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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Understanding Lascivious Conduct Under RA 7610: A Landmark Philippine Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between lascivious conduct and other child abuse under RA 7610, modifying a conviction and imposing a heavier penalty.
Just Compensation in Expropriation: Why Court-Appointed Commissioners Are Mandatory
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that appointing commissioners to determine just compensation in expropriation cases is mandatory, even under RA 8974.
When Government Instrumentalities Are Exempt from Docket Fees: The BCDA Case
The Supreme Court clarifies when government instrumentalities are exempt from paying docket fees, using the BCDA case as a guide.
DNA Testing in Paternity Disputes: Supervening Events and Final Judgments in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a supervening event can stop a final DNA testing order in paternity cases.
Robbery Under Philippine Law: When Taking and Intent to Gain Are Complete
The Supreme Court in Poquiz v. People clarifies when robbery is consummated—the moment of taking, not recovery. Learn the elements and practical implications.
Judge Dismissed for Gross Immorality in Extramarital Affair Case
Supreme Court dismisses a judge for gross immorality over an extramarital affair and child, while suspending him from law practice for three years.
Residency Rules for Local Candidates: When Incumbency Defeats a Domicile Transfer Claim
The Supreme Court cancels a governor's COC for false residency declaration, clarifying when an incumbent mayor cannot claim a new domicile.
Quasi-Delict Liability in Vehicular Accidents: When the Supreme Court Declines to Revisit Facts
A look at a 2026 Supreme Court ruling on quasi-delict liability, negligence, and why factual findings of lower courts are often left undisturbed.
When Administrative Complaints Against Judges Are Harassment Suits
The Supreme Court dismisses a judicial audit request targeting two RTC judges, warning against using administrative cases to harass the bench.
Lawyer Disbarred for Borrowing From Client and Using Fake Title
A Supreme Court ruling shows how a lawyer's loan from a client, fake title, and bounced check led to disbarment.
Lawyer Disbarred for Borrowing Money From Client: Ethical Lessons
The Supreme Court disbarred a lawyer who borrowed money from a client using a forged title. Learn the ethical rules.
Undue Delay in Case Decisions: A Judge's Administrative Liability
The Supreme Court holds a retired judge liable for undue delay in deciding cases, underscoring the mandatory 90-day period and its consequences.
Ensuring Election Integrity: The Role of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails in Philippine Elections
The Supreme Court clarifies the scope of the VVPAT requirement, digital signatures, and the prohibition on capturing devices in Philippine elections.
Understanding Treachery and Alibi in Philippine Murder Cases: A Deep Dive into Legal Standards and Evidence
The Supreme Court clarifies treachery, conspiracy, and alibi in murder cases, affirming convictions based on credible eyewitness testimony.
Understanding Treachery and Conspiracy in Murder Cases: Insights from a Philippine Supreme Court Ruling
A look at how the Supreme Court applied treachery and conspiracy doctrines in a murder conviction, and what this means for criminal cases.
Understanding Employee Dismissal for Loss of Trust and Confidence: Key Lessons from Paez v. MARELCO
A look at when loss of trust and confidence justifies dismissal, and when it does not, based on a 2020 Supreme Court ruling.
When a Lawyer's Negligence Leaves a Client in the Dark: Lessons from Quitazol v. Capela
The Supreme Court reminds lawyers that neglecting a client's case is inexcusable negligence, even if the client later withdraws the complaint.
Tax-Free Exchanges and Capital Gains Tax: Lessons from a Landmark Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court clarifies when a tax-free exchange followed by a share sale is subject to capital gains tax, not income tax.
Procurement Integrity Lessons from a Landmark Ruling on Misconduct and Due Diligence
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when an employee's concealment during an investigation justifies dismissal under Philippine labor law.
Lawyer Disbarred for Borrowing from Client and Using Fake Title as Collateral
Supreme Court disbars lawyer for gross misconduct: borrowing from client, presenting forged title, and issuing worthless checks.
Why Forensic Testing Matters in Drug Paraphernalia Cases: The Cuico Ruling
The Supreme Court acquits a woman convicted of drug paraphernalia possession because police failed to submit seized items for forensic examination.
Illegal Dismissal for Dishonesty in the Philippines: When Termination Is Not Justified
When can an employee be fired for dishonesty? The Supreme Court explains the limits of termination for loss of trust and confidence.
Service of Summons and Due Process: A Philippine Property Dispute Lesson
The Supreme Court nullified a property ruling because summons was served at the wrong address, violating due process. Learn the rules.
COLA Integration Into Government Salaries: What the Lumauan Ruling Means
The Supreme Court explains when cost of living allowance is deemed integrated into government salaries and who must refund disallowed payments.