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.
Seafarer Disability Claims: When Payment Becomes Final Despite a Reversed Award
A Supreme Court ruling on seafarer disability benefits, the 120-day rule, and when conditional payment becomes final satisfaction of judgment.
Seafarer Disability Claims: Why the 120-Day Rule Is Not Automatic
The Supreme Court clarifies that the 120-day rule does not automatically grant total disability benefits to seafarers under the POEA-SEC.
Defective Motion for Reconsideration Cannot Revive Waived Prosecution Evidence
Supreme Court nullifies trial court order allowing prosecution to present evidence after fatally defective motion for reconsideration.
Eminent Domain and Just Compensation: How Courts Value Expropriated Property
Philippine Supreme Court explains how courts determine just compensation in expropriation cases, using Republic v. Heirs of Santiago as guide.
Seafarers Disability Claims Upholding Company Doctors Assessment Absent Third Opinion
Supreme Court clarifies when a company-designated physician's disability grading prevails over a seafarer's private doctor in POEA-SEC claims.
Implied Admission: The Impact of Unanswered Requests in Philippine Litigation
A party who ignores a request for admission risks implied admission of key facts, which can lead to summary judgment. This case explains why.
Trademark Confusion: Prior Use and Consumer Deception in Philippine IP Law
The Supreme Court ruled that PHILITES is confusingly similar to PHILIPS, applying both the dominancy and holistic tests in trademark law.
Automatic Revocation Clauses in Donations: When Breach Immediately Returns the Property
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that automatic revocation clauses in donations take effect immediately upon breach, without need for judicial action.
Hospital Liability FOR Nurse Negligence Ensuring Patient Safety AND Diligent Supervision
Unreasonable Search and Seizure in Illegal Gambling Cases: The Exclusionary Rule and Privacy Rights
Supreme Court acquits two men convicted of illegal gambling because police entered a home without a warrant, applying the exclusionary rule.
Dying Declarations as Evidence: When a Wife's Statement Leads to a Parricide Conviction
The Supreme Court explains when a dying declaration is admissible evidence and how it can support a parricide conviction.
Just Compensation in Agrarian Reform Courts Must Apply Legal Formula for Fair Land Valuation
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that agrarian reform courts must follow DAR valuation formulas when determining just compensation for land.
Expired Contracts CAN Courts Compel Execution After A Decade
Can courts compel performance of an expired contract after ten years? This article explains the rules on prescription and when courts may still order execution.
When a Father's Denial Fails: Qualified Rape and Damages in People v. Mendoza
Supreme Court affirms qualified rape conviction of a father, clarifies force need not be proven in incestuous rape, and increases damages.
Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: Why Procedural Lapses Lead to Acquittal
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect due to broken chain of custody, emphasizing strict compliance with RA 9165 safeguards.
Just Compensation in Agrarian Reform: Balancing Land Valuation and Fair Returns
When courts ignore the DAR valuation formula for agrarian land, the Supreme Court remands the case to ensure just compensation under RA 6657.
Timely Disability Claims: Seafarers' Rights and Employer Obligations Under POEA-SEC
Learn how the Supreme Court clarified seafarers' disability claims, the 120/240-day rule, and why timely filing matters under POEA-SEC.
Corporate Liability Accountability FOR Unremitted SSS Contributions
Supreme Court affirms conviction of corporate officer for non-remittance of SSS contributions under RA 8282.
Dismissal With Just Cause Still Requires Procedural Due Process: Ortiz v. DHL
A valid dismissal needs both substantive and procedural due process. Learn the twin notice and hearing rules from Ortiz v. DHL.
Filing Disability Claims Early: Why Timing and the Company Doctor's Assessment Matter
A seafarer's premature disability claim fails when the company-designated physician issues a Grade 10 rating within 240 days. Learn the rules.
Unlawful Detainer When Initial Objection Voids A Claim OF Tolerance
Supreme Court ruling on unlawful detainer, lease renewal options, and binding successors-in-interest in property law.
SSS Contribution Remittance: Non-Payment Makes Corporate Officers Criminally Liable
Corporate officers can face jail time for failing to remit SSS contributions. Learn the rules from a Supreme Court ruling.
Successor Government Agencies Bound by Prior Lease Agreements: Key Lessons from PMO v. PIC
When a government agency takes over another's assets, it also inherits lease obligations. The Supreme Court explains why.
Constructive Dismissal: When Work Conditions Become Unbearable Under Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies constructive dismissal standards and service incentive leave pay prescription in Rodriguez v. Park N Ride.