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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Attorneys Fees Upholding A Lawyers Right TO Payment Despite Contract Termination
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on attorney's fees, contract termination, and a lawyer's right to compensation for services rendered.
Upholding Judicial Decorum Judges Must Treat Lawyers AND Litigants With Courtesy
When Lawyers Fail Clients: Lessons from a Disbarment Case on Negligence
A lawyer's failure to file an appeal brief led to suspension. Learn the ethical duties and consequences of legal negligence in the Philippines.
Judicial Accountability: Judges Must Respect Due Process and Avoid Abusive Language
A judge's intemperate language toward lawyers violates judicial decorum. The Supreme Court explains the limits of judicial discretion and accountability.
Lawyer's Negligence in Handling Client's Case Leads to Suspension and Fine
A lawyer's gross negligence in handling a client's case resulted in a one-month suspension and fine. Learn the ethical duties lawyers owe clients.
Upholding Notarial Duties Lawyers Responsibility IN Document Authentication
When a Lawyer Crosses the Line: The Ban on Acquiring Client Property in Litigation
A Supreme Court ruling explains why lawyers cannot acquire property involved in litigation they handle, even under a contingent fee arrangement.
Zealous Advocacy Has Limits: Lawyers Reprimanded for Offensive Court Pleadings
Philippine Supreme Court reprimands lawyers for abusive language in pleadings, clarifying the limits of zealous advocacy and privileged communication.
Dishonored Obligations When A Lawyers Debt Becomes A Disciplinary Matter
When a lawyer's unpaid debt and worthless checks become grounds for suspension—a look at Lao v. Medel.
Professional Courtesy Among Lawyers: The Imperative of Civility and Ethical Conduct
A lawyer's suspension for impleading opposing counsel and a prosecutor in a civil case illustrates the ethical duty of professional courtesy.
Good Faith in Administrative Actions: Protecting Public Officials From Liability
The Supreme Court clarifies that good faith in filing administrative cases shields public officials from disciplinary liability, but lawyers must still respect courts.
Lawyers Who Withhold Client Funds Face Suspension: Lessons from Manalang v. Angeles
A lawyer's unauthorized compromise and withholding of client funds led to suspension. Learn the ethical rules on attorney accountability.
Indefinite Suspension for Lawyer’s Gross Immoral Conduct: Zaguirre v. Castillo
The Supreme Court indefinitely suspends a lawyer for siring a child outside marriage and reneging on his sworn support, reaffirming that lawyers must uphold moral standards at all times.
When a Judge's Private Misconduct Becomes a Public Offense: The Aranas Case
The Supreme Court dismissed a judge for an extramarital affair and suspended him from law practice, clarifying ethical standards for judges and lawyers.
Judicial Conduct: Withdrawing a Complaint Does Not Bar Investigation of Erring Court Personnel
Learn how the Supreme Court ruled that withdrawing a complaint does not stop disciplinary action against erring court personnel or lawyers.
Notarial Duties: Judges Must Certify Lack of Lawyers and Remit Fees to Avoid Sanctions
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on judges acting as notaries public ex officio, their certification duties, and fee remittance requirements.
Attorney Misappropriation of Client Funds: Fiduciary Duty and Ethical Obligations of Lawyers
When a lawyer mishandles client money, the Supreme Court does not take it lightly. Learn the ethical rules and consequences.
Negligence in Notarization: Consequences for Failure to Comply With Notarial Duties
Learn how the Supreme Court disciplines lawyers who neglect notarial duties and mishandle client funds, with practical compliance tips.
Judges and Lawyers Face Strict Accountability for Extramarital Affairs
The Supreme Court dismissed a judge for gross immorality over an extramarital affair, showing that private misconduct can end a judicial career.
Maintaining Professionalism: Lawyers' Duty to Courteous Conduct
Philippine Supreme Court rules on lawyer discipline for uncivil conduct toward fellow attorneys, citing Canon 8 of the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Who Represents the Government on Appeal? The Solicitor General's Role vs. BIR Lawyers
The Supreme Court clarifies that while BIR lawyers can litigate tax cases, the Solicitor General must handle appeals to the High Court.
Breach of Professional Duty Attorneys Must Avoid Representing Conflicting Interests
Lawyers who represent conflicting interests violate the Code of Professional Responsibility and face suspension from the practice of law.
When Can the President Reorganize Government Agencies? The Mabalot Case on LTFRB and DOTC Powers
Supreme Court ruling on the President's power to reorganize executive agencies and transfer functions, explained for non-lawyers.
Attorney-Client Privilege Protects Lawyers Even When Conspiracy Is Alleged
The Supreme Court shields lawyers from suits that would breach attorney-client confidentiality, even when conspiracy is alleged against them.