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Responsible Use of Social Media under the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA)
The Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA) provides that a lawyer shall uphold the dignity of the legal profession in all social media interactions in a manner that enhances the people’s confidence in the legal system, as well as promote its responsible use.
What is a Penal Clause? | July 23, 2025
Art. 1226. In obligations with a penal clause, the penalty shall substitute the indemnity for damages and the payment of interests in case of noncompliance, if there is no stipulation to the contrary. Nevertheless, damages shall be paid if the obligor refuses to pay the penalty or is guilty of fraud in the fulfillment of the obligation.
Justifying Circumstance of Insanity | July 21, 2025
In Ruiz v. People of the Philippines (G.R. No. 244692), the Supreme Court held that while prior medical records can be relevant, they are not required to prove that the accused’s medical condition led to the crime. Therefore, the absence of documented psychiatric history should not be taken against the accused claiming legal insanity.
Unjustified Absence from Marital Home considered Psychological Incapacity | July 16, 2025
In the case of Lanuza v. Lanuza, G.R. No. 242362, April 17, 2024, the Supreme Court held that unjustified absence from the marital home for decades may be considered as part of the totality of evidence that a person is psychologically incapacitated to comply with the essential obligations of marriage.
Importance of Notarization of Documents
In the case of TOMAS N. OROLA AND PHIL. NIPPON AOI INDUSTRY, INC. VS. ATTY. ARCHIE S. BARIBAR, A.C. No. 6927, March 14, 2018, the Supreme Court emphasized the importance and purpose of notarization. It said that notarization is not an empty, meaningless, or routinary act. It is impressed with substantial public interest, and only those who are qualified or authorized may act as such. It is not a purposeless ministerial act of acknowledging documents executed by parties who are willing to pay fees for notarization. Notarization of documents ensures the authenticity and reliability of a document. Notarization of a private document converts such document into a public one, and renders it admissible in court without further proof of its authenticity. Courts, administrative agencies and public at large must be able to rely upon the acknowledgment executed by a notary public and appended to a private instrument.