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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Obstructing Justice: The Fine Line Between Public Duty and Criminal Conspiracy in the Philippines
When does a public official's delay become obstruction of justice? A closer look at Philippine law and the thin line between duty and conspiracy.
Public Duty vs Private Interest: When a Prosecutor’s Delay Betrays Legal Ethics
The Supreme Court clarifies that a prosecutor's duty to expedite cases is not excused by a respondent's failure to assert the right to speedy disposition.
Court Stenographer Dropped From Rolls: The Duty of Judicial Personnel to Maintain Accurate Records
Learn when a court employee can be dropped from the rolls for unsatisfactory performance, and why accurate court records are a public duty.
When Public Duty and Private Conduct Collide: A Judge’s Venue Ruling Upheld
The Supreme Court affirms a judge’s dismissal of a case for improper venue, clarifying exclusive venue stipulations in loan contracts.
Habitual Tardiness in the Judiciary: When Punctuality Becomes a Public Duty
The Supreme Court reprimands a court employee for habitual tardiness, affirming that public service demands strict observance of office hours.
Prosecutorial Discretion vs Malicious Prosecution: Balancing Public Duty and Individual Rights
The Supreme Court clarifies when prosecutors may be sued for damages, balancing prosecutorial discretion against protection from malicious prosecution claims.
Pakikisama vs Public Duty: When Court Employees Cross the Line
Supreme Court censures court employees who left posts for a birthday party, ruling pakikisama cannot excuse neglect of public duty.