LEGAL ETHICS

REVIEWER
ATENEO CENTRAL BAR OPERATIONS 2002
TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES

LEGAL ETHICS – is a branch of moral science, which treats of the duties

which an attorney owes to the court, to the client, to his colleagues in the profession and
to the public as embodied in the Constitution, Rules of Court, the Code of Professional
Responsibility, Canons of Professional Ethics, jurisprudence, moral laws and special
laws.

Original Bases of Legal Ethics:

1. Canons of Professional Ethics
2. Supreme Court Decisions
3. Constitution
4. Treatises and publications
5. Statistics

Present Basis of the Philippine Legal System: Code of Professional

Responsibility.

BAR V. BENCH
Refers to the whole body of attorneys and denotes the whole body of judges
counselors, collectively the members of
the legal profession

Practice of Law – any activity, in or out of court which requires the application of law,
legal procedure, knowledge, training and experience. To engage in the practice
of law is to give notice or render any kind of service, which device or service
requires the use in any degree of legal knowledge or skill (Cayetano v. Monsod,
201 SCRA 210).

Attorney-at-law/Counsel-at-law/Attorney/Counsel/ Abogado/Boceros: that class of

persons who are licensed officers of the courts, empowered to appear, prosecute
and defend; and upon whom peculiar duties, responsibilities, and liabilities are
developed by law as a consequence (Cui v. Cui, 120 Phil. 729).

Attorney in fact – an agent whose authority is strictly limited by the instrument

appointing him, however, he may do things not mentioned in his appointment but
are necessary to the performance of the duties specifically required of him by the
power of attorney appointing him, such authority being necessarily implied. He is
not necessarily a lawyer.

Counsel de Oficio – a counsel, appointed or assigned by the court, from among

members of the Bar in good standing who, by reason of their experience and
ability, may adequately defend the accused.

Note: In localities where members of the Bar are not available, the court may
appoint any person, resident of the province and good repute for probity and
ability, to defend the accused. Sec. 7, Rule 116, Rules of Court.

Attorney ad hoc – a person named and appointed by the court to defend an absentee
defendant in the suit in which the appointment is made (Bienvenu v. Factor’s of
Traders Insurance Cp., 33 La.Ann.209)

Attorney of Record - one who has filed a notice of appearance and who hence is
formally mentioned in court records as the official attorney of the party. Person
whom the client has named as his agent upon whom service of papers may be
made. (Reynolds v. Reynolds, Cal.2d580).

Of Counsel – to distinguish them from attorneys of record, associate attorneys are

referred to as “of counsel” (5 Am. Jur. 261).

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TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
Lead Counsel – The counsel on their side of a litigated action who is charged with the
principal management and direction of a party’s case.

House Counsel – Lawyer who acts as attorney for business though carried as an
employee of that business and not as an independent lawyer.

Bar Association – an association of members of the legal profession.

Advocate – The general and popular name for a lawyer who pleads on behalf of
someone else.

Barrister (England) – a person entitled to practice law as an advocate or counsel in

superior court.

Proctor (England) – Formerly, an attorney in the admiralty and ecclesiastical courts

whose duties and business correspond to those of an attorney at law or solicitor
in Chancery.

Titulo de Abogado - it means not mere possession of the academic degree of

Bachelor of Laws but membership in the Bar after due admission thereto,
qualifying one for the practice of law.

ADMISSION TO THE PRACTICE OF LAW

The Supreme Court has the power to control and regulate the practice of law. Thus, the
Constitution, under Article VIII, Sec. 5 (5) provides:

Sec. 5. The Supreme Court shall have the following powers:

(5) Promulgate rules concerning the protection and
enforcement of constitutional rights, pleading, practice and
procedure in all courts, the admission to the practice of
law, the Integrated Bar, and legal assistance to the under
privileged.

The Supreme Court acts through a Bar Examination Committee in the Exercise of his
judicial function to admit candidates to the legal profession.

The Bar Examination Committee:

• Composed of (1) member of the Supreme Court who acts as Chairman
and eight (8) members of the bar.
• The 8 members act as examiners for the 8 bar subjects with one subject
assigned to each.
• The Bar Confidant acts as a sort of liaison officer between the court and
the Bar Chairman on the other hand, and the individual members of the
committee on the other. He is at the same time a deputy clerk of court.
• Admission of examinees is always subject to the final approval of the
court.

Practice of Law
The practice of law is a PRIVILEGE granted only to those who possess the
STRICT INTELLECTUAL AND MORAL QUALIFICATIONS required of lawyers who are
instruments in the effective and efficient administration of justice. (In Re: Argosino,
1997).
Practice of law means any activity, in or out of court, which requires the
application of law, legal procedure, knowledge, training, and experience. “To engage in
the practice of law is to perform those acts which are characteristics of the profession.
Generally, to practice law is to give notice or render any kind of service, which device or
service requires the use in any degree of legal knowledge or skill.” (Cayetano vs.
Monsod, 201 SCRA 210 citing 111 ALR 23).

Requirements for admission to the Bar:

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REVIEWER
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TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
1. Citizen of the Philippines
2. At least 21 years old
3. Of good moral character
4. Resident of the Philippines
5. Production before the Supreme Court satisfactory evidence of:
a. Good moral character
b. No charges against him, involving moral turpitude, have been filed or are
pending in any court in the Philippines.

Requirement of Good Moral Character: a continuing requirement; good moral

character is not only a condition precedent for admission to the legal profession, but it
must also remain intact in order to maintain one's good standing in that exclusive and
honored fraternity. (Tapucar vs. Tapucar, 1998)

Academic Requirements for Candidates:

1. A bachelor’s degree in arts and sciences (pre-law course)
2. A completed course in:
a. Civil law
b. Commercial law
c. Remedial law
d. Public international law
e. Private international law
f. Political law
g. Labor and social legislation
h. Medial jurisprudence
i. Taxation
j. Legal ethics

Non-lawyers who may be authorized to appear in court:

1. Cases before the MTC: Party to the litigation, in person OR through an
agent or friend or appointed by him for that purpose (Sec. 34, Rule 138,
RRC)
2. Before any other court: Party to the litigation, in person (Ibid.)
3. Criminal case before the MTC in a locality where a duly licensed member of
the Bar is not available: the judge may appoint a non-lawyer who is:
a. Resident of the province
b. Of good repute for probity and ability to aid the accused in his defense
(Rule 116, Sec. 7, RRC).
4. Legal Aid Program - A senior law student, who is enrolled in a recognized law
school’s clinical education program approved by the Supreme Court may
appear before any court without compensation, to represent indigent clients,
accepted by the Legal Clinic of the law school. The student shall be under
the direct supervision and control of an IBP member duly accredited by the
law school.
5. Under the Labor code, non-lawyers may appear before the NLRC or any
Labor Arbiter, if
a. They represent themselves, or if
b. They represent their organization or members thereof (Art 222, PO
442, as amended).
6. Under the Cadastral Act, a non-lawyer can represent a claimant before the
Cadastral Court (Act no. 2259, Sec. 9).

Public Officials who cannot engage in the private practice of Law in the
Philippines:
1. Judges and other officials as employees of the Supreme Court (Rule 148,
Sec. 35, RRC).
2. Officials and employees of the OSG (Ibid.)
3. Government prosecutors (People v. Villanueva, 14 SCRA 109).
4. President, Vice-President, members of the cabinet, their deputies and
assistants (Art. VIII Sec. 15, 1987 Constitution).

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REVIEWER
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TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
5. Members of the Constitutional Commission (Art IX-A, Sec. 2, 1987
Constitution)
6. Ombudsman and his deputies (Art. IX, Sec. 8 (2nd par), 1987 Constitution)
7. All governors, city and municipal mayors (R.A. No. 7160, Sec. 90).
8. Those prohibited by special law

Public officials with Restrictions in the Practice of Law

1. No Senator as member of the House of Representative may personally
appear as counsel before any court of justice as before the Electoral
Tribunals, as quasi-judicial and other administration bodies (Art. VI, Sec. 14,
1987 Constitution).
2. Under the Local Government Code (RA 7160, Sec. 91) Sanggunian members
may practice their professions provided that if they are members of the Bar,
they shall not:
a. Appear as counsel before any court in any civil case wherein a local
government unit or any office, agency, or instrumentality of the
government is the adverse party;
b. Appear as counsel in any criminal case wherein an officer or employee of
the national or local government is accused of an offense committed in
relation to his office;
c. Collect any fee for their appearance in administrative proceedings
involving the local government unit of which he is an official;
d. Use property and personnel of the government except when the
Sanggunian member concerned is defending the interest of the
government.
3. Under RA 910, Sec. 1, as amended, a retired justice or judge receiving
pension from the government, cannot act as counsel in any civil case in
which the Government, or any of its subdivision or agencies is the adverse
party or in a criminal case wherein an officer or employee of the Government
is accused of an offense in relation to his office.

Attorney’s Oath

“I, __________________, do solemnly swear that I will maintain allegiance

to the Republic of the Philippines; I will support its constitution and obey the
laws as well as the legal orders of the duly constituted authorities therein; I
will do no falsehood, nor consent to the doing of any in court; I will not
willingly nor wittingly promote or sue any groundless, false or unlawful suit,
or give aid nor consent to the same; I will delay no man for money or malice,
and will conduct myself as a lawyer according to the best of my knowledge
and discretion, with all good fidelity as well to the court as to my clients; and
I impose upon myself this voluntary obligations without any mental
reservation or purpose of evasion. So help me God.” (Form 28, RRC)

Nature of Lawyer's Oath

• The lawyer's oath is not mere facile words, drift and hollow, but a sacred trust that
must be upheld and kept inviolable. (Sebastian vs. Calis, 1999)
• It is NOT a mere ceremony or formality for practicing law. Every lawyer should at all
times weigh his actions according to the sworn promises he made when taking the
lawyer's oath. (In Re: Argosino, 1997, In Re: Arthur M. Cuevas, 1998).

CODE OF PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY

CHAPTER 1
LAWYER AND SOCIETY

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REVIEWER
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TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
CANON 1 – A lawyer shall uphold the constitution, obey the laws of the
land and promote respect for law and for legal processes

• Duties of Attorneys:
a. To maintain allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines and to
support the Constitution and obey the laws of the Philippines;
b. To observe and maintain the respect due to the courts of justice and
judicial officers;
c. To counsel or maintain such actions or proceedings only as appear to
him as just, and such defenses only as he believes to be honestly debatable
under the laws;
d. To employ, for the purpose of maintaining the causes confided to him,
such means only as are consistent with truth and honor, and never seek to
mislead the judge or any judicial officer by an artifice or false statement of fact or
law;
e. To maintain inviolate the confidence, and at every peril to himself, to
preserve the secrets of his client, and to accept no compensation in connection
with his client's business except from him or with his knowledge and approval;
f. To abstain from all offensive personality and to advance no fact
prejudicial to the honor or reputation of a party or witness, unless required by the
justice of the cause with which he is charged;
g. Not to encourage either the commencement or the continuance of an
action or proceeding, or delay any man's cause for any corrupt motive or interest;
h. Never to reject, for any consideration personal to himself, the cause of
the defenseless or oppressed;
i. In the defense of a person accused of a crime, by all fair and
honorable means, regardless of his personal opinion as to the guilt of the
accused, to present every defense that the law permits, to the end that no person
may be deprived of life or liberty, but by due process of law.

Rule 1.01 – A lawyer shall not engage in unlawful, dishonest,

immoral or deceitful conduct.

• Conviction for crimes involving moral turpitude – a number of lawyers have been
suspended or disbarred for conviction of crimes involving moral turpitude such as:
a. Estafa
b. Bribery
c. Murder
d. Seduction
e. Abduction
f. Smuggling
g. Falsification of public documents

• Morality as understood in law - This is a human standard based on natural moral law
which is embodied in man’s conscience and which guides him to do good and avoid
evil.

• Moral Turpitude: any thing that is done contrary to justice, honesty, modesty or good
morals.

• Immoral Conduct: that conduct which is willful, flagrant, or shameless and which
shows a moral indifference to the opinion of the good and respectable members of
the community (Arciga vs. Maniwag, 106 SCRA 591).

