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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Mental Capacity and Witness Testimony: Protecting Vulnerable Victims in Philippine Rape Cases
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on mental retardates as credible witnesses in rape cases, with practical guidance for prosecutors and defenders.
Limits on Ombudsman's Power: Court Upholds Anti-Graft Prosecution Discretion
Supreme Court clarifies courts cannot interfere with Ombudsman's prosecutorial discretion absent grave abuse, in anti-graft case.
When Courts Overstep Authority in Preliminary Investigations: Domondon v. Sandiganbayan
The Supreme Court clarifies when courts may interfere with the Ombudsman's prosecutory discretion, and when judicial overreach becomes grave abuse.
Judicial Independence vs Executive Influence: Striking the Balance in Criminal Case Dismissal
When can a judge dismiss a criminal case on the prosecutor's recommendation? The Supreme Court clarifies the limits of judicial discretion.
When Proof of a Gun License Matters: Acquittal in Illegal Firearm Possession Cases
The Supreme Court acquitted a student of illegal firearm possession because prosecutors failed to prove he lacked a license. Here's why.
Justice Delayed IS Justice DenIED: Your Right to Speedy Disposition of Cases in the Philippines
The Supreme Court affirms that prosecutors must resolve complaints promptly; a six-year delay violates the constitutional right to speedy disposition of cases.
Grave Slander in the Philippines: Lessons from Artajos v. Court of Appeals
Learn how Philippine law punishes grave slander, the elements prosecutors must prove, and key lessons from the Supreme Court's Artajos ruling.
Why Lawyers in Government Service Are Still Bound by the Code of Professional Responsibility
A prosecutor's failure to remit SSS payments led to reprimand, affirming that public office does not exempt lawyers from ethical rules.
Judicial Impartiality When Prior Involvement In A Case Disqualifies A Judge
A judge who previously served as prosecutor must inhibit from the case. Rule 137, Section 1 explained.
COMELEC's Power to Prosecute Election Offenses: Independent Authority Affirmed
Supreme Court affirms COMELEC's exclusive authority to prosecute election offenses, ruling that deputized prosecutors cannot override its decisions.
Possession vs Intent: Understanding Illegal Firearm Charges in the Philippines
Learn how the Supreme Court ruled on double jeopardy in illegal firearm cases, and why a prosecutor's authority matters in criminal charges.
Prosecutorial Discretion vs Court Authority: Navigating Criminal Case Dismissals in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the balance between prosecutorial discretion and judicial authority in dismissing criminal cases after information is filed.
When Is a Bail Hearing Required in the Philippines? Key Rules from a 1997 SC Ruling
Philippine courts must hold a bail hearing in capital offenses even if the prosecutor waives it. Learn the rules from Cortes v. Catral.
The Perils of Sin Perjuicio Judgments: Ensuring Timely and Complete Justice in the Philippines
Philippine courts must independently assess prosecutorial motions to withdraw information, balancing judicial discretion with the Secretary of Justice's review powers.
Amending Criminal Informations: When a Homicide Charge Can Be Upgraded to Murder
The Supreme Court explains when prosecutors may amend an information to upgrade homicide to murder after the accused has already pleaded not guilty.
Evidence Rules in Illegal Firearm Cases: Why Conviction Requires Proof of No License
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on illegal possession of firearms explains why prosecutors must prove lack of license beyond reasonable doubt.