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.
Attorney Misconduct: When a Lawyer's Actions Can Lead to Disbarment in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when a lawyer's false statements and unethical conduct warrant suspension or disbarment, and the limits of disciplinary cases.
Obstruction of Justice and the Lawyer's Duty: De Leon v. Luis
A lawyer's failure to report a client with a standing warrant is not obstruction of justice absent clear intent to harbor or conceal.
Right to Information vs. Exam Confidentiality: The Antolin-Rosero Ruling
The Supreme Court balances the right to information against exam confidentiality in Antolin-Rosero v. PRC, a landmark 2021 ruling.
When Can the Military Publicly Disclose Disbarment Proceedings? The Roque Case
The Supreme Court clarifies when public disclosure of disbarment proceedings violates the confidentiality rule, balancing free speech with lawyer protections.
Balancing Confidentiality and Free Expression: The Limits of Disbarment Publicity in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when public statements about disbarment complaints violate the confidentiality rule and when they are protected speech.
When Can Arbitration Statements Be Withheld? The Confidentiality Rule Explained
The Supreme Court clarifies when arbitration testimony and witness statements are confidential and protected from disclosure in other proceedings.
Balancing Free Press and Confidentiality When Attorney Discipline Becomes a Public Matter
The Supreme Court clarifies when media reports on confidential lawyer disciplinary cases are protected by press freedom.
Confidentiality Rules for Court Personnel: Lessons from a Legal Researcher's Misconduct Case
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when court personnel breach confidentiality and why even "harmless" disclosures to litigants constitute misconduct.
When Courts Can Compel Disclosure of Foreign Currency Deposits in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when courts may compel banks to disclose foreign currency deposits despite the secrecy rule under RA 6426.
Upholding Ethical Standards: Adultery as Grounds for Attorney Disbarment in the Philippines
The Supreme Court suspended a lawyer for cohabiting with a woman not his wife, reaffirming that good moral character is a continuing requirement for membership in the Philippine Bar.