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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Mental Incapacity as a Ground for Dismissal: The Alagaban Case and Due Process in Philippine Labor Law
Philippine law allows dismissal for mental incapacity, but only with strict due process. The Alagaban case shows how courts balance employee rights and workplace efficiency.
Unlawful Arrest and the Exclusionary Rule: What People v. Jubilag Means for Your Rights
The Supreme Court acquitted a man whose gun was "planted" by police. Learn how unlawful arrest and the exclusionary rule protect you.
Employer Liability in Independent Contractor Relationships: The PAL Security Guards Case
Philippine Airlines v. NLRC clarifies when a client company becomes liable for an independent contractor's employees—and when it does not.
Rape Conviction Based on Victim's Testimony: Philippine Jurisprudence Analysis
Examining the Supreme Court's ruling in People v. Apilo on the sufficiency of a minor rape victim's testimony and the rules on credibility.
Probation After Appeal Understanding THE Waiver Rule IN THE Philippines
Learn how appealing a conviction waives probation eligibility in the Philippines, based on Supreme Court rulings and the Probation Law.
Commodities Futures Trading: Understanding Risks and Legal Protections in the Philippines
Learn how Philippine courts treat disputes over commodity futures trading, including fraud claims and where investors can seek legal remedies.
When Can a Company Terminate an Employee Due to Illness? Philippine Law Guide
Philippine law sets strict rules for terminating employees due to illness. Learn the requirements, including the six-month cure rule and medical certification.
Earnest Money and Conditional Obligations: Navigating Real Estate Sales in the Philippines
A Supreme Court ruling on earnest money, conditional obligations, and what happens when a seller fails to deliver in Philippine real estate sales.
When Can Employee Absences Lead to Dismissal? A Guide for Employers and Employees
Explore when habitual absences justify dismissal under Philippine labor law, citing the Meralco v. NLRC case.
Understanding Conspiracy and Treachery in Philippine Criminal Law: A Case Study
How the Supreme Court applied conspiracy and treachery in a murder case, explained in plain language for everyday readers.
Usury Law Interest Rates: When Courts Can Intervene in Stipulated Loan Interest
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when courts can reduce stipulated interest rates on loans under the Usury Law and CB Circular 905.
Circumstantial Evidence Proving Guilt Beyond Reasonable Doubt in Philippine Courts
When can circumstantial evidence convict? The Supreme Court explains the unbroken chain rule in People v. Sumaoy.
Judicial Misconduct: Neglect of Duty and Insubordination in Philippine Courts
A Supreme Court ruling on a judge's failure to follow procedural rules and obey a superior's directive, resulting in a fine.
Publication Requirement: The Real Limit on Administrative Rule-Making Power
A Supreme Court ruling on PITC's trade regulations underscores the publication requirement for administrative issuances to be valid and effective.
Final Executory Judgments and Ejectment: Why Ownership Disputes Do Not Bar Execution
A final ejectment judgment cannot be blocked by a later ownership ruling. The Soco v. Court of Appeals case explains the limits.
Lease Renewal vs Extension Understanding Your Rights in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the crucial difference between lease renewal and extension, and why verbal assurances of renewal may not hold up in court.
Habeas Corpus After Criminal Charges: When Illegal Arrest No Longer Justifies Release
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when habeas corpus becomes moot after criminal charges are filed and bail is posted.
Constructive Dismissal When Workplace Conditions Force Resignation
Learn when unbearable work conditions amount to constructive dismissal under Philippine labor law, and what remedies employees can pursue.
Perfecting Appeals: Why Timeliness Is Everything in Philippine Courts
A dismissed certiorari petition becomes final and binding. Learn why procedural rules like Circular 1-88 can decide your case.
Check-Off Provisions in Philippine Labor Law: Employer Liability for Uncollected Union Dues
When an employer fails to deduct union dues under a CBA check-off, is it liable for the uncollected amount? The Supreme Court clarifies.
Trademark Protection vs Ownership: Rights Over Branded Bottles and Containers
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies how trademark rights over branded bottles interact with ownership rights when containers are sold to consumers.
Litis Pendencia Understanding When A Prior Lawsuit Bars A NEW Case IN THE Philippines
Learn the elements of litis pendencia and how a prior case can bar a new lawsuit in Philippine courts.
Government Immunity vs Corporate Liability: When Can Government Assets Be Garnished
The Supreme Court clarifies when government agencies can be sued and when their funds are protected from garnishment in this labor law case.
Admissibility of Confessions: When Can Your Words Be Used Against You
The Supreme Court explains when extrajudicial confessions are admissible, the right to counsel, and waiver rules under the 1987 Constitution.