• Grossly Immoral Conduct: One that is so corrupt and false as to constitute a criminal
act or so unprincipled or disgraceful as to be reprehensible to a high degree; it is a
WILLFUL, FLAGRANT or SHAMELESS ACT which shows a MORAL
INDIFFERENCE to the opinion of respectable members of the community. (Narag
vs. Narag, 1998)

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TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
• An attorney may be removed not only for malpractice and dishonesty in his
profession but also for gross misconduct not related to his professional duties which
show him to be an unfit and unworthy lawyer.(Co vs. Bernardino, 285 SCRA 102).

Rule 1.02 – A lawyer shall not counsel or abet activities aimed at

defiance of the law or at lessening confidence in the legal system.
Rule 1.03 – A lawyer shall not, for any corrupt motive or interest,
encourage any suit or proceeding or delay any man’s cause.
Rule 1.04 – A lawyer shall encourage his clients to avoid, end or
settle the controversy if it will admit of a fair settlement.

• If a lawyer finds that his client’s cause is defenseless, it is his burden/duty to advise
the latter to acquiesce and submit, rather than traverse the incontrovertible.

• It is unprofessional for a lawyer to volunteer advice to bring a lawsuit, except in rare

cases where the blood, relationship or trust makes it his duty to do so.

• Temper client’s propensity to litigate.

• Should not be an instigator of controversy but a mediator for concord and conciliator
for compromise.

• The law violated need not be a penal law. “Moral Turpitude” – everything which is
done contrary to justice, honesty, modesty or good morals.

• Give advice tending to impress upon the client and his undertaking exact compliance
with the strictest principles of moral law.

• Until a statute shall have been construed and interpreted by competent adjudication,
he is free and is entitled to advise as to its validity and as to what he conscientiously
believes to be its just meaning and extent.

• A lawyer has the obligation not to encourage suits. This is so as to prevent barratry
and ambulance chasing.

• Barratry – offense of frequently exciting and stirring up quarrels and suits, either at
law or otherwise; Lawyer’s act of fomenting suits among individuals and offering his
legal services to one of them.

• Ambulance Chasing – Act of chasing victims of accidents for the purpose of talking
to the said victims (or relatives) and offering his legal services for the filing of a case
against the person(s) who caused the accident(s).

CANON 2 – A lawyer shall make his legal services available in an efficient

and convenient manner compatible with the independence, integrity
and effectiveness of the profession.

Rule 2.01 – A lawyer shall not reject, except for valid reasons, the
cause of the defenseless or oppressed.
Rule 2.02 – In such a case, even if a lawyer does not accept a case,
he shall not refuse to render legal advise to the person concerned if
only to the extent necessary to safeguard latter’s rights.
Rule 2.03 – A lawyer shall not do or permit to be done any act
designed primarily to solicit legal business.

• Primary characteristics which distinguish the legal profession from business:

a. Duty of service, of which the emolument is a by product, and in which one
may attain the highest eminence without making such money;

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TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
b. A relation as an ‘officer of court’ to the administration of justice involving
thorough sincerity, integrity and reliability;
c. A relation to clients in the highest degree of fiduciary;
d. A relation to colleagues at the bar characterized by candor, fairness and
unwillingness to resort to current business methods of advertising and
encroachment on their practice or dealing with their clients.

• Defenseless – not in the position to defend themselves due to poverty, weakness,

ignorance or other similar reasons.

• Oppressed – victims of acts of cruelty, unlawful exaction, domination or excessive

use of authority.

Rule on Advertisements
• General Rule: No advertisements allowed. The most worthy and effective
advertisement possible is the establishment of a well-merited reputation for
professional capacity and fidelity to trust.
Lawyers may not advertise their services or expertise nor should not
resort to indirect advertisements for professional employment, such as
furnishing or inspiring newspaper comments, or procuring his photograph
to be published in connection with causes in which the lawyer has been
engaged or concerning the manner of their conduct, the magnitude of the
interest involved, the importance of the lawyer's position, and all other
self-laudation.

• Exceptions/ Permissible advertisements:

1. Reputable law lists, in a manner consistent with the standards of conduct
imposed by the canons, of brief biographical and informative data, are
allowed. (Ulep vs. Legal Clinic, Inc., 223 SCRA 378)
2. Ordinary simple professional Card. It may contain only a statement of his
name, the name of the law firm which he is connected with, address,
telephone number and the special branch of law practiced. (Ulep vs. Legal
Clinic, Inc., 223 SCRA 378)
3. A simple announcement of the opening of a law firm or of changes in the
partnership, associates, firm name or office address, being for the
convenience of the profession, is not objectionable. (Ulep vs. Legal Clinic,
Inc., 223 SCRA 378)
4. Advertisements or simple announcement of the existence of a lawyer or his
law firm posted anywhere it is proper such as his place of business or
residence except courtrooms and government buildings.
5. Advertisements or announcement in any legal publication, including books,
journals, and legal magazines and in telephone directories.

Rule 2.04 – A lawyer shall not charge rates lower than those
customarily or prescribed, unless circumstances so warrant.

• A lawyer cannot delay the approval of a compromise agreement entered into

between parties, just because his attorney’s fees were not provided for in the
agreement.

• Rule: A lawyer cannot compromise the case without client’s consent (special
authority).
Exception: Lawyer has exclusive management of the procedural aspect of the
litigation (e.g. Submission for decision on the evidence so far presented. But in case
where lawyer is confronted with an emergency and prompt/urgent action is
necessary to protect clients interest and there’s no opportunity for consultation, the
lawyer may compromise.

• Rule: Refrain from charging rates lower than the customary rates.
Valid Justification: relatives, co-lawyers, too poor

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TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
CANON 3 – A lawyer in making known is legal services shall use only true,
honest, fair dignified and objective information or statement of facts.

Rule 3.01 – A lawyer shall not use or permit the use of any false,
fraudulent, misleading, deceptive, undignified, self-auditory or unfair
statement or claim regarding his qualifications or legal services.

• Violation of Rule 3.01 is unethical, whether done by him personally or through

another with his permission.

Rule 3.02 – In the choice of a firm name, no false, misleading, or

assumed name shall be used. The continued use of the name of a
deceased partner is permissible provided that the firm indicates in
all its communication that said partner is deceased.
Rule 3.03 – Where a partner accepts public office, he shall withdraw
from the firm and his name shall be dropped from the firm name
unless the law allows him to practice law concurrently.
Rule 3.04 – A lawyer shall not pay or give anything of value to
representatives of the mass media in anticipation of, or in return for,
publicity to attract legal business.

• It is unethical to use the name of a foreign firm.

• Death of a partner does not extinguish attorney-client relationship with the law firm.

• Negligence of a member in the law firm is negligence of the firm.

CANON 4 – A lawyer shall participate in the improvement of the legal

system by initiating or supporting efforts in law reform and in the
administration of justice.

• Examples: Presenting position papers or resolutions for the introduction of pertinent

bills in Congress; Petitions with the Supreme Court for the amendment of the Rules
of Court.

CANON 5 – A lawyer shall keep abreast of legal developments, participate

in continuing legal education programs, support efforts to achieve high
standards in law schools as well as in the practical training of students and
assist in disseminating information regarding the law and jurisprudence.

Objectives of integration of the Bar

• To elevate the standards of the legal profession
• To improve the administration of justice
• To enable the Bar to discharge its responsibility more effectively.

The three-fold obligation of a lawyer

• First, he owes it to himself to continue improving his knowledge of the
laws;
• Second, he owes it to his profession to take an active interest in the
maintenance of high standards of legal education;
• Third, he owes it to the lay public to make the law a part of their social
consciousness.

Bar Matter 850 – MANDATORY CONTINUING LEGAL EDUCATION

(Adopting the Rules on the Continuing Legal Education for
Members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines)
August 8, 2000
Pertinent Provisions:

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REVIEWER
ATENEO CENTRAL BAR OPERATIONS 2002
TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
Purpose: Required of members of the IBP to ensure that throughout their career, they keep abreast
with law and jurisprudence, maintain the ethics of the profession and enhance the standards of the practice
of law.
Commencement of MCLE: Within two (2) months from the approval of these Rules by the SC, the
IBP shall commence the implementation of the MCLE.
Requirements of completion of MCLE: Members of the IBP, unless exempted under Rule 7, shall
complete every 3 years at least 36 hours of continuing legal education activities. The 36 hours shall be
divided as follows:
a. 6 hours – legal ethics
b. 4 hours – trial and pretrial skills
c. 5 hours – alternative dispute resolution
d. 9 hours – updates on substantive and procedural laws and jurisprudence
e. 4 hours – legal writing and oral advocacy
f. 2 hours – international law and international conventions
g. remaining 6 hours – such other subjects as may be prescribed by the Committee on
MCLE.
Compliance Period: The initial compliance period shall begin not later than 3 months from the
adoption of the IBP of the Rules. 3 Compliance Groups shall be designated:
1. Compliance Group 1 – Members in the NCR (Metro Manila)
2. Compliance Group 2 – Members in Luzon
3. Compliance Group 3 – Members in Visayas and Mindanao
Credit Units: For every class of credit, a corresponding number of credit units shall be assigned.
Classes of Credits:
1. Participatory Credit – attending approved education activities like seminars, conventions, symposia, and
the like; speaking or lecturing, or assigned as panelist, reactor, or commentator, etc. in approved
education activities; teaching in law school or lecturing in bar review classes.
2. Non-participatory – preparing, as author or co-author, written materials (e.g. article, book or book
review) which contribute to the legal education of the author member, which were not prepared in the
ordinary course of his practice or employment; editing a law book, law journal or legal newsletter.
Parties exempted from the MCLE:
1. The President, Vice-President and the Secretaries and Undersecretaries of Executive Departments;
2. Senators and Members of the House of Representatives;
3. The Chief Justice and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court, incumbent and retired Justices of the
judiciary, incumbent members of the Judicial and Bar Council and incumbent court lawyers covered by
the Philippine Judicial Academy program of continuing judicial education;
4. The Chief State Counsel, Chief State Prosecutor and Assistant Secretaries of the Dept. of Justice;
5. The Solicitor General and the Assistant Solicitor General;
6. The Government Corporate Counsel, Deputy and Assistant Government Corporate Counsel;
7. The Chairman and Members of the Constitutional Commissions;
8. The Ombudsman, the Overall Deputy Ombudsman, the Deputy Ombudsmen and the Special
Prosecutor of the Office of the Ombudsman;
9. Heads of government agencies exercising quasi-judicial functions;
10. Incumbent deans, bar reviewers and professors of law who have teaching experience for at least 10
years in accredited law schools;
11. The Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and members of the Corps of Professional and Professorial Lecturers
of the Philippine Judicial Academy; and
12. Governors and Mayors.
Other parties exempted:
1. Those who are not in law practice, private or public;
2. Those who have retired from law practice with the approval of the IBP Board of Governors.
Good Cause for exemption from or modification of requirement: A member may file a verified
request setting forth good cause for exemption (such as physical disability, illness, post-graduate study
abroad, proven expertise in law, etc.) from compliance with or modification of any of the requirements,
including an extension of time for compliance, in accordance with procedure to be established by the
Committee on MCLE.
Proof of exemption: Applications for exemption from or modification of the MCLE requirement shall be
under oath and supported by documents.
Non-compliance Procedures:
1. What constitutes non-compliance
a. Failure to complete education requirement within the compliance period
b. Failure to provide attestation of compliance or exemption
c. Failure to provide satisfactory evidence of compliance (including evidence of exempt status) within
the prescribed period
d. Failure to satisfy the education requirement and furnish evidence of such compliance within 60
days from receipt of non-compliance notice
e. Failure to pay non-compliance fee within the prescribed period
f. Any other act or omission analogous to any of the foregoing or intended to circumvent or evade
compliance with the MCLE requirements.
2. Members failing to comply will receive a Non-Compliance Notice stating the specific deficiency and will
be given 60 days from date of notification to file a RESPONSE.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
1. A member who fails to comply with the requirements after the 60-day period shall be LISTED AS
DELINQUENT MEMBER by the IBP Board of Governors upon recommendation of the Committee on
MCLE.

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2. The listing as a delinquent member is administrative in nature but shall be made with notice and hearing
by the Committee on MCLE.
Committee on Mandatory Continuing Legal Education
Composition: Standing Committee of Five (5) Members
1. Retired Justice of the SC – Chairman, nominated by the SC
2. IBP National President – Vice-Chair
3. 3 other members – nominated by the Philippine Judicial Academy, UP Law Center and Association of
Law Professors, respectively.
• Members of the Committee shall be of proven probity and integrity and shall receive compensation as
may be determined by the SC. The initial terms of each of the 3 members shall be 5,4 and 3 years
respectively.
Effectivity: 15 September 2000, following its publication in 2 newspapers of general circulation.

