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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Contract Validity and Prescription: Lessons from Dailisan v. Court of Appeals
The Supreme Court upheld a notarized deed of sale because the heirs failed to seek annulment within four years, and partition does not prescribe for a co-owner.
Dismissal of Appeal When Technical Rules Trump Substantial Justice
When do procedural lapses justify dismissing an appeal? This article explains the rule and its limits, using Philippine Supreme Court jurisprudence.
Finality of Judgment: When a Lawyer's Negligence Does Not Deny Due Process
A dismissed employee's late appeal fails as the Supreme Court upholds finality of judgment despite counsel's negligence.
Upholding Judicial Efficiency: Accountability for Delays in Case Transmittal
Court holds clerk of court and judge liable for 16-month delay in transmitting appeal records, affirming strict timelines under Rule 40.
Perfecting Appeals: Strict Observance of Timelines in Labor Disputes
Learn how the Supreme Court enforces strict appeal deadlines in labor cases and why missing them is fatal to a party's cause.
Seafarers Disability Incorrectly Filed Appeal Doesnt Forfeit Benefits DUE TO Illness Contracted During Employment
When a Surety Bond Cannot Be Cancelled: AFP General Insurance v. Molina on Garnishment and Labor Awards
The Supreme Court ruled that a supersedeas bond posted to perfect an employer's appeal stays valid and enforceable until the case is finally disposed of, even if premiums go unpaid.
Surety Bond Enforceability: Non-Payment of Premiums Does Not Nullify Obligations to Labor Claimants
Supreme Court rules surety bonds in labor appeals remain valid despite unpaid premiums, protecting workers' monetary awards.
Tax Collection vs Right to Appeal: Balancing Government Power and Taxpayer Protection
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when posting a surety bond can suspend real property tax collection and protect taxpayer rights.
Prompt Payment Prevails: Execution Pending Appeal in Agrarian Reform Cases
When can a landowner get execution pending appeal in agrarian reform cases? The Supreme Court explains the of just compensation, and whether the reasons cited constituted "good reasons" under the Rule
Fresh Period Rule Applies Retroactively to Pending Appeals
The Supreme Court clarifies that the Neypes fresh period rule applies retroactively to pending cases, allowing late appeals to proceed.
Misdirected Appeals: Why Filing in the Wrong Court Can Cost You Your Case
Learn how filing an appeal in the wrong court can doom your case, based on a Philippine Supreme Court ruling on tax credits.
Authority TO Appeal THE Solicitor Generals Exclusive Role IN Criminal Cases
Certiorari Denied THE Crucial Role OF Proper Appeals IN Administrative Cases
Certiorari vs Appeal: Choosing the Right Path for Legal Review in the Philippines
Learn when to file a petition for certiorari versus an appeal under Rule 45, explained through a Philippine Supreme Court labor case.
Evaluating Witness Credibility When a Trial Court’s Findings Prevail in Homicide Cases
How Philippine courts weigh witness credibility in homicide cases, why trial court findings prevail on appeal, and the role of circumstantial evidence.
Perfecting Appeals THE Definitive Guide ON Filing Deadlines IN Estate Administration
Right to Counsel in Criminal Appeals: Due Process Beyond the Trial Court
The Supreme Court rules that the right to counsel extends to appeals, and gross lawyer negligence can excuse a missed appeal.
Dismissal of Appeal, Counsel's Negligence, and the Duty to Uphold Procedural Rules
The Supreme Court clarifies when a counsel's negligence may excuse a late appeal and when courts must relax procedural rules.
Certiorari vs Appeal: Choosing the Proper Remedy in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court explains why appeal and certiorari are mutually exclusive remedies, and why procedural rules matter in extraordinary actions.
Perfected Appeal: No Second Notice Needed After Decision Modification
A timely first notice of appeal perfects an appeal even if the trial court later modifies its decision. Learn the rule from PNB-Republic Bank v. Cordova.
Timely Notice of Appeal Protects Right to Appeal Modified Judgment
Supreme Court ruling on when a notice of appeal perfects an appeal and protects a party's right to challenge a modified judgment.
Discretion Prevails THE NON Appealable Nature OF Special Administrator Appointments IN Estate Proceedings
B.P. 22 Appeals: Failure to Serve Solicitor General Justifies Dismissal
Learn why failing to serve the Solicitor General in a B.P. 22 appeal can be fatal, and what procedural rules apply.