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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When a Lawyer's Negligence Does Not Amount to Extrinsic Fraud: Amihan Bus Lines v. Romars
The Supreme Court clarifies when a lawyer's mistakes can justify annulment of judgment, and when clients must bear the consequences.
Valid Warrantless Arrest Upholding Drug Conviction Based on In Flagrante Delicto
Supreme Court affirms drug conviction, ruling warrantless arrest valid when suspect caught in flagrante delicto exchanging shabu.
Protecting the Vulnerable: The Primacy of Victim Testimony in Statutory Rape Cases
How the Supreme Court affirmed that a minor victim's credible testimony alone can sustain a statutory rape conviction.
Torrens Title Prevails Over Unregistered Deed in Possession Dispute
Supreme Court rules registered owners have better right to possession than occupants holding unregistered deeds, even notarized ones.
Defining the Lines: Independent Contractor vs Employee Status in Philippine Labor Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between independent contractors and employees, and the fatal consequences of procedural lapses in labor appeals.
Right to Information vs Confidentiality in Professional Exams: Antolin v. Domondon
The Supreme Court balances the constitutional right to information against confidentiality rules for professional licensure exams in Antolin v. Domondon.
Incestuous Rape Conviction Affirmed Despite Doubts on Victim's Behavior
Supreme Court affirms rape conviction, ruling that a victim's initial inconsistent reports and lack of bruises do not negate the crime.
Decoding Independent Contractors When Control Determines Employment Status in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies employer-employee relationship tests and the mandatory certificate of non-forum shopping in NLRC appeals.
Authority to Represent: The Limits of Legal Representation for Government-Owned Corporations
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when lawyers may appear for GOCCs, requiring OGCC and COA approval before private counsel can act.
Torrens Title vs Unregistered Sale: Who Has Better Right to Possess Land in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling explains why a Torrens title prevails over an unregistered deed of sale in disputes over land possession.
Revocation of Special Administration: Balancing Discretion and Due Process in Estate Settlement
Explore the Supreme Court's ruling on revoking special administrators and appointing regular administrators in estate proceedings.
Double Jeopardy and Demurrer to Evidence: When Prosecution Appeals Are Barred
The Supreme Court explains when the prosecution cannot appeal an acquittal and why certiorari, not appeal, is the proper remedy.
Certificate of Non-Forum Shopping: A Strict Requirement in NLRC Appeals
Learn why the Supreme Court strictly requires a certificate of non-forum shopping in NLRC appeals and what happens when it is missing.
Premature Legal Action: Understanding Ripeness in Declaratory Relief Cases
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a declaratory relief case is premature and how the doctrine of primary jurisdiction applies.
Upholding Ethical Standards Attorney Suspension FOR Dishonored Checks AND Disregard OF Legal Processes
Lis Pendens Cancellation: Which Court Has Jurisdiction Over Property Disputes
Learn which court can cancel a notice of lis pendens in Philippine property disputes, based on a 2010 Supreme Court ruling.
Burden of Proof in Labor Disputes: Employers Must Show Wage Compliance
In Dansart Security Force v. Bagoy, the Supreme Court ruled that employers bear the burden of proving payment of wages and monetary benefits to employees.
Mortgage Validity, Good Faith, and Due Diligence in Property Transactions
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on mortgage validity, good faith, and the due diligence required of banks before accepting property as collateral.
Appeal Dismissed: The Imperative of Timely Docket Fee Payment in Philippine Courts
Explore the Supreme Court's ruling on docket fees, emphasizing the strict requirement for timely payment to perfect an appeal in Philippine courts.
Seafarers Disability Claims: Timely Medical Assessment and Permanent Disability
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on seafarer disability claims, the role of company-designated physicians, and the importance of timely medical assessment.
Accountability in Kidnapping: Conspiracy, Victim Rights, and the High Court's Ruling
The Supreme Court affirms a kidnap-for-ransom conviction, clarifies conspiracy liability, and adjusts damages awards for the victim.
School Negligence: Defining the Scope of Responsibility for Student Safety in Science Experiments
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies that schools and teachers owe students a high degree of care during dangerous activities like science experiments.
Unliquidated Claims When Repair Costs Cannot Offset Rental Payments IN Lease Agreements
When can a lessee offset repair costs against unpaid rent? The Supreme Court explains the rule on legal compensation in lease disputes.
Contractual Obligations Upholding Interest Rates AND Attorneys Fees IN Commercial Agreements
Mining firm's sand and gravel extraction taxed despite mining lease; SC clarifies permit exemptions and tax liability.