CANON 6 – These canons shall apply to lawyers in government service in

the discharge of their official tasks.

• Public Officials – include elective and appointive officials and employees, permanent
or temporary, whether in the career or non-career service, including military and
police personnel, whether or not they receive compensation, regardless of amount.
(Sec. 3 (b), RA 6713).

• The law requires the observance of the following norms of conduct by every public
official in the discharge and execution of their official duties:
a. Commitment to public interest
b. Professionalism
c. Justness and sincerity
d. Political neutrality
e. Responsiveness to the public
f. Nationalism and patriotism
g. Commitment to democracy
h. Simple living (Sec. 4, RA 6713)

Rule 6.01 – The primary duty of a lawyer engaged in public

prosecution is not to convict but to see that justice is done. The
suppression of facts or the concealment of witnesses capable of
establishing the innocence of the accused is highly reprehensible
and is cause of disciplinary action.
Rule 6.02 – A lawyer in the government service shall not use his
public position to promote or advance his private interest, nor allow
the latter to interfere with his public duties.
Rule 6.03 – A lawyer shall not, after leaving government service,
accept engagements or employment in connection with any matter
in which he had intervened while in said service.

• Various ways a government lawyer leaves government service:

a. Retirement
b. Resignation
c. Expiration of the term of office
d. Dismissal
e. Abandonment

• Q: What are the pertinent statutory provisions regarding this Rule?

A: Sec. 3 (d) RA 3019 as amended and Sec. 7 (b), RA 6713
Sec 3. Corrupt practice of Public Officers. In addition to acts or omission of public officers
already penalized by existing law, the following shall constitute corrupt practice of any public officer
and are hereby declared to be unlawful:
(d) accepting or having any member of his family accept employment in a private
enterprise which has pending official business with him during the pendency thereof or within one
year after termination.
Section 7 (b) of RA 6713 prohibits officials from doing any of the following acts:
1. Own, control, manage or accept employment as officer, employee, consultant,
counsel, broker, agent, trustee or nominee in any private enterprise regulated,
supervised or licensed by their office unless expressly allowed by law.
These prohibitions shall continue to apply for a period of one (1) year after resignation,
retirement, or separation from public office, except in the case of subparagraph (b) (2)

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above, but the professional concerned cannot practice his profession in connection with
any matter before the office he used to be with, in which case the one year prohibition
shall likewise apply.

• Lawyers in the government service are prohibited to engage in the private practice of
their profession unless authorized by the constitution or law, provided that such
practice will not conflict or tend to conflict with their official functions.

• Misconduct in office as a public official may be a ground for disciplinary action (if it is
of such character as to affect his qualification as lawyer or to show moral
delinquency).

• Should recommend the acquittal of the accused whose conviction is on appeal, if he

finds no legal basis to sustain the conviction.

• Includes restrictions such as representing conflicting interest (e.g. Accepting

engagements vs. former employer, PNB)

• The OSG is not authorized to represent a public official at any state of a criminal
case.

CHAPTER II
THE LAWYER AND THE LEGAL PROFESSION
CANON 7 – A lawyer shall at all times uphold the integrity and dignity of the
legal profession, and support the activities of the integrated bar.

Rule 7.01 – A lawyer shall be answerable for knowingly making false

statements or suppressing a material fact, in connection with his
application for admission to the bar.
Rule 7.02 – A lawyer shall not support application for admission to
the bar by any person known to him or be unqualified in respect to
character, education, or other relevant attribute.
Rule 7.03 – A lawyer shall not engage in conduct that adversely
reflects on his fitness to practice law, nor should he, whether in
public or private life, behave in a scandalous manner to the discredit
of the legal profession.

• Upright character; not mere absence of bad character.

• A lawyer must at all times conduct himself properly as not to put into question his
fitness to practice law.

• Avoid scandalous conduct; not only required to refrain from adulterous relationships
or the keeping of mistress but must also behave himself as to avoid scandalizing the
public by creating the belief that he is flouting those moral standards.

CANON 8 – A lawyer shall conduct himself with courtesy, fairness and

candor towards his professional colleagues, and shall avoid harassing
tactics against opposing counsel.

Rule 8.01 – A lawyer shall not, in his professional dealings, use

language which is abusive, offensive or otherwise improper.
Rule 8.02 – A lawyer shall not, directly or indirectly, encroach upon
the professional employment of another lawyer; however, it is the
right of any lawyer without fear or favor, to give proper advice and
assistance to those seeking relief against unfaithful or neglectful
counsel.

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• It is the duty of a lawyer to inform the SC or the IBP of such malpractice to the end
that the malpractitioner be properly disciplined.

• Not to use in pleadings and in practice the following: disrespectful, abusive and
abrasive language, offensive personalities, unfounded accusations or intemperate
words tending to obstruct, embarrass or influence the court in administering justice.

• Want of intention: not an excuse for the disrespectful language used. It merely
extenuates liability.

• A lawyer, both as an officer of the court and as a citizen, may criticize in properly
respectful terms and through legitimate channels the act of courts and judges. But it
is the cardinal condition of all such criticism that it shall be bona fide, and shall not
spill over the walls of decency and propriety. (In Re: Almacen, 31 SCRA 562)

CANON 9 – A lawyer shall not directly or indirectly assist in the

unauthorized practice of law.

Rule 9.01 – A lawyer shall not delegate to any unqualified person the
performance of any task which by law may only be performed by a
member of the bar in good standing.
Rule 9.02 – A lawyer shall not divide or stipulate to divide a fee for
legal services with persons not licensed to practice law, except:
a. Where there is a pre-existing agreement, with a partner or
associate that, upon the latter’s death, money shall be paid over a
reasonable period of time to his estate or to the persons specified in the
agreement; or
b. Where a lawyer undertakes to complete unfinished legal
business of a deceased lawyer; or
c. Where a lawyer or law firm includes non-lawyer
employees in a retirement plan, even if the plan is based in whole or in part
of a profit sharing arrangements.

• Lawyer shall not negotiate with the opposite party who is represented by a counsel.
Neither should the lawyer attempt to interview the opposite party and question him
as to the facts of the case even if the adverse party is willing to do so.

• Lawyer should deal only with counsel, even if there’s a fair agreement.

• Lawyer may, however, interview any witness or prospective witness for the opposing
side.
Limitation: avoid influencing witness in recital and conduct.

• A lawyer must not take as partner or associate one who:

1. Is not a lawyer
2. Is disbarred
3. Has been suspended from the practice of law
4. Foreign lawyer, unless licensed by the SC.

• A lawyer cannot delegate his authority without client’s consent even to a qualified
person.

CHAPTER III
THE LAWYER AND THE COURTS

CANON 10 – A Lawyer owes candor, fairness and good faith to the court.

Rule 10.01 – A lawyer shall not do any falsehood, nor consent to the
doing of any in court; nor shall he mislead or allow the court to be
mislead by any artifice.

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Rule 10.02 – A lawyer shall not knowingly misquote or misrepresent
the contents of the paper, the language or the argument of opposing
counsel, or the text of a decision of authority, or knowingly cite as
law a provision already rendered inoperative by repeal or
amendment, or assert as a fact that which has not been approved.
Rule 10.03 – A lawyer shall observe the rules of procedure and shall
not misuse them to defeat the ends of justice.

• Judge-lawyer relationship: based on independence and self-respect.

• Lawyer’s duty to the court:

a. Respect and loyalty
b. Fairness, truth and candor
c. No attempt to influence courts

• Cases of falsehood:
a. Stating in the Deed of Sale that property is free from all liens and encumbrances
when not so
b. Encashing check payable to a deceased cousin by signing the latter’s name on
the check
c. Falsifying a power of attorney and using it in collecting the money due to the
principal
d. Alleging in one pleading that the clients were mere lessees and in another
pleading that the same clients were owners
e. Presenting falsified documents in court which he knows to be false
f. Filing false charges on groundless suits
g. Using in pleadings the IBP number of another lawyer
h. Unsolicited appearances
i. Use of fictitious residence certificate
j. Misquotation/misrepresentation
k. Citing a repealed or amended provision
l. Asserting a fact not proved
m. Verbatim reproductions down to the last word and punctuation mark
n. Slight typo mistake: not sufficient to place him in contempt

CANON 11 – A lawyer shall observe and maintain the respect due to the
courts and to judicial officers and should insist on similar conduct by
others.

Rule 11.01 – A lawyer shall appear in court properly attired.

• A lawyer may NOT wear outlandish or colorful clothing to court.

• As an officer of the court and in order to maintain the dignity and respectability of the
legal profession, a lawyer who appears in court must be properly attired.
Consequently, the court can hold a lawyer IN CONTEMPT of court if he does not
appear in proper attire. Any deviation from the commonly accepted norm of dressing
in court (barong or tie, not both) is enough to warrant a citing for contempt.

Rule 11.02 – A lawyer shall punctually appear at court hearings.

Rule 11.03 – A lawyer shall abstain from scandalous, offensive, or
menacing language or behavior before the courts.
Rule 11.04 – A lawyer shall not attribute to a judge motives not
supported by the record or having no materiality to the case.
Rule 11.05 – A lawyer shall submit grievances against a judge to the
proper authorities already.

• A lawyer is an officer of the court. He occupies a quasi-judicial office with a tripartite

obligation to the courts, to the public and to his clients.

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• The public duties of the attorney take precedence over his private duties. His first
duty is to the courts. Where duties to the courts conflict with his duties to his clients,
the latter must yield to the former.

• Lawyers must be respectful not only in actions but also in the use of language
whether in oral arguments or in pleadings.

• Must exert efforts that others (including clients, witnesses) shall deal with the courts
and judicial officers with respect.

• Obedience to court orders and processes.

• Criticisms of courts must not spill the walls of decency. There is a wide difference
between fair criticism and abuse and slander of courts and judges. Intemperate and
unfair criticism is a gross violation of the duty to respect the courts. It amounts to
misconduct which subjects the lawyer to disciplinary action.

• A mere disclaimer of any intentional disrespect by appellant is not a ground for

exoneration. His intent must be determined by a fair interpretation of the languages
employed by him. He cannot escape responsibility by claiming that his words did not
mean what any reader must have understood them to mean.

• Lawyer can demand that the misbehavior of a judge be put on record.

• Lawyers must be courageous enough to expose arbitrariness and injustice of courts

and judges.

• A lawyer may submit grievances against judges in the Supreme Court, Ombudsman,
or Congress (for impeachment of SC judges only).

CANON 12 – A lawyer shall exert every effort and consider it his duty to
assist in the speedy and efficient administration of justice.

• The Court further commented that it is understandable for a party in the

situation to make full use of every conceivable legal defense the law allows it. In
the appraisal, however, of such attempts to evade liability to which a party should
respond, it must ever be kept in mind that procedural rules are intended as an aid
to justice, not as means for its frustration. Technicalities should give way to the
realities of the situation. (Economic Insurance Co., Inc. vs. Uy Realty Co.)

Rule 12.01 – A lawyer shall not appear for trial unless he has
adequately prepared himself with the law and the facts of his case,
the evidence he will adduce and the order of its preference. He
should also be ready with the original documents for comparison
with the copies.

• Newly hired counsel: must acquaint himself with all the antecedent proceedings and
processes that have transpired in the record prior to his takeover.

• If presenting documentary exhibits, he must be ready with the originals for the
purpose of comparison with copies thereof.

Rule 12.02 – A lawyer shall not file multiple actions arising from the
same cause.

• Forum shopping – omission to disclose pendency of appeal or prior dismissal of his

case by a court of concurrent jurisdiction with intent of seeking a favorable opinion.

• Forum shopping exists when as a result of an adverse opinion in one forum:

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a.
A party seeks favorable opinion (other than by appeal or certiorari) in another; or
b.
When he institutes two or more actions or proceedings grounded on the same
cause, on the gamble that one or the other would make a favorable disposition
(Benguet Electric Corp. vs. Flores, 287 SCRA 449, March 12, 1998).

• The most important factor in determining the existence of forum-shopping is the

VEXATION caused the courts and party-litigants by a party who asks different courts
to rule on the same related causes, asking the same relief.

