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.
Intimidation Over Resistance Rape Conviction Upheld Despite Lack of Physical Injury
Supreme Court affirms rape conviction, ruling that intimidation can overcome the need to prove physical resistance or injury in a sexual assault case.
Judge Dismissed and Suspended from Law Practice for Gross Immorality in Extramarital Affair Case
Supreme Court dismisses a judge for gross immorality over an extramarital affair and child, imposing a three-year suspension from law practice.
Conflict of Interest Upholding Ethical Standards for Court Sheriffs
Explaining how the Supreme Court disciplines court sheriffs for conflict of interest and misconduct, setting ethical standards.
When Can a Local Government Close a Business? Due Process Limits on Municipal Power
The Supreme Court clarifies that municipalities may regulate businesses through closure only with due process, even when taxes are unpaid.
VAT Exemption for Subic Bay Freeport Enterprises: Direct vs Indirect Tax Liabilities
Supreme Court clarifies that Subic Bay Freeport enterprises cannot claim VAT refunds on purchases since VAT is an indirect tax.
Discourtesy in Public Service: Court Employee Reprimanded for Sarcastic Remarks
Supreme Court reprimands court employee for discourtesy, reminding all public servants to remain courteous even when faced with rude behavior.
Conspiracy and Superior Strength: When Group Attacks Become Murder Under Philippine Law
How the Supreme Court defined conspiracy and abuse of superior strength in a group killing, convicting an accused of murder on circumstantial evidence.
Guilt by Association: Circumstantial Evidence and Flight in Philippine Criminal Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how circumstantial evidence and flight can establish criminal liability, explained in plain language.
When Moral Ascendancy Substitutes for Force in Statutory Rape Cases
The Supreme Court explains how a father figure's moral ascendancy can substitute for force and intimidation in rape convictions.
Incestuous Rape: Credibility of a Victim's Testimony in Cases of Parental Abuse
When a mentally disabled minor is raped, her testimony can convict. The Supreme Court explains why in People v. Mabonga.
Breach of Trust: When Negligence Justifies Employee Dismissal in the Philippines
When does an employee's negligence justify dismissal for loss of trust and confidence? The Supreme Court explains in this Philippine labor case.
Taxing Charity: Real Property Tax Exemptions for Non-Profit Hospitals in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when non-profit hospitals qualify for real property tax exemptions under the Constitution and Local Government Code.
Reelection Does Not Erase Criminal Liability for Prior Misconduct
Philippine Supreme Court ruling that reelection condones only administrative liability, not criminal charges under the Anti-Graft law.
Breach of Contract and Preliminary Attachment: D.M. Wenceslao v. Readycon
Supreme Court clarifies when a wrongful attachment claim succeeds and when a contract balance becomes due, in a construction supply dispute.
Ombudsmans Discretion Investigating Complaints Against Public Officials IN THE Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies the Ombudsman's discretionary power to investigate complaints against public officials and the limits of judicial review.
Ombudsman's Discretion in Dismissing Graft Complaints: Kara-an v. Office of the Ombudsman
The Supreme Court affirms the Ombudsman's wide discretion in dismissing graft complaints, clarifying the proper remedy and standard of review.
Standby Letters of Credit Stand Outside Corporate Rehabilitation Stay Orders
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why standby letters of credit are not covered by rehabilitation stay orders and remain enforceable against issuing banks.
Double Sale Doctrine: Prior Registration and Good Faith in Land Ownership Disputes
When two buyers claim the same land, who wins? The Supreme Court explains the double sale rule under Article 1544 and the crucial role of good faith and Torrens registration.
Upholding Due Process: Water Service Disconnection Requires Fair Notice
Philippine Supreme Court rules that water service disconnection without prior notice violates due process and can result in damages under Article 19 of the Civil Code.
Execution Pending Appeal: Why "Good Reasons" Matter in Philippine Courts
The Supreme Court clarifies when execution pending appeal is allowed and why courts must state good reasons for it.
Reliability of Poseur Buyer Testimony in Drug Sale Convictions
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a single poseur buyer's testimony suffices to convict in illegal drug sale cases.
Traffic Violations and Negligence: When a Bus Driver's Overtaking Causes Liability
A bus driver who overtakes despite an oncoming car is negligent. Employers must prove diligence in supervision to avoid liability.
Delay in Reporting a Crime Does Not Destroy Witness Credibility: People v. Hernandez
The Supreme Court rules that fear of reprisal justifies a witness's delay in reporting a crime, and explains when aggravating circumstances apply.
Habitual Tardiness in the Judiciary: Why Excuses Like Traffic and Household Chores Fail
The Supreme Court reprimands a court employee for habitual tardiness, ruling that traffic and family chores do not excuse chronic lateness in public service.