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.
Self-Defense and Intent to Kill: The Case of Conrado Casitas
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when self-defense fails and intent to kill is shown by the number and location of wounds inflicted.
When Ombudsman Suspension Is Final: One Month Without Pay Defined
The Supreme Court clarifies that a one-month suspension without pay by the Ombudsman is final and unappealable under R.A. 6770.
Treachery Unproven Conviction Reduced TO Homicide DUE TO Lack OF Premeditation
Judge Reprimanded for Discourtesy: Upholding Judicial Ethics in Philippine Courts
Supreme Court reprimands a Cebu RTC judge for berating a lawyer in open court, reaffirming strict standards of judicial conduct and courtesy.
Illegal Recruitment in Large Scale: When a Recruiter's Agent Still Faces Criminal Liability
Philippine Supreme Court explains when a recruiter's agent can be liable for illegal recruitment in large scale despite a licensed agency's SPA.
Weaponizing Fear: Rape Conviction Upheld Despite Victim's Delay in Reporting
The Supreme Court has ruled that a victim's delay in reporting a rape does not destroy her credibility, especially when the delay is explained by threats and fear.
Upholding Integrity: Disbarment for Bar Exam Leakage and the Duty of Care in Protecting Confidential Informati
The Supreme Court disbarred a lawyer for leaking bar exam questions, and reprimanded the examiner for negligence in safeguarding confidential materials.
Justice Tempered: Due Process and Conviction in the Chiong Sisters Case
The Supreme Court affirms the conviction of seven men for kidnapping and murdering the Chiong sisters, analyzing due process rights.
Presidential Power vs Constitutional Limits: The Illegality of Declaring a State of Rebellion
The Supreme Court ruled that declaring a "state of rebellion" is a superfluity with no legal effect, clarifying the limits of presidential power under the Constitution.
Age Verification in Rape Cases: Protecting Children and Ensuring Fair Trials
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on age verification in rape cases, balancing child protection with the accused's right to a fair trial.
IN Pari Delicto NO Relief FOR Parties IN Illegal Banking Schemes
Surety Bonds and Legal Interest: When Default Makes a Surety Pay More Than the Bond
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a defaulting surety must pay 12% legal interest on top of the bond amount.
Illegal Dismissal: Employers Must Prove Just Cause AND Due Process Before Termination
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies that employers must prove both just cause and procedural due process to avoid liability for illegal dismissal.
Forcible Entry Survey Requirements in Summary Procedure Cases: What the Supreme Court Says
Learn how Philippine courts resolve unlawful detainer cases, why Torrens titles prevail, and what summary procedure means for possession disputes.
Torrens Title vs Unregistered Deeds: Resolving Land Possession Disputes
In Co v. Militar, the Supreme Court ruled that a Torrens title prevails over unregistered deeds of sale in an ejectment case, and that title can only be cancelled directly.
Court Can Grant Unprayed Relief When Facts Warrant It: Arroyo v. Taduran
Supreme Court affirms P500,000 award despite no prayer for indemnity, citing judicial admissions and the rule on relief based on factual allegations.
Surety's Liability for Interest Beyond Bond Limit on Delayed Payment
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on whether a surety can be held liable for interest exceeding the bond's face value when payment is delayed.
Co-Ownership and Good Faith: Property Rights Lessons from Tala Realty vs. Banco Filipino
A Supreme Court ruling on lease contracts, good faith, and the limits of property rights under Philippine law.
Debt Recovery Without Specific Claim: Equity and Unjust Enrichment in Arroyo v. Taduran
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on recovering debt even without a specific prayer in the complaint, citing equity and unjust enrichment principles.
When Courts Can Grant Unprayed Relief: The Taduran Case on Judicial Admissions
Explaining when Philippine courts may grant relief not explicitly prayed for, based on the Supreme Court's ruling in Arroyo v. Taduran.
Illegal Dismissal: Employer's Burden of Proof and Due Process in Termination Cases
Learn the Supreme Court ruling on illegal dismissal, the employer's burden of proof, and due process requirements in employee termination cases.
Rescission Rights: When a Buyer's Failure to Pay Lets the Seller Cancel
A Supreme Court ruling explains when a seller may rescind a contract to sell, how installment payments are applied, and why a memorandum is not required for due process.
Mining Rights vs National Patrimony: The La Bugal Case on Foreign Control of Philippine Resources
Explaining the Supreme Court's La Bugal ruling on the Philippine Mining Act and foreign ownership limits over the country's mineral resources.
Unconscionable Interest Rates When Loan Agreements Become Exploitative
When do monthly interest rates become illegal? The Supreme Court explains the limits of lender freedom in Cuaton v. Salud.