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.
Appeal Dismissed: Choosing the Correct Court for Legal Questions
A bank's appeal from an arbitration award was dismissed for being filed in the wrong court. Learn the proper remedies under Philippine law.
Surety's Liability Survives Death of Principal Debtor: Stronghold Insurance v. Republic-Asahi
The Supreme Court rules that a surety's solidary liability under a performance bond is not extinguished by the death of the principal debtor.
Restrictions on Allowances for Water District Directors: Balancing Compensation and Public Service
The Supreme Court clarifies which allowances water district directors may receive under PD 198, prohibiting all compensation beyond per diems.
Religious Freedom and Administrative Discipline: The Escritor Doctrine on Benevolent Neutrality
Explaining the Supreme Court's landmark ruling on religious freedom as a defense in administrative cases, and the compelling state interest test.
Arbitration Decisions in the Philippines: Jurisdiction and Appeal Options Explained
Learn how to properly appeal arbitration awards in the Philippines, including which court has jurisdiction and the correct remedies available.
Senior Citizen Discounts Clarifying TAX Credit Entitlements FOR Businesses
Why Garnishees Can't Use Certiorari to Contest Garnishment Orders
Third-party garnishees cannot use certiorari to challenge garnishment orders. Learn the proper remedies under Rule 39.
Fraud Voids Donations: Protecting Consent in Property Transfers
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how fraud and misrepresentation invalidate donations, protecting illiterate donors' consent in property transfers.
Security of Tenure and Board Membership: Garayblas v. Atienza on Illegal Ouster
When does a board member's ouster become a justiciable case? The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between termination of appointment and illegal removal.
Unjust Enrichment and Extra Work: When Contractors Get Paid for Necessary Additions
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on contractor compensation for necessary extra work, unjust enrichment, and liquidated damages in construction contracts.
When a Judge's Contempt Power Becomes Grave Abuse of Authority
Supreme Court fines judge for citing a building operator in contempt over a switched-off circuit breaker, reaffirming limits on judicial contempt power.
Strikes and Lockouts: Balancing Workers' Rights and Employer Interests in Labor Disputes
The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on illegal strikes, work slowdowns, and the distinct penalties for union officers versus ordinary members.
Fraudulent Conveyance: When Property Sales Defeat Creditors' Rights
Philippine Supreme Court explains when a property sale is fraudulent against creditors and when creditors can rescind.
Foreclosure Disputes Protecting THE Rights OF Legal Spouses IN Mortgage Agreements
Breach of Warranty vs Waiver: Marine Insurance Policy Disputes in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies breach of warranty, waiver, and insurer liability in marine insurance disputes under the Insurance Code.
Due Process Prevails in Property Disputes: When a Writ of Possession Cannot Be Enjoined
The Supreme Court clarifies when a writ of possession in extrajudicial foreclosures is ministerial and when due process protects third-party possessors.
When Counsel's Error Binds the Client: Lessons from Tan v. Court of Appeals
A client is bound by counsel's mistakes, including missed appeal deadlines. Philippine Supreme Court ruling on finality of judgments.
When Is the Accused the Culprit? Assessing Witness Credibility in Homicide Cases
How Philippine courts weigh witness credibility in homicide cases, explained through the Supreme Court's ruling in Bricenio v. People.
Reconstitution of Titles: Verifying Authenticity and Protecting Property Rights
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies judicial reconstitution of lost titles under RA 26, emphasizing owner's duplicate authenticity and jurisdictional requirements.
Upholding Corporate Governance: The Limits of SEC Intervention in Church Disputes
When can courts reorganize a management committee created by the SEC? The Supreme Court clarifies the limits of regulatory intervention in corporate disputes.
Upholding Integrity: Disciplining Court Employees for Misconduct Outside Official Duties
The Supreme Court suspended a court stenographer for one year for moonlighting, showing judiciary staff may be disciplined for acts outside their official duties.
Employer Liability When an Employee's Crime Becomes the Company's Debt
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on employer subsidiary liability for crimes committed by employees, and when companies must answer for employee misconduct.
Seafarers Are Contractual Employees: What This Means for Benefits Claims
Supreme Court clarifies that seafarers are contractual, not regular, employees—affecting 13th month pay and disability benefits claims.
Ombudsman's Power to Impose Administrative Penalties: A Defining Ruling
The Supreme Court clarifies the Ombudsman's disciplinary authority—whether it can directly impose penalties or only recommend them.