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.
Balancing Justice and Procedure When Counsel's Negligence Impacts an Appeal
The Supreme Court rules that a counsel's failure to file a brief on time should not cost an accused his appeal, especially when liberty is at stake.
Timely Filing of Motions: Why Service on Counsel Matters in Philippine Courts
Learn how the Supreme Court clarified that notice to counsel, not the party, determines the timeliness of motions in Philippine litigation.
VAT Refund Claims: Why the 120-Day Rule Is Jurisdictional and Deadlines Matter
Learn how the Supreme Court's ruling in Aichi Forging clarifies the mandatory 120-day VAT refund waiting period and its impact on taxpayers.
Client Bound by Counsel's Negligence? SC Relaxes Rules in Pontillas Construction Dispute
Supreme Court reminds courts that procedural rules serve justice, not hinder it, in a case involving counsel's lapses.
Strict Deadlines for Appeal Memoranda: Mejillano v. Lucillo and the Limits of Liberal Construction
The Supreme Court in Mejillano v. Lucillo affirms that failure to file an appeal memorandum on time is fatal, even where the appellant pleads ignorance or counsel's death.
Missed Appeal Deadlines in the Philippines: Strict Rules, Rare Exceptions
Philippine courts strictly enforce the 15-day appeal period. Missing it can end a case, with only truly exceptional circumstances excusing delay.