• Forum shopping constitutes DIRECT CONTEMPT of court and may subject the
offending lawyer to disciplinary action.

Rule 12.03 – A lawyer shall not, after obtaining extensions of time to

file pleadings, memoranda or briefs, let the period lapse without
submitting the same or offering an explanation for his failure to do
so.

• Asking for extension of time must be in good faith.

Rule 12.04 – A lawyer shall not unduly delay a case, impede the
execution of a judgment or misuse court processes.
Rule 12.05 – A lawyer shall refrain from talking to his witness during
a break or recess in the trial, while the witness is still under
examination.
Rule 12.06 – A lawyer shall not knowingly assist a witness to
misrepresent himself or to impersonate another.
Rule 12.07 – A lawyer shall not abuse, browbeat or harass a witness
nor needlessly inconvenience him.

• Rights and obligations of a witness - a witness must answer questions, although his
answer may tend to establish a claim against him. However, it is the right of a
witness:
1. To be protected from irrelevant, improper, or insulting questions and
from harsh or insulting demeanor;
2. Not to be detained longer than the interest of justice requires;
3. Not to be examined except only as to matters pertinent to the issue;
4. Not to give any answer which will tend to subject him to a penalty for
an offense unless otherwise provided by law, or
5. Nor to give answer which will tend to degrade his reputation, unless it
be to the very fact at issue or to a fact from which the fact in issue would be
presumed. But a witness must answer to the fact of his previous final
conviction for an offense. (Rule 132, Sec. 3, RRC)

Rule 12.08 – A lawyer shall avoid testifying in behalf of his client,

except:
a. on formal matters, such as the mailing, authentication or
custody of an instrument and the like:
b. on substantial matters, in cases where his testimony is
essential to the ends of justice, in which event he must, during his
testimony, entrust the trial of the case to another counsel.

CANON 13 – A lawyer shall rely upon the merits of his cause and refrain
from any impropriety which tends to influence, or gives the appearance of
influencing the court.

Rule 13.01 – A lawyer shall not extend extraordinary attention or

hospitality to, nor seek opportunity for, cultivating familiarity with
judges.

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Rule 13.02 – A lawyer shall not make public statements in the media
regarding a pending case tending to arouse public opinion for or
against a party.
Rule 13.03 – A lawyer shall not brook or invite interference by
another branch or agency of the government in the normal course of
judicial proceedings.

• The judge has the corresponding duty not to convey or permit others to convey the
impression that they are in a special position to influence the judge.

• Discussing cases with the judge privately should be avoided.

• Test when public statement is contemptuous: The character of the act done and its
direct tendency to prevent and obstruct the discharge of official duty.

• To warrant a finding of “prejudicial publicity”, there must be an allegation and proof

that the judges have been unduly influenced, not simply that they might be, by the
“barrage” of publicity.

• Lawyer is equally guilty as the client if he induces the latter to cause the publicity.

CHAPTER IV
THE LAWYER AND THE CLIENT
CANON 14 – A Lawyer shall not refuse his services to the needy.

Rule 14.01 – A lawyer shall not decline to represent a person solely

on account of the latter’s race, sex, creed or status of life, or
because of his own opinion regarding the guilt of said person.

• Rule 14.01 is applicable only in criminal cases. In criminal cases, a lawyer

cannot decline to represent an accused or respondent because of his opinion
that the said person is guilty of the charge or charges filed against him. In
representing the accused or respondent, the lawyer must only use means which
are fair and honorable. (Rule 138, sec. 20[I], Revised Rules of Court)

• Rule 14.01 is not applicable in civil cases because “(c) To counsel or

maintain such actions or proceedings only as appear to him to be just, and such
defenses only as he believes to be honestly debatable under the law.” (Rule 138,
sec. 20[c], Revised Rules of Court)

• When the lawyer signs a complaint or answer, his signature is deemed a

certification by him “that he has read the pleading; that to the best of his
knowledge, information, and belief, there is good ground to support it.” (Rule 7,
sec. 3, Revised Rules of Court) For violating this rule, the lawyer may be
subjected to disciplinary action.

Rule 14.02 – A lawyer shall not decline, except for serious and
sufficient cause, an appointment as counsel de oficio or as amicus
curae or a request from the Integrated Bar of the Philippines or any
of its chapters for rendition of free legal aid.
Rule 14.03 – A lawyer may refuse to accept representation of a client
if:
a. He is not in position to carry out the work effectively
and competently.
b. He labors under conflict of interest between him and
the prospective client or between a present client and the
prospective client.
Rule 14.04 – A lawyer who accepts the cause of a person unable to
pay his professional fees shall observe the same standard of
conduct governing his relations with paying clients.

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• Duties to Client:
a. Owe utmost learning and ability
b. Maintain inviolate the confidence of the client
c. Disclose all circumstances/interest regarding the controversy
d. Undivided loyalty
e. Not reject cause of defenseless and oppressed
f. Candor, fairness and loyalty
g. Hold in trust money or property
h. Respond with zeal to the cause of the client

• Appointment of Amicus Curae

a. By application to the judge
b. The judge on his own initiative may invite the lawyer
c. No right to interfere with or control the condition of the record, no control over the
suit

• Cannot refuse on the ground of insufficient of compensation or lack of it

CANON 15 – A lawyer shall observe candor, fairness and loyalty in all his
dealings and transactions with his client.

Rule 15.01 – A lawyer in conferring with a prospective client, shall

ascertain as soon as practicable whether the matter would involve a
conflict with another client or his own interest, and if so, shall
forthwith inform the prospective client.
Rule 15.02 – A lawyer shall be bound by the rule on privilege
communication in respect of matters disclosed to him by a
prospective client.

Rule on Revealing Client's Identity

• General Rule: A lawyer may not invoke privilege communication to refuse revealing
a client’s identity. (Regala vs. Sandiganbayan, 262 SCRA 122, September 20, 1996)
Exceptions:
1. When by divulging such identity, it would implicate the client to that same
controversy for which the lawyer's services were required.
2. It would open client to civil liability
3. The disclosure of such identity will provide for the only link in order to convict
the accused, otherwise, the government has no case.

• Requisites of Privileged Communication:

a. Atty.-client relationship (or a kind of consultancy relationship with a prospective
client
b. Communication made by client to lawyer in the course of lawyer’s professional
employment
c. Communication is intended to be confidential (see Rule 130, Sec. 21(b), Rules of
Court)

• When communication is not privileged:

a. After pleading has been filed [pleading ceases to be privileged communication –
becomes part of public records]
b. Communication intended by the client to be sent to a third person through his
counsel (it loses its confidential character as soon as it reaches the hands of third
person)
c. When the communication sought by client is intended to aid future crime
d. When communication between attorney and client is heard by a third party – third
party testimony is admissible as evidence

• Even if the communication is unprivileged, the rule of ethics prohibits him from
voluntarily revealing or using to his benefit or to that of a third person, to the

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disadvantage of the client, the said communication unless the client consents
thereto.

• This is applicable to students under the Student Practice Law Program

Rule 15.03 – A lawyer shall not represent conflicting interests except

by written consent of all concerned given after a full disclosure of
the facts.

Rule on Conflicting Interest

It is generally the rule based on sound public policy that an attorney
cannot represent adverse interest. It is highly improper to represent both sides of
an issue. The proscription against representation of conflicting interest finds
application where the conflicting interest arises with respect to the same general
matter and is applicable however slight such adverse interest may be. It applies
although the attorney's intention and motives were honest and he acted in good
faith. However, representation of conflicting interest may be allowed where the
parties consent to the representation after full disclosure of facts. (Nakpil vs.
Valdez, 286 SCRA 758).

• General Rule: An attorney cannot represent adverse interest.

Exception: Where the parties consent to the representation after full
disclosure of facts.

• The TEST in determining Conflicting Interest: The test is whether or not the
acceptance of a new relation will prevent an attorney from the full discharge of
his duty of undivided fidelity and loyalty to his client or invite suspicion of
unfaithfulness in double-dealing in the performance thereof. (Tiana vs. Ocampo)

Rule 15.04 – A lawyer may, with the written consent of all concerned,
act as mediator, conciliator or arbitrator in settling disputes.

• At a certain stage of the controversy before it reaches the court, a lawyer may
represent conflicting interests with the consent of the parties. A common
representation may work to their advantage since a mutual lawyer, with honest
motivations and impartially cognizant of the parties’ disparate positions may well
be better situated to work out an acceptable settlement. (Donald Dee vs. CA,
176 SCRA 651)

Rule 15.05 – A lawyer, when advising his client, shall give a candid
and honest opinion on the merits and probable results of the client’s
case, neither overstating nor understating the prospects of the case.

• It is the duty of a counsel to advise his client, ordinarily a layman to the

intricacies and vagaries of the law, on the merit or lack of merit of his case. If he
finds that his client’s cause is defenseless, then it is his duty to advise the latter
to acquiesce and submit, rather than traverse the incontrovertible. A lawyer must
resist the whims and caprices of his client, and temper his client’s propensity to
litigate.

Rule 15.06 - A lawyer shall not state nor imply that he is able to
influence any public official, tribunal or legislative body.
Rule 15.07 – A lawyer shall impress upon his client compliance with
the laws and the principles of fairness.
Rule 15.08 – A lawyer who is engaged in another profession or
occupation concurrently with the practice of law shall make clear to
his client whether he is acting as a lawyer or in another capacity.

• Lawyers should refrain from giving any advice unless they have obtained sufficient
understanding of their client’s cause. A careful investigation and examination of the
facts must first be had before any legal opinion be given by the lawyer to the client.

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• To avoid breach of legal ethics, a lawyer should keep any business, in which is
engaged in concurrently with the practice of law, entirely separate and apart from the
latter.

CANON 16 – A lawyer shall hold in trust all moneys and properties of his
client that may come into his possession.

Rule 16.01 – A lawyer shall account for all money or property

collected or received for or from the client.
Rule 16.02 – A lawyer shall keep the funds of each client separate
and apart from his own and those of others kept by him.
Rule 16.03 – A lawyer shall deliver the funds and property of his
client when due or upon demand. However, he shall have a lien over
the funds and may apply so much thereof as may be necessary to
satisfy his lawful fees and disbursements, giving notice promptly
thereafter to his client. He shall also have a lien to the same extent
on all judgments and executions he has secured for his client as
provided for the Rules of Court.

• Attorneys’ Liens - an attorney shall have a lien upon the funds, documents and
papers of his client which have lawfully come into his possession and may retain the
same until his lawful fees and disbursements have been paid, and may apply such
finds to the satisfaction thereof. He shall also have a lien to the same extent upon all
judgments for the payment of money, and executions issued in pursuance of such
judgments which he has secured in a litigation of his client, from and after the time
when he shall have caused a statement of his claim of such lien to be entered upon
the records of the court rendering such judgment, or issuing such execution, and
shall have caused written notice thereof to be delivered to his client and to the
adverse party; and he shall have the same right and power over such judgments and
executions as his client would have to enforce his lien and secure the payment of his
fees and disbursements. (Sec. 37, Rule 138, Revised Rules of Court)

• Prohibition on Purchase of Client’s Property: art. 1491: Civil Code

Art. 1491: The following persons cannot acquire by purchase, even at a public or judicial auction, either
in person or through the mediation of another:
(4) Public officers and employees, the property of the State or of any subdivision thereof, or of any
government owned or controlled corporation, or institution, the administration of which has been
entrusted to them; this provision shall apply to judges and government experts who, in any manner
whatsoever, take part in the sale;
(5) Justices, judges, prosecuting attorneys, clerks of superior and inferior courts, and other officers and
employees connected with the administration of justice, the property and rights in litigation or levied
upon an execution before the court within whose jurisdiction or territory they exercise their respective
functions; this prohibition includes the act of acquiring by assignment and shall apply to lawyers, with
respect to the property and rights which may be the object of any litigation in which may take part by
virtue of their profession.

Rule 16.04 – A lawyer shall not borrow money from his client unless
the client’s interests are fully protected by the nature of the case or
by independent advice. Neither shall a lawyer lend money to a client
except, when in the interest of justice, he has to advance necessary
expenses in the legal matter he is handling for the client.

• Attorney’s lien is not an excuse for non-rendition of accounting.

• Cannot disburse client’s money to client’s creditors without authority.

