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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Seafarers Disability Claims: Strict Adherence to POEA Contract Procedures Required
SC ruling in Calimlim v. Wallem Maritime: seafarers must follow POEA-SEC procedures, including third-doctor referral, or company physician's assessment stands.
Chain of Custody Breaks Lead to Acquittal in Drug Cases: People v. Prudencio
The Supreme Court acquits a drug accused due to broken chain of custody, stressing strict compliance with RA 9165 procedures.
When Police Slip-Ups Void Drug Convictions: The Chain of Custody Rule in Philippine Law
A look at how the Supreme Court acquitted a drug suspect due to broken chain of custody, and what this means for police procedure.
Broken Chains: Safeguarding Rights in Drug Cases Through Strict Custody Protocols
When police break drug custody rules, the accused may walk free. The Supreme Court explains why procedure protects everyone.
Upholding Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: Ensuring Integrity of Evidence
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect due to broken chain of custody, emphasizing strict compliance with RA 9165 procedures.
Due Process in Employment Termination: Balancing Cause and Procedure
The Supreme Court clarifies that dismissals with just cause remain valid even without procedural due process, but employers must pay nominal damages.
Sheriff's P70,000 Demand and 6-Month Delay: Supreme Court on Unauthorized Fees in Writ Execution
Supreme Court rules sheriff liable for receiving P70,000 directly and delaying writ execution, explaining proper fee procedures under Rule 141.
Procedural Pitfalls: Why Improper Appeals Can Derail Your Case
Filing a case before the wrong tribunal wastes time and money. Learn how jurisdiction works and why proper procedure matters.
Premature Disability Claims: Seafarers Must Follow Medical Assessment Procedures
The Supreme Court clarifies when a seafarer's disability claim is premature and why following the POEA-SEC medical assessment procedure matters.
Broken Chains: Safeguarding Rights in Drug Cases Through Strict Evidence Procedures
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect when police break the chain of custody, underscoring strict compliance with Section 21 of RA 9165.
Seafarer Disability Claims: The Weight of Company-Designated Physician Assessments
Learn how the Supreme Court ruled on seafarer disability claims, emphasizing the company-designated physician's assessment and timely procedures under the POEA-SEC.
Judicial Competence: A Judge's Duty to Uphold Basic Laws and Procedures
The Supreme Court suspends a judge for six months for gross ignorance of the law, emphasizing that judges must apply basic legal rules with competence.
Seafarers Disability Claims: Why Following POEA-SEC and CBA Procedures Matters
SC ruling explains why seafarers must follow POEA-SEC and CBA procedures, including third-doctor referral, before filing disability claims.
Seafarers Disability Claims Mandatory Procedures AND THE Weight OF Medical Assessments
Seafarer Disability Claims: POEA-SEC Procedures and Assessment Timelines
Learn how the 240-day rule and POEA-SEC procedures govern seafarer disability claims, and why following the assessment process matters.
Sheriffs Duty Strict Adherence TO Execution Procedures AND Accountability
Deportation and Due Process: Ensuring Fair Proceedings for Resident Aliens
The Supreme Court clarifies deportation procedures, appeal remedies, and due process rights for resident aliens facing removal from the Philippines.
When a Seafarer's Disability Claim Fails: The Weight of Medical Evidence in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies when a seafarer's disability claim fails, emphasizing the company-designated physician's findings and proper procedure.
Upholding Drug Convictions: Chain of Custody and Regular Performance of Duty in Narcotics Cases
The Supreme Court affirms drug convictions, clarifying that minor lapses in Section 21 procedure do not automatically invalidate seizures when evidence integrity is preserved.
Upholding Drug Convictions: Integrity of the Chain of Custody Under RA 9165
The Supreme Court affirms a drug sale conviction, explaining that minor deviations from Section 21 procedures do not automatically render seized drugs inadmissible.
Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: When Police Lapses Do Not Mean Acquittal
The Supreme Court explains when lapses in Section 21 procedures still allow conviction, so long as the drug's integrity is preserved.
Mootness Doctrine: When Supervening Events Make Court Cases Academic
Learn how the mootness doctrine works in Philippine civil procedure, explained through the Supreme Court's ruling in Republic v. Manalo.
Upholding Due Process in Administrative Cases: Impartiality and Fair Procedure
The Supreme Court clarifies due process requirements in administrative cases, emphasizing substantial evidence and the right to an impartial tribunal.
Finality of Judgment and the Fresh Period Rule: Timely Appeals in Philippine Civil Procedure
Learn how the Supreme Court applied the fresh period rule and finality of judgment principles in Eserjose v. Allied Banking Corporation.