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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Rape With a Deadly Weapon: Credibility of Witnesses and Delay in Reporting
The Supreme Court affirms a rape conviction, explaining witness credibility rules and why delay in reporting does not mean fabrication.
Illegal Strikes and Return-to-Work Orders: What Philippine Labor Law Requires
When can a strike be declared illegal in the Philippines? The Supreme Court explains the binding effect of assumption and return-to-work orders.
When Can Courts Compel the Ombudsman to Prosecute? Mandamus Limits Explained
The Supreme Court clarifies that mandamus cannot compel the Ombudsman to file criminal charges, as prosecutorial discretion remains with that office.
Perjury in the Philippines: Proving Willful Falsehood in Legal Statements
The Supreme Court explains when a false statement under oath becomes perjury, requiring willful and deliberate intent beyond mere error.
Double Sale and Estafa: When a Land Transaction Can Lead to Criminal Charges
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a double sale of land becomes estafa, requiring deceit and damage, not mere breach of contract.
Defending Your Land Title: Understanding Indefeasibility and Prior Titles in Philippine Property Law
Learn how the Supreme Court protects land titles from fraud claims, explaining indefeasibility and prior titles in Philippine property law.
Perjury in the Philippines: When a False Statement Is Not a Crime
The Supreme Court explains why negligence, not malice, in a sworn statement does not amount to perjury under Philippine law.
Unconscionable Interest Rates: How Philippine Courts Protect Borrowers
Philippine courts void unconscionable interest rates as against public policy. Learn the rules, jurisprudential standards, and practical protections for borrowers.
Final Judgment IS Final: Understanding Forum Shopping AND Res Judicata IN Philippine Courts
The Supreme Court clarifies when a final DAR order becomes immutable and why Rule 47 annulment cannot replace a timely appeal.
Voluntary Agreement IS KEY Understanding Valid Arbitration IN Philippine Barangay Dispute Resolution
Learn how the Supreme Court treats compromise agreements as binding law, and how filing a second case can constitute forum shopping.
When Can Land Awards Be Cancelled? The Buenaventura Case on Prescription
The Supreme Court clarifies when possession of alienable public land ripens into private ownership through prescription, even without proof of possession since 1945.
Forum Shopping in the Philippines: Avoiding Dismissal of Your Case
Learn how Philippine courts define forum shopping, the test for dismissal, and practical tips to avoid losing your case.
Burden of Proof in Constructive Dismissal Cases Philippine Labor Law Explained
Understand the burden of proof in constructive dismissal cases under Philippine labor law, and how employees can establish illegal dismissal claims.
Land Title Registration in the Philippines: Acquiring Ownership Through Prescription
Learn how to acquire land title in the Philippines through prescription under Section 14(2) of PD 1529, explained through a landmark Supreme Court ruling.
Director Ousted Understanding Valid Removal OF Corporate Directors IN THE Philippines
The Supreme Court explains the valid removal of corporate directors and officers under the Corporation Code, and the required vote.
Can Agency Guidelines Limit Court Injunctions? SEC Authority in Philippine Law
Explaining the Supreme Court ruling on whether SEC guidelines could shorten the life of preliminary injunctions in intra-corporate disputes.
Protecting the Right to Vote: Why Philippine Courts Scrutinize Ballot Invalidations Based on Handwriting
The Supreme Court reminds election tribunals that ballots presumed valid cannot be invalidated as "written by one person" without checking assisted-voting records.
Lost Your Chance Understanding Final Judgments AND THE Immutability Doctrine IN Philippine Courts
Understanding Privileged Communication in Philippine Libel Law: The Alcantara Case
Learn how the Supreme Court protects statements made during preliminary investigations from libel claims through the doctrine of privileged communication.
When Can the Ombudsman Reinvestigate and Refile Cases After Withdrawal?
The Supreme Court clarifies the Ombudsman's power to reinvestigate and refile a withdrawn case, and the limits of judicial review.
Non-Compete Clauses in Philippine Employment: When Post-Employment Restrictions Are Valid
The Supreme Court explains when non-compete clauses in employment contracts are valid and enforceable under Philippine law.
Contract to Sell vs Contract of Sale: Key Differences and Buyer Protections in Philippine Real Estate
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between a contract to sell and a contract of sale, and what it means for buyers and sellers.
Psychological Incapacity in Philippine Marriage: Understanding the Limits of Irresponsibility as Grounds for A
The Supreme Court clarifies that joblessness, drug use, and irresponsibility do not automatically constitute psychological incapacity under Article 36 of the Family Code.
Motion for Reconsideration: Your Non-Negotiable First Step in Appealing NLRC Decisions
Before filing a certiorari petition against an NLRC ruling, a motion for reconsideration is mandatory. Learn the rule, exceptions, and consequences.