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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Rectifying Election Errors: COMELEC's Authority to Ensure Accurate Representation of Voters' Intent
When election documents are compromised, COMELEC can correct manifest errors even after proclamation. The Supreme Court explains why.
HRET Discretion vs Due Process: Protecting the Electorate's Will
When can the House Electoral Tribunal compel a candidate to continue a counter-protest? The Supreme Court explains the limits of judicial review.
Hierarchy of Courts: When Direct Resort to the Supreme Court Is Not Allowed
The Supreme Court explains the hierarchy of courts rule and why direct petitions for certiorari must first go to the Court of Appeals.
Inducement vs Direct Participation: Defining Falsification of Public Documents in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies that a mayor who notarizes false affidavits can be convicted of falsification even without direct proof of authorship.
Chain of Custody Imperative Safeguarding Drug Evidence for Conviction
Philippine Supreme Court acquits drug suspect when prosecution fails to prove unbroken chain of custody of seized shabu.
When Is a Board Resolution Required for a Corporate Loan? Key Rules
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when corporate by-laws can authorize a president to borrow money without a board resolution.
Voluntary Easements: Enforceability and Extinguishment of Right of Way Agreements
When can a voluntary right of way be cancelled? The Supreme Court explains why adequate access does not extinguish an agreed easement.
Civil Liability Survives Acquittal: Negligence by Preponderance of Evidence
Philippine Supreme Court ruling: an acquittal in a criminal case does not automatically erase civil liability if negligence is proven by preponderance of evidence.
Possession Is Nine Tenths of the Law: Enforceability of a Writ of Possession During Appeal
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a writ of possession in extrajudicial foreclosures can be enforced even while an appeal is pending.
Voluntary Easements Survive: Why Adequate Access Does Not Cancel a Granted Right of Way
A voluntary right of way cannot be cancelled just because the dominant estate gains another outlet. Learn the rule from a 2009 Supreme Court case.
Habeas Corpus and Valid Court Judgments: When the Writ Is Denied in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when habeas corpus petitions are denied despite procedural leniency, emphasizing valid judgments and pending cases.
Election Protests: The Crucial Role of Ballot Examination and the Limits of COMELEC En Banc Review
The Supreme Court clarifies when ballot revision is mandatory in election protests and why only final Division orders reach the COMELEC En Banc.
Who Pays Real Property Tax When a Government Corporation Assumes a Private Firm's Tax Liability?
The Supreme Court rules on whether NPC can claim tax exemptions for a power plant it does not own or use under a BOT agreement.
Duty to Update Valid Service Despite Address Change IN Labor Disputes
Learn how the Supreme Court ruled on the duty to update service addresses in labor disputes, and why a postmaster's certification cannot override a registry return card.
Philippine Red Cross Private Status and Constitutional Limits on Lawmakers
Supreme Court ruling on whether the Philippine Red Cross is a government corporation and the constitutional ban on lawmakers holding public office.
Filing an Administrative Case Against a Judge in the Philippines: No Need to Exhaust Judicial Remedies First
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that exhaustion of judicial remedies is not required before filing an administrative case against a judge.
When Judges Fail to Decide Cases: Court Rules on Gross Neglect of Duty
Supreme Court dismisses judge for failing to decide cases for years, ruling that heavy caseload is no excuse for judicial delay.
Workplace Conduct: Simple Misconduct and Disciplinary Actions for Employees
Learn how the Supreme Court defines simple misconduct in the workplace and what disciplinary actions employees may face for fighting or similar offenses.
Sheriffs Misconduct Upholding Integrity IN Writ Execution 2
When a sheriff oversteps in enforcing a writ, the Supreme Court steps in. Learn the rules on sheriff's expenses and conduct.
Guilty Plea and Evidence: Conviction for Kidnapping With Rape Stands on Proof, Not Confession Alone
A guilty plea doesn't automatically convict. The Supreme Court explains why independent evidence still matters in kidnapping with rape cases.
Strike Legality Counter Proposals AND Union Officer Dismissals IN Labor Disputes
Supreme Court clarifies notice of strike requirements and the "knowingly participates" rule for dismissing union officers.
Standing to Sue: Who Can Challenge a Property Sale in the Philippines
Learn who has legal standing to challenge a property sale in the Philippines, based on a Supreme Court ruling on agrarian reform land.
Service Awards FOR Overseas Workers Understanding Entitlement AND Prescription Under Philippine LAW
Prosecutors Discretion in the Philippines: When Courts Can Intervene
When can courts review a prosecutor's or the Ombudsman's decision? The Supreme Court explains the limits of judicial intervention.