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.
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Supreme Court voids BOI's unpublished manual that reduced tax credit incentives for registered export producers.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.
Lessor’s Liability for Defects and Repairs: Key Lessons from De Ysasi v. Arceo
Learn when Philippine lessors are liable for property defects and repairs, and why lessee inspection matters under De Ysasi v. Arceo.
Reasonable Doubt Prevails: Acquittal in Forcible Abduction and Rape Case Based on Inconsistent Testimony
Supreme Court acquits accused in forcible abduction with rape case, ruling that inconsistent testimony and lack of resistance failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Rape Conviction Affirmed: The Role of Identification and Consent in Sexual Assault Cases
Supreme Court affirms rape conviction, clarifying voice and sight identification, consent, and damages in sexual assault cases.
Special Appearance and Summons: When It Does Not Mean Consent to Jurisdiction
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that special appearances to question summons do not waive jurisdictional objections, and substituted service has strict rules.
Partnership vs Employment: Sharing Profits in Lending Ventures Under Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when profit-sharing in a lending business creates a partnership, not an employment relationship, and how profits are computed.
Interest on Penalties: The Limits of Compounding in Loan Obligations
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when interest may be charged on unpaid penalty charges in loan contracts, and when courts may reduce unconscionable penalties.
Dismissal for Judicial Misconduct: Impartiality and Diligence in Granting Hospital Confinement
A judge's dismissal for granting hospital confinement without hearing shows why diligence and impartiality are non-negotiable in every judicial act.
Questioning Authenticity When A Deed Of Sale Fails The Test Of Due Execution
When can a deed of sale be declared void? The Supreme Court explains the rules on due execution and authenticity.
Prescription Period Bars Attorney's Fee Collection After Six Years
Supreme Court rules lawyers have six years to collect fees under oral contracts; failure to timely file bars the claim.
Foreclosure and the Right to Possession: Protecting Bank Assets in Liquidation
A bank in liquidation can still seek a writ of possession over foreclosed property. Learn the rules on jurisdiction, intervention, and redemption.
Reforming Insurance Policies How Manifest Intent Prevails Over Technical Descriptions In Property Claims
A fire insurance dispute shows how courts prioritize the parties' true intent over technical misdescriptions in policies.
Premature Execution Judgment Required Before Enforcing Court Orders
Philippine Supreme Court rules that a writ of execution requires a final judgment, voiding premature enforcement in David v. Velasco.
Bouncing Checks AND DUE Process Actual Notice Required FOR Conviction
A writ of execution requires a final judgment; issuing one before trial violates due process and is void.