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.
When a Lawyer’s Personal Debt Isn’t Professional Misconduct: Palaganas v. Panganiban
The Supreme Court clarifies that administrative cases against lawyers are for professional misconduct, not debt collection, in Palaganas v. Panganiban.
Forum Shopping: When Filing Multiple Cases Crosses the Line
The Supreme Court clarifies when filing multiple cases amounts to forum shopping, and which body has jurisdiction to rule on it.
Attorney Disbarment When Online Conduct Violates Professional Ethics in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when government lawyers face disbarment for official acts under new CPRA guidelines.
Notarizing Without a Commission: Supreme Court Discipline for Lawyers
Learn the disciplinary consequences for Philippine lawyers who notarize documents without a valid commission, based on a recent Supreme Court ruling.
Adultery and Disbarment: When a Lawyer's Private Conduct Ends the Legal Career
The Supreme Court disbarred a lawyer for an extramarital affair, affirming that gross immorality in private life warrants the ultimate professional sanction.
Lawyer Misconduct: The Duty to Return Client Funds in the Philippines
When a lawyer fails to render service and keeps client money, the Supreme Court imposes suspension and restitution. Learn the rules.
When a Lawyer’s Suspension Does Not End Automatically: Compliance and Court Orders
A lawyer’s suspension is not automatically lifted when the period ends. The Court must first issue an order lifting it.
Upholding Client Trust Attorney Suspended for Misappropriating Settlement Funds
Lawyer suspended six months for misappropriating client's P50,000 settlement funds, violating Canon 16 of the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Attorney Misappropriation of Client Funds: Fiduciary Duty and Ethical Obligations of Lawyers
When a lawyer mishandles client money, the Supreme Court does not take it lightly. Learn the ethical rules and consequences.
When Can a Lawyer Be Disciplined? IBP Jurisdiction Over Attorney Misconduct and Private Debts
A lawyer who ignores IBP orders can face sanctions even when the underlying complaint involves a private debt. Learn the rules.