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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Passport Loss Liability: Negligence and Damages in LBC Express v. Ado
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on carrier liability for lost passport, damages rules, and proof requirements in LBC Express v. Ado.
When a Lawyer's Mistake Binds the Client: Property Rights and Negligence
A lawyer's negligence generally binds the client. The Supreme Court explains when relief from judgment is available and when it is not.
Good Faith vs Negligence: Understanding Administrative Dishonesty in Philippine Civil Service
When does using public funds become administrative dishonesty? The Supreme Court explains good faith, negligence, and accountability for court officials.
Why Failing to Pay Appeal Docket Fees Can Cost You Your Case
Learn why the Supreme Court strictly requires payment of appellate docket fees on time and how negligence can cost you your appeal.
When a Defective Electric Meter Shifts Liability: The Vibram v. Meralco Ruling
The Supreme Court affirms that Meralco's negligence in maintaining defective meters shifts liability, but consumers must pay for average consumption.
Counsel's Negligence Binds the Client: Jaramillo v. Court of Appeals and the Lost Appeal
In Jaramillo v. Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court held that a client is bound by counsel's negligence and that certiorari cannot replace a lost appeal.
Carrier Negligence and the Timely Notice Rule for Damaged Cargo in the Philippines
Learn how the Supreme Court ruled on carrier liability for damaged goods and why timely notice under Article 366 of the Code of Commerce is crucial.
Counsel’s Negligence Reopens Criminal Appeals for Fair Representation
When a lawyer abandons a client’s appeal, the Supreme Court may reopen the case to protect the accused’s right to counsel.
Road Repair Responsibility When Negligence Leads to Liability
When road diggings lack warning devices, local governments may be liable for damages. The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on negligence, moral damages, and gross negligence.
Dishonesty in Public Service: When Good Faith and Lack of Profit Do Not Excuse Negligence
The Supreme Court rules that a bank employee's negligent appraisal report constitutes dishonesty, even without personal gain.
Breach of Duty Accountability for Negligence in Bank Appraisal
Court personnel must avoid any act that diminishes public faith in the judiciary; misuse of office warrants dismissal.
Judicial Misconduct AND Evidence Preservation Judges Suspension FOR Negligence AND Ignorance OF LAW
Counsel's Negligence Is Not Excusable: Land Bank's Duty of Diligence in Legal Matters
SC rules counsel's heavy workload is not excusable negligence; procedural rules bind even government agencies like Land Bank.
When Counsel's Negligence Binds the Client: Due Diligence in Appeals
The Supreme Court clarifies when a lawyer's failure to act diligently on an appeal binds the client, and what counts as notice of a decision.
Common Carrier Liability: Negligence and Fortuitous Events in Cargo Loss
When cargo is lost at sea, who pays? Philippine law on common carriers, negligence, and the act of God defense explained.
Carrier Negligence vs Fortuitous Events: Defining Insurance Liability in Cargo Loss
When a typhoon sinks a barge, who pays? The Supreme Court clarifies when a carrier's negligence defeats both the fortuitous-event defense and insurance recovery.
Judicial Conduct: Negligence, Partiality, and the Appearance of Impropriety
A judge's careless signing of documents and joking remarks can constitute negligence and violate judicial ethics, even without proof of bias.
Lawyer's Neglect of Client's Case Warrants Suspension from Practice
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for three months for gross negligence in failing to file position paper and attend hearings before the Social Security Commission.
Contributory Negligence in Vehicle Accidents: How It Affects Damage Awards
Philippine Supreme Court explains how contributory negligence reduces damage awards in vehicle accidents, using the Lambert v. Heirs of Castillon case.
Attorney Negligence and Suspension: Lessons from Abiero v. Juanino
A lawyer's failure to file an appeal led to a six-month suspension. Learn the ethical duties and consequences.
Upholding Integrity Accountability FOR Negligence IN Handling Court Documents
When fraud is alleged against a notarized deed, clear and convincing evidence is required. This case explains the burden of proof.
Notarial Negligence THE Duty OF Care FOR EX Officio Notaries Public AND THE Consequences OF Error
Upholding Diligence AN Attorneys Duty TO Competently Handle Client Matters AND THE Consequences OF Negligence
When a Lawyer Drops the Ball: Lessons from Edquibal v. Ferrer on Diligence and Client Trust
A Supreme Court ruling on lawyer negligence in appeals, explaining counsel's duty of diligence and what clients should expect.