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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Breach of Trust: When Negligence Justifies Employee Dismissal in the Philippines
When does an employee's negligence justify dismissal for loss of trust and confidence? The Supreme Court explains in this Philippine labor case.
Breach of Contract and Preliminary Attachment: D.M. Wenceslao v. Readycon
Supreme Court clarifies when a wrongful attachment claim succeeds and when a contract balance becomes due, in a construction supply dispute.
When Tax Assessments Become Final: Lessons from MERALCO's Garnishment Case
MERALCO's failed challenge to Muntinlupa's deficiency real property tax assessments shows why taxpayers must act promptly on tax notices.
Reelection Does Not Erase Criminal Liability for Prior Misconduct
Philippine Supreme Court ruling that reelection condones only administrative liability, not criminal charges under the Anti-Graft law.
Deficiency Judgments in Foreclosure: When a Lender Can Still Collect After the Auction
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling confirms that lenders may recover any shortfall after an extrajudicial foreclosure sale — the debtor remains liable for the unpaid balance.
Safeguarding Due Process: The Imperative of Fair Preliminary Investigations in Philippine Law
A lawyer's suspension for issuing worthless checks underscores the continuing duty of good moral character and the importance of fair preliminary investigations.
Finality of DOLE Secretary's Orders: Strict Compliance and Consequences of Delay
Learn why a second motion for reconsideration is prohibited and how delay can make DOLE Secretary orders final and executory.
Timeliness Matters: How Late Filing Can Cost You Your Case
Learn how a late filing can cost you your case, and why procedural deadlines matter in Philippine courts.
Seaworthiness in Charter Agreements: What Vessel Fitness Really Means
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies seaworthiness obligations in bareboat charters, ruling physical delivery alone does not fulfill the owner's duty.
Standby Letters of Credit Stand Outside Corporate Rehabilitation Stay Orders
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why standby letters of credit are not covered by rehabilitation stay orders and remain enforceable against issuing banks.
Ombudsmans Discretion Investigating Complaints Against Public Officials IN THE Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies the Ombudsman's discretionary power to investigate complaints against public officials and the limits of judicial review.
Double Sale Doctrine: Prior Registration and Good Faith in Land Ownership Disputes
When two buyers claim the same land, who wins? The Supreme Court explains the double sale rule under Article 1544 and the crucial role of good faith and Torrens registration.
Ombudsman's Discretion in Dismissing Graft Complaints: Kara-an v. Office of the Ombudsman
The Supreme Court affirms the Ombudsman's wide discretion in dismissing graft complaints, clarifying the proper remedy and standard of review.
When Exam Integrity Is Questioned: The Limits of Mandamus in Professional Licensing
Passing a licensure exam does not automatically entitle a candidate to a professional license, especially when exam integrity is under official investigation.
The Right to Be Heard: Due Process in Judicial Proceedings
A judge who grants a motion without notice violates due process. This case explains the rule on notice and hearing.
Torrens Title vs Prior Possession: Resolving Property Disputes in the Philippines
Philippine property disputes often pit Torrens title holders against prior possessors. Learn how courts resolve these conflicts under law.
Waiving Complaint Defects: How Trial Participation Impacts Jurisdiction
Learn how participating in trial can waive defects in an ejectment complaint, affecting jurisdiction over unlawful detainer cases.
Upholding Due Process: Water Service Disconnection Requires Fair Notice
Philippine Supreme Court rules that water service disconnection without prior notice violates due process and can result in damages under Article 19 of the Civil Code.
Treachery IN Criminal LAW Specificity OF Allegations AND THE Rights OF THE Accused
Execution Pending Appeal: Why "Good Reasons" Matter in Philippine Courts
The Supreme Court clarifies when execution pending appeal is allowed and why courts must state good reasons for it.
Incestuous Rape in the Philippines: Proving Age and Relationship to Justify the Death Penalty
In People v. Ibarrientos, the Supreme Court explains what evidence is needed to convict for qualified rape and when the death penalty may be imposed.
Reliability of Poseur Buyer Testimony in Drug Sale Convictions
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a single poseur buyer's testimony suffices to convict in illegal drug sale cases.
Traffic Violations and Negligence: When a Bus Driver's Overtaking Causes Liability
A bus driver who overtakes despite an oncoming car is negligent. Employers must prove diligence in supervision to avoid liability.