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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Fencing Cases: When Possession of Stolen Goods Proves Knowledge and Intent
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies how possession of stolen vehicle parts can establish knowledge and intent to gain in fencing cases under PD 1612.
Understanding Intent to Kill: The Fine Line Between Attempted Murder and Serious Physical Injuries
The Supreme Court clarifies when a violent attack is attempted murder or only serious physical injuries, focusing on intent to kill and spontaneous desistance.
Financial Support and VAWC Intent: When Denial of Support Is a Crime
The Supreme Court clarifies that mere failure to provide financial support is not enough for conviction under RA 9262; willful intent matters.
When a Checklist is Not Enough: Supreme Court Reinstates PNP Officer in "Chopper Scam" Case
Supreme Court clarifies that administrative liability requires proof of intent, not mere involvement in a flawed procurement process.
Self-Defense and Intent to Kill: Understanding the Nuances in Philippine Law
When does self-defense apply in Philippine criminal law? The Supreme Court explains the fine line between justified killing and criminal liability.
Possession Without Legal Documents Upholding The Forestry Code
The Supreme Court affirms that mere possession of timber without legal documents violates the Forestry Code, even without criminal intent.
Obstruction of Justice and the Lawyer's Duty: De Leon v. Luis
A lawyer's failure to report a client with a standing warrant is not obstruction of justice absent clear intent to harbor or conceal.
Understanding Intent and Chain of Custody in Drug Possession Cases Lessons From a Landmark Philippine Ruling
The Supreme Court acquits a maintenance head of qualified theft, clarifying how intent to gain and possession must be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
Unveiling Simulated Contracts When Loans Mask True Intentions in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when credit line agreements are simulated contracts, and how courts uncover the true intent behind loan documents.
Understanding Intent in Child Abuse Cases: The Role of Specific Intent in Philippine Law
Philippine law requires specific intent for child abuse convictions. Learn how courts determine criminal intent in these sensitive cases.
Illegal Discharge of Firearm: Key Lessons from a Philippine Supreme Court Case
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that firing a gun without intent to kill is still a crime, even without bullet holes or injury.
Understanding Intent and Liability in Estafa and Graft Cases: Lessons from a LRA Employee's Conviction
The Supreme Court affirms the conviction of an LRA employee for estafa and graft, clarifying the elements of fraud and bad faith.
Robbery Under Philippine Law: When Taking and Intent to Gain Are Complete
The Supreme Court in Poquiz v. People clarifies when robbery is consummated—the moment of taking, not recovery. Learn the elements and practical implications.
Understanding Child Abuse Under Philippine Law: Insights From a Landmark Supreme Court Decision
The Supreme Court clarifies when specific intent is required for child abuse convictions under RA 7610, protecting children from physical maltreatment.
Simulated Contracts in the Philippines: When a Deed of Sale Is Void
Philippine Supreme Court explains when a simulated deed of sale is void. Learn the rules on genuine intent in property transactions.
Understanding Intent in Child Abuse Cases When Words Cross the Line
The Supreme Court clarifies that angry words alone do not constitute child abuse under RA 7610 unless specific intent to debase the child is proven.
Navigating Property Sale Disputes: The Importance of Accurate Contract Descriptions in Real Estate Transaction
A lawyer's drafting mistake won't bar contract reformation when the parties' true intent is clear from their acts.
Less Serious Physical Injuries: When Intent to Kill Is Absent
The Supreme Court clarifies when a mauling results in less serious physical injuries rather than attempted homicide, and how a brawl differs from a tumultuous affray.
Child Abuse vs Physical Injuries: Intent Requirement Under RA 7610
The Supreme Court clarifies when a teacher's act is child abuse under RA 7610 or mere slight physical injuries under the Revised Penal Code.
Child Abuse Under RA 7610: Intent as the Key Element
The Supreme Court clarifies that intent to debase or degrade is essential to prove child abuse under RA 7610.
Accountability Despite Initial Intent Murder Conviction Upheld Absent Treachery BUT With Weakened Defense Qualifying Circumstance
Illiteracy and Contracts: When Does a Sale Become Invalid
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies that a sale's validity depends on the parties' true intent, not just the lot number written in the deed.
The High Cost of Good Intentions When Government Employee Incentives Violate the Law
When a state university granted bonuses without legal basis, the Supreme Court ordered full refunds. Learn the rules on government incentives.
Donation Revocation: Balancing Donor Intent and Donee Compliance
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a donation's automatic revocation clause is valid and how courts review its enforcement.