• Failure to deliver upon demand gives rise to the presumption that he has
misappropriated the funds for his own use to the prejudice of the client and in
violation of the trust reposed in him.

• Notify client if retaining lien shall be implemented.

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• When a lawyer enforces a charging lien against his client, the client-lawyer
relationship is terminated.

• The principle behind Rule 16.04 is to prevent the lawyer from taking advantage of his
influence over the client or to avoid acquiring a financial interest in the outcome of
the case.

CANON 17 – A lawyer owes fidelity to the cause of his client and he shall
be mindful of the trust and confidence reposed in him.

• No fear of judicial disfavor or public popularity should restrain him from full discharge
of his duty.

• It is the duty of the lawyer at the time of retainer to disclose to the client all the
circumstances of his relations to the parties and any interest in, or connection with,
the controversy which might influence the client in the selection of counsel.

• The lawyer owes loyalty to his client even after the relation of attorney and client has
terminated. (Lorenzana Food Corp. vs. Daria, 197 SCRA 428) It is not good practice
to permit him afterwards to defend in another case other persons against his former
client under the pretext that the case is distinct from and independent of the former
case.

CANON 18 – A lawyer shall serve his client with competence and diligence.

Rule 18.01 – A lawyer shall not undertake a legal service which he

knows or should know that he is not qualified to render. However,
he may render such service if, with the consent of his client, he can
obtain as collaborating counsel a lawyer who is competent on the
matter.
Rule 18.02 – A lawyer shall not handle any legal matter without
adequate preparation.
Rule 18.03 – A lawyer shall not neglect a legal matter entrusted to
him and his negligence in connection therewith shall render him
liable.
Rule 18.04 – A lawyer shall keep the client informed of the status of
his case and shall respond within a reasonable time to the client’s
request for information.

• Competence: sufficiency of lawyer’s qualification to deal with the matter in question

and includes knowledge and skill and the ability to use them effectively in the interest
of the client.

• A lawyer must keep himself constantly abreast with the trend of authoritative
pronouncements and developments in all branches of law.

• There must be extraordinary diligence in prosecution or defense of his client’s cause.

• If a lawyer errs like any other human being, he is not answerable for every error or
mistake, and will be protected as long as he acts honestly and in good faith to the
best of his skill and knowledge.

• Lawyer is not an insurer of the result of a case where he is engaged as counsel.

• Attorneys have authority to bind their clients in any case by any agreement in relation
thereto made in writing, and in taking appeals, and in all matters or ordinary judicial
procedure. But they cannot, without special authority, compromise their client’s
litigation, or receive anything in discharge of a client’s claim, but the full amount in
cash. (FAR Corp. vs. IAC, 157 SCRA 698)

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CANON 19 – A lawyer shall represent his client with zeal within the bounds
of the law.

Rule 19.01 – A lawyer shall employ only fair and honest means to
attain the lawful objectives of his client and shall not present,
participate in presenting or threaten to present unfounded criminal
charges to obtain an improper advantage in any case or proceeding.
Rule 19.02 – A lawyer who has received information that his client
has, in the course of the representation, perpetuated a fraud upon a
person or tribunal, shall promptly call upon the client to rectify the
same, and failing which he has to terminate the relationship with
such client in accordance with the Rules of Court.
Rule 19.03 – A lawyer shall not allow his client to dictate the
procedure in handling the case.

• General Rule: Negligence binds client

Exception: Reckless imprudence (deprives client of due process)
Results in outright deprivation of one’s property through technicality

• Must not present in evidence any document known to be false; nor present a false
witness.

• Negative pregnant is improper since it is an ambiguous pleading (improper if in bad

faith and the purpose is to confuse the other party)
In defense: present every defense the law permits.

• Lawyer should do his best efforts to restrain and to prevent his clients from
perpetrating acts which he himself ought not to do. Or else, withdraw. But lawyer
shall not volunteer the information about the client’s commission of fraud to anyone –
counter to duty to maintain client’s confidence and secrets.

CANON 20 – A lawyer shall charge only fair and reasonable fees.

Rule 20.01 – A lawyer shall be guided by the following factors in

determining his fees:
a. The time spent and the extent of the services rendered
or required.
b. The novelty and difficulty of the questions involved;
c. The importance of the subject matter;
d. The skill demanded;
e. The probability of losing other employment as a result
of acceptance of the proffered case;
f. The customary charges for similar services and the
schedule of fees of the IBP chapter to which he belongs;
g. The amount involved in the controversy and the
benefits resulting to the client from the services;
h. The contingency or certainty of compensation;
i. The character of the employment, whether occasional
or established; and
j. The professional standing of the lawyer.

• Kinds of Payment which may be stipulated upon:

a. A fixed or absolute fee which is payable regardless of the result of the case
b. A contingent fee that is conditioned to the securing of a favorable judgment
and recovery of money or property and the amount of which may be on a
percentage basis
c. A fixed fee payable per appearance
d. A fixed fee computed by the number of hours spent
e. A fixed fee based on a piece of work

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• Attorney's Fees
a. Ordinary attorney's fee - the reasonable compensation paid to a lawyer by his
client for the legal services he has rendered to the latter. The basis for this
compensation is the fact of his employment by and his agreement with the
client.
b. Extraordinary attorney's fee - an indemnity for damages ordered by the court
to be paid by the losing party in litigation. The basis for this is any of the
cases provided for by law where such award can be made, such as those
authorized in Article 2208 of the Civil Code, and is payable NOT to the lawyer
but to the client, unless they have agreed that the award shall pertain to the
lawyer as additional compensation or as part thereof.

• How attorney's fees may be claimed by the lawyer:

1. It may be asserted either in the very action in which the services of a
lawyer had been rendered or in a separate action.
2. A petition for attorney's fees may be filed before the judgment in favor of
the client is satisfied or the proceeds thereof delivered to the client.
3. The determination as to the propriety of the fees or as to the amount
thereof will have to be held in abeyance until the main case from which the
lawyer's claim for attorney's fees may arise has become final. Otherwise, the
determination of the courts will be premature.

• Contracts for employment may either be oral or express. It is oral when the counsel
is employed without a written agreement – but the conditions and amount of
attorney’s fees are agreed upon. A written agreement is not necessary to prove a
client’s obligation to pay attorney’s fees. (Peyer vs. Peyer, 77 Phil 366)

• Kinds of Retainer Agreements on Attorney’s fees:

a. General Retainer or Retaining Fee – it is the fee paid to a lawyer to secure
his future services as general counsel for any ordinary legal problem that may
arise in the ordinary business of the client and referred to him for legal action;
b. Special Retainer - it is a fee for a specific or particular case or service
rendered by the lawyer for a client

• Quantum Meruit - it means "as much as he deserves", and is used as the basis for
determining the lawyer's professional fees in the absence of a contract, but
recoverable by him from his client.

• Quantum Meruit is resorted to where:

a. There is no express contract for payment of attorney’s fees agreed upon
between the lawyer and the client;
b. When although there is a formal contract for attorney’s fees, the stipulated
fees are found unconscionable or unreasonable by the court.
c. When the contract for attorney’s fees is void due to purely formal matters or
defects of execution
d. When the counsel, for justifiable cause, was not able to finish the case to its
conclusion
e. When lawyer and client disregard the contract for attorney’s fees.

• Skill: length of practice is not a safe criterion of professional ability.

Rule 20.02 – A lawyer shall, in cases of referral, with the consent of

the client, be entitled to a division of fees in proportion to the work
performed and responsibility assumed.
Rule 20.03 – A lawyer shall not, without the full knowledge and
consent of the client, accept any fee, reward, costs, commission,
interest, rebate or forwarding allowance or other compensation
whatsoever related to his professional employment from anyone
other than the client.

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• Exception. A lawyer may receive compensation from a person other than his
client when the latter has full knowledge and approval thereof. (Rule 138, sec.
20[e], Revised Rules of Court)

Rule 20.04 – A lawyer shall avoid controversies with clients

concerning his compensation and shall resort to judicial action only
to prevent imposition, injustice or fraud.

• Unauthorized counsel: Not entitled to attorney’s fees.

• Stipulation regarding payments of attorney’s fees is not illegal/immoral and is

enforceable as the law between the parties provided such stipulation does not
contravene law, good morals, etc.

• When counsel cannot recover full amount despite written contract for attorneys’ fees:
a. When he withdraws before the case is finished
b. Justified dismissal of attorney (payment: in quantum meruit only)

• The reason for the award of attorney’s fees must be stated in the text of the decision;
otherwise, if it is stated only in the dispositive portion of the decision, the same must
be disallowed on appeal.

• Even though the interest or property involved is of considerable value, if the legal
services rendered do not call for much efforts there is no justification for the award of
high fees.

• Champertous Contracts (void) – Lawyer stipulates with his client that in the
prosecution of the case, he will bear all the expenses for the recovery of things or
property being claimed by the client and the latter agrees to pay the former a portion
of the thing/property recovered as compensation.

• Compensation to an attorney for merely recommending another lawyer is improper

(agents)

• Attorney’s fees for legal services shared or divided to non-lawyer is prohibited.

Division of fees is only for division of service or responsibility.

• A lawyer should try to settle amicably any differences on the subject. A lawyer has 2
options. Judicial action to recover attorney’s fees:
a. In same case: Enforce attorney’s fees by filing an appropriate motion or
petition as an incident to the main action where he rendered legal services.
b. In a separate civil action.

CANON 21 – A lawyer shall preserve the confidences and secrets of his

client even after the attorney-client relation is terminated.

• Confidence – refers to information protected by the attorney-client privilege (Revised

Rules of Court)

• Secret – refers to other information gained in the professional relationship that the
client has regulated to be held inviolate or the disclosure of which would be
embarrassing or would likely be detrimental to the client.

• An attorney cannot, without the consent of his client, be examined as to any

communication made by the client to him, or his advice given thereon in the course
of professional employment; nor can an attorney’s secretary, stenographer, or clerk
be examined, without the consent of the client and his employees, concerning any
fact the knowledge of which has been acquired in such capacity (Rule 130, Sec. 21
(b), Revised Rules of Court)

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• The mere establishment of a client-lawyer relationship does not raise a presumption
of confidentiality. There must be an intent or that the communication relayed by the
client to the lawyer be treated as confidential.

Rule 21.01 – A lawyer shall not reveal the confidences or secrets of

his client except:
a. When authorized by the client after acquainting him
of the consequences of the disclosure:
b. When required by law;
c. When necessary to collect his fees or to defend
himself, his employees or associates or by judicial action.

• When properly authorized after having been fully informed of the consequences to
reveal his confidences/secrets, then there is a valid waiver.

• Art. 209. Betrayal of Trust by an Attorney or Solicitor. Revelation of secrets. In

addition to the proper administrative action, the penalty of prision correccional in its
minimum period, or a fine ranging from P200 to P1000, or both, shall be imposed
upon any attorney at law or solicitor who, by any malicious break of professional duty
as inexcusable negligence or ignorance, shall prejudice his client, or reveal any of
the secrets of the latter learned by him in his professional capacity.
The same penalty shall be imposed upon an attorney at law or solicitor who,
having undertaken the defense of a client, or having received confidential information
from said client in a case, shall undertake the defense of the opposing party in the
same case, without the consent of his first client (Rule 209, Revised Penal Code)

• General Rule: Obligation to keep secrets covers only lawful purposes

Exceptions:
a. Announcements of intention of a client to commit a crime
b. Client jumped bail and lawyer knows his whereabouts; or client is living
somewhere under an assumed name
c. Communication involves the commission of future fraud or crime but
crimes/frauds “already committed” falls within the privilege.

Rule 21.02 – A lawyer shall not, to the disadvantage of his client,

use information acquired in the course of employment, nor shall he
use the same to his own advantage or that of a third person, unless
the client with full knowledge of the circumstances consents
thereto.
Rule 21.03 – A lawyer shall not, without the written consent of his
client, give information from his files to an outside agency seeking
such information for auditing, statistical, bookkeeping, accounting,
data processing, or any other similar purposes.
Rule 21.04 – A lawyer may disclose the affairs of a client of the firm
to partners or associates thereof unless prohibited by the client.
Rule 21.05 – A lawyer shall adopt such measures as may be
required to prevent those whose services are utilized by him, from
disclosing or using confidences or secrets of the client.
Rule 21.06 – A lawyer shall avoid indiscreet conversation about a
client’s affairs even with members of his family.
Rule 21.07 – A lawyer shall not reveal that he has been consulted
about a particular case except to avoid possible conflict of interest.

