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.
Homicide vs Murder: Intent and Aggravating Circumstances in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains when a killing is homicide, not murder, and how aggravating circumstances affect the penalty.
When Disputes Over TROs Are Judicial, Not Administrative: Tallado v. Racoma
The Supreme Court clarifies when errors in issuing TROs are judicial matters, not grounds for administrative discipline against judges.
Forum Shopping in the Philippines: How It Affects Search Warrants and Legal Proceedings
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that forum shopping applies to search warrant applications, and seized property cannot be held indefinitely without criminal prosecution.
Judge's Authority in Marriage Solemnization: Jurisdiction and Validity Rules
Learn the jurisdictional limits of judges solemnizing marriages in the Philippines and the mandatory presumptive death proceeding under the Family Code.
Treachery in Philippine Law: Understanding Murder vs. Homicide
The Supreme Court clarifies when treachery qualifies a killing as murder, distinguishing it from homicide in People v. Compendio.
Positive Identification in Philippine Criminal Law: When Is It Enough for Conviction
When does a witness's positive identification suffice for conviction? The Supreme Court explains in People v. Compendio.
Clerks of Court Responsibilities Liabilities and Breaches of Trust
A Supreme Court ruling on the dismissal of a clerk of court who failed to remit Judiciary Development Fund collections, and the duties of court cash custodians.
Falsification of Public Documents: Understanding Intent and Presumptions
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on falsification of public documents, explaining the presumption of authorship when one possesses and uses forged titles.
Protecting the Accused: The Importance of Valid Arraignment in Philippine Criminal Law
A Supreme Court ruling on invalid arraignment underscores why a guilty plea must be free and informed, especially in capital cases.
Understanding Res Judicata and Its Exceptions in Philippine Property Disputes
Learn how res judicata bars relitigation of property cases in the Philippines, plus the recognized exceptions to this procedural rule.
Speedy Trial Rights, Dismissals, and Double Jeopardy in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when dismissal for failure to prosecute violates due process and when double jeopardy protects the accused.
Eyewitness Testimony and Self-Defense: Lessons from People v. Rosales
The Supreme Court explains when eyewitness testimony prevails over self-defense claims and how courts assess treachery in Philippine criminal cases.
Judicial Accountability: Why Courts Must Follow Procedure in Capital Cases
Philippine Supreme Court annuls death sentence in rape case, reminding trial courts that guilty pleas in capital offenses require full evidentiary proof.
Probable Cause and Issuance of Arrest Warrants: The Roberts Case Explained
When must a judge examine records before issuing warrants? The Roberts case clarifies probable cause and arrest warrant rules.
Understanding Finality of Judgments and Avoiding Contempt of Court
Learn how the Supreme Court defines finality of judgments and why filing repeated motions can lead to contempt of court.
Child Witness Testimony in Philippine Courts: Competency and Credibility Standards
Philippine courts evaluate child witness competency case-by-case. Learn the standards from People v. Mendoza and practical takeaways.
Perjury in the Philippines: False Statements in Legal Documents Explained
Learn how Philippine courts define perjury, what makes a false statement criminal, and why withdrawing a petition does not erase liability.
Can a Judge Act as Notary Public? Limits on Judicial Notarization in the Philippines
Philippine judges may notarize documents only within official functions. Learn the limits, the Asis ruling, and practical compliance tips.
Contempt of Court: Navigating the Boundaries of Respect and Legal Advocacy in the Philippines
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when a motion for judicial inhibition crosses the line into direct contempt, and what lawyers and litigants should avoid.
Judicial Delay Consequences for Judges and the Right to a Speedy Trial in the Philippines
A Supreme Court ruling on judge liability for trial delays and the constitutional right to speedy trial in the Philippines.