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.
Libel Damages and Filing Fees: What Philippine Criminal Cases Require
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when filing fees must be paid for damages claims in libel criminal cases, and why splitting appeals is prohibited.
Circumstantial Evidence in Rape Cases: Proving Guilt Beyond Reasonable Doubt
How the Supreme Court upheld a rape-homicide conviction based solely on circumstantial evidence, and what this means for Philippine criminal prosecutions.
Rape Conviction Upheld: Credibility of Testimony and Delayed Reporting in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on rape conviction, witness credibility, and delayed reporting explained in plain language.
When Circumstantial Evidence Suffices: Rape with Homicide and the Limits of Alibi
The Supreme Court explains when circumstantial evidence can convict, why alibi rarely works, and the difference between reclusion perpetua and life imprisonment.
Religious Freedom vs Censorship: Balancing Rights in Philippine Broadcast Media
The Supreme Court ruled that the MTRCB may review religious TV programs but cannot ban them merely for criticizing other religions.
Thirteenth Month Pay vs Year-End Bonus: What Philippine Law Requires
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a year-end bonus counts as 13th month pay and when employers must pay both.
Judicial Ethics and Workplace Harassment: When a Judge Preys on Court Staff
The Supreme Court dismissed a judge for gross misconduct and immorality after he sexually harassed a court clerk, reaffirming that judges must embody integrity.
Fugitive From Justice: Understanding Disqualification in Philippine Elections
The Supreme Court clarifies what "fugitive from justice" means for election disqualification under the Local Government Code.
When Can an Employee Claim Retirement Benefits After Termination: Philippine Case Study
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when an employee terminated for redundancy can still claim voluntary retirement benefits under a company program.
Falsification and Anti-Graft Liability: Lessons from Molina v. People
A look at how the Supreme Court upheld convictions for estafa through falsification and graft, and why recanted testimony rarely saves a conviction.
Navigating Retirement: Understanding Compulsory Retirement Clauses in the Philippines
Can a company retire an employee before age 60? The Supreme Court explains when compulsory retirement under a CBA is valid.
Rape Conviction and Consent: Credibility and Evidence in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on attempted rape clarifies consent, credibility, and evidence standards in criminal cases.
The Importance of Proper Notice in Philippine Legal Proceedings: A Case Analysis
A Supreme Court ruling on self-defense, credibility of witnesses, and the weight of evidence in murder and frustrated murder cases.
Trade Secrets vs Employee Rights Know Your Boundaries
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when employer claims of trade secrets justify dismissal, and the limits of confidentiality policies.
Attempted Rape in the Philippines: Elements, Intent, and Legal Consequences
Learn the legal distinction between consummated and attempted rape in the Philippines, including the elements of intent, overt acts, and interruption.
Mandamus vs. Quo Warranto: Choosing the Right Remedy for Public Office Disputes
Learn when to file mandamus or quo warranto in Philippine law, and how the Supreme Court's ruling in Garces v. CA guides the choice.
Self-Defense in the Philippines: When Using Force Becomes Justifiable
Philippine law allows self-defense only under strict conditions. Learn the rules, the limits of proportionate force, and key lessons from a Supreme Court case.
PCGG Sequestration Orders: Due Process and Valid Authority Requirements
The Supreme Court rules that PCGG sequestration orders require at least two Commissioners and a prima facie showing, protecting due process rights.
Successor Liability in Philippine Labor Law: When a New Company Inherits Labor Obligations
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a successor company can be held liable for its predecessor's labor obligations.
Understanding Insubordination in the Workplace: When Can an Employee Be Dismissed?
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when refusal to obey orders justifies dismissal for insubordination, with practical guidance for employers and employees.
Forged Deeds and Property Rights: Understanding Acquisitive Prescription in the Philippines
Can a forged deed ripen into ownership through prescription? The Supreme Court explains why bad faith blocks acquisitive prescription on titled land.
Rape Conviction Affirmed: Consent, Corroborating Evidence, and the Credibility of a Child Victim
The Supreme Court affirms a rape conviction, explaining consent, corroborating evidence, and why a child victim's credible testimony suffices.
Overseas Workers Compensation Who Pays When Injury Strikes Abroad
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that overseas employers may not be liable for medical benefits when the host country's social insurance law places that burden on a state fund.
Rape and Incest: When Family Betrayal Meets Justice in the Philippines
A Philippine Supreme Court case on a son raping his mother, explaining the rules on credibility, denial, and penalties for incestuous rape.