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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Perfected Sales vs. Recovery of Property: Understanding Real Actions in Philippine Law
When is a suit for specific performance actually a real action for recovery of property? The Supreme Court clarifies in Jimenez v. Jordana.
Habeas Corpus and DNA Evidence: Limits of Post-Conviction Remedies in Paternity-Based Rape Cases
The Supreme Court explains when DNA evidence can—and cannot—challenge a final rape conviction through habeas corpus or new trial.
Public Land Cannot Be Burdened: Property Rights and Public Use in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on public dominion property, right of way easements, and possession claims over government land.
Clerks of Court as Notaries: Limits on Ex Officio Notarial Powers
Clerks of court are ex officio notaries, but their notarial powers extend only to official duties—not private documents.
Piercing the Veil When Trust Turns to Deceit in Property Disputes
When a foreigner entrusts money to friends to buy property, but the deed names them as owners, Philippine courts apply solutio indebiti to compel reconveyance.
Upholding Attorney Accountability: Neglect of Client Affairs Leads to Suspension
A lawyer's failure to diligently pursue a client's case warrants suspension from practice, as shown in this Philippine disciplinary case.
Liability for Unfounded Accusations: Upholding Personal Dignity in Theft Investigations
When a theft suspect is publicly accused without proof, Philippine law on human relations may award moral damages.
Forged Signatures and Bank Liability: Protecting Depositors in Check Transactions
When a bank pays out on a forged check, who bears the loss? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on bank liability under Philippine law.
When a Barangay Captain Cannot Be Independent Counsel: Extrajudicial Confessions and the Constitution
A barangay captain who is a lawyer cannot act as independent counsel for a suspect. The Supreme Court explains why the confession was inadmissible.
Second Chances Denied: The High Cost of Procedural Missteps in Philippine Litigation
A Supreme Court ruling shows why "honest mistake" rarely justifies a new trial—and why procedural deadlines and rules are strictly enforced.
Paying Appellate Docket Fees on Time Is Mandatory for a Valid Appeal
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why paying appellate docket fees on time is mandatory, and what happens when an appeal is filed without them.
Lawyers Cannot Claim Ignorance of Basic Procedures to Abandon Client Obligations
Philippine Supreme Court rules a lawyer's claim of ignorance in filing a motion for reconsideration is no excuse for neglecting a client's case.
When a Bank's Actions Harm a Business: Breach of Contract and Damages
Explore when a bank's actions may constitute breach of contract and grounds for damages, with insights from Philippine law.
When Survey Plans Lack Approval Reversion OF Land Titles TO THE State
A land title issued without a survey plan approved by the Director of Lands is void, and the State may seek its reversion.
Citizenship by Blood: Redefining Qualifications for the Philippine Presidency
The Supreme Court's 2004 ruling in Tecson v. COMELEC clarifies how natural-born citizenship is determined for presidential candidates.
Attorney's Duty of Fidelity: Neglect and Abandonment in Legal Representation
When a lawyer takes a client's money and disappears with case records, the Supreme Court draws a firm line on professional responsibility.
Attorney Sanctioned for Neglecting Client’s Appeal: Lessons in Diligence
A lawyer who failed to file an appellant’s brief was suspended for six months. Learn the ethical rules that every Philippine attorney must follow.
Annulment of NLRC Judgments: Why the Court of Appeals Lacks Jurisdiction
Explore why the Court of Appeals cannot annul NLRC decisions and the risks of forum shopping in labor cases.
When Constitutional Limits Bar Recovery of Illegally Acquired Property
Philippine Supreme Court explains why an alien who bought land through a Filipino cannot recover the property or his money.
Landlord Rights Prevail Recovering Possession Despite Ownership Claims
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when tenants cannot appeal denial of new trial and how counsel's errors bind clients.