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.
When a Lawyer's Error Binds a Client: The Doctrine of Negligence in Philippine Litigation
Explore how the Supreme Court holds clients bound by their counsel's mistakes, and when courts may grant relief from a lawyer's negligence.
Attorney Suspended for Acquiring Client's Property During Estate Proceedings
Lawyer suspended six months for acquiring property from client during pending estate proceedings, violating Article 1491 of the Civil Code.
When a Lawyer Crosses the Line: The Ban on Acquiring Client Property in Litigation
A Supreme Court ruling explains why lawyers cannot acquire property involved in litigation they handle, even under a contingent fee arrangement.
Upholding Attorney Accountability Disciplinary Action FOR Neglect OF Duty AND Deceit
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on lawyer discipline for neglect of duty and deceit, emphasizing ethical standards and client protection.
Zealous Advocacy Has Limits: Lawyers Reprimanded for Offensive Court Pleadings
Philippine Supreme Court reprimands lawyers for abusive language in pleadings, clarifying the limits of zealous advocacy and privileged communication.
Upholding Ethical Standards: Immorality as Grounds for Disciplinary Action Against Court Personnel
A lawyer's issuance of a bouncing check constitutes deceit and gross misconduct, warranting suspension from the practice of law.
Lawyer Suspended for Issuing Bouncing Check to Settle Client's Case
Lawyer who issued a bouncing check to settle a client's civil liability was suspended for two years for deceit and violating the Lawyer's Oath.
Finality of Judgment Bars Disbarred Lawyer's Bid to Reopen Case, Court Holds
Disbarred lawyer's attempt to reopen final judgment fails; Court cites contempt and orders execution of PHP 4.1M restitution.
Breach of Trust Dismissal for Misuse of Public Funds by a Court Official
A disbarred lawyer's failed bid to overturn his final judgment leads to indirect contempt and a writ of execution for misused funds.
Breach of Confidence When a Lawyer's Duty Collides With Self-Defense
A lawyer cannot use confidential client information to defend himself in an unrelated case. The Supreme Court explains the limits of attorney-client privilege.
Professional Courtesy Among Lawyers: The Imperative of Civility and Ethical Conduct
A lawyer's suspension for impleading opposing counsel and a prosecutor in a civil case illustrates the ethical duty of professional courtesy.
Dishonored Obligations When A Lawyers Debt Becomes A Disciplinary Matter
When a lawyer's unpaid debt and worthless checks become grounds for suspension—a look at Lao v. Medel.
When a Lawyer Cannot Defend Corporate Directors: Conflict of Interest Rules
A lawyer retained by a corporation cannot defend its board members in a derivative suit — that is representing conflicting interests.
Notarial Diligence: The Duty to Verify Identity in Property Transactions
A notary public must verify the identity of parties to property documents. Learn the lesson from a lawyer suspended for failing this duty.
Good Faith in Administrative Actions: Protecting Public Officials From Liability
The Supreme Court clarifies that good faith in filing administrative cases shields public officials from disciplinary liability, but lawyers must still respect courts.
Binding Agreements Upholding Compromise Judgments Despite Claims of Fraud and Duress
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when compromise judgments remain binding despite allegations of fraud, duress, and lawyer misconduct.
Lawyer Suspended for Falsifying Documents and Fraudulent Land Sale
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for five years for forging a special power of attorney to sell clients' land without consent.
Lawyer Suspended for Neglecting Client's Case and Failing to File Pleading
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for six months for accepting fees but failing to file a client's Complaint-in-Intervention, violating professional ethics rules.
Attorney Negligence and Client Trust: Lessons from a Philippine Disbarment Case
A lawyer who takes a client's fee but fails to file the case faces suspension. Learn the ethical rules and consequences.
Lawyer Suspended for Neglecting Client’s Case and Failing to Return Fees
A lawyer’s duty of diligence begins at retainer. Learn from a case where neglect led to suspension and refund.
Lawyer's Duty to Client: Suspension for Neglect and Unreturned Fees
A lawyer who accepts fees but fails to file a client's case faces suspension. Learn the ethical rules and consequences.
Circumventing Disqualification Orders Through Consultancy Contracts Warrants Lawyer Suspension
Lawyer suspended for violating court disqualification by serving as "consultant" to government agency while performing employee duties.
Disguised Employment and the Lawyer's Duty to Obey Court Orders
When a consultancy is really employment, a lawyer cannot use it to evade a court's disqualification order. The Supreme Court explains why.
Attorney Suspended for Misappropriating Client Funds and Neglecting Duties
Lawyer suspended one year for misusing client funds and failing to transfer property title, violating fiduciary duties under the Code of Professional Responsibility.