Abuse Discretion in the Philippines
The Supreme Court nullified the Sandiganbayan's reopening of a criminal case against Miriam Defensor Santiago, ruling it was grave abuse of discretion.
When Courts May Reopen a Criminal Case After Evidence Is Closed
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a trial court may reopen a criminal case after the parties have rested, and the limits of that discretion.
When Posting Bail Means You Consent to Court Jurisdiction: Key Insights for the Accused
Posting bail can waive objections to a court's jurisdiction, even if the arrest warrant was invalid. Learn the rules from a Philippine Supreme Court case.
Presumption of Innocence Prevails: How Due Process Protects Against Graft Convictions in the Philippines
The Supreme Court acquits Imelda Marcos in a graft case, reaffirming that proof beyond reasonable doubt and due process are essential in criminal convictions.
Motion to Quash Denied: Navigating Criminal Procedure and Your Rights in the Philippines
Learn when a motion to quash can be denied, the limits of certiorari, and your rights in Philippine criminal procedure.
Re-Election and Criminal Liability: Why Public Officials Can Still Face Suspension for Past Misdeeds
Re-election does not erase criminal liability. The Supreme Court clarifies preventive suspension still applies to public officials for prior-term offenses.
Writ of Possession in Expropriation: When Demolition Is Implied | Philippine Law
In expropriation cases, a writ of possession can include the power to demolish structures. Learn the rule from Knecht v. Desierto.
Preliminary Investigation as a Substantive Right: The Duterte v. Sandiganbayan Doctrine
The right to preliminary investigation is substantive, not a mere formality. Duterte v. Sandiganbayan shows how its violation can void criminal charges.
When Court Personnel Extort Litigants: Administrative Liability Explained
A court interpreter extorted a litigant for a document's release. The Supreme Court explains administrative liability, penalties, and why resignation or transfer does not end a case.
Sheriff Misconduct in Execution of Judgment: When Enforcing a Writ Goes Wrong
A sheriff who took judgment debtors' property for himself and the creditor was dismissed for gross misconduct. Learn the rules on execution sales.
Civil Liability After Death of Accused: Quasi-Delicts in Philippine Law
When an accused dies before final judgment, criminal liability ends. But civil liability may survive through quasi-delicts. Learn the rules.
When Can a Judge Be Held Liable for Taking Bribes: A Philippine Case Study
A Supreme Court ruling on judicial misconduct shows when a judge can be dismissed for bribery and corrupt practices.
When Can the Ombudsman Investigate Judges? The Dolalas Rule on Judicial Independence
The Supreme Court clarifies the boundary between Ombudsman authority and judicial independence in investigating judges for delay.
Conspiracy and Circumstantial Evidence: When Is It Enough for Conviction
The Supreme Court clarifies when circumstantial evidence and conspiracy can—and cannot—support a criminal conviction beyond reasonable doubt.
Falsification and Anti-Graft Liability: Lessons from Molina v. People
A look at how the Supreme Court upheld convictions for estafa through falsification and graft, and why recanted testimony rarely saves a conviction.
Conflict of Interest Under RA 3019: The Domingo Case on Public Office Integrity
A mayor's conviction for conflict of interest under RA 3019 Section 3(h) shows why public officials must avoid even the appearance of impropriety.