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.
Reconveyance for Void Contracts: Imprescriptible Actions Under Article 1410
When a land transfer rests on a void or inexistent contract, an action for reconveyance does not prescribe, protecting rightful owners.
Serious Misconduct and Illegal Dismissal: When a Petty Quarrel Isn't Grounds for Termination
The Supreme Court clarifies when a workplace fight constitutes serious misconduct justifying dismissal, and when it amounts to illegal termination.
Unmarried Cohabitation Establishing Property Rights In Long Term Illicit Relationships
The Supreme Court ruled that long-term illicit cohabitation can establish co-ownership rights under Article 148 of the Family Code.
When Fraud or Force Negates Consent in Rape: People v. Disipulo
The Supreme Court clarifies that consent obtained through fraud or overcome by force is not valid consent in rape cases.
Judicial Accountability and Compassionate Justice: Reassessing Penalties for Misconduct
The Supreme Court partially grants a judge's reconsideration, replacing dismissal with a fine, applying compassionate justice in administrative cases.
Attorney Negligence and Client Communication: Ethical Duties in Legal Representation
A Supreme Court ruling on lawyer negligence and the duty to inform clients, with practical lessons for attorneys and clients.
Judicial Clemency and Reinstatement of Disqualified Public Officials in the Philippines
The Supreme Court explains when dismissed judges may be reinstated through judicial clemency, requiring proof of remorse, reformation, and public apology.
Lascivious Conduct Under RA 7610: The Trocio Case on Child Abuse
The Supreme Court clarifies what constitutes lascivious conduct under RA 7610, holding a doctor liable for abusing a minor patient.
Chronic Infidelity as Psychological Incapacity: Quiogue v. Quiogue Explained
The Supreme Court ruled that chronic infidelity rooted in a personality disorder can be psychological incapacity under Article 36 of the Family Code.
Usurpation of Official Functions: When Suspension Does Not Stop Official Acts
A suspended mayor who continued solemnizing marriages and issuing permits was convicted of usurpation of official functions under Article 177 of the RPC.
Divorce Abroad: Filipino Spouse Can Remarry Even After Joint Divorce with Foreigner
Supreme Court clarifies that a Filipino spouse may remarry after a foreign divorce, even if the divorce was obtained jointly with the foreign spouse.
Ombudsman's Authority Prevails Investigating Sexual Harassment in Government
Supreme Court affirms Ombudsman's power to investigate sexual harassment in government, upholding dismissal of NEDA official for grave misconduct.
Trademark Ownership in the Philippines: Prior Use vs. Registration
The Supreme Court clarifies that trademark ownership in the Philippines is anchored on actual use, not mere registration, in a landmark ruling.
Trademark Ownership in the Philippines: Prior Use vs. Registration
The Supreme Court clarifies that trademark ownership in the Philippines is rooted in actual use, not mere registration. Learn the rules.
Judicial Accountability: Dismissal-Level Penalties for Gross Ignorance of Law and Neglect of Duty
Supreme Court penalizes judge, clerk, and process server for procedural lapses in annulment and drug cases, affirming strict judicial accountability standards.
Jurisdictional Boundaries Defining Regulatory Authority Over Gaming Operations in Economic Zones
Supreme Court clarifies limits of judicial courtesy, territorial jurisdiction, and regulatory authority over gaming operations in economic zones.
Unlawful Arrest and the Exclusionary Rule: Protecting Rights Against Illegal Marijuana Seizure
Supreme Court acquits in marijuana cultivation case, ruling that evidence from an unlawful warrantless arrest is inadmissible.
Notarial Duties Are Personal: Attorney's Lapses in Recording SPA Lead to Suspension
A lawyer cannot delegate notarial record-keeping to staff. Learn the rules and consequences from a recent Supreme Court ruling.
When Delay Defeats Title: Laches and Registered Land in Lorenzo v. Eustaquio
The Supreme Court ruled that laches can defeat registered land ownership, even when the original transfer was flawed. Learn the key rules.
Piercing the Corporate Veil: Jurisdiction First, Liability Later
Supreme Court clarifies that courts must first acquire jurisdiction over a corporation before applying the piercing the corporate veil doctrine to hold owners liable.
Cabug-os v. Espina: Balancing Employee Rights and Micro-Business Realities
The Supreme Court ruled that illegal dismissal awards against sari-sari stores must be equitable, considering the BMBE status and actual salaries of micro-enterprises.
Venue vs Jurisdiction: When Courts Cannot Dismiss Probate Cases
The Supreme Court clarifies that improper venue is not a ground for motu proprio dismissal of probate cases, distinguishing venue from jurisdiction.
Understanding Fraudulent Property Inclusion Insights From A Landmark Supreme Court Decision
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when ejectment suits fail and why repeated demands don't reset the one-year filing period.
Counsel Negligence and Strict Procedural Rules: PNB v. Spouses Victor
Supreme Court affirms strict 60-day period for petitions for relief, holding clients bound by counsel's negligence absent clear abandonment.