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.
Attorney Negligence: When a Lawyer's Lapses Cost Clients Their Case
Philippine Supreme Court suspends lawyer for six months for failing to file briefs, costing clients their property in a recovery case.
Protecting Trademarks: Infringement and Damages for Similar Designs
Supreme Court clarifies trademark infringement rules, damages, and copyright cancellation for similar arcuate designs on jeans.
Percentage Tax on Commercial Brokers: Lessons from Nichimen Corporation
When does a branch office become a commercial broker liable for percentage tax? The Supreme Court clarifies in Nichimen Corporation.
Dismissed for Delay? Understanding Due Diligence in Philippine Court Cases
Learn how the Supreme Court handles procedural delays and due diligence in labor cases, using a recent illegal dismissal ruling as a guide.
Challenging Land Titles: When Prior Owners Can Reclaim Property Obtained Through Fraudulent Patents
Learn when prior owners can nullify fraudulent free patents and reclaim titled land, based on a 2002 Supreme Court ruling.
Substantial Compliance With Appeal Rules: Jaro v. Court of Appeals
When can a defective appeal be saved? The Supreme Court explains substantial compliance and liberal application of procedural rules.
Appointment vs Reassignment: Clarifying the Role of Local School Boards in Superintendent Designations
The Supreme Court clarifies when local school board consultation is required for schools division superintendent designations, distinguishing appointment from reassignment.
Amendment of Information After Plea: Balancing Procedural Rules and the Accused's Rights
When may a court allow amendment of an Information after the accused pleads? The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between formal and substantial amendments.
Dismissal of Administrative Cases Against Judges: Upholding Judicial Integrity and Curbing Frivolous Complaint
Supreme Court dismisses administrative complaint against Judge Angeles for failure to prosecute, protecting judges from frivolous cases and preserving judicial integrity.
Amendment of Information: Balancing Procedural Rules and the Accused's Right to Due Process
When can the prosecution amend an Information after the accused pleads? The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between formal and substantial amendments.
Compromise Agreements and Court Approval in Property Disputes: The PPA v. Maranan Case
The Supreme Court approves a compromise agreement in Philippine Ports Authority v. Maranan, showing how amicable settlements can end property disputes.
Spousal Consent and Conjugal Property: What the Supreme Court Requires
The Supreme Court explains why a wife's written consent is essential before a husband can sell conjugal property, and when court approval may apply.
Positive Identification Overrules Alibi in Vergara Robbery Case
Supreme Court affirms robbery conviction, holding that a victim's positive identification prevails over an accused's alibi and bare denial.
Collective Bargaining: When Partial Agreements Do Not Make a CBA
Supreme Court clarifies that partial agreements in conciliation do not constitute a completed CBA; parties must still negotiate in good faith.
Written Authority is Key: Upholding Property Rights in Corporate Transactions
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies why written consent matters in property deals involving mortgaged assets—and what parties must prove to claim possession.
Kabit System and the Right to Sue: The True Owner's Standing Despite an Illegal Arrangement
When can a jeepney buyer under the kabit system sue for damages? The Supreme Court explains the real-party-in-interest rule and its limits.
Judicial Accountability Balancing Independence AND Diligence IN Case Resolution
The Supreme Court clarifies that the 60-day period for filing certiorari is counted from receipt of the denial of a motion for reconsideration.
Estoppel Bars Investor from Questioning Contract After Enjoying Its Benefits
Supreme Court ruling on estoppel: an investor cannot question a trading agreement's validity after benefiting from it and suffering losses.
Dying Declarations Establishing Consciousness of Impending Death in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the rule on dying declarations and the requirement of consciousness of impending death in criminal cases.
Invalidation of BOI Manual of Operations Incentives for Registered Enterprises
Supreme Court voids BOI's unpublished manual that reduced tax credit incentives for registered export producers.
Personal Liability in Corporate Obligations When Signing Blurs the Line
When do corporate officers become personally liable for company debts? A Supreme Court ruling on trust receipts and letters of credit provides clear guidance.
Redemption Rights: Upholding Mortgagor's Five-Year Redemption Agreement
Supreme Court affirms five-year redemption period for mortgagor, voiding subsequent sales that cut short the agreed term.
Agrarian Disputes: Why Regular Courts Yield to DARAB in Tenancy Cases
A criminal acquittal does not let regular courts award civil damages tied to an agrarian dispute—DARAB holds exclusive jurisdiction.
Lease Renewal Validity and Unlawful Detainer: Lessons from Rodil Enterprises v. Court of Appeals
The Supreme Court clarifies when lease contracts are valid and how unlawful detainer actions proceed, protecting lessors' rights.