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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Seasonal Work vs Regular Employment: Security of Tenure in Philippine Labor Law
When are "seasonal" workers considered regular employees? The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction and its impact on security of tenure.
Tolerance Ends Unlawful Detainer AND Property Rights IN THE Philippines
When does tolerated possession become unlawful detainer? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on jurisdiction, demand, and ownership claims.
Finality of Judgments: When Is a Case Truly Considered Over?
Understand when a case is truly over under Philippine law. This article explains finality of judgments, res judicata, and practical rules for litigants.
Res Judicata Bars Re-Litigating Security of Tenure in Agrarian Disputes
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how final judgments bar re-litigation of security of tenure claims in agrarian disputes.
Compromise Agreements and Employee Rights: When Settlements Don't Erase Prior Illegal Dismissals
A compromise agreement settles monetary claims but doesn't erase a prior ruling of illegal dismissal, especially for non-signatories.
The Limits of Administrative Authority: Personal Misconduct vs Official Duties
When does a judge's personal relationship become an administrative liability? The Supreme Court clarifies the line between personal conduct and official duty in this ruling on judicial delay.
Altered Checks and Bank Liability: Material Alterations Under the Negotiable Instruments Law
Explaining when a check alteration is material under the NIL, and the liability of drawee banks for returning altered checks.
COA Overpayment Recovery Upheld: Quantum Meruit in Government Contracts
Supreme Court affirms COA's order for a contractor to return overpayments, clarifying quantum meruit and due process in government audit cases.
Balancing Public Service AND Moral Conduct Reassessing Attorney Discipline
Execution of Judgment in Intra-Corporate Disputes: Ensuring Compliance with Dispositive Portions
The Supreme Court clarifies that execution of judgment must strictly follow the dispositive portion, ensuring compliance in intra-corporate disputes.
Ethical Boundaries FOR Lawyers THE Perils OF Misconduct AND Unauthorized Practice
Breach OF Professional Conduct Upholding Client Interests AND Ethical Duties IN Legal Practice
CO Ownership AND Laches Understanding Property Rights AND Delays IN Legal Claims IN THE Philippines
Upholding Finality When CAN Land Reclassification Be Contested
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on land conversion finality, real party interest, and agrarian reform beneficiary status under CARL.
Agency vs Assignment: Who Is the Real Party in Interest in Contract Disputes
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a representative is an agent rather than an assignee, and who may sue on a contract.
Faculty Rights VS University Policies Resolving Conflicts IN Employment Status AND Teaching Load
Failure to Appear at Judgment Promulgation: Losing Legal Remedies in Criminal Cases
In criminal cases, skipping judgment promulgation without justifiable cause forfeits remedies like appeal or reconsideration. The Supreme Court explains.
Breach of Contract Rescission and the Importance of Proving Payment
A buyer who claims full payment must prove it with credible evidence; the Supreme Court explains rescission under Article 1191.
Land Reform Heirs' Rights and the Social Function of Land Ownership
Supreme Court ruling on PD 27 land reform: heirs, not former owners, hold rights to beneficiary's farmland even amid unpaid amortizations.
Self Defense OR Murder Examining Intent AND Evidence IN Philippine Criminal LAW
Rape in the Victim's Home: When Dwelling Aggravates the Crime
Philippine Supreme Court explains when "dwelling" aggravates rape, and how RA 9346 changed the penalty from death to reclusion perpetua.
Employee Status Under the Control and Economic Reality Tests in Labor Disputes
The Supreme Court clarifies how the control test and economic reality test determine employee status in Philippine labor law.
Hierarchy OF Courts AND Probable Cause IN Estafa Cases A Legal Analysis
Loss of Trust and Confidence: When Can an Employer Dismiss an Employee?
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the legal standard for dismissing an employee on grounds of loss of trust and confidence.