• Avoid committing calculated indiscretion – accidental revelation of secrets obtained

in his professional employment.

• Prohibition applies, even if the prospective client did not thereafter actually engage
the lawyer.

CANON 22 – A lawyer shall withdraw his services only for good cause and
upon notice appropriate in the circumstances.

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Rule 22.01 – A lawyer may withdraw his services in any of the

following cases:
a. When the client pursues an illegal or immoral course
of conduct in connection with the matter he is handling;
b. When the client insists that the lawyer pursue
conduct violative of these canons and rules;
c. When his inability to work with co-counsel will not
promote the best interest of the client;
d. When the mental or physical condition of the lawyer
renders it difficult for him to carry out the employment
effectively;
e. When the client deliberately fails to pay the fees for
the services or fails to comply with the retainer
agreement;
f. When the lawyer is elected or appointed to a public
office, and
g. Other similar cases

• Kinds of Appearance:
(a) General appearance is when the party comes to court either as plaintiff
or defendant and seeks general reliefs from the court for satisfaction of his
claims or counterclaims respectively.
(b) Special appearance is when a defendant appears in court solely for the
purpose of objecting to the jurisdiction of the court over his person. The aim
is simply the dismissal of the case. If the defendant seeks other reliefs, the
appearance, even if qualified by the word special, is equivalent to a general
appearance.

Rule 22.02 – A lawyer who withdraws or is discharged shall subject

to a retaining lien, immediately turn over all papers and property to
which the client is entitled, and shall cooperate with his successor
in the orderly transfer of the matter, including all information
necessary for the proper handling of the matter.

• If a person, in respect to his business affairs or troubles of any kind, consults with his
atty. in his professional capacity with the view of obtaining professional advice or
assistance, and the atty. voluntarily permits or acquiesces in such consultation, then
the professional employment must be regarded as established. (Hilado vs. David, 84
Phil. 569)

• The withdrawal as counsel of a client or the dismissal by the client of his counsel
must be in a formal partition filed in the case. Atty.-client relationship does not
terminate formally until there is withdrawal made of record. Unless properly relieved,
counsel is responsible for the conduct of the case. (Tumbangahan vs. CA, 165
SCRA 485)

RETAINING LIEN CHARGING LIEN

1. NATURE Passive Lien: It cannot be Active Lien: It can be enforced by
actively enforced. It is a general execution. It is a special lien.
lien
2. BASIS Lawful possession of papers, Securing of a favorable money
documents, property belonging to judgment for the client.
client.
3. COVERAGE Covers only papers, documents Covers all judgments for the
and property in the lawful payment of money and executions
possession of the attorney by issued in pursuance of such
reason of his professional judgments.
employment
4. WHEN LIEN As soon as the attorney gets As soon as the claim for attorney’s
TAKES EFFECT possession of the papers fees had been entered into the

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documents or property records of the case
5. NOTICE Client need not be notified to Client and adverse party must be
make it effective notified to make it effective
6. May be exercised before Generally, it is exercisable only
APPLICABILITY judgment or execution or when the attorney had already
regardless thereof. secured a favorable judgment for his
client

• In withdrawal as counsel for a client, an attorney may only retire from a case either
by written consent of his client or by permission of the court after due notice and
hearing, in which event the attorney should see to it that the name of the new
attorney is recorded in the case.

• An attorney who could not get the written consent of his client must make an
application to the court, for the relation does not terminate formally until there is a
withdrawal of record. Counsel has no right to presume that the court would grant his
withdrawal and therefore must still appear on the date of hearing.

• Requirements for the Substitution of Counsel in a Case:

a. Written application
b. Written consent of client
c. Written consent of attorney to be substituted
d. If the consent of the attorney to be substituted cannot be obtained, there must
be at least a proof of notice that the motion for substitution has been served
upon him, in the manner prescribed by the rules.

• A lawyer cannot recover compensation from one who did not employ or authorize his
employment, however valuable the results of his services may have been to such
person. In similar cases, no compensation when:
a. Client conducts himself in a manner which tends to degrade his attorney;
b. Client refuses to extend cooperation;
c. Client stops having contact with him.

• The right of a client to terminate a lawyer is absolute. Such termination may be with
or without cause.

• The attorney-client relationship is terminated by:

(1) Withdrawal of the lawyer under Rule 22.01;
(2) Death of the lawyer, unless it is a Law Firm, in which case, the other partners
may continue with the case;
(3) Death of the client as the relationship is personal, and one of agency
(4) Discharge or dismissal of the lawyer by the client, for the right to dismiss a
counsel is the prerogative of the client, subject to certain limitations;
(5) Appointment or election of a lawyer to the government position which prohibits
private practice of law;
(6) Full termination of the case or case;
(7) Disbarment or suspension of the lawyer from the practice of law;
(8) Intervening incapacity or incompetence of the client during the pendency of the
case, for then the client loses his capacity to contract, or to control the subject
matter of the action. The guardian may authorize the lawyer to continue his
employment;
(9) Declaration of the presumptive death of the lawyer (art. 390, New Civil Code;
art. 41, Family Code)
(10) Conviction for a crime and imprisonment of the lawyer

LIABILITIES OF LAWYERS

• Civil Liability
a. Client is prejudiced by lawyer's negligence or misconduct

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b. Breach of fiduciary obligation
c. Civil liability to third persons
d. Libelous words in pleadings; violation of communication privilege
e. Liability for costs of suit (treble costs) - when lawyer is made liable for
insisting on client's patently unmeritorious case or interposing appeal merely
to delay litigation

• Criminal Liability
a. Prejudicing client through malicious breach of professional duty
b. Revealing client's secrets
c. Representing adverse interests
d. Introducing false evidence
e. Misappropriating client's funds (estafa)

• Contempt of Court
a. Kinds of Contempt:
1. Direct - consists of misbehavior in the presence of or so near a court
or judge as to interrupt or obstruct the proceedings before the court or
the administration of justice; punished summarily.
2. Indirect - one committed away from the court involving disobedience
of or resistance to a lawful writ, process, order, judgment or command
of the court, or tending to belittle, degrade, obstruct, interrupt or
embarrass the court.
3. Civil- failure to do something ordered by the court which is for the
benefit of a party.
4. Criminal - any conduct directed against the authority or dignity of the
court.
• The exercise of the power to punish contempt has a twofold
aspect, namely (1) the proper punishment of the guilty party for his
disrespect to the court or its order; and (2) to compel his performance
of some act or duty required of him by the court which he refuses to
perform. A civil contempt is the failure to do something ordered to be
done by a court or a judge for the benefit of the opposing party
therein; and a criminal contempt is conduct directed against the
authority and dignity of a court or of a judge, as in unlawfully assailing
or discrediting the authority or dignity of a court or of a judge, or in
doing a duly forbidden act. Where the punishment imposed, whether
against a party to a suit or a stranger, is wholly or primarily to protect
or vindicate the dignity and power, either by fine payable to the
government or by imprisonment, or both, it is deemed a judgment in
criminal case. Where the punishment is by fine directed to be paid to
a party in the nature of damages for the wrong inflicted, or by
imprisonment as coercive measure to enforce the performance of
some act for the benefit of the party or in aid of the final judgment or
decree rendered in his behalf, the contempt judgment will, if made
before final decree, be treated as in the nature of an interlocutory
order, or, if made after final decree, as a remedial in nature, and may
be reviewed only on appeal from the final decree, or in such other
mode as is appropriate to the review of judgments in civil cases. The
question of whether the contempt committed is civil or criminal, does
not affect the jurisdiction or the power of a court to punish the same.
(Halili vs. CIR, 136 SCRA 112)
b. Acts Constituting Contempt:
1. Misbehavior
2. Disobedience
3. Publication concerning pending litigation
4. Publication tending to degrade the court; disrespectful language in
pleadings
5. Misleading the court or obstructing justice
6. Unauthorized practice of law
7. Belligerent attitude

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8. Unlawful retention of client's funds

• The power to punish for contempt and the power to disbar are separate and distinct,
and that the exercise of one does not exclude the exercise of the other. (People vs.
Godoy, 243 SCRA 64)

ADMINISTRATIVE LIABILITIES OF LAWYERS

• Main Objectives of Disbarment and Suspension:
1. To compel the attorney to deal fairly and honestly with his clients;
2. To remove from the profession a person whose misconduct has proved him
unfit to be entrusted with the duties and responsibilities belonging to the office
of an attorney;
3. To punish the lawyer;
4. To set an example or a warning for the other members of the bar;
5. To safeguard the administration of justice from incompetent and dishonest
lawyers;
6. To protect the public

• Characteristics of Disbarment Proceedings:

1. Neither a civil nor criminal proceedings;
2. Double jeopardy cannot be availed of in a disbarment proceeding;
3. It can be initiated motu propio by the SC or IBP. It can be initiated without a
complaint;
4. It is imprescriptible;
5. Conducted confidentially;
6. It can proceed regardless of the interest of the lack thereof on the part of the
complainant;
7. It constitutes due process.

• Grounds for Disbarment or Suspension:

1. Deceit;
2. Malpractice or other gross misconduct in office;
3. Grossly immoral conduct;
4. Conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude;
5. Violation of oath of office;
6. Willful disobedience of any lawful order of a superior court;
7. Corrupt or willful appearance as attorney for a party to case without authority
to do so (Sec. 27, Rule 138, RRC)

• Procedure for Disbarment

a. Institution either by:
1. The Supreme Court, motu proprio, or
2. The IBP, motu proprio, or
3. Upon verified complaint by any person
b. Six copies of the verified complaint shall be filed with the Secretary of the IBP
or Secretary of any of its chapter and shall be forwarded to the IBP Board of
Governors.
c. Investigation by the National Grievance Investigators.
d. Submission of investigative report to the IBP Board of Governors.
e. Board of Governors decides within 30 days.
f. Investigation by the Solicitor-General
g. SC renders final decision for disbarment/suspension/dismissal.

Quantum of Proof Required: CLEAR, CONVINCING & SATISFACTORY evidence.

Burden of Proof: Rests on the COMPLAINANT, the one who instituted the suit

• Officers authorized to investigate Disbarment cases:

1. Supreme Court
2. IBP through its Commission on Bar Discipline or authorized investigator
3. Office of the Solicitor General

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• Mitigating Circumstances in Disbarment:

1. Good faith in the acquisition of a property of the client subject of litigation (In
re: Ruste, 70 Phil. 243)
2. Inexperience of the lawyer (Munoz v. People, 53 SCRA 190)
3. Age (Lantos v. Gan, 196 SCRA 16)
4. Apology (Munoz v. People, 53 SCRA 190)
5. Lack of Intention to slight or offend the Court (Rheem of the Philippines, Inc.
v. Ferrer, 20 SCRA 441).

REINSTATEMENT
Reinstatement – the restoration in disbarment proceedings to a disbarred lawyer the
privilege to practice law.

• The power of the Supreme Court to reinstate is based on its constitutional

prerogative to promulgate rules on the admission of applicants to the practice of law.
(art. VIII, sec. 5[5], 1987 Constitution).

• Criterion. The applicant must, like a candidate for admission to the Bar, satisfy the
Court that he is a person of good moral character – a fit and proper person to
practice law. The Court will take into consideration the applicant’s character and
standing prior to the disbarment, the nature and character of the charge for which he
was disbarred, his conduct subsequent to the disbarment, and the time that has
elapsed between the disbarment and the application for reinstatement. Whether or
not the applicant shall be reinstated rests on the discretion of the court. (Prudential
Bank vs. Benjamin Grecia, 192 SCRA 381).

• Reinstatement to the roll of attorneys wipes out the restrictions and disabilities
resulting from a previous disbarment. (Cui vs. Cui, 11 SCRA 755)

• The Supreme Court, in addition to the required rehabilitation of the applicant for
reinstatement may require special conditions to be fulfilled by the applicant.

PARDON
• Q: Is a disbarred lawyer due to conviction for a crime automatically reinstated to the
practice of law upon being pardoned by the President?
A: To be reinstated, there is still a need for the filing of an appropriate petition with
the Supreme Court. (In re: Rovero, 101 SCRA 803)

• If during the pendency of a disbarment proceeding, the respondent was granted

executive pardon, the dismissal of the case on that sole basis will depend on
whether the executive pardon is absolute or conditional. If the pardon is absolute or
unconditional, the disbarment case will be dismissed. However, if the executive
pardon is conditional, the disbarment case will not be dismissed on the basis thereof.

