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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Speedy Disposition of Cases: When Ombudsman Delay Justifies Dismissal
The Supreme Court clarifies when the Ombudsman's inordinate delay in preliminary investigation violates the constitutional right to speedy disposition of cases.
Understanding the Right to Speedy Disposition of Cases in Philippine Law: Insights from a Landmark Ruling
A look at the constitutional right to speedy disposition of cases and how the Supreme Court applied it in Catamco v. Sandiganbayan.
When a Bank Fails: Jurisdiction Over Claims Against Banks Under Liquidation
Philippine Supreme Court rules on which court hears claims against a bank placed under PDIC liquidation, voiding orders from a court without jurisdiction.
Supreme Court on Bail for Prisoners During COVID-19: The Almonte Ruling
The High Court explains when prisoners charged with serious offenses may seek bail or recognizance during a public health crisis.
Judicial Duties in Bail Applications: The Consequences of Gross Ignorance of the Law
A judge's dismissal for granting bail without hearings shows why bail rules demand strict compliance. Learn the duties.
Understanding Statutory Rape in the Philippines: The Power of a Child's Testimony
A child's credible testimony can convict in statutory rape cases, even with minor inconsistencies. Learn the rules from a recent Supreme Court ruling.
Property Title Disputes and Notarial Duties: Lessons from a Philippine Administrative Case
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies notarial duties in property transactions, showing why proper identity verification matters in land disputes.
Why Insulating Witnesses Matter in Drug Seizure Cases: People v. Balbarez
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect due to a broken chain of custody, stressing the critical role of insulating witnesses under Section 21.
Undue Delay in Rendering Decisions: When a Judge's Delay Draws Administrative Liability
The Supreme Court fined a judge for undue delay in rendering a decision, clarifying when judicial delay becomes administratively actionable.
Understanding Tax Compromise Agreements: Validity and Implications for Taxpayers
The Supreme Court affirms the validity of tax compromise agreements under the NIRC, protecting good-faith settlements with the BIR.
Understanding Abuse of Rights When Legal Actions Cross Ethical Boundaries
When does the right to speedy disposition become a shield against inordinate delay? The Supreme Court clarifies in Catamco v. Sandiganbayan.
Good Faith and Misinterpretation in Public Office: A Guide to the Anti-Graft Law
The Supreme Court clarifies when a public officer's mistaken interpretation of rules negates criminal liability under the Anti-Graft Law.
Navigating Tax Exemptions for Non-Profit Clubs: The Supreme Court's Ruling on Membership Fees
The Supreme Court clarifies that membership fees and assessment dues of recreational clubs are not subject to income tax and VAT.
Understanding Bail and Recognizance Rules: Insights From a Landmark Philippine Supreme Court Case
A 2020 Supreme Court ruling clarifies bail, recognizance, and prisoner release during emergencies—key insights for criminal law.
Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: Why Broken Links Lead to Acquittal
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect due to broken chain of custody. Learn the four links and insulating witness rules under RA 9165.
Speedy Disposition of Cases: When Ombudsman Delay Justifies Dismissal
The Supreme Court clarifies when Ombudsman delay violates the constitutional right to speedy disposition of cases, applying the Cagang guidelines.
Employee Rights to Overtime, Holiday, and Service Incentive Leave Pay in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when workers are "field personnel" and their rights to overtime, holiday, and service incentive leave pay.
Notarial Negligence and Property Rights: Lessons from De Guzman v. Venzon
A notary's failure to verify identity can cost you your land. Learn the rules and penalties from a recent Supreme Court ruling.
Balancing Procedural Rules and Substantive Justice in Criminal Appeals
The Supreme Court recalls an entry of judgment and reinstates a drug conviction appeal, showing when procedural lapses yield to substantive justice.
Illegal Dismissal and Union Busting: What SPC Power v. Santos Teaches Employers
The Supreme Court explains when dismissal becomes illegal, focusing on union busting and the employer's burden of proof in termination cases.
Upholding Public Trust Disciplinary Actions for Tardiness and Undertime in the Judiciary
The Supreme Court reminds court employees that tardiness and undertime violate the constitutional canon that public office is a public trust.
Navigating Title Reconstitution: Lessons from a Landmark Philippine Supreme Court Case
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies the strict jurisdictional requirements for reconstituting lost or destroyed land titles under R.A. No. 26.
Understanding Retrenchment Legal Requirements and Employee Rights in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies retrenchment rules: employers must prove serious losses, use fair criteria, and follow notice requirements.
Real Party in Interest in Unlawful Detainer: Lessons from Collao v. Albania
The Supreme Court clarifies who may sue for unlawful detainer and why procedural technicalities should not delay eviction cases.