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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Shareholder Rights Demanding Corporate Transparency Through Inspection Rights
Explaining the Supreme Court ruling on stockholder inspection rights under Section 74 of the Corporation Code and the limits of judicial review of prosecutorial findings.
Demand Letters as Evidence in Lease Disputes: Castro v. Palenzuela
A lessee's own evidence can cap rental liability. Learn the rule from Castro v. Palenzuela.
Sheriffs Misconduct Upholding Integrity In Execution Of Court Orders
When a sheriff mishandles execution funds and demands extra fees, the Supreme Court steps in. Learn the rules and consequences.
Due Process Demands Judges Act on Cases: Gross Ignorance of Law Ruling
A judge who lets a contempt petition sit idle faces sanctions. The Court explains why judges must move cases forward.
Determining the Reckoning Point for Unlawful Detainer Actions: The Significance of the Final Demand to Vacate
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that the one-year period for unlawful detainer is counted from the last demand to vacate, not lease expiration.
Attorney-in-Fact Can Sign Forum Shopping Cert; Ejectment Rules Explained
SC rules attorney-in-fact may sign certification against forum shopping in ejectment suits; explains unlawful detainer rules, demand, and ownership.
Sheriff’s Duties, Integrity, and Procedure in Executing Writs of Execution
A sheriff’s duty to execute a writ is ministerial; demanding money without court approval is grave misconduct. Learn the rules.
Motion Denied Understanding Defective Notice OF Hearing IN Philippine Courts
Philippine courts demand proper notice of hearing in motions; defects can lead to denial. Learn the rules and practical tips.
When a Demand Letter Does Not Create a Cause of Action: Lessons from Ilusorio
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a creditor's demand letter constitutes harassment or simply an exercise of contractual rights.
When Court Employees Owe Debts: Administrative Liability for Unpaid Obligations
A court process server who failed to pay a just debt for seven years was fined for conduct unbecoming, showing that public office demands high ethical standards.
When Can Courts Intervene in Utility Disputes: The Manzanal v. Ilusorio Case
The Supreme Court clarifies when a demand letter becomes an actionable wrong and when courts may intervene in club disputes.
Habitual Absenteeism in the Judiciary: When Repeated Absences Justify Dismissal
The Supreme Court dismissed a sheriff for habitual absenteeism, reaffirming that public office demands strict adherence to duty and attendance.
Reinstatement Rights of Police Officers After Acquittal: The Roaquin Case
When can a discharged police officer demand reinstatement and back pay after acquittal? The Supreme Court explains in Calinisan v. Roaquin.
Demand to Comply: The Key to Valid Ejectment in Lease Disputes
Learn the rules on ejectment and demand to vacate, plus when courts may stay execution of eviction judgments.
Unreasonable Delay in Resolving Ejectment Cases: A Judge's Administrative Liability
Supreme Court holds judge liable for undue delay in ejectment case, emphasizing summary proceedings demand speedy resolution.
Demand Is Key to Rescission Rights in Philippine Contract Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that demand is essential before rescission or foreclosure rights can be exercised under contract law.
Bouncing Checks and the Demand Letter: When Notice Establishes Liability Under B.P. 22
The Supreme Court clarifies when a written demand letter suffices to establish liability for bouncing checks under B.P. 22, even without itemizing each check.
Public Officials Held Accountable: Strict Compliance With Procurement Laws
Mayor convicted for violating procurement rules and anti-graft law; personal canvass exceptions demand strict compliance.
In Land Sales, Survey Duty Prevails Over Payment Deadlines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a seller must survey land before demanding payment, and when rescission is improper.
Sugar Planters' Associations Cannot Demand Arbitration Without Contract Privity
Philippine Supreme Court rules associations lack legal standing to demand arbitration unless they are parties to the milling contracts or authorized by members.
When Can a Generic Term Like "Ginebra" Be Protected as a Trademark?
The Supreme Court clarifies when a generic word like "Ginebra" may acquire trademark protection through secondary meaning, and why preliminary injunctions demand a clear right.
Novation and Loan Enforceability: When a Verbal Change Makes a Debt Due
Explaining how a verbal agreement to start paying early can novate a loan's conditions, making it due and demandable under Philippine law.
Proportional Representation in the Commission on Appointments: What Drilon v. De Venecia Means for Political P
The Supreme Court explains when political parties can demand seats in the Commission on Appointments and the proper remedy for violations.