SPECIAL DISABILITIES OF LAWYERS

The following persons are prohibited from acquiring property under litigation by
reason of the relation of trust or their peculiar control either directly or indirectly and even
at a public or judicial auction:
1. Guardians;
2. Agents
3. Administrators
4. Public officers and employees
5. Judicial officers and employees
6. Prosecuting attorneys and lawyers (Art 1491, NCC)
7. Those specially disqualified by law (Rubias vs. Batilles, 31 SCRA 120)

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• Elements of Article 1491 (Civil Code; Laig vs. CA, 82 SCRA 294)
a. There must be an attorney-client relationship
b. The property or interest of the client must be in litigation
c. The attorney takes part as counsel in the case
d. The attorney by himself or through another purchases such property or
interest during the pendency of the litigation.

• General Rule: A lawyer may not purchase, even at a public or judicial auction, in
person or through the mediation of another, any property or interest involved in any
litigation in which he may take part by virtue of his profession. This prohibition is
entirely independent of fraud and such need not be alleged or proven.
Effects:
a. Malpractice on the part of the lawyer and may be disciplined for misconduct
b. Transaction is null and void

• Exceptions:
a. Property is acquired by lawyer through a contingent fee arrangement
b. Any of the 4 elements of Art. 1491 is missing

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JUDICIAL ETHICS

JUDICIAL ETHICS – is the branch of moral science which treats of the right and
proper conduct to be observed by all judges in trying and deciding controversies brought
before them for adjudication which conduct must be demonstrative of impartiality,
integrity, competence, independence and freedom from improprieties. This freedom
from improprieties must be observed in both the public and private life of a judge – being
the visible representation of the law.

• Sources of Judicial Ethics:

1. Code of Judicial Conduct
2. Constitution (Art VIII, Art IX and Art III)
3. New Civil Code (Articles 9, 20, 27, 32, 35, 739, 1491, 2005, 2035, 2046)
4. Revised Rules of Court (Rules 71, 135, 137, 139B, 140)
5. Revised Penal Code (Articles 204, 205, 206, 207)
6. Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019)
7. Canons of Judicial Ethics (Adm. Order No. 162)
8. Code of Professional Responsibility
9. Judiciary Act of 1948 (RA 296)
10. Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1930 (BP129)
11. Supreme Court Decisions
12. Foreign Decisions
13. Opinions of authorities
14. Other Statutes
15. SC Circulars

• Court – a board or other tribunal which decides a litigation or contest (Hidalgo

vs. Manglapus, 64 O.G. 3189). A court may exist without a judge.

• Judge – a public officer who, by virtue of his office, is clothed with judicial
authority. A public officer lawfully appointed to decide litigated questions in
accordance with law (People vs. Manantan, 5 SCRA 687). This refers to persons
only. There may be a judge without a court.

• De jure judge – one who is exercising the office of judge as a matter of right, an
officer of a court who has been duly and legally elected or appointed and whose term
has not expired. An officer of the law fully vested with all of the powers and functions
conceded under the law to a judge, which relate to the administration of justice within
the jurisdiction over which he presides (Luna vs. Rodriguez, 37 Phil. 191).

De facto judge – a judge who in good faith continues to act and is recognized by common
error after the abolition of his court by statute is deemed judge de facto of the new
court which succeeds to the jurisdiction of that presided over by him (U.S. vs.
Abalos, 1 Phil 76). An officer who is not fully vested with all the powers and duties
conceded to judges, but is exercising the office of a judge under some color of right.

Qualifications to be Supreme Court Members:

1. Natural born citizen of the Philippines
2. At least 40 years of age
3. Must have been at least for 15 years, a judge of a lower court or engaged in the
practice of law (Sec. 7(2), Art. VIII, 1987 Constitution)

• Qualifications to be judges:
1. Citizen of the Philippines
2. Member of the Bar (Sec. 7(2), Art. VIII, 1987 Constitution)
3. Must be a person of proven competence, integrity, probity and independence
(Sec. 7(3), Art. VIII, 1987 Constitution)

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• Qualifications of Justices and Judges under the Judiciary Reorganization Act

of 1980 (B.P. 129):
1. Presiding Justice and Associate Justices of the Court of Appeals shall have the
same qualifications as those provided in the Constitution, for Justices of the
Supreme Court (Sec. 5).
2. RTC judges shall be natural born citizens of the Philippines, at least 35 years of
age and for at least ten years, has been engaged in the practice of law in the
Philippines or has held a public office in the Philippines requiring admission to
the practice of law as an indispensable requisite (Sec. 15).
3. MTC judges shall be natural born citizens of the Philippines, at least 30 years of
age, and for at least five years, has been engaged in the practice of law in the
Philippines, or has held a public office in the Philippines requiring admission to
the practice of law as an indispensable requisite.

CODE OF JUDICIAL CONDUCT

PREAMBLE
An honorable, competent and independent judiciary exists to administer
justice and thus promote the unity of the country, the stability of
government, and the well being of the people.

CANON 1- A judge should uphold the integrity and independence of the

judiciary

Rule 1.01 – A judge should be the embodiment of competence,

integrity, and independence.
Rule 1.02 – A judge should administer justice impartially and
without delay.
Rule 1.03 – A judge should be vigilant against any attempt to
subvert the independence of the judiciary and resist any pressure
from whatever source.

• Judges should avoid even the slightest infraction of the law.

• Must be models of uprightness, fairness and honesty

• Should not relax in his study of the law and court decisions.

• Should not be swayed by public clamor or considerations of personal popularity

• Must decide motions without delay.

• Should also appear impartial.

CANON 2 – A judge should avoid impropriety and the appearance of

impropriety in all activities

Rule 2.01 – A judge should so behave at all times as to promote

public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.
Rule 2.02 – A judge should not seek publicity for personal
vainglory.
Rule 2.03 – A judge shall not allow family, social, or other
relationships to influence judicial conduct or judgment. The
prestige of judicial office shall not be used or lent to advance the
private interests of others, nor convey or permit others to convey
the impression that they are in a special position to influence the
judge.

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Rule 2.04 – A judge shall refrain from influencing in any manner the
outcome of litigation or dispute pending before another court of
administrative agency.

• A judge must be beyond suspicion. He has the duty not only to render a just and
impartial decision but also to render it in such a manner as to be free from any
suspicion as to its fairness and impartiality, and also as to his integrity.

• Every litigant is entitled to nothing short of the cold neutrality of an independent,

wholly free, disinterested and impartial tribunal.

• A judge must be temperate in his language and must not lose his cool.

• A judge is prohibited from making public statements in the media regarding a

pending case so as not to arouse public opinion for or against a party (violates the
Principle of Subjudice)

• Judges must not use or permit the use of any undignified/self-laudatory statement
regarding their qualifications or legal services.

• A judge must not allow anyone to ride on his prestige. He should not create the
impression that someone or some people are so close to him to enjoy his favor.

CANON 3 - A judge should perform official duties honestly, and with

impartiality and diligence

ADJUDICATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
Rule 3.01 – A judge shall be faithful to the law and maintain
professional competence.

• Judge should be conversant with the law and its amendments.

Rule 3.02 – In every case, a judge shall endeavor diligently to

ascertain the facts and the applicable law unswayed by partisan
interest, public opinion or fear of criticism.

• Finding of facts must be based not on the personal knowledge of the judge but upon
the evidence presented.

• If the personal view of the judge contradicts the applicable doctrine promulgated by
the Supreme Court, nonetheless, he should decide the case in accordance with that
doctrine and not in accordance with his personal views. He is however not
prohibited from stating his own opinion on the matter if he wants to invite constructive
attention thereto.

Rule 3.03 – A judge shall maintain order and proper decorum in the
courts.
Rule 3.04 – A judge should be patient, attentive, and courteous to
lawyers, especially the inexperienced, to litigants, witnesses, and
others appearing before the court. A judge should avoid
unconsciously falling into the attitude of mind that the litigants are
made for the courts, instead of the courts for the litigants.

• Conduct of trial must not be attended with fanfare and publicity; not permit pictures or
broadcasting.

• Must use temperate language; should not make insulting remarks.

Rule 3.05 – A judge shall dispose of the court’s business promptly

and decide cases within the required periods.

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Rule 3.06 – While a judge may, to promote justice, prevent waste of
time or clear up some obscurity, properly intervene in the
presentation of evidence during the trial, it should always be borne
in mind that undue interference may prevent the proper
presentation of the cause of the ascertainment of the truth.
Rule 3.07 – A judge should abstain from making public comments
on any pending or impending case and should require similar
restraint on the part of court personnel.

• Judge should take notes and rely on transcripts.

• Judge is not excused if stenographer is overloaded. He is excused for delay on

grounds of multifarious motions; appellate court enjoins judge from further
proceeding; heavy caseload.

ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
Rule 3.08 – A judge should diligently discharge administrative
responsibilities, maintain professional competence in court
managements, and facilitate the performance of the administrative
functions of other judges and court personnel.
Rule 3.09 – A judge should organize and supervise the court
personnel to ensure the prompt and efficient dispatch of business,
and require at all times the observance of high standards of public
service and fidelity.
Rule 3.10 – A judge should take or initiate appropriate disciplinary
measures against lawyers or court personnel for unprofessional
conduct of which the judge may have become aware.
Rule 3.11 – A judge should appoint commissioners, receivers,
trustees, guardians, administrators and others strictly on the basis
of merit and qualifications, avoiding nepotism, and favoritism.
Unless otherwise allowed by law, the same criteria should be
observed in recommending appointment of court personnel. Where
the payment of compensation is allowed, it should be reasonable
and commensurate with the fair value of services rendered.

• A judge must properly organize his court to ensure prompt and

convenient dispatch of its business (Canon 8, Canons of Judicial Ethics)

• A judge should closely supervise court personnel so that adequate

precautions are taken in sending out subpoenas, summons, and court
processes to ensure that they are timely served and received (SC Circular
No. 13 dated July 31, 1987, Par. 4[a])

• Ascertain that the records of all cases are properly kept and managed.

• Maintain a checklist on the cases submitted for decision with a view to knowing
exactly the specific deadlines for the resolution/decision of the said cases.

• Loss of records: gross negligence

• Should be a good manager.

• May summarily punish any person including lawyers and court personnel for direct
contempt for misbehavior committed in the presence of or so near a court or a judge
as to obstruct or interrupt the proceedings before the same (Rule 71, Revised Rules
of Court)

• May not summarily suspend a lawyer for indirect contempt.

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• Every court has the inherent power among others, to preserve and enforce orders in
its immediate presence, to compel obedience to its judgments, orders and processes
and to control, in furtherance of justice, the conduct of its ministerial officers (Sec. 5,
Rule 135, Revised Rules of Court)

• Judge has the power to appoint, but the power to dismiss court employees is vested
in the Supreme Court.

• If knowingly nominate or appoint to any public office any person lacking the legal
qualification therefor, shall be guilty of unlawful appointment punishable with
imprisonment and fine (Art. 244, Revised Penal Code).

DISQUALIFICATIONS
Rule 3.12 – A judge should take no part in proceeding where the
judge’s impartiality might reasonably be questioned. These cases
include, among others, proceedings where;
a. the judge has personal knowledge of disputed evidentiary facts
concerning the proceeding;
b. the judge served as executor, administrator, guardian, trustee or
lawyer in the case or matters in controversy, or a former associate of the
judge served as counsel during their association, or the judge or lawyer
was a material witness therein;
c. the judge’s ruling in a lower court is subject of review
d. the judge is related by consanguinity or affinity to a party litigant
within the 6th degree or to counsel within the 4th degree;
e. the judge knows that the judge’s spouse or child has a financial
interest, as heir, legatee, creditor, fiduciary, or otherwise, in the subject
matter in controversy or in a party to the proceeding, or any other interest
that could be substantially affected by the outcome of the proceeding.
In every instance the judge shall indicate the legal reason for
inhibition.

• Rule 3.12 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, except letter (a) is based on Sec. 1, Rule
137 of the RRC.

