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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Delivery vs Sale in Drug Cases: When a Courier Becomes a Seller
The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between illegal sale and illegal delivery of dangerous drugs under RA 9165, and the importance of consideration.
Defective Motion for Reconsideration Cannot Revive Waived Prosecution Evidence
Supreme Court nullifies trial court order allowing prosecution to present evidence after fatally defective motion for reconsideration.
When a Trial Court Cannot Deny Your Notice of Appeal: PBCOM v. Court of Appeals
The Supreme Court clarifies that only appellate courts may dismiss appeals for being improper remedies, and when a motion for reconsideration is excused.
Second Motions for Reconsideration: Finality of Judgments and the Interest of Justice
The Supreme Court clarifies that a second motion for reconsideration is prohibited, and final judgments are immutable and unalterable.
Bail and Humanitarian Considerations: Balancing Constitutional Rights and Individual Circumstances
The Supreme Court affirms that bail may be granted on humanitarian grounds, weighing an accused's health and flight risk against constitutional rights.
Due Process in Administrative Proceedings: The Right to Be Heard Before Liability Is Imposed
The Supreme Court reaffirms that administrative due process requires a real opportunity to be heard before liability is imposed, not just a motion for reconsideration.
Immutability of Judgments: When Final Decisions Stand Firm
Explaining the immutability of judgments through LBP v. Hababag, Sr., where the Supreme Court denied reconsideration and clarified interest rules.
When the Comelec En Banc Deadlocks: Division Rulings Stand, Not Dismissed
Supreme Court clarifies that a Comelec en banc deadlock on a motion for reconsideration affirms the division's ruling, not dismisses the case.
Breach of Fiduciary Duty: Attorney Neglect and Suspension From Legal Practice
The Supreme Court suspended a lawyer for two years for neglecting a client's case and failing to file a motion for reconsideration.
Unpaid Purchase Price: When a Deed of Absolute Sale Is Void for Lack of Consideration
A deed of sale without actual payment is void from the start. Learn the Supreme Court's ruling and key lessons.
Stare Decisis in Retrenchment Cases: When Prior Rulings Bind Similar Claims
The Supreme Court applies stare decisis to deny reconsideration in a retrenchment case, affirming that identical issues and parties with common interest are bound by prior rulings.
Motion for Reconsideration: When Strict Compliance Is Not Required in Philippine Courts
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a motion for reconsideration before the NLRC may be excused before filing certiorari.
Finality OF Judgments Understanding THE Prohibition Against Second Motions FOR Reconsideration
Certiorari Not a Substitute for Appeal: Lessons from Nuque v. Aquino
The Supreme Court reiterates that certiorari cannot replace a lost appeal, and a motion for reconsideration is generally required before filing one.
Certiorari Limitations: Why a Motion for Reconsideration Is Key in Injunction Cases
The Supreme Court clarifies when certiorari lies against injunction rulings and why a motion for reconsideration is essential.
Upholding Finality: Supreme Court Reaffirms Requirements for Valid Motions for Reconsideration in Property Dis
Learn how the Supreme Court protected the finality of judgments and clarified the limits of appellate review in a property mortgage dispute.
Practicing Law While Suspended: Consequences and Ethical Considerations
A suspended lawyer who appears as counsel for her husband still practices law. The Supreme Court explains the consequences and ethical duties.
Missed Appeal Deadlines in Agrarian Cases: When Negligence Costs the Right to Appeal
The Supreme Court rules on missed appeal deadlines in agrarian disputes, explaining when a motion for reconsideration suspends the period and why certiorari cannot replace a lost appeal.
Untimeliness AND Unjust Enrichment Navigating Motions FOR Reconsideration AND Quantum Meruit
Motion for Reconsideration: A Prerequisite Before Certiorari in Labor Disputes
Philippine National Bank v. Arcobillas: a party must file a motion for reconsideration with the NLRC before seeking certiorari from the Court of Appeals.
Motion for Reconsideration Cannot Raise New Issues, High Court Rules
Supreme Court reiterates that new arguments raised for the first time in a motion for reconsideration are deemed waived, affirming finality of judgments.
Mutuality of Contracts: Borrower's Right to Inspect Loan Sale Documents Under Rule 27
Supreme Court rules borrowers may compel production of loan sale agreements to verify consideration and exercise redemption rights under Article 1634.
Finality of Judgments: Repeated Motions for Reconsideration in Administrative Cases
Supreme Court warns against filing repeated motions for reconsideration in administrative cases, affirming the doctrine of finality of judgments.
Motion for Reconsideration Before Certiorari: The Novateknika Rule
Philippine courts require a motion for reconsideration before filing certiorari. Learn the rule, its exceptions, and why it matters.