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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Protecting Children: High Court Upholds Conviction for Statutory Rape and Sexual Assault
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling distinguishes statutory rape from rape by sexual assault and explains why the death penalty could not be imposed on the accused.
When "As Is, Where Is" Does Not Shield a Seller: The NDC v. Madrigal Wan Hai Ruling
The Supreme Court clarifies that "as is, where is" sales only cover physical condition, not hidden legal liabilities like tax liens.
Spousal Conspiracy in Rape: When a Parent's Silence Becomes Criminal Liability
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling shows how a parent's failure to stop a spouse's sexual abuse of their child can create joint criminal liability.
The Fine Line Between Self-Defense and Homicide: Establishing Intent in Criminal Law
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when a claim of accident or self-defense fails, and how courts determine criminal intent in homicide cases.
Cyber Libel Prescription: One Year from Discovery, Not Publication
Supreme Court clarifies cyber libel prescribes in one year from discovery by the offended party, not from publication, and settles unsigned resolution doctrine.
Incestuous Rape and the Death Penalty: Protecting Child Victims Under Philippine Law
The Supreme Court affirms the death penalty for a father who raped his minor daughter, clarifying the rules on incestuous rape, evidence, and damages.
Unveiling Treachery: How Face Coverings Impact Criminal Identification in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how eyewitness identification holds even when some assailants wear helmets or masks during a crime.
When a Caretaker's Demolition Becomes Malicious Mischief: Valeroso v. People
A caretaker demolished a squatter's hut to protect his employer's lot. The Supreme Court explains why this was malicious mischief, not a lawful act.
Victim Testimony Alone Sufficient for Rape Conviction Ensuring Justice for Minors in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court affirms that a minor victim's credible testimony alone can sustain a rape conviction, ensuring justice.
Treachery in Stone Throwing: When a Sudden Attack Qualifies as Murder
A single stone thrown from behind turned a killing into murder. Learn how the Supreme Court defined treachery in People v. Duban.
Forum Shopping and Mining Rights: Lessons from the Lepanto-WMC Dispute
The Supreme Court clarifies when overlapping claims before courts and administrative agencies constitute forum shopping in mining disputes.
Shipyards and Public Utilities: Defining National Interest in Corporate Ownership
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on whether shipyards are public utilities requiring 60% Filipino ownership, and its impact on corporate acquisitions.
Psychological Incapacity in Annulment Cases: What to Allege in a Petition
Learn what a petition for annulment based on psychological incapacity must allege, and when forum shopping rules apply, from this Philippine Supreme Court case.
From Murder to Homicide: When Qualifying Circumstances Fail in Conspiracy Cases
Supreme Court explains when conspiracy stands but treachery and abuse of superior strength fail, reducing murder to homicide.
Clerk of Court Liable for Issuing Writ Before Decision Becomes Final
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on premature execution: a clerk of court who issues a writ before the judgment becomes final and executory may be held administratively liable.
When a Lawyer's Error Binds a Client: The Doctrine of Negligence in Philippine Litigation
Explore how the Supreme Court holds clients bound by their counsel's mistakes, and when courts may grant relief from a lawyer's negligence.
Disciplinary Action vs Social Justice: When Does a Company's Code Overshadow an Employee's Rights
Supreme Court ruling on when procedural lapses yield to substantial evidence in administrative disciplinary cases against public employees.
Rape Conviction Upheld: Minor Status No Shield for Uncles' Heinous Acts
Supreme Court affirms rape convictions of uncles who were minors at the time, ruling discernment removes exemption from liability.
Incestuous Rape: Proving Minority Beyond Reasonable Doubt for Capital Punishment
The Supreme Court clarifies that a rape victim's minority must be proven beyond reasonable doubt before the death penalty can be imposed.
Court Clerk Reprimanded for Discourtesy: A Lesson in Judicial Ethics
The Supreme Court reprimanded a court clerk for discourtesy toward staff, emphasizing that judicial personnel must uphold professionalism and harmony.
Correcting Penalties in Drug Cases: Fair Application of Republic Act No. 7659
When a drug conviction carries an impossible penalty, the Supreme Court can correct it even after finality—here's how.
Retraction vs Reliability: Weighing Conflicting Testimony in Rape Cases
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how courts weigh recanted testimony in rape cases, and why retractions rarely defeat a conviction.
Solicitation of Gifts: Upholding Ethical Standards in Customs Operations
Customs officers found guilty of soliciting gifts under RA 6713. The Supreme Court affirms that substantial evidence suffices in administrative cases.
HLURB Jurisdiction Over Homeowner-Developer Disputes: Key Ruling
The Supreme Court confirms HLURB's exclusive jurisdiction over homeowner-developer construction disputes, not the RTC. Learn the rules and practical implications.