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.
Lawyer Disbarred for Investment Scam and Bounced Checks Under the CPRA
The Supreme Court disciplines a lawyer for running an unregistered investment scheme and issuing dishonored checks, applying the new CPRA penalty framework.
Disbarment for Bouncing Checks: What Lawyers Must Know About Gross Misconduct
A lawyer was disbarred for issuing worthless checks. Learn the ethical rules, CPRA penalties, and practical lessons for attorneys.
Lawyer Suspended Five Years for Issuing Worthless Checks and Neglecting Professional Duties
A lawyer who issued bounced checks for decades-old debts and ignored disciplinary orders was suspended for five years and fined P10,000.
Lawyer Suspended for Dishonored Loan and Disregard of Legal Processes
A lawyer was suspended one year and fined for failing to pay a loan, issuing a bouncing check, and ignoring IBP proceedings.
Attorney's Dishonored Checks and Evasion Lead to Two-Year Suspension
A lawyer who issued worthless checks and evaded arrest was suspended for two years, reaffirming the high standards of honesty required of the bar.
Attorney Disbarred for Gross Misconduct and Willful Disobedience to Court Orders
A lawyer's unauthorized use of a client's property for bail bonds, plus defiance of court orders, leads to disbarment.
When Banks Can Refuse Payment: B.P. 22 and Bank Closure in Cu v. SB Corp.
Supreme Court ruling on B.P. 22 liability when a bank is closed by the Monetary Board and placed under PDIC receivership.
Loss of Confidence as a Ground for Dismissal: When Employers Cannot Use It as a Subterfuge
The Supreme Court clarifies that loss of confidence cannot be simulated or used as a subterfuge to justify an illegal dismissal.
Loss of Confidence as a Dismissal Ground: When Employers Cannot Claim It
The Supreme Court clarifies that loss of confidence cannot be a simulated or afterthought ground for dismissing a managerial employee.
Dispositive Portion Prevails When DOJ Resolution Body Conflicts With Fallo
When a DOJ resolution's body conflicts with its dispositive portion, the fallo controls. Learn the rule from Santiago v. Bello IV.
BP 22 Acquittal: Why Actual Receipt of Notice of Dishonor Is Critical
In Robert Chua v. People, the Supreme Court acquitted a BP 22 accused because prosecutors failed to prove actual receipt of the notice of dishonor.
When a Final Judgment Violates the Law on Bouncing Checks: Correcting an Excessive Penalty
The Supreme Court corrected an excessive fine in a final BP 22 conviction, showing when final judgments may be modified.
SEC Suspension Order as Defense in B.P. 22 Cases: Gidwani v. People
Supreme Court rules SEC suspension of payments order excuses check dishonor under B.P. 22, reversing conviction of corporate officer.
SEC Suspension Order as a Valid Defense in B.P. 22 Cases: Gidwani v. People
When a lawful SEC suspension order precedes check presentment, the drawer may be excused from B.P. 22 liability.
Psychological Incapacity Evidentiary Standards for Marriage Nullity in the Philippines
Learn the evidentiary standards for proving psychological incapacity in Philippine marriage nullity cases, explained through the Mendoza ruling.
Bouncing Checks and Civil Liability: Why You Can't Sue Separately for a BP 22 Violation in the Philippines
Learn why a bounced check can lead to estafa prosecution, not just BP 22, and what this means for your civil remedies.
When Refusing a Boss's Order Is Not Willful Disobedience: Lores Realty v. Pacia
Supreme Court clarifies what constitutes willful disobedience under Article 282 of the Labor Code and when an employee's refusal is justified.
Fresh Period Rule: The Right to Appeal After a Motion for Reconsideration
Learn how the Fresh Period Rule in Neypes v. CA gives litigants 15 days from denial of a motion for reconsideration to appeal.
Corporate Liability and Bouncing Checks: Clarifying the Scope of B.P. Blg. 22
The Supreme Court clarifies that corporations cannot be impleaded in B.P. 22 cases, but creditors may still pursue separate civil actions against them.
Due Process and Arrest Warrants: Notice Requirements in Summary Procedure Cases
When can a court issue an arrest warrant in summary procedure cases? The Supreme Court clarifies the notice requirement and due process rules.
When Lawyers Issue Bouncing Checks: Administrative Liability Under Philippine Law
A lawyer who issues worthless checks faces suspension even after full payment. Learn the rules from a Supreme Court administrative case.
Investment or Loan? The Estafa Trap in Misrepresented Business Ventures
When a business deal fails, is it a breach of contract or estafa? The Supreme Court clarifies when false pretenses turn a failed investment into a criminal offense.
Bouncing Checks and Hearsay: BP 22 Conviction Upheld Despite Evidentiary Challenges
The Supreme Court explains when hearsay testimony may be admitted in a Bouncing Checks case, and why a BP 22 conviction can stand.
Finality Prevails: Why Attempts to Reopen a Settled Bouncing Checks Case Fail
The Supreme Court explains why final judgments cannot be reopened through belated claims of newly discovered evidence in a B.P. 22 case.