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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Ombudsman’s Power to Appoint vs CSC Rules: The Graft Investigation Officer III Case
The Supreme Court rules that the Ombudsman’s appointees to highly technical positions need not secure CES eligibility to gain permanency.
Upholding Union Democracy: Illegal Suspensions, Elections, and Financial Transparency
Supreme Court affirms penalties for union officers who suspended members without due process, held premature elections, and failed to render financial reports.
Upholding Judicial Efficiency Sanctions FOR Delayed Case Resolution IN THE Philippines
The Supreme Court fined two RTC judges for gross inefficiency, reaffirming the mandatory 90-day period for deciding cases.
Sheriffs Duty Execution Of Writs And Limits Of Discretion In Philippine Law
Explaining the limits of a sheriff's discretion when executing writs, based on Philippine Supreme Court rulings on ministerial duties.
When Local Councils Overstep: Cable TV Franchises and the Limits of LGU Power
A look at Zoomzat v. People, where the Supreme Court ruled that local governments cannot grant cable TV franchises—that power belongs to the NTC.
Upholding Legal Ethics: A Lawyer's Duty of Candor and Fidelity in Property Transactions
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on lawyers' duty of candor, fidelity, and accountability in property transactions and legal representation.
Judicial Accountability: The Price of Delay in Rendering Justice
A look at how the Supreme Court holds judges and court personnel accountable for delays in rendering justice, and what this means for litigants.
Local Government vs National Authority Defining Cable TV Franchising Powers
Supreme Court clarifies that only the NTC may grant cable TV franchises; local governments cannot exceed their regulatory powers.
Lawyer Suspended One Year for False Free Patent Application and Deceit
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for one year for applying for free patent over land he knew was sold to another, violating his oath and the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Illegal Dismissal: Full Backwages Despite Procedural Lapses
Learn how the Supreme Court ruled that illegally dismissed employees are entitled to full backwages even without perfect procedural compliance.
Retrenchment and Due Process: Balancing Employer Rights and Employee Protection in Economic Downturns
The Supreme Court clarifies retrenchment rules under the Labor Code, including notice requirements and separation pay, in Cajucom v. TPI Philippines.
Ombudsman's Primary Jurisdiction: Who Investigates Public Officials First
The Supreme Court clarifies that the Ombudsman's primary jurisdiction over public officials' cases prevails once it takes cognizance of a complaint.
VAT Refund Eligibility for PEZA-Registered Enterprises: Key Lessons from Seagate
The Supreme Court clarifies when PEZA-registered enterprises can claim VAT refunds on capital goods, distinguishing exempt entities from exempt transactions.
A Philippine Judge's Court Session Abroad: When Territorial Jurisdiction Is Overstepped
The Supreme Court sanctioned a judge who held hearings at the Philippine Consulate in San Francisco, ruling that judicial power ends at Philippine borders.
Substantial Compliance in Land Registration Blueprint Suffices When Original Plan Is Available
Supreme Court clarifies that blueprint copies of survey plans may substantially comply with land registration requirements when the original is later submitted.
Court Interpreter Dismissed for Misappropriating Fiduciary Funds: A Lesson in Public Trust
Supreme Court dismisses court interpreter for misappropriating P540,500 in fiduciary funds, underscoring strict accountability for court personnel.
When Actions Speak Louder: Trust, Dishonesty, and Due Process in Employment Termination
A Supreme Court ruling on simple misconduct in the judiciary, explaining why good faith actions can still violate trust and lead to suspension.
Carrier Liability for Passenger Safety: Extraordinary Diligence in Public Transportation
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies common carrier liability, extraordinary diligence, and delivery standards in breach of contract cases.
Extraordinary Diligence in Cargo Delivery: Common Carrier Responsibilities and Liabilities
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies common carrier extraordinary diligence standards in cargo delivery disputes, balancing shipper protections with carrier defenses.
Loss of Trust and Due Process: Employer Liability for Dismissal Violations in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when loss of trust justifies dismissing a managerial employee and what damages apply when procedural due process is breached.
Equitable Mortgage vs Pacto de Retro Sale: Property Rights in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court explains the difference between equitable mortgage and pacto de retro sale, and why mortgagees cannot simply consolidate ownership.
Good Faith Payments and Prior Satisfaction as Grounds for Acquittal in BP 22 Cases
Supreme Court acquits corporate officer in BP 22 case where the dishonored check was fully paid two years before charges were filed.
When a Lawyer Drops the Ball: Lessons from Edquibal v. Ferrer on Diligence and Client Trust
A Supreme Court ruling on lawyer negligence in appeals, explaining counsel's duty of diligence and what clients should expect.
Lawyers Must Uphold Diligence and Fidelity in Legal Representation
A lawyer who fails to file an appellate brief faces suspension. The Supreme Court affirms that neglect of a client's case violates the Code of Professional Responsibility.