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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Conspiracy and Intent: When Multiple Assaults Do Not Prove Discernment in Minors
The Supreme Court clarifies that intent to kill and conspiracy do not automatically prove a minor's discernment, requiring separate proof for criminal liability.
Conspiracy and Overt Acts in Group Offenses: What Philippine Law Requires
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that mere presence at a crime scene does not establish conspiracy; an overt act is required for criminal liability.
Death Before Final Judgment Extinguishes Criminal Liability in Philippine Law
When an accused dies before final conviction, criminal liability and civil liability ex delicto are extinguished under the Revised Penal Code.
From Murder TO Homicide THE Crucial Role OF Treachery IN Criminal Liability
From Murder to Homicide: The Crucial Role of Treachery in Criminal Liability
The Supreme Court explains when a killing is murder or homicide, focusing on treachery and its elements.
Arson and Homicide: How the Primary Motive Determines Criminal Liability
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a death during a fire is absorbed by arson or punished separately, based on the offender's main objective.
IPRA Does Not Shield Indigenous Peoples From Criminal Prosecution
The Supreme Court clarifies that the Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act cannot be used to evade criminal liability or strip courts of jurisdiction over criminal cases.
Death Before Final Judgment Extinguishes Criminal Liability: People v. Gallardo
When an accused dies before final conviction, criminal and civil liability ex delicto are extinguished. Learn the rule from People v. Gallardo.
Death of Accused Pending Appeal Extinguishes Criminal Liability in Rape Cases
Supreme Court explains how an accused's death before final conviction extinguishes criminal and civil liability ex delicto, citing Article 89 of the Revised Penal Code.
When Self-Defense Claims Fall Short: The Miranda Case on Unlawful Aggression
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when self-defense fails and how a victim's provocation can still mitigate criminal liability in Philippine law.
Treachery's Shadow: Redefining Murder and Homicide in Philippine Law
When does a killing become murder instead of homicide? The Supreme Court clarifies the role of treachery in bail hearings and criminal liability.
Self-Defense and the Degree of Criminal Liability: Distinguishing Homicide From Murder
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when a killing is homicide, not murder, and why self-defense must be proven by clear and convincing evidence.
Conspiracy in Robbery With Homicide: Eyewitness Testimony and Joint Liability
A look at how conspiracy and credible eyewitness testimony secured a robbery with homicide conviction, and what this means for criminal liability.
When Sudden Attacks Don't Always Mean Treachery: Reassessing Criminal Liability in Homicide Cases
The Supreme Court clarifies when a sudden attack constitutes treachery in murder cases, and why self-defense claims fail without proof of unlawful aggression.
Deception Beyond the Contract: Criminal Liability for Diverting Investments Without Consent
When an investment agent diverts funds to another company without the investor's consent, criminal liability may arise under Article 318 of the Revised Penal Code.
Reassessing Criminal Liability From Murder to Homicide Based on Evidence of Intent and Treachery
The Supreme Court clarifies when a killing is murder or homicide, requiring proof of treachery and intent beyond reasonable doubt.
Aider and Abettor Establishing Criminal Liability in Rape Cases Through Conspiracy
Philippine Supreme Court rules that a person who aids a rape by holding the victim's legs is equally guilty through conspiracy.
Protecting Children Moral Ascendancy AND Criminal Liability FOR Sexual Abuse IN THE Philippines
The Supreme Court affirms robbery with rape conviction, clarifying out-of-court identification rules and damages for sexual abuse victims.
When Death Extinguishes Criminal Liability: The Antido Case
Explaining the Supreme Court ruling that an accused's death before final conviction extinguishes criminal and civil liability ex delicto.
Death of Accused Pending Appeal Extinguishes Criminal and Civil Liability Ex Delicto
When an accused dies before final judgment, criminal liability and civil liability ex delicto are extinguished. Learn the rule and its exceptions.
When a Crime Becomes More Than the Sum of Its Parts: Complex Crimes in Philippine Law
A drug case acquittal shows how the Supreme Court treats procedural lapses in buy-bust operations, and what that means for criminal liability in the Philippines.
Insanity Plea Under Scrutiny: The Fine Line Between Confusion and Criminal Responsibility
The Supreme Court clarifies when confusion amounts to insanity exempting an accused from criminal liability, and when it does not.
Extinguishment of Criminal Liability: How Death Before Final Judgment Impacts Guilt and Civil Obligations
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies how an accused's death before final judgment extinguishes criminal liability and affects civil damages.
Eyewitness Reliability and Positive Identification in Murder Cases
Learn how Philippine courts assess eyewitness reliability and positive identification in murder cases, and when an accused's death extinguishes criminal liability.