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.
Calling Someone a Thief in Public Can Be Slander: Key Lessons from a Condo Dispute
A heated condo dispute led to a slander conviction. Learn when public accusations of theft become criminal oral defamation in the Philippines.
When Apology and Self-Incrimination Collide: Defining Willful Disobedience in Labor Disputes
The Supreme Court clarifies when an employee's refusal to apologize is not willful disobedience justifying dismissal under the Labor Code.
Client Responsibility Prevails: The Binding Effect of Counsel's Negligence in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a client is bound by counsel's negligence, and the duty to monitor one's case.
Diplomatic Immunity for International Officials: When It Shields and When It Does Not
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that ADB staff immunity covers only official acts, not private crimes like slander.
Maintaining Impartiality: Why a Judge's Demeanor Matters in Philippine Courts
A judge's private talks with a litigant can create an appearance of bias. The Supreme Court explains why demeanor and perceived impartiality matter.
Official Duty vs Personal Liability: Defining Immunity in Defamation Cases
Can a diplomat or international organization worker claim immunity for defamation? The Supreme Court clarifies when official duty ends and personal liability begins.
Diplomatic Immunity vs Defamation: The Liang Case and Limits of Official Acts
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on ADB staff immunity, defamation, and why diplomatic immunity is not absolute for criminal acts.
Grave Oral Defamation When Does Filing A Complaint Stop The Clock
Learn when filing a complaint stops the prescriptive period for grave oral defamation under Philippine law.