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.

Showing 111 of 11 articles for exempting circumstance

Insanity Defense in Philippine Criminal Law: Defining the Boundaries of Criminal Responsibility

The Supreme Court clarifies when insanity exempts an accused from criminal liability, applying a strict three-way test.

Insanity Defense in Philippine Law: When Mental Illness Excuses Criminal Liability

The Supreme Court clarifies when insanity exempts an accused from criminal liability under Article 12 of the Revised Penal Code.

Insanity Plea Under Scrutiny: The Fine Line Between Confusion and Criminal Responsibility

The Supreme Court clarifies when confusion amounts to insanity exempting an accused from criminal liability, and when it does not.

Insanity Plea in Parricide: Burden of Proof and the Limits of Jealous Rage

The Supreme Court clarifies when insanity exempts an accused from criminal liability, and why jealous rage falls short.

Gun Store Owners' Negligence Liability for Accidental Shooting Ruled by Supreme Court

Supreme Court holds gun store owner liable for negligence after defective firearm left loaded in unlocked drawer causes fatal accidental shooting.

Age of Criminal Responsibility: Testimonial Evidence and Protecting Juvenile Offenders

How testimonial evidence can prove a juvenile offender's age for exemption from criminal liability under RA 9344.

The Sanity Presumption Determining Criminal Liability in the Philippines

Philippine law presumes every person sane. This case explains when insanity can exempt an accused from criminal liability.

Navigating the Insanity Defense in Philippine Law: Burden of Proof and Presumption of Sanity

The Supreme Court clarifies the insanity defense in Philippine criminal law, emphasizing the presumption of sanity and the accused's burden to prove insanity beyond reasonable doubt.

Child Testimony in Rape Cases: Supreme Court Upholds Victim-Centric Approach

The Supreme Court affirms a rape conviction based on a child's credible testimony, clarifying that an intact hymen does not negate rape.

Accidental Shooting or Intentional Killing: Parricide and the Defense of Accident in Philippine Law

The Supreme Court clarifies when the defense of accident fails in parricide cases, explaining intent, negligence, and unlawful acts.

Private vs Common Carriers: Understanding Liability for Cargo Damage in the Philippines

Philippine law distinguishes private from common carriers, affecting liability for cargo damage. Learn the rules and practical implications.