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.
Ejectment Suits MTC Jurisdiction Prevails Despite Ownership Claims
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that MTC retains jurisdiction over ejectment cases even when defendants raise ownership or agrarian reform claims.
When a Lawyer's Inaction Harms a Client's Case: Lessons from Rollon v. Naraval
A lawyer who accepts a case but does nothing—and keeps the client's money—faces suspension. The Supreme Court explains why.
Deputy Ombudsman Impeachment Limits Clarified by Supreme Court
The Supreme Court clarifies that Deputy Ombudsmen are not impeachable officers, settling a long-standing constitutional question.
Lawyer's Neglect of Client's Case Warrants Suspension from Practice
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for three months for gross negligence in failing to file position paper and attend hearings before the Social Security Commission.
Finality of Judgments: Late Docket Fee Payment Dooms Appeal in Meatmasters Case
Learn how late payment of appellate docket fees affects judgment finality, based on the Supreme Court's ruling in Meatmasters v. Lelis.
Abuse of Rights and Uninvited Guests: The Amay Bisaya Damages Case
When does asking a gate-crasher to leave become actionable? The Supreme Court clarifies abuse of rights under Articles 19 and 21.
Voluntary Resignation vs Illegal Dismissal: Protecting Seafarer Rights in Philippine Labor Law
When is a seafarer's sign-off voluntary resignation or illegal dismissal? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on termination and due process.
Tenancy Rights vs Land Reclassification: Lessons from Esparagera v. J.Y. Realty
A quitclaim can end tenancy claims even if land classification is disputed. Learn the rules from this Philippine Supreme Court case.
Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies: A Prerequisite Before Court Action
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why exhaustion of administrative remedies and motion for reconsideration are mandatory before judicial recourse.
When a Judge's Private Letter Undermines Judicial Impartiality
Supreme Court reprimands a judge for writing university officials about his wife's cases, violating judicial conduct rules on impartiality.
Habeas Corpus A Limited Remedy FOR Violations OF Speedy Trial Rights IN THE Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that habeas corpus is not the proper remedy to enforce speedy trial rights, explaining available legal options.
Taxing Electoral Contributions: Clarifying Gift Tax Law in Philippine Elections
Supreme Court ruling that political contributions are taxable gifts under the NIRC, absent an express exemption.
Libel Venue: Where Does the Case Belong Under Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies libel venue rules under Article 360, RPC—where to file cases and why allegations matter.
Filial Privilege When CAN A Child Testify Against A Parent IN Philippine Courts
Philippine law on when a child may testify against a parent in court, explained in plain language for lay readers.
Unlawful Detainer: A Tenant's Admissions and the Inevitable Ejectment
In Mendoza v. Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court ruled that a tenant's own admissions in pleadings can seal an ejectment case.
When a Recommender Is Not Liable: Civil Liability After an Acquittal in Estafa
Explaining when a person who recommends an investment can be held civilly liable after an acquittal in an estafa case.
Supreme Court Clears Judge of Delay in Injunction Case: Lessons on TRO Rules and Judicial Ethics
Supreme Court dismisses administrative complaint against Judge Lerma, clarifying TRO hearing timelines and standards for judicial liability in injunction cases.
Attorney Negligence and Suspension: Lessons from Abiero v. Juanino
A lawyer's failure to file an appeal led to a six-month suspension. Learn the ethical duties and consequences.
Malicious Prosecution: Proving Malice and Lack of Probable Cause in Criminal Complaints
The Supreme Court explains when filing criminal complaints becomes malicious prosecution, requiring proof of both malice and lack of probable cause.
Conspiracy and Overt Acts in Bouncing Check Cases: Ladonga v. People
When can a non-signatory spouse be liable for bouncing checks? The Supreme Court clarifies conspiracy rules under B.P. 22.
Hotel Waivers for Lost Guest Items Are Void: The McLoughlin Rule
Philippine law voids hotel waivers for lost guest belongings. Learn the McLoughlin case and what hotels must do.
Accountability in Public Office: Good Faith Is Not a Free Pass in Malversation Cases
A look at Melchor v. Gironella on administrative liability, good faith, and the burden of proof in public office.
Expanding Sandiganbayan's Reach: Jurisdiction Over Graft Cases in Government-Owned Corporations
The Supreme Court clarifies that the Sandiganbayan has jurisdiction over officers of government-owned corporations, regardless of how they were created.
Void Marriages and Property Rights: Ownership in Cohabitation After Bigamous Marriage
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on property ownership when a marriage is void due to bigamy. Learn the rules on co-ownership and creditor claims.