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.
Loss of Trust and Confidence: When a Supervisor's Single Mistake Justifies Dismissal
Supreme Court ruling on when a nurse supervisor's unauthorized taking of hospital supplies justifies dismissal for loss of trust and confidence.
When Police Searches Go Wrong: Acquittal in a Carnapping Case
A look at how illegal searches and inadmissible confessions led to an acquittal in a carnapping case, and what this means for criminal procedure.
Conflicting Court Decisions: The Imperative of Case Consolidation in Philippine Law
When court decisions conflict, consolidation becomes necessary. This article explains the rules and practical implications for litigants in the Philippines.
Venue Stipulations and the Right Remedy: Pillars Property v. Century Communities
The Supreme Court clarifies when a venue stipulation binds parties and why dismissal for improper venue calls for certiorari, not appeal.
When Silence Speaks Volumes: Illegal Exaction and Abuse of Discretion in Garbage Collection Fees
Explore how the Supreme Court ruled that a prosecutor's dismissal of an illegal exaction case against a barangay captain constituted grave abuse of discretion.
Co-Ownership Disputes: How Inheritance and Sales Affect Land Rights in the Philippines
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when administrative orders on land disputes become final and how co-ownership, inheritance, and sales affect property rights.
Substantial Evidence Standard in Disbarment Cases: Buntag v. Atty. Toledo
The Supreme Court clarifies the substantial evidence standard in disbarment cases and reminds lawyers to put fee agreements in writing.
Foreclosure Writ of Possession: Appeal Does Not Stay Implementation
Supreme Court clarifies that an appeal of a writ of possession order in extrajudicial foreclosure does not suspend its implementation.
When a Mortgage on Trust Property Is Void: UCPB v. Spouses Chua
The Supreme Court rules that a bank cannot foreclose on properties held in trust when the trustee had no authority to mortgage them.
Mortgage Foreclosure and Third-Party Property: UCPB's Duty to Protect Borrower Interests
When a bank forecloses property mortgaged by a third party without the owner's consent, the Supreme Court protects the true owner's rights.
Quantum Meruit and Government Contracts: Fair Compensation for Completed Projects
When can a contractor recover payment from the government without a written contract? The Supreme Court explains quantum meruit.
Alias Writ of Possession: The Limits of Trial Court Authority in Appeal Dismissals
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when a trial court may dismiss an appeal, and why orders of execution are not appealable.
Formal Offer of Evidence in Tax Cases: Courts Must Consider All Evidence on Record
A taxpayer's admission of transferring shares can establish tax liability even without the BIR's formal offer of evidence.
Online Psychological Abuse Under RA 9262: Higher Penalty for ICT Use
Supreme Court raises penalty for psychological abuse committed via Facebook, ruling ICT use qualifies for one-degree higher punishment under RA 10175.
Oral Contracts for Property: Six-Year Prescription Bars Stale Claims for Specific Performance
Oral agreements to transfer property must be enforced within six years. Learn how prescription works and why timely action matters.
Foreign Currency Deposits and Joint Accounts: When Courts Cannot Order Withdrawal
A Supreme Court ruling explains why courts cannot order release of foreign currency deposits and when co-depositor consent is required.
Sheriff Dismissed for Accepting Unofficial Payments From Litigants
Supreme Court dismisses sheriff for receiving P100,000 in direct payments from litigants, ruling such conduct constitutes serious dishonesty.
Insurance Rescission: Proving Fraud in False Representations vs Concealment
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when insurers can rescind for concealment versus false representations, and what evidence proves fraud.
Piece-Rate Workers Are Regular Employees Entitled to Security of Tenure
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that piece-rate payment does not negate regular employment, and abandonment requires proof of intent.
Seafarer Disability Claims: Proving Work-Related Injury in Maritime Cases
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a seafarer's injury is work-related and compensable, and why bare allegations fail.
Sheriffs Duty to Serve Notice Before Implementing Writs: Consequences of Neglect
A sheriff who enforces a writ without prior notice violates due process. Learn the rules and penalties under Rule 39.
Ombudsman Decisions in Administrative Cases Are Immediately Executory
The Supreme Court confirms that Ombudsman decisions in administrative cases are immediately executory, even pending appeal, unless a court issues a TRO or preliminary injunction.
Homeowners Rights vs Church Construction: Open Space Donation Validity
Supreme Court rules on open space donations in subdivisions, homeowners association rights, and church construction in Casa Milan case.
Real Property Tax: Who Pays When Ownership and Possession Differ
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies real property tax liability when the registered owner is not in possession, citing Herarc Realty v. Provincial Treasurer of Batangas.