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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Res Gestae Exception: Admissibility of Spontaneous Statements in Philippine Homicide Cases
Learn how the Supreme Court applied the res gestae exception to admit a victim's spontaneous statement identifying his assailant in a homicide case.
Parental Authority vs Child's Rights: Rape by a Father and the Limits of Criminal Allegations
Father convicted of raping his 14-year-old daughter twice; Supreme Court affirms guilt but reduces death penalty to reclusion perpetua for procedural defects in the information.
Cyber Libel Prescription: One Year from Discovery, Not Publication
Supreme Court clarifies cyber libel prescribes in one year from discovery by the offended party, not from publication, and settles unsigned resolution doctrine.
When "As Is, Where Is" Does Not Shield a Seller: The NDC v. Madrigal Wan Hai Ruling
The Supreme Court clarifies that "as is, where is" sales only cover physical condition, not hidden legal liabilities like tax liens.
Infidelity AND Intent Understanding Homicide IN THE Heat OF Marital Betrayal
Courts Discretion in Appointing Successor Administrator Pending Appeal
Explains when courts may issue letters of administration to a successor before an appeal is perfected, citing Macky v. Angeles.
Lawyer's Negligence in Handling Client's Case Leads to Suspension and Fine
A lawyer's gross negligence in handling a client's case resulted in a one-month suspension and fine. Learn the ethical duties lawyers owe clients.
Spousal Conspiracy in Rape: When a Parent's Silence Becomes Criminal Liability
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling shows how a parent's failure to stop a spouse's sexual abuse of their child can create joint criminal liability.
Incestuous Rape and the Death Penalty: Protecting Child Victims Under Philippine Law
The Supreme Court affirms the death penalty for a father who raped his minor daughter, clarifying the rules on incestuous rape, evidence, and damages.
The Fine Line Between Self-Defense and Homicide: Establishing Intent in Criminal Law
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when a claim of accident or self-defense fails, and how courts determine criminal intent in homicide cases.
Unveiling Treachery: How Face Coverings Impact Criminal Identification in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on how eyewitness identification holds even when some assailants wear helmets or masks during a crime.
Victim Testimony Alone Sufficient for Rape Conviction Ensuring Justice for Minors in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court affirms that a minor victim's credible testimony alone can sustain a rape conviction, ensuring justice.
Upholding Notarial Duties Lawyers Responsibility IN Document Authentication
When a Caretaker's Demolition Becomes Malicious Mischief: Valeroso v. People
A caretaker demolished a squatter's hut to protect his employer's lot. The Supreme Court explains why this was malicious mischief, not a lawful act.
Treachery in Stone Throwing: When a Sudden Attack Qualifies as Murder
A single stone thrown from behind turned a killing into murder. Learn how the Supreme Court defined treachery in People v. Duban.
Unlawful Search in Drug Cases: When Evidence Becomes Inadmissible
Learn when warrantless searches in Philippine drug cases violate constitutional rights and render seized evidence inadmissible in court.
TRO Limits: Administrative Circular No. 20-95 and Judicial Misconduct
A judge's TRO without summary hearing violated Administrative Circular No. 20-95, resulting in a fine for grave abuse of authority.
Default Judgments Are Disfavored: Lessons from Go v. Tan on Procedural Liberality
When can Philippine courts set aside a default judgment? Go v. Tan explains the rule on procedural liberality and the importance of hearing cases on the merits.
Employers Role IN Union Certification When IS AN Employer More Than Just A Bystander
Clerk of Court Liable for Issuing Writ Before Decision Becomes Final
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on premature execution: a clerk of court who issues a writ before the judgment becomes final and executory may be held administratively liable.
Psychological Incapacity in Annulment Cases: What to Allege in a Petition
Learn what a petition for annulment based on psychological incapacity must allege, and when forum shopping rules apply, from this Philippine Supreme Court case.
Shipyards and Public Utilities: Defining National Interest in Corporate Ownership
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on whether shipyards are public utilities requiring 60% Filipino ownership, and its impact on corporate acquisitions.
When a Lawyer's Error Binds a Client: The Doctrine of Negligence in Philippine Litigation
Explore how the Supreme Court holds clients bound by their counsel's mistakes, and when courts may grant relief from a lawyer's negligence.
From Murder to Homicide: When Qualifying Circumstances Fail in Conspiracy Cases
Supreme Court explains when conspiracy stands but treachery and abuse of superior strength fail, reducing murder to homicide.