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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Collective Guilt Establishing Conspiracy in Group Criminality
When does holding a victim's hand during a gang attack make you guilty of murder? The Supreme Court explains conspiracy.
Collective Liability and Conspiracy in Criminal Actions: People v. Aquino
When does mere presence or participation in a transaction amount to criminal conspiracy? The Supreme Court clarifies in People v. Aquino.
Deceptive Check Issuance and Fraud in Estafa Cases Involving Postdated Checks
When does issuing a postdated check become estafa? The Supreme Court explains the crucial role of deceit in People v. Panganiban.
Mistaken Identity vs Positive Identification: When a Wrong Name Does Not Exonerate a Killer
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on whether a witness's wrong name for the accused destroys identification and exonerates the killer.
When Does a Fistfight Turn Into Murder? Understanding Treachery in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains when a sudden attack from behind qualifies as treachery, and when it does not, in a Philippine homicide case.
Understanding Novation in Philippine Contract Law: When Does a New Agreement Cancel the Old
Philippine Supreme Court explains when a new contract cancels an old one, and why novation is never presumed in law.
When a Nullity Case Is Not a Prejudicial Question in Concubinage Prosecutions
A nullity of marriage case does not automatically suspend a concubinage prosecution. The Supreme Court explains why.
When Does an Agreement Become Legally Binding? The BF Homes Case on Perfected Contracts
Learn when a contract becomes legally binding in the Philippines, based on the Supreme Court's BF Homes ruling on homeowners' rights and jurisdiction.
Unreliable Witness Identification When Does It Impact A Criminal Case
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when witness identification and conspiracy evidence fail to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Reasonable Doubt in Philippine Criminal Law: When Does It Lead to Acquittal
The Supreme Court explains the moral certainty standard for proof beyond reasonable doubt and why weak eyewitness testimony leads to acquittal.
Treachery in Philippine Criminal Law: When a Sudden Attack Is Not Enough
The Supreme Court explains when a sudden attack qualifies as treachery in murder cases, and when it does not.
Can Administrative Dismissal Extinguish Criminal Liability? A Philippine Case Study
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies that dismissal of administrative charges does not extinguish criminal liability under Article 89 of the RPC.
Lease Renewal Rights: When "Subject to Renewal" Means Mutual Agreement
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that a lease clause "subject to renewal" does not mean automatic renewal—both parties must agree.
Accepting a Lower Position Does Not Waive an Illegally Terminated Employee’s Reinstatement Claim
Philippine Supreme Court ruling: accepting a lower or coterminous position during reorganization does not waive an illegally terminated employee’s right to reinstatement.
Default Orders and the Duty to Answer: Balancing Procedural Rules and Substantive Justice
When does a petition for certiorari excuse a defendant from filing an answer? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on default orders.
Trust Receipts and Estafa: Why a Civil Case Does Not Stop Criminal Prosecution
A pending civil action to nullify trust receipts is not a prejudicial question that bars criminal prosecution for estafa under Philippine law.
Defining Government Control When Does A Corporations Funding Subject IT TO Anti Graft Laws
When a Civil Case Does Not Suspend Criminal Estafa Proceedings
The Supreme Court clarifies when a civil action for nullity of trust receipts is not a prejudicial question that suspends criminal estafa cases.
Witness Credibility: Inaction During a Crime Does Not Mean False Testimony
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why a witness's stunned inaction during a crime does not undermine credibility or testimony.
When a Civil Case Does Not Stop a Criminal Estafa Charge: Trust Receipts Explained
A civil suit to nullify trust receipts does not automatically suspend criminal estafa proceedings. The Supreme Court explains when a prejudicial question exists.
Cohabitation and Property Rights: When Co-Ownership Arises Under the Family Code
Mere cohabitation does not create co-ownership. Under Article 148 of the Family Code, actual contribution to acquisition is required.
Proving Conspiracy Beyond Reasonable Doubt in Criminal Cases
When does joining a fray make one a conspirator? The Supreme Court clarifies the proof needed to establish conspiracy in criminal cases.
Rape, Intimidation, and Resistance: What the Law Requires in the Philippines
Philippine law does not require "tenacious" resistance in rape. A knife threat is intimidation enough. Learn the rules from a Supreme Court ruling.
Loan or Trust: Resolving Estafa Charges in Investment Disputes
When does a failed investment become estafa? The Supreme Court clarifies the line between a simple loan and a criminal trust agreement.