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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Construction Disputes: Substantial Completion and Liquidated Damages in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when 95% substantial completion bars liquidated damages in construction disputes under CIAP rules.
Bigamy and Nullity: When a Void Marriage Declaration Does Not Erase Criminal Liability
The Supreme Court clarifies that a belated judicial declaration of nullity of a first marriage does not automatically defeat a bigamy charge under Philippine law.
Unconscionable Interest Rates in the Philippines: When Courts Can Intervene
When can courts strike down excessive interest rates? Learn from Toledo v. Hyden, a Philippine Supreme Court ruling on unconscionable interest.
Rape Conviction of Mentally Disabled Victim: Credibility and Damages Explained
Supreme Court affirms rape conviction based on credible testimony of mentally disabled victim, awards civil, moral, and exemplary damages.
Credibility Counts: Upholding Justice for Victims with Disabilities in Rape Cases
The Supreme Court affirms a father's conviction for qualified rape of his 11-year-old daughter, underscoring credibility and medical evidence.
Illegal Recruitment in Large Scale: Key Lessons from a Philippine Supreme Court Ruling
A look at what makes illegal recruitment a crime of economic sabotage, who can be held liable, and the penalties involved.
Compromise Agreements: When Can a Court Modify a Final Judgment
Philippine Supreme Court explains when a judgment by compromise can be modified, and why finality usually prevails.
Custodia Legis and Garnishment: The BSP v. Judge Lanzanas Ruling
Funds in custodia legis cannot be garnished without court approval. The Supreme Court's ruling in BSP v. Judge Lanzanas explains why.
Option Contract vs. Right of First Refusal: Key Differences Under Philippine Law
Learn the difference between an option contract and a right of first refusal in Philippine real estate, based on the Supreme Court's ruling in Tuazon v. Del Rosario-Suarez.
Equal Protection and Executive Power: The Philippine Truth Commission Case
The Supreme Court struck down Executive Order No. 1 creating the 2010 Truth Commission for violating equal protection. Learn why.
Clerks Of Court Upholding Integrity AND Accountability IN Philippine Judiciary Funds
The Supreme Court affirms that clerks of court are guardians of judiciary funds, holding them accountable for financial integrity and public trust.
Sequestration Orders and Property Rights: The PCGG Two-Commissioner Rule
When is a sequestration order void? The Supreme Court explains the PCGG's non-delegable power to sequester alleged ill-gotten wealth.
Party-List Nominee Qualifications and HRET Jurisdiction After Proclamation
Explains the Supreme Court ruling on party-list nominee qualifications, COMELEC jurisdiction, and HRET's sole authority after proclamation.
When Can Courts Intervene in Utility Disputes: The Manzanal v. Ilusorio Case
The Supreme Court clarifies when a demand letter becomes an actionable wrong and when courts may intervene in club disputes.
Overcoming Inheritance Disputes: Proving Ownership in Philippine Land Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on burden of proof in inheritance disputes over titled land, and the indefeasibility of Torrens titles.
Contractual Obligations Prevail: Upholding the Christmas Bonus in Collective Bargaining Agreements
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies that employers cannot bypass a valid CBA by negotiating with a splinter union.
When a Demand Letter Does Not Create a Cause of Action: Lessons from Ilusorio
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a creditor's demand letter constitutes harassment or simply an exercise of contractual rights.
Statutory Rape in the Philippines: Understanding the Law and Protecting Children
The Supreme Court clarifies statutory rape rules under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code, including penalties and damages for child victims.
Writ of Execution in the Philippines: A Sheriff's Duty and Liability for Neglect
Explaining a sheriff's ministerial duty in executing writs, and the administrative liability for neglect, based on a Supreme Court ruling.
When Can a Judge Reconsider Self-Inhibition? The Bombo Radyo Case
A judge who voluntarily inhibits may later reconsider and re-assume jurisdiction, absent arbitrariness or whimsicality, as the Supreme Court explained.
Perfected Contract of Sale: Consent and Price Agreement in Elevator Maintenance
When is a contract of sale perfected? The Supreme Court explains consent and price requirements in Hyatt Elevators v. Cathedral Heights.
Workplace Decorum in the Judiciary: Upholding Professional Conduct and Respect
The Supreme Court disciplines a court employee for abusive language and clarifies the limits of a judge's disciplinary authority.
Mandamus and Mootness: When a Judge's Action Renders a Petition Unnecessary
The Supreme Court explains when a mandamus petition becomes moot because the judge already acted, using a mining damage case as example.
Psychological Incapacity Under Article 36: When Marital Refusal Is Not Enough
The Supreme Court clarifies that psychological incapacity under Article 36 requires grave, incurable root causes—not mere refusal or difficulty in marriage.