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.
When Judges May Dismiss Criminal Cases for Lack of Probable Cause
The Supreme Court clarifies when trial courts may dismiss criminal cases for lack of probable cause, and when they must let the case proceed to trial.
Upholding Conviction in Rape Cases: Credibility and the Element of Force
The Supreme Court affirms a rape conviction, explaining how trial courts assess witness credibility and prove force or intimidation.
Double Jeopardy and Speedy Trial Rights in the ASEAN Street Lighting Case
Explaining the Supreme Court's ruling on double jeopardy, speedy disposition, and amended informations in Braza v. Sandiganbayan.
Fair Trial vs Judicial Efficiency: Balancing Rights in Marcos Era Asset Recovery
How Philippine courts balance fair trial rights against judicial efficiency in complex asset recovery cases from the Marcos era.
Mandatory Injunctions When Possession of Titles Must Be Returned
When can a court order the return of property titles before trial? The Supreme Court explains the rules on preliminary mandatory injunctions.
Default Judgment: The Consequences of Neglecting Legal Deadlines in Philippine Courts
A Supreme Court ruling shows how missing a pre-trial conference can lead to default judgment and why courts enforce deadlines strictly.
Probable Cause and Judicial Discretion: Safeguarding Against Unjust Prosecution
The Supreme Court affirms a trial judge's dismissal of murder cases for lack of probable cause, clarifying judicial discretion in warrant issuance.
Civilian Courts Prevail Over Military Tribunals for Non-Service-Connected Crimes
Supreme Court clarifies that military personnel accused of murder face trial in civilian courts, not court-martial, under R.A. 7055.
When a Motion to Dismiss Fails: Bad Faith and Trust Claims Must Go to Trial
The Supreme Court clarifies that allegations of bad faith and implied trust cannot be resolved in a motion to dismiss but require full trial.
Motion to Quash Denial: Interlocutory Orders and Grave Abuse of Discretion
Learn when a denied motion to quash can be challenged via certiorari, and why interlocutory orders generally require waiting for trial.
Dismissal for Lack of Pre-Trial Brief: Balancing Procedural Rules and Justice
The Supreme Court affirms dismissal of a case for failure to file a pre-trial brief, clarifying the fresh period rule and the binding effect of counsel's negligence.
Judicial Misconduct Gross Ignorance OF LAW AND Partiality Undermine Fair Trial Standards
Right to Confrontation Securing Fair Criminal Trials in the Philippines
Philippine courts must uphold the right to confrontation in criminal trials, ensuring witnesses face the accused and evidence is tested.
Judicial Misconduct and Impeachment: When Court Review Becomes Moot
The Supreme Court explains why it dismissed Chief Justice Corona's challenge to his impeachment trial—because the case became moot after conviction.
Supreme Court Dismisses Corona Impeachment Petition on Mootness Grounds
The Supreme Court dismissed former Chief Justice Corona's petition assailing his impeachment trial, ruling the case became moot upon his conviction.
Custodia Legis: Ensuring Impartial Custody of Just Compensation in Agrarian Reform
The Supreme Court affirms that trial courts may order physical turnover of agrarian reform deposits to the clerk of court for custodia legis, ensuring impartial custody pending final valuation.
Revival of Proceedings Ensuring Fair Trial Rights Despite Procedural Technicalities
Supreme Court rules courts must relax procedural rules in contempt cases to protect due process and fair hearing rights.
Avoiding Default Judgment: Why Showing Up to Pre-Trial Is Non-Negotiable in Philippine Courts
Learn why failing to appear at pre-trial in Philippine courts can lead to default judgment, and how to protect your case.
Judicial Impartiality and Avoiding Impropriety in Cases Involving Relatives
The Supreme Court clarifies when a judge's transfer affects decision validity and the rules on new trial grounds in criminal cases.
When a Justice Transfers: Promulgation of Sandiganbayan Decisions and New Trial Rules
The Supreme Court clarifies when a Sandiganbayan decision is valid despite a ponente's transfer, and tightens the rules on new trials.
When Courts Rule on Marriage Nullity First: The Yu v. Yu Doctrine on Ancillary Issues
The Supreme Court clarifies when trial courts may resolve marriage nullity before hearing evidence on custody, support, and property.
Live Media Coverage of Trials in the Philippines: The Maguindanao Massacre Precedent
The Supreme Court's landmark 2011 ruling allowing live broadcast of the Maguindanao Massacre trial, balancing press freedom with fair trial rights.
Double Jeopardy in Philippine Criminal Cases: When Dismissal Is Not Final
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies double jeopardy rules and trial court duties in dismissing criminal cases.
Upholding Judicial Integrity When Court Employees Abuse Authority
When trial courts blindly follow prosecutors, they abdicate judicial duty. The Supreme Court explains why double jeopardy did not attach.