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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Attorney Suspended for Neglecting Client’s Appeal: Duty of Diligence
A lawyer’s failure to file an appellant’s brief led to a three-month suspension, underscoring the duty of diligence.
Upholding Legal Ethics: Attorneys Accountability for Misappropriating Client Funds
A look at Mercedes Nava v. Atty. Sorongon, where the Supreme Court addressed conflict of interest and the mandatory requirement of formal investigation in disbarment cases.
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.
Attorney Sanctioned for Neglecting Client’s Appeal: Lessons in Diligence
A lawyer who failed to file an appellant’s brief was suspended for six months. Learn the ethical rules that every Philippine attorney must follow.
Solidary Liability Ensuring Wage Compliance In Security Service Contracts
When a security agency underpays guards, the client company can be held jointly and severally liable under the Labor Code.
Lawyer's Negligence in Handling Client's Case Leads to Suspension and Fine
A lawyer's gross negligence in handling a client's case resulted in a one-month suspension and fine. Learn the ethical duties lawyers owe clients.
When "As Is, Where Is" Does Not Shield a Seller: The NDC v. Madrigal Wan Hai Ruling
The Supreme Court clarifies that "as is, where is" sales only cover physical condition, not hidden legal liabilities like tax liens.
When a Lawyer's Error Binds a Client: The Doctrine of Negligence in Philippine Litigation
Explore how the Supreme Court holds clients bound by their counsel's mistakes, and when courts may grant relief from a lawyer's negligence.
Attorney Suspended for Acquiring Client's Property During Estate Proceedings
Lawyer suspended six months for acquiring property from client during pending estate proceedings, violating Article 1491 of the Civil Code.
When a Lawyer Crosses the Line: The Ban on Acquiring Client Property in Litigation
A Supreme Court ruling explains why lawyers cannot acquire property involved in litigation they handle, even under a contingent fee arrangement.
Upholding Attorney Accountability Disciplinary Action FOR Neglect OF Duty AND Deceit
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on lawyer discipline for neglect of duty and deceit, emphasizing ethical standards and client protection.
Lawyer Suspended for Issuing Bouncing Check to Settle Client's Case
Lawyer who issued a bouncing check to settle a client's civil liability was suspended for two years for deceit and violating the Lawyer's Oath.
Breach of Confidence When a Lawyer's Duty Collides With Self-Defense
A lawyer cannot use confidential client information to defend himself in an unrelated case. The Supreme Court explains the limits of attorney-client privilege.
When Constitutional Limits Bar Recovery of Illegally Acquired Property
Philippine Supreme Court explains why an alien who bought land through a Filipino cannot recover the property or his money.
Land Title Registration: Proving Ownership and Alienability in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the requirements for land registration: possession since June 12, 1945 and proof the land is alienable public domain.
Landlord Rights Prevail Recovering Possession Despite Ownership Claims
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when tenants cannot appeal denial of new trial and how counsel's errors bind clients.
Intervention Denied: Maritime Liens, Forum Shopping in Ship Mortgage Disputes
Supreme Court clarifies when mortgagees may intervene in crew wage claims and warns against forum shopping in vessel foreclosure cases.
Reclaimed Lands and the Constitution: Limits on Government Transfers to Private Corporations
The Supreme Court voids a land reclamation deal transferring public lands to a private corporation, reaffirming constitutional limits on alienable lands.
Defining Common Carriers When A Limited Clientele Doesnt Equal Private Carriage
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that a shipping firm with a limited clientele can still be a common carrier under the Civil Code.
Lawyer Suspended for Falsifying Documents and Fraudulent Land Sale
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for five years for forging a special power of attorney to sell clients' land without consent.
Lawyer's Duty to Client: Suspension for Neglect and Unreturned Fees
A lawyer who accepts fees but fails to file a client's case faces suspension. Learn the ethical rules and consequences.
Lawyer Suspended for Neglecting Client's Case and Failing to File Pleading
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for six months for accepting fees but failing to file a client's Complaint-in-Intervention, violating professional ethics rules.
Attorney Negligence and Client Trust: Lessons from a Philippine Disbarment Case
A lawyer who takes a client's fee but fails to file the case faces suspension. Learn the ethical rules and consequences.