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.
Reasonable Doubt in Rape Cases: When Inconsistent Testimony Cannot Support a Conviction
Philippine Supreme Court acquits rape accused where the victim's inconsistent testimony and improbable claims failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Honesty is the Best Policy: Understanding Concealment in Philippine Insurance Law
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when an insurer may deny a claim for concealment, and who may sue on a mortgage redemption insurance policy.
Truth and Honesty in Legal Practice: Why Misleading the Court Can Lead to Suspension
A lawyer's false statement in a motion for postponement led to a six-month suspension. Learn the ethical rules on candor.
Receipts as Proof of Sale: Understanding Contract Perfection in Philippine Real Estate Law
When does a real estate sale become binding? The Supreme Court explains receipt requirements, fraud, and contract perfection in this Philippine case.
Sequestration vs Lis Pendens: When a Notice Fails and Titles Get Cleared
Understand the Supreme Court's ruling on void PCGG sequestration notices and how property titles can be cleared when requirements are not met.
When Banks Lose the Right to Collect: Estoppel in Foreclosure Deficiency Claims
When can a bank be barred from collecting a foreclosure deficiency? The Supreme Court explains estoppel's limits in PNB v. Court of Appeals.
Lawyer Reprimanded for Losing Client Trust: Fidelity Lessons from Curimatmat v. Gojar
A lawyer's duty of fidelity means keeping clients informed and appealing on time. The Supreme Court's reprimand in Curimatmat v. Gojar explains why.
When Self-Defense Fails: Treachery and Criminal Liability in Philippine Law
A look at People v. Ebrada, where the Supreme Court rejected self-defense and upheld treachery in a fatal stabbing.
Caveat Emptor in Philippine Law: The Fule Case on Buyer Beware in Property and Jewelry Deals
Philippine law applies caveat emptor—buyers must inspect goods before purchase. The Fule case shows how failure to verify authenticity can defeat fraud claims.
Lease Abandonment and Tenant Rights: The Paterno v. Court of Appeals Case
The Supreme Court's ruling in Paterno v. Court of Appeals clarifies when a tenant's departure amounts to lease abandonment and what it means for landlords and occupants.
Can Employers Ban Marriage? The Illegality of Anti-Marriage Policies in the Philippines
Philippine law bans anti-marriage policies for women. Learn the rules, the PT&T case, and what to do if dismissed for getting married.
Possession of Illegal Timber: Navigating Philippine Forestry Laws
The Supreme Court clarifies that mere possession of timber without legal documents is a crime under the Revised Forestry Code, even if the timber came from a legal source.
When Can an Agent Sell Your Property? The Limits of a Special Power of Attorney
A special power of attorney to eject squatters does not authorize selling land. Learn the limits of an agent's authority to dispose of real property.