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.
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Robbery with Homicide: When a Deadly Robbery Is Only Simple Robbery
The Supreme Court explains when a death during a robbery still results in simple robbery, not robbery with homicide.
Franchise Renewal in Philippine Broadcasting: Insights from ABS-CBN v. NTC
The Supreme Court's ruling in ABS-CBN v. NTC clarifies that an expired legislative franchise cannot be extended by pending bills or administrative practice.
Gross Immorality and Bigamy: What Lawyers Risk in the Philippines
A Supreme Court ruling explains how bigamy and extra-marital affairs violate the lawyer's duty of good moral character.
Robbery With Rape in the Philippines: What the Supreme Court Ruling Means for Victims
A look at the Supreme Court's ruling on robbery with rape, clarifying penalties, damages, and how multiple rapes are treated under Philippine law.
Witness Presence in Drug Seizures: The Chain of Custody Rule Under RA 9165
The Supreme Court clarifies the chain of custody rule and witness requirements in drug seizures, and the scope of Section 13, RA 9165.
Understanding Psychological Incapacity in Philippine Marriages: The Calma Case
The Supreme Court clarifies psychological incapacity under Article 36 of the Family Code, emphasizing totality of evidence over rigid rules.
Compromise Agreements and Execution: Key Insights from a Philippine Supreme Court Ruling
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when compromise judgments may be executed, the effect of res judicata, and limits on denying execution.
Psychological Incapacity in Philippine Marriage Nullity: The Calma Case
The Supreme Court clarifies psychological incapacity under Article 36, Family Code, emphasizing totality of evidence over rigid Molina guidelines.
When Property Disputes Must First Go to Barangay Conciliation: Ngo v. Gabelo
The Supreme Court clarifies when failure to undergo barangay conciliation makes a property case dismissible, and why courts cannot simply suspend proceedings to cure the defect.
Understanding Qualified Rape of a Minor: Insights from People v. Manlolo
A father's conviction for raping his 6-year-old daughter clarifies the rules on qualified rape, victim testimony, and damages in the Philippines.
Understanding DUE Process IN Notice OF Disallowance Cases A Supreme Court Ruling
Mortgagee in Good Faith: Protecting Banks and Borrowers in Property Transactions
Supreme Court ruling on mortgagee in good faith doctrine and banks' duty of diligence in property loans.
Abuse of Superior Strength in Murder Cases: Insights from People v. Serafin
The Supreme Court explains when abuse of superior strength qualifies killing as murder, using People v. Serafin as a guide.
Compulsory Insurance for OFWs: When Agency-Hired Coverage Applies
The Supreme Court clarifies when overseas Filipino workers are covered by compulsory insurance, and what happens when contracts are renewed.
Work-Related Illness Claims: Key Lessons from a Landmark Philippine Seafarer Case
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when a seafarer's illness is compensable, the 120-day disability rule, and the weight of company doctor findings.
Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: Why Broken Links Mean Acquittal
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect due to broken chain of custody, stressing the mandatory presence of insulating witnesses under RA 9165.
Judicial Duties in Bail Applications: The Consequences of Gross Ignorance of the Law
A judge's dismissal for granting bail without hearings shows why bail rules demand strict compliance. Learn the duties.
When a Bank Fails: Jurisdiction Over Claims Against Banks Under Liquidation
Philippine Supreme Court rules on which court hears claims against a bank placed under PDIC liquidation, voiding orders from a court without jurisdiction.
Why Insulating Witnesses Matter in Drug Seizure Cases: People v. Balbarez
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect due to a broken chain of custody, stressing the critical role of insulating witnesses under Section 21.
Supreme Court on Bail for Prisoners During COVID-19: The Almonte Ruling
The High Court explains when prisoners charged with serious offenses may seek bail or recognizance during a public health crisis.
Understanding Statutory Rape in the Philippines: The Power of a Child's Testimony
A child's credible testimony can convict in statutory rape cases, even with minor inconsistencies. Learn the rules from a recent Supreme Court ruling.
Lawyer Misconduct: The Consequences of Ignoring Court Orders in the Philippines
A lawyer who ignores Supreme Court directives faces added suspension. Learn the consequences of disobeying lawful orders.
Understanding Bail and Recognizance Rules: Insights From a Landmark Philippine Supreme Court Case
A 2020 Supreme Court ruling clarifies bail, recognizance, and prisoner release during emergencies—key insights for criminal law.
Ensuring Integrity in Drug Seizure Cases: The Crucial Role of Chain of Custody
Why the Supreme Court acquitted a drug suspect when police failed to follow Section 21 of RA 9165's chain of custody rules.