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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Foreclosure Rights Understanding Redemption Periods AND Legal Recourse IN THE Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on writs of possession in extrajudicial foreclosure when tenants occupy the property.
When Eyewitness Testimony Alone Can Lead to a Conviction in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court explains when eyewitness testimony suffices for conviction, and how buy-bust operations establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Buy-Bust Operations in the Philippines: Entrapment vs. Instigation Explained
Understand the legal line between entrapment and instigation in Philippine buy-bust operations, and what the Supreme Court's ruling in People v. De Vera means for drug cases.
Positive Identification Trumps Alibi: Lessons from People v. Balad
In People v. Balad, the Supreme Court reaffirmed that positive identification by credible witnesses prevails over the defense of alibi in Philippine criminal law.
Rape Conviction Based on Credible Testimony of Mentally Weak Victim: People v. Zaballero
Philippine Supreme Court affirms rape conviction based on credible testimony of a mentally weak victim, explaining credibility rules and evidence sufficiency.
Private vs Common Carriers: Exemption Clauses in Philippine Shipping Law
When can a shipowner validly disclaim liability for lost cargo? The Supreme Court explains the difference between private and common carriers.
Understanding Implied Trusts and Prescription Periods in Philippine Property Disputes
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on implied trusts, prescription periods, and extrajudicial settlements in property partition disputes.
Extrajudicial Settlement and Heirs' Rights: When a Co-Owner Is Not Bound
A Supreme Court ruling on extrajudicial settlements, resulting trusts, and why a minor heir who did not participate in partition retains rights to property.
Bail After Conviction When Guilt Imports Denial in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on rape conviction, credibility of mentally weak victim, denial defense, and bail implications after conviction.
Mortgage Foreclosure in the Philippines: Protecting Your Rights Against Unilateral Interest Rate Hikes
Learn how the Supreme Court protects borrowers from unilateral interest rate hikes and what notice is required in Philippine mortgage foreclosures.
Understanding Acceleration Clauses in Philippine Promissory Notes
Learn how Philippine courts interpret acceleration clauses in promissory notes, based on the Supreme Court's ruling in Mendoza v. Court of Appeals.
Inadmissible Confessions and Rape Convictions: Lessons from People v. Antipona
A father's rape conviction upheld by the Supreme Court, clarifying evidentiary rules and damages in incestuous rape cases.
Receivership in Foreclosure Disputes: Venue and Real Actions Under Rule 59
When can a court appoint a receiver in a foreclosure dispute? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on receivership, venue, and real actions.
Illegal Recruitment in Large Scale: What the Supreme Court Looks At
A 1997 Supreme Court ruling clarifies what makes illegal recruitment "large scale" and why victim testimony alone can secure a conviction.
Due Process in NLRC Appeals: When Procedural Lapses Don't Erase Just Cause
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on probationary employee dismissal, due process requirements, and NLRC appellate review standards in labor disputes.
Conspiracy vs Individual Liability in Philippine Criminal Law: A Clear Distinction
The Supreme Court clarifies when separate attacks by co-accused do not amount to conspiracy, requiring proof beyond reasonable doubt for each element.
Retroactivity of Disqualification: When Prior Misconduct Bars Future Elections
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on whether Section 40(b) of the Local Government Code applies retroactively to disqualify candidates removed from office before 1992.
When a Judge Reviews His Own Ruling: Due Process in Philippine Labor Appeals
A Supreme Court ruling on why a labor arbiter cannot review his own decision on appeal, and the due process rights of dismissed employees.
Lease Extension: When Philippine Courts Can Extend Your Lease Term
Philippine courts can extend a lease even without a fixed term, but only under certain conditions. Learn the rules from a Supreme Court case.
When Can a Motion for Extension Be Denied? A Philippine Law Analysis
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when courts may deny motions for extension and the proper requirements for certifications against forum shopping.
Ejectment Actions and Ownership Disputes: When Can You Evict a Tenant
The Supreme Court clarifies that ownership disputes do not stop ejectment cases. Learn the rules on unlawful detainer and possession.
When Self-Defense Fails: Proving Treachery in Philippine Criminal Cases
The Supreme Court explains when self-defense fails, how treachery must be proven, and when nighttime aggravates a crime in People v. Cayabyab.
Illegal Recruitment in Large Scale: What Philippine Law Says
Learn how Philippine courts define and penalize large-scale illegal recruitment, based on a 1997 Supreme Court ruling.
Illegal Recruitment in Large Scale: Elements and Penalties Under Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains what makes illegal recruitment "large scale" and why it amounts to economic sabotage.