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.
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Due Process and Summons: Supreme Court Ruling on Unresolved Motions for Reconsideration
The Supreme Court clarifies that ignoring a motion for reconsideration violates due process, while explaining how courts acquire jurisdiction over defendants.
Union Membership Eligibility Insights From the Coca-Cola Case
The Supreme Court clarifies when ineligible employees affect union registration, and when a motion for reconsideration may be excused.
Substantial Compliance in Verification: When Procedural Lapses Still Cost the Case
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that substantial compliance with verification rules cannot excuse a belatedly filed motion for reconsideration in civil cases.
Motion for Reconsideration Stays Execution: Due Process in Land Disputes
A pending motion for reconsideration stays execution of judgment. The Supreme Court explains why a writ of execution cannot bind non-parties.
Interlocutory Orders and Appeals: When to Appeal a Judgment in Philippine Courts
Learn when a court ruling becomes appealable and why a party's right to appeal is not affected by another party's motion for reconsideration.
Untimely Filing: The High Cost of Ignoring Procedural Rules in Philippine Courts
A bank's appeal was dismissed because its motion for reconsideration was served by private courier without proper proof. Learn the procedural rules.
Finality of Judgments: Why Procedural Rules on Service of Motions Cannot Be Ignored
A bank's appeal was dismissed for defective service of its motion for reconsideration. The Supreme Court explains why procedural rules matter.
Finality of Judgments: Why Procedural Rules Matter in Philippine Litigation
A Supreme Court ruling on how improper service of a motion for reconsideration can make a judgment final and executory, barring recovery.
When a Motion for Reconsideration Is Not a Second Bite at the Apple
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that a motion for reconsideration of a decision that substantially reverses an earlier ruling is not prohibited.
Defective Motion for Reconsideration Cannot Revive Waived Prosecution Evidence
Supreme Court nullifies trial court order allowing prosecution to present evidence after fatally defective motion for reconsideration.
When a Trial Court Cannot Deny Your Notice of Appeal: PBCOM v. Court of Appeals
The Supreme Court clarifies that only appellate courts may dismiss appeals for being improper remedies, and when a motion for reconsideration is excused.
Second Motions for Reconsideration: Finality of Judgments and the Interest of Justice
The Supreme Court clarifies that a second motion for reconsideration is prohibited, and final judgments are immutable and unalterable.
Due Process in Administrative Proceedings: The Right to Be Heard Before Liability Is Imposed
The Supreme Court reaffirms that administrative due process requires a real opportunity to be heard before liability is imposed, not just a motion for reconsideration.
When the Comelec En Banc Deadlocks: Division Rulings Stand, Not Dismissed
Supreme Court clarifies that a Comelec en banc deadlock on a motion for reconsideration affirms the division's ruling, not dismisses the case.
Breach of Fiduciary Duty: Attorney Neglect and Suspension From Legal Practice
The Supreme Court suspended a lawyer for two years for neglecting a client's case and failing to file a motion for reconsideration.
Motion for Reconsideration: When Strict Compliance Is Not Required in Philippine Courts
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a motion for reconsideration before the NLRC may be excused before filing certiorari.
Certiorari Not a Substitute for Appeal: Lessons from Nuque v. Aquino
The Supreme Court reiterates that certiorari cannot replace a lost appeal, and a motion for reconsideration is generally required before filing one.
Certiorari Limitations: Why a Motion for Reconsideration Is Key in Injunction Cases
The Supreme Court clarifies when certiorari lies against injunction rulings and why a motion for reconsideration is essential.
Missed Appeal Deadlines in Agrarian Cases: When Negligence Costs the Right to Appeal
The Supreme Court rules on missed appeal deadlines in agrarian disputes, explaining when a motion for reconsideration suspends the period and why certiorari cannot replace a lost appeal.
Motion for Reconsideration: A Prerequisite Before Certiorari in Labor Disputes
Philippine National Bank v. Arcobillas: a party must file a motion for reconsideration with the NLRC before seeking certiorari from the Court of Appeals.
Motion for Reconsideration Cannot Raise New Issues, High Court Rules
Supreme Court reiterates that new arguments raised for the first time in a motion for reconsideration are deemed waived, affirming finality of judgments.
Motion for Reconsideration Before Certiorari: The Novateknika Rule
Philippine courts require a motion for reconsideration before filing certiorari. Learn the rule, its exceptions, and why it matters.
League of Cities v. COMELEC: The Finality of the 16 Cityhood Laws
The Supreme Court denies a second motion for reconsideration, affirming the constitutionality of the 16 Cityhood Laws with finality.
Finality of Judgment in Philippine Courts: Why a Second Motion for Reconsideration Is a Losing Move
A Supreme Court ruling explains why second motions for reconsideration are prohibited pleadings and cannot delay finality of judgment.