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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Robbery with Homicide in the Philippines: How Conspiracy Expands Criminal Liability
In People v. Musa, the Supreme Court held that all conspirators in a robbery are liable for robbery with homicide even if they did not take part in the killing.
Avoiding Double Jeopardy Distinct Offenses Arising From A Single ACT
The Supreme Court clarifies when a civil case can suspend criminal proceedings, and why rescission of a contract does not defeat a BP 22 prosecution.
When Banks Must Answer: BSP Decisions Appealable to Court of Appeals
Explaining the Supreme Court ruling that BSP Monetary Board decisions on bank administrative complaints may be appealed to the Court of Appeals.
Limits of Search Warrants: Illegal Seizure of Unspecified Items During Drug Raids
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that seizing items not specified in a search warrant during drug raids violates constitutional rights and may be inadmissible.
Due Process in Election Appeals: The 30-Day Rule for COMELEC Petitions
The Supreme Court clarifies the 30-day filing period for appeals from COMELEC rulings, emphasizing strict compliance in election cases.
Standing to Sue: Can an Individual Challenge a Comelec Resolution Affecting an Organization
The Supreme Court clarifies who may challenge COMELEC rulings, emphasizing standing requirements under Rule 65 in election cases.
Double Titling Risk: How Courts Balance Finality and Preventing Land Ownership Errors
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies how courts balance finality of judgments against preventing double titling and land ownership errors.
Reconstitution of Title in the Philippines: Strict Compliance and Proof of Ownership
Philippine Supreme Court explains strict requirements for judicial reconstitution of lost Torrens titles, including notice rules and proof of ownership.
HLURB's Primary Jurisdiction Over Real Estate Disputes Involving Unsound Practices
When does the HLURB have exclusive jurisdiction over real estate disputes? The Supreme Court clarifies in Tri-Corp v. Greystone.
Broken Chains: Safeguarding Drug Evidence Integrity in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court affirms a drug conviction but orders return of items seized beyond the search warrant, underscoring strict limits on police discretion.
Notarial Misconduct: Lawyers Bound by Commissioned Territory and Responsibilities
A lawyer's notarial commission is territorial and personal. Learn the limits from a Supreme Court ruling on a notary's misconduct.
Judicial Overreach When Injunctions Exceed Legal Boundaries
The Supreme Court rules that courts cannot dismiss just compensation cases based on DARAB rules that conflict with RA 6657.
Overseas Dreams vs Deceptive Schemes: Illegal Recruitment and Estafa Under Philippine Law
The Supreme Court affirms convictions for illegal recruitment and estafa against a fake recruiter who promised overseas employment in Australia.
Revocation of Authority and Amendment of Information in Election Cases
Supreme Court clarifies when prosecutors may amend informations and when arraignment may be suspended pending COMELEC appeal.
Ejectment or Agrarian Dispute? How Philippine Courts Decide Who Has Jurisdiction
A Supreme Court ruling explains why a land dispute was treated as an ejectment case, not an agrarian matter, and how jurisdiction is determined.
Derivative Suits and Venue: Lessons from Hi-Yield Realty v. Court of Appeals
Explaining the Supreme Court's ruling on derivative suit venue, Rule 65 vs. Rule 45, and why certiorari cannot substitute for a lost appeal.
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.
Union Shop Steward Is a Union Position: Lessons from Miranda v. Asian Terminals
The Supreme Court clarifies that a shop steward holds a union position, not a company post, and explains the limits of employer liability in intra-union disputes.
Piercing the Corporate Veil: When a Corporation Cannot Escape Its Loan Obligations
The Supreme Court explains when courts may disregard corporate fiction to hold a corporation liable for loans received by its affiliates and alter egos.
Perfecting Land Titles: Proving Possession Since June 12, 1945 Is Crucial
The Supreme Court clarifies that land registration applicants must prove possession since June 12, 1945, not just 30 years.
Buy-Bust Operations in Drug Cases: Legality Despite Lack of Prior Surveillance
The Supreme Court has ruled that a buy-bust operation remains valid even without prior surveillance or a test buy. Here is what Quinicot v. People teaches.
Compromise Agreements in Philippine Courts: When Parties Settle, the Court Approves
Explaining the Supreme Court's approval of a compromise agreement in Spouses Tankiang v. Alaraz, and what it means for settling litigation in the Philippines.
Constitutional Limits on Land Ownership: Aliens Cannot Indirectly Control Philippine Land Through Filipino Spo
Philippine Supreme Court ruling that alien spouses cannot claim rights over land titled to Filipino wives, citing constitutional prohibitions.
Co-Ownership and Redemption Rights: Key Lessons from Calma v. Santos
Learn how the Supreme Court resolved co-ownership disputes over a fishpond, covering notarized deeds, double sales, and legal redemption.