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.
Get a cited, plain-language answer from 184,000+ statutes and decisions — free, no sign-up.
Written Stipulation Is Paramount: Examining Interest Rate Agreements in Loan Contracts
The Supreme Court clarifies when interest rates bind borrowers and when the 12% legal rate applies instead.
Treachery and Self-Defense: Examining the Boundaries of Criminal Liability in Philippine Law
A look at how Philippine courts weigh self-defense claims and treachery, and why the burden of proof matters in criminal cases.
Right to Travel vs Public Interest: Examining the Scope of the Writ of Amparo
The Supreme Court explains why the writ of amparo cannot question travel restrictions such as hold departure orders issued in pending criminal cases.
Mining Rights and State Control: The Limits of Exploration Permits in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on exploration permits, vested rights, and state control over mineral reservations under the Mining Act.
Witness Credibility AND Treachery IN Murder Examining Circumstantial Inconsistencies
Unreliable Identification Conviction Quashed DUE TO Flawed Witness Testimony
Explore how flawed witness testimony undermines drug convictions, examining the Supreme Court's ruling on unreliable identification.
Eminent Domain Determining Just Compensation FOR Expropriated Land IN THE Philippines
Navigating Mining Disputes When Courts NOT Arbitrators Decide Contract Validity
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when regular courts, not the Panel of Arbitrators, have jurisdiction over mining contract disputes.
Mining Disputes and Contract Validity: When Courts Take Over From Arbitrators
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when regular courts, not the Panel of Arbitrators, have jurisdiction over mining contract disputes.
From Rice Fields to Fair Value: Determining Just Compensation in Agrarian Reform
When PD 27 lands remain unpaid at RA 6657's passage, just compensation follows RA 6657, not the old decree.
Mining Rights and Corporate Authorization: The Crucial Role of Proper Board Authority in Legal Actions
A Supreme Court ruling on why corporations must secure proper board authorization for legal certifications, and the strict rules on mining disputes.
Eminent Domain VS Easement Determining Just Compensation FOR Transmission Line Projects
Navigating Mining Disputes When DO Courts NOT Mining Agencies Decide
The Supreme Court clarifies when regular courts, not the Panel of Arbitrators, have jurisdiction over mining-related contract disputes under the Philippine Mining Act.
Mining Rights VS Logging Concessions Resolving Territorial AND Permit Validity Disputes
Forged Signatures and Public Trust: Examining Falsification of Documents by Public Officials
A lawyer's deceitful sale of client property leads to suspension, exploring falsification claims and professional responsibility.
When Silence Speaks: Examining Eyewitness Delay in Homicide Cases
Supreme Court clarifies that delayed eyewitness reporting doesn't automatically destroy credibility when fear explains the silence.
Just Compensation Determining Fair Market Value IN Eminent Domain Cases IN THE Philippines
Attorney-Client Privilege: Examining the Boundaries of Confidentiality and Professional Duty
A disbarment case clarifies when attorney-client privilege exists and why courts defer to pending civil cases.
Sharia Court Jurisdiction Determining Muslim Status For Estate Settlement
The Supreme Court clarifies when Sharia District Courts may hear estate cases and determine if a deceased person was Muslim.
Beyond Labels: Substance Prevails Over Form in Determining Legal Actions
A judge's procedural lapses in bail hearings show how courts look beyond labels to substance in determining legal liability.
Just Compensation in Agrarian Reform: Determining Land Value Under RA 6657
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies which law governs land valuation for agrarian reform properties acquired under PD 27 but compensated after RA 6657.
Limits to Private Appeals Examining the Scope of Authority in Philippine Administrative Law
A private complainant cannot appeal a PNP administrative case; only the government and respondent may do so under RA 6975.
Due Process Prevails: Demotion Without Notice Violates Employee Rights in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court rules on due process in employee discipline, examining demotion without notice and seafarer abandonment cases.