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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Control Is Key: When a Bank Becomes the Real Employer of an Outsourced Janitor
The Supreme Court rules that control over work, not contracts, determines employer-employee relationships in outsourcing arrangements.
Regular vs Project Employees: Key Differences and Rights in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies regular vs project employee status, tenure security, and monetary claims under Article 280 of the Labor Code.
Protecting Your Home: Illegal Search and Seizure in Philippine Drug Cases
When police act on a tip without a warrant, evidence may be inadmissible. Learn from a Supreme Court ruling on illegal searches.
Credibility of Rape Victim Testimony: Proving Guilt Beyond Reasonable Doubt in Philippine Courts
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a rape victim's credible testimony alone can convict an accused beyond reasonable doubt.
Credible Testimony in Rape Cases: Why a Victim's Account Alone Can Lead to Conviction in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court explains when a rape victim's lone testimony suffices for conviction, and why alibi and delay in reporting do not defeat it.
Right to Counsel: Why a Fake Lawyer Voids a Criminal Conviction
Learn why the Supreme Court overturned a rape conviction because the accused was represented by a non-lawyer, and what this means for due process.
Why the Right to Counsel Means a Real Lawyer: Lessons from People v. Santocildes
The Supreme Court reminds us that an accused must be represented by a licensed lawyer—not just anyone who acts like one.
Illegal Firearm Possession: Why Proof of No License Is Crucial
The Supreme Court acquitted a student of illegal firearm possession because the prosecution failed to prove he had no license. Learn why this element matters.
Philippine Oil Deregulation Upheld: Supreme Court Defers to Market Freedom and Congress
The Supreme Court upheld oil deregulation under RA 8479, ruling that price controls are policy choices for Congress, not constitutional requirements.
Illegal Possession of Firearm: Why the Prosecution Must Prove Lack of License
The Supreme Court acquits a student of illegal possession of firearm because the prosecution failed to prove he had no license—a vital element of the crime.
Deadline Missed: Understanding Election Protest Filing Periods in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when the 10-day period to file an election protest is suspended, and when it is not.
Navigating Conflicting Supreme Court Decisions in Land Ownership Disputes
When two final Supreme Court rulings conflict, which prevails? The Adia case offers guidance on resolving land title disputes.
When Proof of a Gun License Matters: Acquittal in Illegal Firearm Possession Cases
The Supreme Court acquitted a student of illegal firearm possession because prosecutors failed to prove he lacked a license. Here's why.
Procedural Due Process in Rape Cases: Why Proper Charges Matter
How a flawed criminal complaint led the Supreme Court to reduce death sentences to reclusion perpetua in a stepfather rape case.
Judicial Impartiality in Philippine Courts: Upholding Fairness in Case Assignments
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on judicial impartiality and fair case assignments, protecting due process and public trust in courts.
Invalid Government Appointments: How Unpublished Decrees Affect Public Servants' Rights
Supreme Court ruling on how unpublished presidential decrees create no valid offices, and why automatic absorption of employees is unconstitutional.
Reformation of Contracts in the Philippines: Navigating Unforeseen Events and Economic Shifts
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on contract reformation, fortuitous events, and extraordinary inflation in lease agreements. Learn key legal principles.
Lawyer Ethics Matter: Why Misconduct Investigations Proceed Despite Complainant Withdrawal in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that lawyer disciplinary cases continue despite complainant withdrawal, and silence is not admission of guilt.
When BIR Regional Directors Can File Tax Collection Cases: The Hizon Ruling
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies BIR regional directors' authority to file tax collection suits and the prescription rules under the NIRC.
What Constitutes Inducement to Commit a Crime: Philippine Supreme Court Clarifies Criminal Liability
The Supreme Court explains when words or orders amount to "inducement" making one a principal by induction, using a kidnapping case.
When Arbitration Clauses Do Not Bind Third-Party Buyers in Land Sales
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when arbitration clauses in contracts bind only parties, not third-party land buyers.
Victim Testimony Alone CAN Convict In Rape Cases: People v. Flores
Philippine Supreme Court ruling in People v. Flores confirms a rape victim's credible testimony alone is sufficient for conviction.
Proving Actual Damages in Philippine Courts: Why Evidence Matters
A look at how Philippine courts decide damages claims, using a Supreme Court case to show why solid evidence beats mere assertions.
Why Initial COMELEC Election Cases Must Be Decided by a Division, Not En Banc
Learn why the Supreme Court nullified a COMELEC en banc ruling in an SK election protest, citing the constitutional rule on divisions.