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 Guilty Plea Is Not Enough: Proving Murder Beyond Reasonable Doubt
The Supreme Court explains why a guilty plea to a capital offense still requires the prosecution to prove guilt and the precise degree of culpability.
Voluntary Confession Mitigates Parricide: Reclusion Perpetua Instead of Death
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how voluntary confession of guilt mitigates parricide, reducing the penalty from death to reclusion perpetua.
Improvident Guilty Pleas: Protecting Rights in Capital Offenses
A guilty plea does not admit aggravating circumstances; the prosecution must still prove them, as shown in People v. Gutierrez.
Conspiracy and Criminal Liability: Intent and Participation in Homicide Cases
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on conspiracy, intent, and participation in homicide—what the Manlansing case teaches about criminal liability.
Improvident Plea of Guilt in the Philippines: The Searching Inquiry Requirement
A guilty plea in a capital offense requires a searching inquiry. Learn what makes a plea improvident and how courts protect the accused.