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.
Upholding Attorney Accountability: Neglect of Client Affairs Leads to Suspension
A lawyer's failure to diligently pursue a client's case warrants suspension from practice, as shown in this Philippine disciplinary case.
Illegal Recruitment Testimonial Evidence Trumps Lack OF Receipts
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on illegal recruitment cases where testimonial evidence outweighs the absence of receipts or documentary proof.
Judicial Independence vs Executive Discretion in Criminal Prosecution: The Santos v. Orda Ruling
When may a court grant a prosecutor's motion to withdraw an information? The Supreme Court clarifies the limits of judicial deference to the DOJ.
Enforcing Time Limits: Carrier Liability Hinges on Timely Notice of Cargo Damage
Timely written notice of cargo damage is a condition precedent to suing a carrier. The Supreme Court explains why in Federal Express v. American Home Assurance.
When Eminent Domain Leads to Total Loss: Just Compensation for Uninhabitable Property
When government projects render private property uninhabitable, the taking is deemed complete and full just compensation is due.
Smuggling and the Presumption of Guilt: Possession and Tax Obligations in Philippine Law
When does possession of untaxed goods create a presumption of smuggling under Philippine law? The Supreme Court explains in Rieta v. People.
Defense of Honor Justifying Homicide in Cases of Marital Fidelity
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when defense of spouse can justify homicide, explaining unlawful aggression requirement.
Attorney Discipline When Actions Abroad Affect Legal Standing in the Philippines
Philippine courts can discipline judiciary employees for misconduct even if a complainant withdraws the case, as shown in Gamboa v. Gamboa.
When Civil Cases Don't Justify Travel Bans: The Limits of Hold Departure Orders
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that hold departure orders may only be issued in criminal cases, not civil disputes like support cases.
Judge Dismissed and Suspended from Law Practice for Gross Immorality in Extramarital Affair Case
Supreme Court dismisses a judge for gross immorality over an extramarital affair and child, imposing a three-year suspension from law practice.
Incestuous Rape: Credibility of a Victim's Testimony in Cases of Parental Abuse
When a mentally disabled minor is raped, her testimony can convict. The Supreme Court explains why in People v. Mabonga.
Constructive Dismissal When Job Changes Lead to Illegal Termination
Learn how a demotion in rank and pay cut can amount to constructive dismissal, even when an employer claims abandonment.
Reasonable Doubt Prevails When Circumstantial Evidence Falls Short of Conviction
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when circumstantial evidence suffices for conviction in estafa cases, examining the limits of proof beyond reasonable doubt.
Estafa Conviction Upheld for Deceit in Mobilization Fund Scheme
Supreme Court affirms estafa conviction for contractor who misrepresented ability to mobilize equipment and misappropriated P600,000 mobilization fund.
Possession vs Dominion: Defining Illegal Drug Possession in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies actual vs constructive possession of illegal drugs, and when spouses sharing a home may both be liable.
Lawyers Cannot Claim Ignorance of Basic Procedures to Abandon Client Obligations
Philippine Supreme Court rules a lawyer's claim of ignorance in filing a motion for reconsideration is no excuse for neglecting a client's case.
Bank Liability and Misplaced Trust: Who Pays When Loan Payments Go Astray
When a bank forecloses on property later found to be fraudulently mortgaged, who bears the loss? This case explains the legal protection for innocent mortgagees.
Setting Bail Judges Must Consider Offenders Finances
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on bail discretion, judicial misconduct, and the duty of judges to resist pressure when setting bail.
Conspiracy in Robbery With Homicide: Liability Even Without Inflicting the Fatal Blow
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that conspirators in robbery with homicide are liable as principals even if they did not inflict the fatal wound.
Battered Woman Syndrome as Defense and Mitigating Circumstance in Parricide
The Genosa ruling explains when battered woman syndrome can mitigate parricide, and why it is not a complete self-defense.
Attorney's Duty of Fidelity: Neglect and Abandonment in Legal Representation
When a lawyer takes a client's money and disappears with case records, the Supreme Court draws a firm line on professional responsibility.
Lawyer Suspended for Neglect and Absconding with Client Records
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for one year for neglecting client cases, absconding with records, and keeping fees without rendering service.
Rape and Credibility: How Inconsistencies in Victim Testimony Are Weighed
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies how courts assess victim credibility, force, intimidation, and qualifying circumstances in rape cases.
From Murder to Homicide: Understanding the Absence of Treachery in Philippine Law
When treachery is not proven, a killing is homicide, not murder. Learn the rules from a Supreme Court case.