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.
Rape by a Parent: When Sexual Abuse Severs the Bonds of Trust
The Supreme Court affirms the death penalty for a father who raped his 11-year-old daughter, ruling on qualified rape and guilty pleas.
When Silence Speaks: Implied Contracts and the Burden of Proof in Business Deals
The Supreme Court clarifies that implied contracts require clear evidence, not mere suspicion, in disputes over business transactions.
Ombudsman's Discretion in Dismissing Graft Complaints: Samson v. Ombudsman
When can courts overturn the Ombudsman's dismissal of an anti-graft complaint? The Supreme Court explains the limits of judicial review.
Neglect of Duty Requires Substantial Evidence: Protecting Public Servants From Unsubstantiated Claims
The Supreme Court clarifies that administrative liability for neglect of duty demands substantial evidence, not mere allegations or speculation.
Upholding Public Trust: Negligence in Disbursement of Funds Despite Restitution
A Supreme Court cashier's restitution did not erase his administrative liability for simple neglect of duty in releasing funds without proper identification.
Bouncing Checks Law: When Fear and Necessity Do Not Excuse Issuing Bad Checks
The Supreme Court clarifies when uncontrollable fear and state of necessity cannot excuse liability under the Bouncing Checks Law.
Supreme Court Reinstates NLRC Ruling on Belated Labor Appeal: Timeliness Matters
SC ruling clarifies that belated appeals to the NLRC cannot be excused by mere merit arguments, reaffirming strict procedural rules.
Supervision vs. Control: Safeguarding Local Autonomy in the Liga ng mga Barangay
The Supreme Court clarifies the line between supervision and control over the Liga ng mga Barangay, protecting local autonomy.
Simple Neglect of Duty: When Withdrawal of an Administrative Complaint Does Not End Liability
The Supreme Court clarifies that withdrawal of an administrative complaint does not erase liability for simple neglect of duty by public officers.
Three-Term Limit for Local Officials: When an Election Loss Resets the Clock
Election loss interrupts an official's service and resets the three-term limit, as clarified by the Supreme Court in Adormeo v. COMELEC.
How Court Deadlines and Extensions Are Computed: The Luz Rule
The Supreme Court clarifies how extensions of time are counted in Philippine courts, and when liberal interpretation may save a late filing.
Contract of Sale vs Contract to Sell: Clarifying Obligations in Property Transactions
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies distinctions between contract of sale and contract to sell, and their impact on property rights and obligations.
Forum Shopping and Appeal Jurisdiction: Traverse Development Corp. v. DBP
When a dismissal order raises only legal questions, appeal lies with the Supreme Court, not the Court of Appeals.
Accidental Harm vs Self-Defense: When Can You Claim Innocence in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when accident or self-defense excuses criminal liability, and why switching defenses on appeal fails.
DAR Jurisdiction Over Agrarian Implementation Disputes Explained
When do courts vs. DAR hear agrarian disputes? The Supreme Court clarifies jurisdiction over CARP implementation cases.
Failure to Deny Loan Document Authenticity Under Oath Is an Admission of Debt
Supreme Court rules that a borrower who fails to specifically deny under oath the genuineness of loan documents impliedly admits the debt.
Perfecting Labor Appeals: The Mandatory Bond Requirement and Its Exceptions
Learn why posting an appeal bond is mandatory in labor cases, when exceptions apply, and how a motion to reduce bond affects the appeal period.
Choosing the Right Legal Path: Appeals From Voluntary Arbitration Decisions in the Philippines
Learn how Philippine courts handle appeals from voluntary arbitration decisions and why choosing the right legal remedy matters.
Disbarment for Infidelity: Moral Standards in the Legal Profession
The Supreme Court disbarred a lawyer for marital infidelity, reaffirming that good moral character is a continuing requirement for all members of the bar.
Default Judgments and Due Process: Ensuring Fair Notice in Legal Proceedings
Learn how the Supreme Court protects due process in default judgments, emphasizing fair notice and the proper remedy for appealing decisions.
Taxpayers Beware: Exhaust Administrative Remedies Before Appealing Property Tax Disputes to Courts
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that property tax disputes must first go through administrative remedies before courts can intervene.
Dismissal of Managerial Employee for Loss of Trust and Confidence: PLDT v. Tolentino
When can a company validly dismiss a managerial employee for loss of trust and confidence? The Supreme Court explains the limits.
Bouncing Checks and Subsidiary Imprisonment: What BP 22 Violators Face
Can a BP 22 violator be jailed for failing to pay fines? The Supreme Court explains subsidiary imprisonment rules.
Due Process and Appeal Rights in Land Title Disputes: Apuyan v. Haldeman
A look at Apuyan v. Haldeman on appeal perfection, final orders, and free patent requirements in Philippine land disputes.