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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Reckless Imprudence and Vehicular Accidents: Proximate Cause in Philippine Criminal Law
How the Supreme Court determines proximate cause in reckless imprudence vehicular accident cases, explained through Gabriel v. Court of Appeals.
Regular vs Project Employees: SSS Coverage and Employer Obligations
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that project employees are still covered by compulsory SSS, and employers must remit contributions regardless of tenure.
Upholding Notarial Duties Accuracy and Diligence in Legal Documentation
A lawyer-notary's failure to observe notarial formalities draws administrative sanctions, even without deceit. Learn the mandatory rules from this Philippine Supreme Court case.
Land Registration: Blueprint Plan Can Substitute for Tracing Cloth
Supreme Court clarifies that a certified blueprint plan can sufficiently identify land for registration, reversing the Court of Appeals' strict ruling.
Habitual Neglect of Duty Is Just Cause for Termination Despite Mitigating Factors
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when habitual neglect of duty justifies dismissal, and when mitigating factors cannot save an employee.
Agrarian Dispute vs Recovery of Possession: Defining DARAB Jurisdiction
When does DARAB have exclusive jurisdiction over agricultural land cases? The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between agrarian disputes and ordinary recovery of possession actions.
When Bank Receivership Does Not Stop Prescription on Mortgage Foreclosure
A bank's receivership does not automatically suspend the prescriptive period for foreclosing a mortgage, the Supreme Court ruled.
Upholding Work Ethic Consequences for Habitual Tardiness in Public Service
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on habitual tardiness in public service, penalties, and why family excuses don't excuse chronic lateness.
Dismissal OF Labor Disputes THE Importance OF Procedural Compliance AND Binding Agreements
Parental Love vs Property Rights: When Family Land Disputes Reach Court
A Supreme Court ruling on ejectment between parents and children, and when a builder in good faith may claim indemnity for improvements under Article 448.
Sheriff’s Duty and Accountability in Implementing Writs of Execution and Handling Funds
A sheriff’s duty to execute writs is ministerial, but prudence is required when third-party claims arise. The Court warns against negligence.
Forum Shopping and Due Process: When Technical Dismissal Crosses the Line
The Supreme Court clarifies forum shopping elements and warns against rigid technicality that denies substantive justice.
Funding Source for Judicial Retirement Benefits: General Fund vs Special Allowance Fund
The Supreme Court clarifies that retirement benefits of justices and judges, including amounts based on special allowances, must be sourced from the General Fund.
Judges Must Control Court Proceedings and Resolve Cases Promptly: A Lesson from A.M. No. 03-10-250-MCTC
A Supreme Court ruling reminds judges they cannot delegate control of court proceedings to clerks or litigants, and must resolve cases promptly.
Conjugal Property Sale Without Spouse's Consent Is Void: Key Ruling
Supreme Court explains when a sale of conjugal property without the other spouse's consent is void, and why a mere option to buy is not enforceable.
Judicial Conduct Limits ON Contempt Power AND Ensuring Fair Courtroom Demeanor
Rape by a Parent: When Sexual Abuse Severs the Bonds of Trust
The Supreme Court affirms the death penalty for a father who raped his 11-year-old daughter, ruling on qualified rape and guilty pleas.
Cable TV Rates: NTC Has Exclusive Power Over Local Government Authority
Supreme Court ruling on whether local governments can regulate cable TV subscriber rates, clarifying NTC's exclusive authority.
Ombudsman's Discretion in Dismissing Graft Complaints: Samson v. Ombudsman
When can courts overturn the Ombudsman's dismissal of an anti-graft complaint? The Supreme Court explains the limits of judicial review.
When Silence Speaks: Implied Contracts and the Burden of Proof in Business Deals
The Supreme Court clarifies that implied contracts require clear evidence, not mere suspicion, in disputes over business transactions.
Simple Neglect of Duty: When Withdrawal of an Administrative Complaint Does Not End Liability
The Supreme Court clarifies that withdrawal of an administrative complaint does not erase liability for simple neglect of duty by public officers.
Supreme Court Reinstates NLRC Ruling on Belated Labor Appeal: Timeliness Matters
SC ruling clarifies that belated appeals to the NLRC cannot be excused by mere merit arguments, reaffirming strict procedural rules.
Neglect of Duty Requires Substantial Evidence: Protecting Public Servants From Unsubstantiated Claims
The Supreme Court clarifies that administrative liability for neglect of duty demands substantial evidence, not mere allegations or speculation.
Upholding Public Trust: Negligence in Disbursement of Funds Despite Restitution
A Supreme Court cashier's restitution did not erase his administrative liability for simple neglect of duty in releasing funds without proper identification.