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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Attorney Negligence and Extrinsic Fraud: The Limits of Legal Recourse in Philippine Law
When a lawyer's negligence costs a client the case, can the judgment be annulled? The Supreme Court clarifies the rule on extrinsic fraud.
Proving Possession Since June 12, 1945: Key Requirements for Land Registration
A corporation's land registration application fails because it could not prove possession since June 12, 1945, nor the land's alienable status.
Proving Land Ownership: Open, Continuous Possession Since June 12, 1945 Required
Land registration requires proof of open, continuous possession since June 12, 1945, plus evidence the land is alienable and disposable.
Client’s Right to Terminate Counsel and Withdraw Appeal: Bautista v. Seraph Management
Supreme Court affirms a client’s absolute right to fire counsel and withdraw an appeal, even if the lawyer doubts the client’s decision.
When a Client Relieves Counsel: Withdrawal of Appeal and Compromise Agreements
A look at Bautista v. Seraph Management Group, Inc. on withdrawal of appeals, relieving counsel, and the validity of compromise agreements.
Lawyer Disbarred for Neglecting Client and Misappropriating Funds Faces Contempt
Supreme Court denies lawyer's bid to reverse disbarment, cites him for contempt, and orders execution to return misappropriated client funds.
When an Alien Executive Is a Regular Employee, Not a Corporate Officer: The WPP v. Galera Lesson
The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between a corporate officer and a regular employee, and the consequences of working without an alien employment permit.
Attorney's Fees vs. Compromise Agreements: Protecting a Lawyer's Right to Compensation
A client may settle a case without the lawyer's consent, but the settlement cannot be used to wipe out the lawyer's rightful fees, the Supreme Court ruled.
Lawyer Negligence and Duty to Account: Suspension for Unfinished Case
A lawyer who accepts fees but neglects a client's case and fails to account for money received may face suspension from practice.
When Notice to Counsel Binds the Client: Due Process in Philippine Administrative Law
A Supreme Court ruling explains why notice to a deputized counsel binds the government client, and what this means for due process and finality of judgments.
Adverse Claims and Execution Liens: Priority Rules in Philippine Property Law
When an adverse claim is annotated on a title before a levy on execution, the earlier claim prevails. This case explains the priority rule.
Upholding Public Land Rights Denying Land Registration Within Military Reservations
Supreme Court affirms that lands inside military reservations and forest lands are inalienable public domain, not registrable.
Passport Validity and Deportation: Re-Entry Requirements for Deported Aliens in the Philippines
A deported alien who re-enters without a valid passport and prior consent may face deportation. Learn the rules from a Supreme Court ruling.
Attorney Negligence: When a Lawyer's Lapses Lead to Suspension
The Supreme Court suspended a lawyer for one year for inexcusable negligence—failing to file briefs and appearing in court, causing clients to lose their case.
When Deceit and Misappropriation Tarnish Legal Practice: A Case on Attorney Disbarment
Learn how the Supreme Court disciplines lawyers who deceive clients and mishandle funds, and what this means for ethical practice.
Dacion en Pago Perfecting Ownership Despite Prior Encumbrances
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on dacion en pago, mortgage liens, and the right to compel surrender of a certificate of title.
Attorney-Client Privilege: When Confidentiality and Conflicts of Interest Are Not Violated
The Supreme Court clarifies when a lawyer's use of client information and representation of a former client's adversary does not breach professional ethics.
Attorney Authority and Due Process After a Client's Death: Protecting Heirs' Rights
When a client dies mid-case, counsel's authority and the heirs' right to due process must be protected. The Supreme Court clarifies the rules.
IBP Legal Aid Clients Exempted From Court Fees: A New Rule for Access to Justice
The Supreme Court exempts qualified IBP legal aid clients from paying filing, docket, and other legal fees, advancing free access to courts for the poor.
Lawyer Suspended Six Months for Neglect and Failure to Return Client's Acceptance Fee
Learn how a lawyer's failure to render legal services and return a P50,000 acceptance fee led to a six-month suspension from practice.
Attorney Disqualification When Client Loyalty Trumps Informal Advice
A lawyer who gives informal advice can still form a client-lawyer relationship; representing opposing interests leads to disbarment.
Attorney Disbarred for Gross Neglect and Misappropriation of Client Funds
Supreme Court disbars lawyer who neglected a client's criminal case and misappropriated P18,000 intended for bail bond.
Brokerage Obligations Accounting FOR Stock Certificates AND Exchange Liabilities
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies stockbroker duties: accounting for missing certificates, PSE's right to sell pledged seats, and client refunds.
When Counsel's Gross Negligence Can Win a Client a New Trial
The Supreme Court explains when a lawyer's gross negligence deprives a client of due process and justifies a new trial.