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.
Vehicular Homicide vs. Murder: Intent and the Use of a Motor Vehicle
When does a fatal vehicular incident become murder? The Mallari case shows how intent and the use of a motor vehicle elevate the crime.
Commercial Lease vs Residential Tenancy: Right of First Refusal Under Urban Land Reform
When does a long-term lessee get a right of first refusal? The Supreme Court clarifies PD 1517's limits.
Clerk of Court Dismissed for Misappropriating Judiciary Funds: Sollesta v. Mission
Supreme Court dismisses a clerk of court for converting P171,450 in judiciary funds, ruling restitution does not erase administrative liability.
Court Clerk Dismissed for Misappropriating P171,450 in Judiciary and Trust Funds
Supreme Court dismisses court clerk who misappropriated P171,450 in judiciary and trust funds, ruling restitution does not erase administrative liability.
Theft of Court Property: Resignation Does Not Bar Administrative Liability
A court employee who stole and sold unserviceable court property was found guilty of grave misconduct despite resigning. Learn the rules.
Bouncing Checks and Estafa: Pre-Existing Debt vs. Fraudulent Intent
When does a bouncing check become estafa? The Supreme Court clarifies the line between civil liability for pre-existing debt and criminal fraud.
CBA Separation Pay for Voluntary Resignation: When Contractual Stipulations Prevail
Philippine Supreme Court rules that a CBA can grant separation pay to voluntarily resigning employees, even if the Labor Code does not require it.
RES Judicata Understanding When A Prior Judgment Doesnt BAR A NEW Case
Right of First Refusal Under P.D. No. 1517: Limits on Urban Land Reform Tenant Protection
The Supreme Court clarifies when the right of first refusal under P.D. No. 1517 applies—and when it does not.
Disbarment for Grave Misconduct: Ethical Standards Apply to Lawyers in Public Office
A lawyer's grave misconduct as a government official can warrant disbarment. The Supreme Court explains why public office does not excuse ethical lapses.
When a Lawyer's Inaction Harms a Client's Case: Lessons from Rollon v. Naraval
A lawyer who accepts a case but does nothing—and keeps the client's money—faces suspension. The Supreme Court explains why.
Abuse of Rights and Uninvited Guests: The Amay Bisaya Damages Case
When does asking a gate-crasher to leave become actionable? The Supreme Court clarifies abuse of rights under Articles 19 and 21.
Loss of Trust and Confidence: When Temporary Assignment Does Not Justify Dismissal
Acting as a route salesman for three days did not make a driver-helper a trust-and-confidence employee, so dismissal was too harsh.
Libel Venue: Where Does the Case Belong Under Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies libel venue rules under Article 360, RPC—where to file cases and why allegations matter.
Civil Liability After Acquittal: Investment Fraud and Due Diligence in the Philippines
When does an acquittal in estafa still leave room for civil liability? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on damages, conspiracy, and investor due diligence.
Piercing THE Corporate Veil When Does A Corporate Officer Become Personally Liable
Dishonesty in Public Service: Falsifying Time Records and the Limits of Jurisdiction
Court clarifies that dropping an employee from the rolls does not divest it of jurisdiction over pending administrative cases for dishonesty.
Filing Suits Is a Right, Not Harassment: Gatmaytan v. Ilao
When does filing a lawsuit cross the line into harassment under the Code of Professional Responsibility? The Supreme Court clarifies the boundary.
Dishonesty in Public Service: Forfeiture of Benefits Despite Resignation
The Supreme Court ruled that a court employee's resignation does not erase administrative liability for dishonesty, and his retirement benefits may still be forfeited.
Breach of Contract to Sell in the Philippines: When Can a Buyer Claim Damages?
Full payment of a lot does not automatically entitle a buyer to moral damages. The Supreme Court explains what must be proven, and what can be recovered.
Upholding Due Process: Employees' Right to Notice in Termination Cases
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies that resignation does not shield court employees from administrative liability for dishonesty and grave misconduct.
When Does Prescription of Penalties Begin? The Doctrine of Evasion of Sentence
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that prescription of penalties under Article 93 RPC only runs when a convict escapes while serving imprisonment.
Res Judicata and Annulment of Titles: DBP v. La Campana Development Corporation
When does a prior final judgment bar a new case? The Supreme Court explains res judicata's limits in DBP v. La Campana.
B.P. 22 Liability: Severing Accommodation Deals Does Not Erase Knowledge of Insufficient Funds
Signing blank checks for an accommodation arrangement can create B.P. 22 liability even after severing ties. Learn the rules from Benjamin Lee v. CA.