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.
Breach of Professional Duty Attorneys Must Avoid Representing Conflicting Interests
Lawyers who represent conflicting interests violate the Code of Professional Responsibility and face suspension from the practice of law.
Tenant Redemption Rights, Land Bank Financing, and Notice Rules in Agrarian Reform
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on tenant right of redemption, Land Bank financing requirements, and written notice under agrarian reform law.
When Is a Customs Broker a Common Carrier? The Transorient Container Case
A customs broker who transports goods as part of its business is a common carrier bound by extraordinary diligence under Philippine law.
Prior Use of a Brand Name Prevails Over Copyright or Patent Claims
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why trademark rights based on prior use trump copyright or patent registrations in brand name disputes.
Health Care Agreements vs Insurance Contracts: The Incontestability Clause Explained
The Supreme Court ruled that health care agreements are insurance contracts, so the incontestability clause applies to HMOs.
When a Final Judgment Limits Liability: Execution Cannot Add Interest
A writ of execution must strictly follow the final judgment. Adding interest not decreed by the court is void.
Execution of Judgment: Liability Limited to the Dispositive Portion of the Court Decision
A writ of execution must conform to the dispositive portion of a final judgment. Learn from Solidbank v. Court of Appeals.
Prior Payment of Check Value as Defense in Bouncing Checks Cases
When does paying the check amount before prosecution bar a B.P. 22 conviction? The Supreme Court explains in Griffith v. Court of Appeals.
Attorney Negligence: When a Lawyer's Lapses Cost Clients Their Case
Philippine Supreme Court suspends lawyer for six months for failing to file briefs, costing clients their property in a recovery case.
Void Judgments and Timely Appeals: The Nazareno Case on Judicial Authority
A judge cannot validly promulgate another judge's decision after retirement. Learn the rules on void judgments and appeals.
Void Judgments: When a Retired Judge's Decision Cannot Be Promulgated
A judge's decision signed before retirement cannot be validly promulgated after retirement. Learn the rule and its practical effects.
Sheriffs Must File Return and Seek Court Guidance When Writs Conflict
Administrative case reminds sheriffs that implementing writs is ministerial; when property is under custodia legis, they must report and await instructions.
Confessions and Constitutional Rights: Ensuring Voluntariness and Competent Counsel in Philippine Law
A Supreme Court ruling on when extrajudicial confessions are admissible, focusing on voluntariness and the right to competent and independent counsel.
Expediting Justice: Holding Judges Accountable for Case Delays
The Supreme Court affirms sanctions against a Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice for gross inefficiency, underscoring that judges must decide cases within 90 days.
When Landowners Admit Tenancy: Consent and the Right of Redemption Under RA 3844
The Supreme Court rules on how a landowner's admission of tenancy can establish a tenant's right of redemption under the Agricultural Land Reform Code.
Treachery Defined: Unexpected Assault and Criminal Liability in a Stabbing Incident
The Supreme Court explains treachery as an unexpected, sudden attack that leaves a victim defenseless, affirming a murder conviction.
Negligence in Public Office: Defining the Scope of Duty and Responsibility
The Supreme Court clarifies that administrative liability for negligence requires proof that the duty neglected was actually assigned to the public officer.
Spousal Consent and Conjugal Property: What the Supreme Court Requires
The Supreme Court explains why a wife's written consent is essential before a husband can sell conjugal property, and when court approval may apply.
Written Authority is Key: Upholding Property Rights in Corporate Transactions
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies why written consent matters in property deals involving mortgaged assets—and what parties must prove to claim possession.
Dying Declarations Establishing Consciousness of Impending Death in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the rule on dying declarations and the requirement of consciousness of impending death in criminal cases.
Invalidation of BOI Manual of Operations Incentives for Registered Enterprises
Supreme Court voids BOI's unpublished manual that reduced tax credit incentives for registered export producers.
Redemption Rights: Upholding Mortgagor's Five-Year Redemption Agreement
Supreme Court affirms five-year redemption period for mortgagor, voiding subsequent sales that cut short the agreed term.
Agrarian Disputes: Why Regular Courts Yield to DARAB in Tenancy Cases
A criminal acquittal does not let regular courts award civil damages tied to an agrarian dispute—DARAB holds exclusive jurisdiction.
Judicial Ethics and Public Trust: Lessons from a Foreclosure Dispute
A mortgage foreclosure dispute teaches key lessons on judicial ethics, public trust, and why the Supreme Court limits factual review.