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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Simulated Co-Ownership and Legal Redemption: Understanding Implied Trusts in Philippine Property Law
When a deed of sale is simulated, no co-ownership arises, and the right of legal redemption does not apply. The Supreme Court explains implied trusts and their effect on property titles.
Forum Shopping in the Philippines: Why Dismissing One Case Doesn't Always Mean Dismissing All
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies forum shopping requires two pending cases; a dismissed appeal doesn't automatically trigger the rule.
Invalid Tax Assessment: Why an Affidavit for Criminal Complaint Does Not Count
The Supreme Court clarifies that a revenue officer's affidavit attached to a criminal complaint for tax evasion is not a formal assessment that can be appealed to the Court of Tax Appeals.
Moral Damages for Unfounded Lawsuits in the Philippines: What the Law Says
Winning a baseless lawsuit does not automatically entitle you to moral damages. Learn the rules from Expertravel v. CA.
When Heart Disease Makes a Death Claim Compensable Under Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains when a non-occupational illness like cancer does not bar death benefits if a compensable heart ailment caused death.
Eyewitness Testimony in Philippine Courts: Why Imperfect Recall Doesn't Equal Unreliable Evidence
Philippine Supreme Court ruling explains why minor inconsistencies in eyewitness testimony don't destroy credibility in criminal cases.
When Does a Judge's Private Act Warrant Discipline? The Calimag Case
The Supreme Court explains when a judge's private conduct becomes administratively actionable, distinguishing serious misconduct from mere private acts.
Beyond Reasonable Doubt: Circumstantial Evidence and Forensic Test Limits in Philippine Rape Cases
How the Supreme Court ruled that the absence of hymenal laceration does not negate rape, and why a father's moral ascendancy can substitute for force.
Rape Conviction Affirmed: The Weight of a Victim's Testimony in Philippine Courts
How Philippine courts assess credibility in rape cases, and why a delayed report does not automatically destroy the prosecution's case.
When Is a Policeman's Death Work-Related? Compensability for Law Enforcement Families in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when a police officer's death is compensable under PD 626, and when the 24-hour duty rule does not apply.
Retirement Pay Law Retroactivity: When RA 7641 Does Not Apply
The Supreme Court clarifies when the Retirement Pay Law applies retroactively—and when it does not—in J.V. Angeles Construction v. NLRC.
Philippine Energy Disputes: DOE vs ERB Jurisdiction Over Power Connections
The Supreme Court clarifies which agency—DOE or ERB—has jurisdiction over disputes involving direct power supply and disconnection in the Philippines.
Child Testimony in Rape Cases: Supreme Court Upholds Victim-Centric Approach
The Supreme Court affirms a rape conviction based on a child's credible testimony, clarifying that an intact hymen does not negate rape.
When Accident Doesnt Excuse Murder Understanding Parricide AND Intent IN Philippine LAW
A police officer shoots his wife, claims accident, but the Supreme Court affirms parricide. Learn how intent and evidence work in Philippine criminal law.
Improvident Guilty Plea in Capital Offenses: When a Conviction Still Stands
A flawed guilty plea in a capital case doesn't automatically void a conviction if prosecution evidence independently proves guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Why Lawyers in Government Service Are Still Bound by the Code of Professional Responsibility
A prosecutor's failure to remit SSS payments led to reprimand, affirming that public office does not exempt lawyers from ethical rules.
Legal Interest Rates in the Philippines: When Does 6% vs 12% Apply
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when 6% or 12% legal interest applies—loans and forbearance versus other obligations. Learn the rules.
When a Confirmed Flight Doesn't Extend Ticket Validity: Cervantes v. PAL
Learn from Cervantes v. PAL: confirming a flight does not extend a ticket's validity, and agents cannot bind the airline beyond their authority.
Does Your Case Die With Your Client? Survival of Actions and Attorney's Fees in the Philippines
When a client dies before judgment, does a lawyer's claim for fees survive? The Supreme Court explains the rule on survival of actions.
Force and Intimidation in Rape Cases: Why Silence Is Not Consent (People v. Marabillas)
Explaining how Philippine courts define force and intimidation in rape, and why a victim's silence or lack of resistance does not mean consent.
Prescription Periods in Philippine Property Disputes Involving Constructive Trusts
When does a claim for reconveyance based on a constructive trust prescribe? The Supreme Court clarifies the 10-year rule.
Security of Tenure for Private School Teachers: The NAMAWU v. San Ildefonso College Ruling
When do private school teachers gain permanent status, and what does illegal dismissal mean? The Supreme Court's ruling in NAMAWU v. San Ildefonso College provides clear answers.
Limits of Contempt Power: When Can You Actually Be Held in Contempt of Court in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court explains the limits of contempt power—when a court order binds you and when it does not.
Delayed Reporting in Rape Cases: Why Fear and Trauma Don't Discredit a Victim
Philippine Supreme Court ruling affirms that delayed reporting of rape doesn't automatically discredit a victim's testimony.