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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Labor-Only Contracting: When the Principal Employer Faces Solidary Liability
The Supreme Court clarifies when a principal employer becomes solidarily liable for the claims of workers hired through a labor-only contractor.
Rape of a Person with Mental Retardation: What People v. Bayrante Teaches
In People v. Bayrante, the Supreme Court affirmed rape convictions where the victim had mild mental retardation, ruling that mental deficiency negates consent.
Misleading the Court and Defying Suspension Orders: A Lesson in Legal Ethics
A lawyer's suspension from practice is not a mere suggestion. Learn how the Supreme Court disciplined a lawyer for misleading the court and appearing while suspended.
Breach of Trust: Employer May Dismiss for Misconduct Despite Acquittal
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that an employee's acquittal in a criminal case does not bar dismissal for loss of trust and confidence.
When Does Prescription Run for Bounced Checks? The Pangilinan Ruling
The Supreme Court clarifies when the prescriptive period for BP 22 cases is interrupted—and why filing with the prosecutor's office counts.
Court Employee Reprimanded for Disrespectful Conduct Toward a Judge
A Supreme Court ruling reminds court personnel that discourtesy toward judges violates the Code of Conduct and diminishes public trust.
When Prescription Stops: Filing Complaints with Prosecutors Under Special Laws
The Supreme Court clarifies that filing a complaint with the prosecutor's office interrupts prescription for special laws like BP 22.
Trust Receipts vs Loans: Distinguishing Obligations in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between trust receipts and loan obligations, and the legal consequences for banks and borrowers.
VAT Refund for Foreign Tourists Upheld: Equal Protection and Tax Classification in the Philippines
The Supreme Court upholds RA 12079's VAT refund for foreign tourists, ruling it does not violate equal protection or tax uniformity.
Seafarer's Basketball Injury Ruled Work-Related: 2026 Supreme Court Decision Explained
A seafarer injured playing basketball on board a vessel is entitled to disability benefits. The Supreme Court applies the Bunkhouse Rule and Personal Comfort Doctrine.
When an Accused Dies Pending Appeal: Extinguishment of Criminal and Pecuniary Liability
A Supreme Court ruling explains how the death of an accused during appeal extinguishes criminal liability and, in drug cases, the fine as well.
Court Employees and Financial Obligations: Ethics Beyond the Courtroom
A Supreme Court ruling reminds court employees that personal debts and conduct reflect on the judiciary's integrity and honor.
Reasonable Doubt Prevails Safeguarding Rights IN Drug Possession Cases
Death pending appeal extinguishes criminal liability in drug cases. The Supreme Court clarifies the effect of an accused's death on convictions.
Safeguarding Due Process: The Right to Be Heard in Contempt Cases
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies that indirect contempt proceedings require a full hearing and the opportunity to be heard, not just written pleadings.
Excise Tax on Petroleum: Who Bears the Burden When International Carriers Are Involved
The Supreme Court rules oil companies cannot claim refunds for excise taxes on petroleum sold to international carriers—the exemption belongs to the buyers, not sellers.
Habitual Tardiness and Misconduct: When Repeated Infractions Justify Dismissal
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when habitual tardiness, absenteeism, and insubordination justify dismissal, and the price of skipping due process.
When Banks and Depositors Share the Blame: PNB v. Spouses Cheah on Negligence
A rubber check, a premature release of funds, and a Supreme Court ruling that split the loss equally between a bank and its depositors.
Drug Testing in the Workplace: Employer Rights vs Employee Rights and Due Process
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on drug testing in the workplace, balancing employer rights, employee rights, and due process in dismissal cases.
When Police Break the Chain of Custody: Acquittal in Drug Possession Cases
The Supreme Court acquits two drug possession convicts after a lone officer broke chain-of-custody rules, reaffirming that proof beyond reasonable doubt cannot rest on presumption of regularity.
Speedy Justice in Ejectment Cases: Understanding Summary Procedure Timelines in the Philippines
Learn how the Supreme Court enforces strict timelines in ejectment cases under the Revised Rule on Summary Procedure, using a 2012 administrative case as a guide.
Revival of Proceedings Ensuring Fair Trial Rights Despite Procedural Technicalities
Supreme Court rules courts must relax procedural rules in contempt cases to protect due process and fair hearing rights.
Probationary Employment: Employers Must Inform Employees of Regularization Standards
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on probationary employment: employers must inform employees of regularization standards at the time of engagement.
Negligence Beyond Contract: Recovering Damages From Third Parties in Philippine Carriage Disputes
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how passengers can recover damages from third-party tortfeasors in breach of carriage cases.
Condominium Disputes: HLURB Jurisdiction and Indispensable Parties Explained
When do condominium owner complaints belong before the HLURB? The Supreme Court clarifies jurisdiction and the need to implead the condominium corporation.