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.
VAT Refund Eligibility for PEZA-Registered Enterprises: Key Lessons from Seagate
The Supreme Court clarifies when PEZA-registered enterprises can claim VAT refunds on capital goods, distinguishing exempt entities from exempt transactions.
When a Judge Goes Too Far: Territorial Limits on Philippine Court Proceedings
A judge held liable for conducting court proceedings in the US without authority, explaining the territorial limits of Philippine courts.
Equitable Mortgage vs Pacto de Retro Sale: Property Rights in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court explains the difference between equitable mortgage and pacto de retro sale, and why mortgagees cannot simply consolidate ownership.
Good Faith Payments and Prior Satisfaction as Grounds for Acquittal in BP 22 Cases
Supreme Court acquits corporate officer in BP 22 case where the dishonored check was fully paid two years before charges were filed.
Lawyers Must Uphold Diligence and Fidelity in Legal Representation
A lawyer who fails to file an appellate brief faces suspension. The Supreme Court affirms that neglect of a client's case violates the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Competitive Bidding and the Right to Top in Philippine Privatization: The J.G. Summit Case
The Supreme Court clarifies when a "right to top" in government privatization bidding is valid, and when losing bidders may be estopped from challenging the award.
Upholding Ethical Conduct: An Attorney's Duty to Fulfill Financial Obligations and Maintain Honesty
A lawyer who acquires client property entrusted to him commits gross misconduct warranting disbarment under the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Double Jeopardy and Falsification: Understanding Distinct Offenses in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains when the same act can produce separate crimes without violating double jeopardy, using a falsification case.
Attempted Rape vs Acts of Lasciviousness: How Intent Shapes Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains the key difference between attempted rape and acts of lasciviousness—the intent to lie with the victim.
Preliminary Injunctions Preserve Status Quo, Not Final Judgments — Key Rules
Philippine Supreme Court explains why preliminary injunction orders are interlocutory, unappealable, and need not state full facts and law.
Unmasking Equitable Mortgages in the Philippines: A Guide for Property Buyers and Sellers
When is a deed of sale actually a loan? Learn how Philippine courts unmask equitable mortgages and protect property buyers and sellers.
Creek Ownership and Land Disputes: Public vs. Private Property Rights
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies that creeks are public property, not private land, and how this affects boundary disputes.
When Does Prescription of Penalties Begin? The Doctrine of Evasion of Sentence
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that prescription of penalties under Article 93 RPC only runs when a convict escapes while serving imprisonment.
Prescription of Penalties: Imprisonment Must Begin Before Evasion Can Trigger Prescriptive Period
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that prescription of penalties under Article 93 RPC only runs when a convict escapes during actual imprisonment, not while at large.
Service by Publication in the Philippines: Strict Rules for Valid Summons
Learn the strict requirements for valid service of summons by publication in the Philippines, and why procedural lapses can void court judgments.
Res Judicata and Annulment of Titles: DBP v. La Campana Development Corporation
When does a prior final judgment bar a new case? The Supreme Court explains res judicata's limits in DBP v. La Campana.
B.P. 22 Liability: Severing Accommodation Deals Does Not Erase Knowledge of Insufficient Funds
Signing blank checks for an accommodation arrangement can create B.P. 22 liability even after severing ties. Learn the rules from Benjamin Lee v. CA.
Extortion in the Judiciary: Dismissal for Grave Misconduct and Betrayal of Public Trust
Court personnel who collect money from litigants face dismissal for grave misconduct, even if they claim it was for safekeeping.
Upholding Procedural Rules: How Counsel's Negligence Binds Clients in Labor Appeals
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that a lawyer's failure to file a timely appeal binds the client, even in labor cases.
Court Personnel Must Answer Written Inquiries Promptly: A Lesson from A.M. No. P-04-1912
Court employees must respond in writing to public inquiries within 15 working days. Verbal replies are not enough.
Proper Service of Notices to Counsel: A Due Process Requirement in Philippine Litigation
A notice sent to the wrong person is no notice at all. The Supreme Court explains why service to counsel matters.
Implied Admission: The Decisive Impact of Uncontested Requests in Philippine Courts
How a sheriff's failure to file a comment led to a finding of dishonesty and dismissal from service.
When Sheriffs Overstep: The Duty to Execute Judgments Strictly As Written
A sheriff's dismissal for dishonesty underscores the rule that execution must follow the judgment exactly—no more, no less.
Brokers Commission Rights When Can a Seller Evade Payment After a Sale
Can a seller evade paying a broker's commission after a sale closes? This case explains when fees remain due.