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.
Malicious Prosecution: Proving Malice and Lack of Probable Cause in Criminal Complaints
The Supreme Court explains when filing criminal complaints becomes malicious prosecution, requiring proof of both malice and lack of probable cause.
Breach of Trust as Just Cause for Employee Dismissal in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court explains when loss of trust and confidence justifies employee dismissal under Article 282 of the Labor Code.
Judgment on the Pleadings vs Summary Judgment: When Genuine Issues Must Be Addressed
The Supreme Court clarifies the key distinction between judgment on the pleadings and summary judgment in Wood Technology v. Equitable Bank.
Expanding Sandiganbayan's Reach: Jurisdiction Over Graft Cases in Government-Owned Corporations
The Supreme Court clarifies that the Sandiganbayan has jurisdiction over officers of government-owned corporations, regardless of how they were created.
Safeguarding Judicial Integrity: How the Supreme Court Addressed Fake Court Decisions
The Supreme Court's 2005 resolution on a fabricated decision reveals how fake court orders are detected and why verification matters.
Ombudsman’s Power to Appoint vs CSC Rules: The Graft Investigation Officer III Case
The Supreme Court rules that the Ombudsman’s appointees to highly technical positions need not secure CES eligibility to gain permanency.
Nepotism in Public Office: What Biteng v. DILG Teaches About Appointments and Family Ties
The Supreme Court explains when a government appointment becomes nepotistic and why honesty in Personal Data Sheets is non-negotiable.
Void Marriages and Property Rights: Ownership in Cohabitation After Bigamous Marriage
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on property ownership when a marriage is void due to bigamy. Learn the rules on co-ownership and creditor claims.
Upholding Legal Ethics: A Lawyer's Duty of Candor and Fidelity in Property Transactions
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on lawyers' duty of candor, fidelity, and accountability in property transactions and legal representation.
When Local Councils Overstep: Cable TV Franchises and the Limits of LGU Power
A look at Zoomzat v. People, where the Supreme Court ruled that local governments cannot grant cable TV franchises—that power belongs to the NTC.
Judicial Accountability: The Price of Delay in Rendering Justice
A look at how the Supreme Court holds judges and court personnel accountable for delays in rendering justice, and what this means for litigants.
Lawyer Suspended One Year for False Free Patent Application and Deceit
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for one year for applying for free patent over land he knew was sold to another, violating his oath and the Code of Professional Responsibility.
VAT Refund Eligibility for PEZA-Registered Enterprises: Key Lessons from Seagate
The Supreme Court clarifies when PEZA-registered enterprises can claim VAT refunds on capital goods, distinguishing exempt entities from exempt transactions.
Substantial Compliance in Land Registration Blueprint Suffices When Original Plan Is Available
Supreme Court clarifies that blueprint copies of survey plans may substantially comply with land registration requirements when the original is later submitted.
Retrenchment and Due Process: Balancing Employer Rights and Employee Protection in Economic Downturns
The Supreme Court clarifies retrenchment rules under the Labor Code, including notice requirements and separation pay, in Cajucom v. TPI Philippines.
Court Interpreter Dismissed for Misappropriating Fiduciary Funds: A Lesson in Public Trust
Supreme Court dismisses court interpreter for misappropriating P540,500 in fiduciary funds, underscoring strict accountability for court personnel.
Carrier Liability for Passenger Safety: Extraordinary Diligence in Public Transportation
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies common carrier liability, extraordinary diligence, and delivery standards in breach of contract cases.
Extraordinary Diligence in Cargo Delivery: Common Carrier Responsibilities and Liabilities
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies common carrier extraordinary diligence standards in cargo delivery disputes, balancing shipper protections with carrier defenses.
Good Faith Payments and Prior Satisfaction as Grounds for Acquittal in BP 22 Cases
Supreme Court acquits corporate officer in BP 22 case where the dishonored check was fully paid two years before charges were filed.
Equitable Mortgage vs Pacto de Retro Sale: Property Rights in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court explains the difference between equitable mortgage and pacto de retro sale, and why mortgagees cannot simply consolidate ownership.
Judicial Overreach Limits on Notarial Authority of Judges in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies limits on judges' notarial authority under Circular No. 1-90, penalizing unauthorized notarization of private documents.
When a Lawyer Drops the Ball: Lessons from Edquibal v. Ferrer on Diligence and Client Trust
A Supreme Court ruling on lawyer negligence in appeals, explaining counsel's duty of diligence and what clients should expect.
Lawyers Must Uphold Diligence and Fidelity in Legal Representation
A lawyer who fails to file an appellate brief faces suspension. The Supreme Court affirms that neglect of a client's case violates the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Double Jeopardy and Falsification: Understanding Distinct Offenses in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains when the same act can produce separate crimes without violating double jeopardy, using a falsification case.