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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Equitable Mortgage VS Absolute Sale Protecting Vulnerable Parties IN Property Transactions
Learn how Philippine courts protect vulnerable parties in property deals, distinguishing equitable mortgages from absolute sales to prevent exploitation.
Equitable Mortgage vs Sale: Protecting Borrowers in Philippine Property Deals
When is a deed of sale actually an equitable mortgage? The Supreme Court explains how borrowers are protected under Philippine law.
Bouncing Checks in Property Deals: Why a Bad Check Can Lead to Estafa in the Philippines
Learn when a bounced check or misused funds becomes estafa under Philippine law, and the key defenses that fail in court.
Nemo Dat Quod Non Habet: Why Title Verification Matters in Philippine Property Deals
Philippine law bars transferring property you don't own. Learn the nemo dat rule from Hermosilla v. Remoquillo and how to protect your purchase.
Unmasking Fraud in Property Deals: Supreme Court Clarifies Burden of Proof
The Supreme Court clarifies that fraud in property sales must be proven with clear evidence, not bare allegations.
Authority Matters: Why Verbal Assurances From Bank Clerks Can't Seal Property Deals in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why verbal assurances from bank clerks cannot validate property transactions, and the importance of proper authority.
Equitable Mortgage vs Sale with Right to Repurchase: Protecting Borrowers in Property Deals
When is a "sale with right to repurchase" actually an equitable mortgage? The Supreme Court explains the legal tests protecting vulnerable borrowers.
Who Pays Capital Gains Tax and Sale Registration Costs in Philippine Property Deals
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies who bears capital gains tax and registration expenses in property sales, distinguishing obligations of individual and corporate sellers.
Written Authority is Key: Upholding Property Rights in Corporate Transactions
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies why written consent matters in property deals involving mortgaged assets—and what parties must prove to claim possession.
Forged Documents in Property Deals: How Due Diligence Can Protect You
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on forged special power of attorney in property mortgage—what buyers and lenders must know about due diligence.
Statute of Frauds and Implied Trusts When Verbal Agreements Fail in Property Disputes
When verbal property deals fail, the Statute of Frauds and implied trust rules decide enforceability. Learn from a Supreme Court case.