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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Interest on Installment Payments: When Does the Clock Stop Ticking
A buyer's mere letter of intent to pay does not stop interest from running. The Supreme Court explains tender of payment and consignation rules.
Dual Citizenship and Electoral Candidacy: The Renunciation Requirement in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies that renouncing foreign citizenship to run for local office must be complete and unequivocal—using a foreign passport after renunciation can disqualify a candidate.
When Judges May Dismiss Criminal Cases for Lack of Probable Cause
The Supreme Court clarifies when trial courts may dismiss criminal cases for lack of probable cause, and when they must let the case proceed to trial.
Privacy Beyond Residence: Surveillance Cameras and the Right to Be Let Alone
The Supreme Court expands the right to privacy beyond residences, holding that business premises and property enjoy protection from intrusive video surveillance.
Estoppel and Foreclosure: When a Bank's "Incentive" Is Not a Redemption Extension
The Supreme Court clarifies when a bank's incentive scheme letter extends the redemption period and when estoppel applies.
Judicial Consignation: Paying a Loan When the Creditor’s Identity Is Unclear
When two entities claim the right to collect a debt, judicial consignation lets the debtor deposit payment in court and be released.
Directors' Bonuses and Withholding Tax: Clarifying Employee Status in Philippine Tax Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on directors' bonuses, withholding tax on compensation, and the definition of received a Letter of Authority in 1998 to examine its books for taxable year 1997. Followi
Challenging Foreclosure When Courts Must Halt Mortgage Proceedings
When can courts dismiss appeals for incomplete attachments? Galvez v. CA clarifies the rules on foreclosure challenges and procedural compliance.
Lawyers Must Personally Sign Pleadings: Ethics Rules on Delegating Legal Work
A lawyer who lets a secretary sign pleadings violates legal ethics. The Supreme Court explains why delegation to non-lawyers is prohibited.
Balancing Zealous Advocacy AND Honest Conduct Limits TO Protecting Client Interests
A lawyer’s duty to protect a client has limits: the Supreme Court reprimands counsel for using false statements in demand letters.
Banks Must Exercise Higher Diligence: Land Bank v. Poblete on Mortgage in Bad Faith
When a bank accepts a mortgage over property it failed to verify, it risks losing protection as a mortgagee in good faith.
When a Sheriff's Silence Becomes Discourtesy: Lessons from a 2013 Administrative Case
A sheriff's failure to respond to a litigant's letters constitutes discourtesy, even when other charges fail. Learn the standard.
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.
When a Drug Sale Isn't a Sale: Payment Must Be Completed for Conviction
The Supreme Court clarifies that illegal drug sale requires actual payment, not just delivery. Learn the key elements and why possession still leads to conviction.
Foreclosure vs Rehabilitation: When a Stay Order Takes Effect
A stay order in corporate rehabilitation does not undo a foreclosure completed before the petition. Ownership matters.
Dishonesty in Civil Service Exams: Impersonation Leads to Dismissal and Perpetual Disqualification
The Supreme Court dismisses a court stenographer for letting someone take her Civil Service exam, ruling it is dishonesty with grave penalties.
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.
Circumstantial Evidence Proving Guilt Beyond Reasonable Doubt in Murder Cases
When direct evidence is lacking, circumstantial evidence can convict. The Supreme Court explains the rules in People v. Biglete.
Breach of Contract in Construction: Completion, Damages, and Mutual Breach Under Philippine Law
When both contractor and client breach a construction contract, Philippine courts equitably adjust damages. Learn the rules from a Supreme Court ruling.
Project Employees and Due Process: Clarifying Notice Requirements for Contract Completion
The Supreme Court clarifies when project employees must receive notice of contract completion and the due process requirements for termination.
Bank Certification Letters Are Not Guarantees: Lessons from Bank of Commerce v. Goodman Fielder
When is a bank's certification letter a binding guaranty? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on apparent authority and contractual interpretation.
Judicial Ethics and Public Trust: When Government Cannot Hide Behind State Immunity
Supreme Court ruling on state immunity, quantum meruit, and why government contractors deserve payment for completed public works.
Hotel Liability for Lost Vehicles: Necessary Deposits Under Philippine Law
When a hotel valet loses a guest's vehicle, who pays? Philippine law on necessary deposits and the Durban Apartments ruling explain.
Construction Disputes: Substantial Completion and Liquidated Damages in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when 95% substantial completion bars liquidated damages in construction disputes under CIAP rules.