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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Heirship in Property Disputes: Can Ordinary Civil Actions Decide Inheritance?
The Supreme Court clarifies when heirship can be resolved in an ordinary civil action, not just special proceedings, for property disputes.
Navigating Appeals in Estate Proceedings: The Necessity of a Record on Appeal
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that appeals in special proceedings require both a notice of appeal and record on appeal within 30 days.
Perfecting Appeals in Special Proceedings: Why the Record on Appeal Matters
In special proceedings like estate settlement, failing to file a record on appeal is fatal. Learn the rules and avoid losing your appeal.
Heirship Disputes Must Be Resolved in Special Proceedings, Not Ordinary Civil Actions
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that determining legal heirs requires a special proceeding, not an ordinary action for reconveyance.
Declaration of Presumptive Death: A Summary Proceeding, Not a Special Proceeding
Supreme Court clarifies that a petition to declare a spouse presumptively dead under the Family Code is a summary proceeding, not a special proceeding requiring a record on appeal.
Family Compromise Rule Does Not Apply to Estate Settlement Proceedings
Supreme Court clarifies that Article 222's family compromise requirement applies only to ordinary civil actions, not special proceedings like estate settlement.
Heirship First, Claim Later: Proving You're an Heir Before Filing Property Disputes in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why heirs must first be declared in special proceedings before filing property reconveyance cases.