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.
Get a cited, plain-language answer from 184,000+ statutes and decisions — free, no sign-up.
Understanding Qualified Trafficking in Persons: Consent and Vulnerability in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains how consent does not negate trafficking when victims are vulnerable minors recruited for sexual exploitation.
Land Registration in the Philippines: Proving Alienable and Disposable Status
Philippine land registration requires proof that property is alienable and disposable public land. A recent Supreme Court ruling explains the strict requirements.
When Lawyers Cross the Line: Disbarment for Misappropriating Client Funds
A Supreme Court ruling disbarred two lawyers for misappropriating a client's P5 million, underscoring the strict fiduciary duties of attorneys.
Public Procurement and the Anti-Graft Law: Lessons from Coloma v. People
A police official's conviction for violating Section 3(e) of R.A. 3019 shows how flawed procurement and bad faith lead to graft liability.
Understanding Jurisdiction in Agrarian Reform Disputes: Insights from a Landmark Philippine Supreme Court Case
Learn how the Supreme Court clarified jurisdiction over agrarian reform disputes in Land Bank v. Heirs of Divinagracia, a key Philippine property law case.
Eyewitness Testimony in Murder Convictions: Insights from Philippine Supreme Court Jurisprudence
Learn how Philippine courts weigh eyewitness testimony in murder cases, from credibility rules to appellate review standards.
Understanding Jurisdiction in Unlawful Detainer Cases: Key Lessons from a Landmark Ruling
A court cannot order a person to vacate property not named in the unlawful detainer complaint. Learn the jurisdictional rules.
Ensuring Integrity: The Critical Role of Chain of Custody in Drug Offense Cases
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect due to broken chain of custody, underscoring strict compliance with Section 21 of RA 9165.
Robbery With Homicide: When a Robber Dies During the Hold-Up
The Supreme Court clarifies when robbers can be liable for robbery with homicide even if a co-robber, not a victim, is killed.
Understanding Circumstantial Evidence in Robbery With Homicide Cases: Insights From Philippine Supreme Court R
Learn how Philippine courts treat circumstantial evidence in robbery with homicide cases, and what the Supreme Court requires for conviction.
Rape Conviction Reduced to Simple Rape When Mental Disability Not Alleged in Information
The Supreme Court explains why a rape conviction was reduced from qualified to simple rape when the victim's mental disability was not alleged in the information.
Understanding Circumstantial Evidence in Robbery with Homicide Cases: Key Lessons from People v. Lignes
How Philippine courts use circumstantial evidence to convict in robbery with homicide, explained through the 2020 Lignes ruling.
Unlocking Land Ownership: Navigating the Complexities of Land Registration in the Philippines
Learn the strict requirements for land registration in the Philippines, including the crucial proof needed to establish alienable and disposable land.
Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: Why Missing Insulating Witnesses Can Lead to Acquittal
A buy-bust conviction was reversed because police failed to secure required witnesses during inventory. Learn the chain of custody rule.
Habeas Corpus Limits: When Can You Challenge a Conviction in the Philippines
The Supreme Court explains when habeas corpus can and cannot be used to challenge a conviction, and why GCTA does not apply to heinous crimes.
Understanding the Legal Definition of Rape: Insights From a Landmark Philippine Case
A 2020 Supreme Court ruling clarifies what counts as carnal knowledge in rape, explaining that full penetration is not required for conviction.
Chain of Custody in Drug Busts: Why Insulating Witnesses Matter
The Supreme Court acquits three accused in a drug bust for broken chain of custody, reiterating the strict rules under Section 21 of RA 9165.
Rape Convictions and Victim Testimony: The Sweetheart Defense in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on rape conviction, victim credibility, and why the sweetheart defense and alibi fail against clear testimony.
Competitive Bidding Under RA 9184: Supreme Court Affirms Graft Conviction for Skipping Public Bidding
A public official's conviction for violating RA 3019 shows that government procurement of consulting services requires competitive bidding under RA 9184.
Attorney Client Conflicts and Ethical Boundaries: Lessons from a Philippine Disbarment Case
A lawyer's zeal must not cross into harassment. The Supreme Court clarifies ethical limits in Cabarroguis v. Basa.
Understanding Psychological Incapacity in Philippine Marriages: Legal Standards and Real-Life Implications
The Supreme Court clarifies the strict standards for declaring marriages void due to psychological incapacity under Article 36 of the Family Code.
Foreign Investment Restrictions in Philippine Construction: Insights from the PCAB v. Manila Water Ruling
The Supreme Court struck down the 60% Filipino equity rule for construction licenses, reshaping foreign investment in the industry.
Understanding Incestuous Rape Standards and Victim Credibility in Philippine Courts
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies legal standards for incestuous rape and how courts assess victim credibility in such cases.
Navigating Conflict of Interest: The Importance of Ethical Notarization in Legal Practice
A lawyer who notarizes an adverse party's affidavit risks conflict of interest and suspension. Learn the ethical rules.