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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Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: How Improper Handling Leads to Acquittal
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect because police failed to properly mark, inventory, and document seized shabu, underscoring the importance of chain of custody.
Gaps in Chain of Custody Acquit Accused in Shabu Possession Case
SC reverses a drug conviction where police gaps in marking, inventory, and custody of seized shabu cast doubt on the corpus delicti.
Acquittal in Drug Case: Why Broken Chain of Custody Fatal to Prosecution
Supreme Court acquits drug suspect where police failed to inventory, photograph, and preserve seized shabu, breaking the chain of custody.
Inventory of Estate: Donated Property Must Be Included for Collation Among Heirs
Supreme Court rules donated property must be included in estate inventory for collation, even if the deed was not notarized or registered.
VAT Credits for Real Estate Dealers: The Transitional Input Tax Rule
The Supreme Court ruled that real estate dealers may claim 8% transitional input tax credit on land inventory, not just improvements.
Buy-Bust Operations: Conviction Upheld Despite Procedural Lapses in Drug Cases
Supreme Court affirms drug conviction despite missing pre-operation reports and inventory lapses, clarifying what really matters in buy-bust cases.
Judges Must Supervise Court Personnel and Ensure Prompt Case Resolution
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on judicial responsibility, docket inventory duties, and accountability for court personnel negligence.