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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Credibility in Rape Cases: Why Philippine Courts Trust Victim Testimony, Especially in Incest
Philippine Supreme Court explains why a rape victim's testimony, especially in incest cases, can convict despite lack of physical evidence.
Void Contracts and Official Overreach: Due Process in Philippine Law
When can public officials take over a leased public market? The Supreme Court clarifies void contracts, due process, and criminal liability under the Anti-Graft Law.
Unauthorized Notarization in the Philippines: Consequences for Lawyers and the Public
When a lawyer notarizes a document without the signer appearing, the consequences are severe. This article explains the rules and penalties.
Unwavering Testimony: Why Child Witness Credibility Is Key in Philippine Rape Cases
How the Supreme Court weighed a daughter's steadfast testimony against her father's denials in eight counts of incestuous rape.
Justice Delayed IS Justice Denied: The 90-Day Rule for Case Decisions in Philippine Courts
Philippine judges must decide cases within 90 days. This article explains the rule, its consequences, and a landmark administrative case.
Upholding Judicial Integrity: Gross Misconduct in the Philippine Judiciary
A Supreme Court ruling on a judge's gross misconduct shows the high ethical standards required of the bench and the consequences of abuse.
Defining Rape in the Philippines: Is Penetration Always Necessary?
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that full penetration is not required for rape; mere touching of the labia by the male organ suffices.
When Supervening Events Trump Dismissal: Due Process and Equity in Philippine Administrative Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how supervening events and equity can overturn an administrative dismissal despite valid due process.
Separation Pay in the Philippines: When Are Allowances Included?
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when monthly allowances form part of the salary base for computing separation pay under the Labor Code.
When Allowances Count as Wages: Separation Pay Computation Clarified
Supreme Court clarifies when allowances form part of wages for separation pay computation under Article 283 of the Labor Code.
Due Process in Agrarian Reform: Ensuring Fair Land Distribution in the Philippines
The Supreme Court ruled that DAR must observe due process before issuing CLOAs, affirming that beneficiaries deserve notice and hearing.
Credibility of Child Testimony in Rape Cases: Philippine Supreme Court Ruling
How Philippine courts assess a minor rape victim's testimony, minor inconsistencies, and absence of injuries in incest cases.
Challenging Real Property Tax Ordinances: Public Hearings and Publication Requirements
Learn how Philippine courts handle challenges to real property tax ordinances, including public hearing and publication requirements under the Local Government Code.
Due Process in Agrarian Reform: The Supreme Court on CLOA Issuance and Rightful Beneficiaries
The Supreme Court affirms that due process is indispensable in CLOA issuance, and explains when exhausting administrative remedies is not required.
Sheriffs Duty to Enforce Court Decisions Without Unnecessary Delay
A sheriff's ministerial duty to execute final judgments is explained through an administrative case on dereliction of duty.
How Philippine Courts Assess Credibility in Child Rape Cases: The Bation Case
The Bation ruling shows how Philippine courts weigh a child victim's testimony against alibi and speculation in incestuous rape cases.
Understanding Contracts of Sale vs Contracts to Sell in Philippine Property Law
Learn the key differences between contracts of sale and contracts to sell under Philippine law, and why the distinction matters for property buyers and sellers.
Credibility in Rape Cases: Why Uncorroborated Testimony and Delay Can Lead to Acquittal in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when uncorroborated victim testimony suffices for rape conviction and when delay or inconsistency may warrant acquittal.
Homicide vs Murder: Understanding the Nuances of Intent in Philippine Criminal Law
The Supreme Court clarifies when a killing is homicide, not murder, and why qualifying circumstances must be proven beyond doubt.
Due Process in Philippine Banking: Defending Against Monetary Board Sanctions
Learn how the Supreme Court defined due process rights for bank officers facing Monetary Board sanctions in Busuego v. Court of Appeals.
Lost Your Appeal Understanding Certiorari AND Final Judgments IN Philippine Courts
Learn how Philippine courts treat petitions for review on certiorari, final judgments, and due process in administrative proceedings.
Reopening a Criminal Case After Evidence Is Closed: The Santiago v. Sandiganbayan Guide
When can a court reopen a criminal case to hear more evidence? The Supreme Court explains the limits and the due process rights of the accused.
Reopening a Closed Case: Abuse of Discretion and Due Process in Philippine Courts
When can a court reopen a criminal case after evidence is closed? The Santiago ruling explains the limits and due process requirements.
Upholding Integrity in Public Service: Consequences of Neglect of Duty in the Philippines
A court stenographer's gross neglect of duty leads to forfeiture of benefits and a lifetime ban from government service.