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.
Judicial Impartiality When Prior Involvement In A Case Disqualifies A Judge
A judge who previously served as prosecutor must inhibit from the case. Rule 137, Section 1 explained.
Understanding Court Jurisdiction in Forcible Entry Cases in the Philippines
Learn how Philippine courts determine jurisdiction in forcible entry cases, based on a Supreme Court administrative ruling.
Positive Identification in Murder Cases: The Delmendo Ruling on Eyewitness Testimony
How the Supreme Court in People v. Delmendo weighed eyewitness testimony, positive identification, and treachery in affirming a murder conviction.
Refiling a Dismissed Case in the Philippines: When a Technical Dismissal Is Not Final
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling explains when a procedural dismissal is without prejudice, allowing a case to be refiled.
When a Bookkeeper Counts as an Agent for Summons in Labor Cases
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when service of summons on a bookkeeper is valid in labor cases, conferring jurisdiction on the Labor Arbiter.
Ejectment Case Victory: Why Judges Must Enforce Demolition Orders
Philippine Supreme Court rules judges have a ministerial duty to issue demolition orders in ejectment cases, even if ownership is questioned.
Why Summary Petitions Fall Short in Land Ownership Battles: Quevada v. Glorioso
The Supreme Court explains why a summary petition for inscription cannot resolve genuine ownership disputes over registered land.
Speedy Justice Delayed: Understanding Summary Procedure in Philippine Courts
A judge's delay in acting on a summary procedure case leads to a severe reprimand, highlighting the importance of speedy justice.
Premature Writ of Demolition: Due Process and the Sheriff's Duty in Philippine Execution
When can a sheriff implement a writ of demolition, and what happens when a motion for reconsideration is pending? The Supreme Court's ruling in A.M. No. P-98-1268 offers guidance.
Regular Employment for Private School Teachers: Security of Tenure and Contract Renewal
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on private school teachers' security of tenure, probationary periods, and illegal dismissal through non-renewal of contracts.
Loss of Confidence and Illegal Dismissal: Philippine Law on Breach of Trust in Employment
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when loss of confidence justifies dismissal and when it does not, protecting employee tenure rights.
Execution Pending Appeal: Understanding When Philippine Courts CAN Order Immediate Payment
Learn when Philippine courts may allow execution pending appeal, the "good reason" requirement, and why financial distress alone is not enough.
Combating Court Delays: The Imperative of Speedy Trial in the Philippine Justice System
A judge's fine for delaying a simple case underscores the mandatory continuous trial rule and the constitutional right to speedy disposition.
Right of Way Easements in the Philippines: The Least Prejudice Rule and Due Process
Philippine courts require hearing all affected landowners in right of way disputes. Learn the least prejudice rule from Almendras v. Court of Appeals.
Missed Pre-Trial and Default Orders: What Victory Liner v. Viron Means for Businesses
Philippine Supreme Court explains when missing a pre-trial can lead to default orders and why businesses must ensure proper representation.
Final Judgment Is Final: Understanding Annulment of Judgment in the Philippines
When can a final criminal judgment be annulled? The Supreme Court explains the limits of annulment of judgment and due process.
Employee vs Independent Contractor: Key Lessons from Santos v. NLRC
The Supreme Court clarifies how Philippine courts determine employee vs independent contractor status, using the four-fold test in Santos v. NLRC.
Avoiding the Appearance of Impropriety: Lessons on Judicial Conduct from Garcia v. Valdez
A judge's mere presence in a relative's case can constitute misconduct. Learn the rules on judicial conduct from Garcia v. Valdez.
Loss of Trust and Confidence in Employee Dismissal: What Philippine Law Requires
Philippine jurisprudence on loss of trust and confidence as a valid ground for employee dismissal, explained through the Brent Hospital case.
Preventive Suspension in the Philippines: When Does It Become Illegal
Philippine law allows preventive suspension of employees, but only under strict conditions. This article explains when it becomes illegal.
Repossession Expenses and Chattel Mortgage Foreclosure: Understanding Mortgagor Liabilities
When foreclosure becomes a fait accompli, can a mortgagor still sue for damages? The Supreme Court clarifies the rule.
Night Shift Differential Pay in the Philippines: Who Bears the Burden of Proof?
In claims for night shift differential pay, the employer bears the burden of proving payment, not the worker. Learn the rule from this Supreme Court case.
Navigating Dismissal Disputes: Labor Arbiter Jurisdiction in Philippine Employment Law
When does a termination dispute belong to the Labor Arbiter rather than voluntary arbitration? The Maneja ruling clarifies the boundary.
Eyewitness Identification and Conspiracy in Robbery With Homicide: People v. Caisip
How Philippine courts weigh eyewitness testimony, alibi, and treachery in murder cases, explained through People v. Caisip.