“SECTION 1. Disqualification of judges – No judge or judicial officer shall sit in

any case in which he, or his wife or child, is pecuniarily interested as heir,
legatee, creditor or otherwise, or in which he is related to either party within the
sixth degree of consanguinity or affinity, or to counsel within the fourth degree,
computed according to the rules of the civil law, or in which he has been
executor, administrator, guardian, trustee, or counsel or in which he has presided
in any inferior court when his ruling or decision is the subject of review, without
the written consent of all parties in interest, signed by them and entered upon the
record.
A judge may , in the exercise of his sound discretion, disqualify himself
from sitting in a case, for just or valid reasons other than those mentioned
above.”

• Petition to disqualify judge must be filed before rendition of judgment by the judge;
can’t be raised first time on appeal.

• If a judge denies petition for disqualification, the ultimate test: is whether or not the
complaint was deprived of a fair and impartial trial.
Remedy: seek new trial.

REMITTAL OF DISQUALIFICATION
Rule 3.13 – A judge disqualified by the terms of Rule 3.12 may,
instead of withdrawing from the proceeding, disclose on the record
the basis of disqualification. If, based on such disclosure, the
parties and lawyers independently of the judge’s participation, all
agree in writing that the reason for the inhibition is immaterial or
insubstantial, the judge may then participate in the proceeding.

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The agreement, signed by all parties and lawyers, shall be
incorporated in the record of the proceeding.

CANON 4 – A judge may, with due regard to official duties, engage in

activities to improve the law, the legal system and the administration of
justice.

Rule 4.01 – A judge may, to the extent that the following activities
do not impair the performance of judicial duties or case doubt on
the judge’s impartiality:
a. speak, write, lecture, teach or participate in activities concerning
the law, the legal system and the administration of justice;
b. appear at a public hearing before a legislative or executive body on
matters concerning the law, the legal system or the administration of
justice and otherwise consult with them on matters concerning the
administration of justice;
c. serve on any organization devoted to the improvement of the law,
the legal system or the administration of justice.

• Decision to engage in these activities depends upon the sound judgment of the
judge.

• If has not enough time to spare (such as when caseload is too heavy) prudence
dictates, he must concentrate on his judicial duties.

• If a judge has time to spare, the best attitude to take is to participate in activities
which are closely related to the performance of his duties and which do not consume
much of his time and energy.

CANON 5 – A judge should regulate extra-judicial activities to minimize the

risk of conflict with judicial activities.

VOCATIONAL, CIVIC AND CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

Rule 5.01 – A judge may engage in the following activities provided
that they do not interfere with the performance of judicial duties or
detract from the dignity of the courts:
a. write, lecture, teach and speak on non-legal subjects;
b. engage in the arts, sports, and other special recreational activities;
c. participate in civic and charitable activities;
d. serve as an officer, director, trustee, or non-legal advisor of a non-
profit or non-political, educational, religious, charitable, fraternal, or civic
organization.

• If they opt to engage in such activities, they must learn how to manage their time in
such manner that their judicial responsibilities do not falter and suffer.

FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
Rule 5.02 – A judge shall refrain from financial and business
dealings that tends to reflect adversely on the court’s impartiality,
interfere with the proper performance of judicial activities, or
increase involvements with lawyers or persons likely to come
before the court. A judge should so manage investments and other
financial interests as to minimize the number of cases giving
grounds for disqualification.
Rule 5.03 – Subject to the provisions of the proceeding rule, a judge
may hold and manage investments but should not serve as an
officer, director, manager, advisor, or employee of any business
except as director of a family business of the judge.

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Rule 5.04 – A judge or any, immediate member of the family, shall
not accept a gift, bequest, favor or loan from anyone except as may
be allowed by law.
Rule 5.05 – No information acquired in a judicial capacity shall be
used or disclosed by a judge in any financial dealing or for any
other purpose not related to judicial activities.

• Prohibitions under the Revised Penal Code:

Art 215. Prohibited Transaction. The penalty of prision correccional in its minimum period or a fine
ranging from P200 to P1000 or both, shall be imposed upon any appointive public officer who, during
his incumbency, shall directly or indirectly become interested in any transaction of exchange or
speculation within the territory subject to his jurisdiction.

Art 216. Possession of prohibited interest by a public officer. The penalty of arresto mayor in its medium
period to prision correccional in its minimum period, or a fine ranging from P200 to P1000, or both, shall
be imposed upon a public officer who directly and indirectly, shall become interested in any contract or
business which it is his official duty to intervene.

• Acceptance of gifts given by reason of the office of a public officer is indirect bribery
(Art. 211, RPC)

• When he agrees to perform an act constituting a crime in connection with the

performance of his official duties in consideration of any offer, promise, gift or
present received by such officer, he is guilty of direct bribery (Art. 210, RPC)

• Sec 3. Corrupt practices of public officers. In addition to acts or omissions of public

officers already penalized by existing law, the following shall constitute corrupt
practices of any public officer and are hereby declared to be unlawful:
(h) Directly or indirectly having financial or pecuniary interest in any business, or
contract or transaction in connection with which here intervenes or takes part in his
official capacity or in which he is prohibited by the Constitution or by any law from
having any interest, (Sec. 3(h), RA 3019)

• Donations given to a judge, or to his wife, descendants or ascendants by reason of

his office are void (Art. 739, Civil Code)

• General Rule: Avoid taking or receiving loans from litigants (Sec. 2 [b] and [c] of
R.A. 3019, and Sec. 16, art. VIII of the Constitution)
Exception (AGCPA): Unsolicited gifts or presents of small value offered or given as
a mere ordinary token of gratitude or friendship according to local custom or usage
(Sec. 14 of R.A. 3019)

• No solicitation of funds by public officials (Sec. 7 [d], R.A. 6713)

FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES
Rule 5.06 – A judge should not serve as the execution
administrator, trustee, guardian, or other fiduciary, except for the
estate, trust, or person of a member of the immediate family and
then only if such service will not interfere with the proper
performance of judicial duties. “Member of immediate family” shall
be limited to the spouse and relatives within the second degree of
consanguinity. As a family fiduciary, a judge shall not:
a. serve in proceedings that might come before the court of said
judge; or
b. act as such contrary to Rule 5.02 to 5.05

PRACTICE OF LAW AND OTHER PROFESSION

Rule 5.07 – A judge shall not engage in the private practice of law.
Unless prohibited by the Constitution or law, a judge may engage in
the practice of any other profession provided that such practice will
not conflict or tend to conflict with judicial functions.

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• Includes preparation of pleadings or papers in anticipation of litigation, and giving of
legal advice to clients or persons needing the same.

• Not engage in notarial work.

Exception: “Notaries public ex-oficio” - may engage only in notarization of
documents connected with the exercise of their official functions. Provided, all
notarial fees on account of the government and certification attesting to lack of any
lawyer or Notary Public.

• Sworn statement of assets and liabilities including statement of amounts and

services of income, the amount of personal and family expenses and the amount of
income tax is paid for the next preceding calendar year.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Rule 5.08 – A judge shall make full financial disclosure as required
by law.

EXTRA-JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS
Rule 5.09 – A judge shall not accept appointment or designation to
any agency performing quasi-judicial or administrative functions.

POLITICAL ACTIVITIES
Rule 5.10 – A judge is entitled to entertain personal views on
political questions. But to avoid suspicion of political partisanship,
a judge shall not make political speeches, contribute to party funds,
publicly endorse candidates for political office or participate in
other partisan political activities.

COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE OF JUDICIAL CONDUCT

All judges shall strictly comply with this code

DATE OF EFFECTIVITY
This code, promulgated on 5 September 1989, shall take
effect on 20 October 1989.

• An administrative case against a judge is not necessarily dismissed by the

withdrawal by or desistance of the complainant.

• Retirement, resignation or promotion of a judge does not necessarily render moot

and academic all the cases against him.

Liabilities of Judges

Administrative Liabilities:

• Grounds for administrative sanctions against judges (Sec. 67 of the Judiciary Act
of 1948):
1. Serious misconduct – implies malice or wrongful intent, not mere error of
judgment, judicial acts complained of must be corrupt or inspired by an
intention to violate the law, or were in persistent disregard for well-known
legal rules
2. Inefficiency – implies negligence, incompetence, ignorance, and
carelessness, when the judge fails to observe in the performance of his
duties that diligence, prudence and circumspection which the law requires
in the rendition of any public service

• Instances of serious misconduct:

1. Unjustifiable failure to decide cases within reglementary period

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2. Failure to deposit funds with the municipal treasurer or to produce them despite
his promise to do so
3. Misappropriation of fiduciary funds
4. Extorting money from a party-litigant who has a case before his court
5. Solicitation of donation for office equipment
6. Unlawful solicitation in violation of R.A. No. 6713
7. Frequent unauthorized absences in office
8. Falsification of certificate of service to collect salary
9. Declaring Wednesdays as non-session days which the judge declared as his
“mid-week pause”
10. Indefinite postponement for several years of a criminal case pending in his sala
11. Judges poking his gun to another in a restaurant while in a sate of intoxication
12. Pistol-whipping the complainant on the latter’s left face without any justification
13. Acting as counsel and/or attorney-in-fact for all the parties with opposing
interests on a parcel of land in pursuance of his personal self-interest
14. Using intemperate language unbecoming of a judge
15. Failure to reply to a show cause resolution of the Supreme Court
16. Loss of records
17. Inaction by judge which is the tantamount to partiality in favor of one party
…among others.

• Instances of gross inefficiency:

1. Delay in the disposition of cases
2. Unduly granting repeated motions for postponement of a case
3. Gross incompetence and ignorance of the law
4. Reducing to a ridiculous amount the bail bond of the accused in a murder case
5. Including execution in the judgment itself
6. Dismissing uncalendared criminal cases without verifying whether the other
parties had received the notices of court hearings
…among others

• Procedure for filing an administrative complaint (Rule 140 of the Revised Rules of
Court):
1. Complaint in writing, setting forth clearly the facts and circumstances relied upon and
sworn to and supported by affidavits and documents
2. Service or dismissal which must followed by an answer within 10 days from date of
service
3. Answer and hearing
4. Report filed with the Supreme Court of findings accompanied by evidence and
documents

Civil Liabilities:

• Civil Liabilities Re Official Functions:

a. Obstructs, defeats, violates or in any manner impedes or impairs the civil
rights.
b. Willful or negligent rendition of a decision which causes damages to another
c. For damages: rendering/neglecting to decide a case causing loss to a party.

• Civil Code Disabilities:

Rule: Can’t purchase properties subject of litigation is his court.
Exception: Does not apply where the subject property was not acquired from
any of the parties to the case, nor will it apply when the litigation is already
finished.
But… while in a technical sense, the judge may not have acquired the property in
litigation in a case before him, nevertheless, it is improper for him to have done
so under the canons of judicial ethics.

• Donations made to a judge by reason of his office are void.

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• Taking advantage of his position to boost his candidacy amounts to gross
misconduct.

• Cannot serve as officers or advisers of political groups.

Criminal Liabilities

• Malfeasance under the RPC:

a. Knowingly Rendering Unjust Judgment (Art. 204, RPC)
The elements are:
1. That the officer is a judge;
2. That he renders judgment in a case submitted to him for decision;
3. That the judgment is unjust;
4. The judge knows that his judgment is unjust.

b. Judgment Rendered Through Negligence (Art. 205, RPC)

The elements are:
1. That the offender is a judge;
2. That he renders judgment in a case submitted to him for decision
3. That the judgment is manifestly unjust;
4. That it is due to his inexcusable negligence or ignorance.

Notaries Public
I. Qualifications (Sec 232 and 234, Revised Administrative Code (RAC))
A. Filipino citizen
B. Over 21 years of age
C. Should not have been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude
D. Training
1. Those admitted to the practice of law
2. Those who have passed the studies of law in a reputable
university
3. A clerk or deputy clerk of court or one who has at some time
held the position of clerk or deputy clerk of court for a period of
not less than two (2) years
4. Those qualified for the office of Notary Public de officio under
Spanish sovereignty
5. Municipal judges as notaries public de officio in municipalities or
municipal districts
i. where there are no persons with the necessary qualifications
ii. where there are qualified persons but they refuse
appointment

• non-lawyers as notaries:
General Rule: SC Circular No. 16 of 1985 directed
appointing judges to refrain and desist from appointing
and/or renewing the appointment of non-lawyers as
notaries public because of the unethical practices of
notaries public who are non-lawyers;
Exception: In places where there are no lawyers, or there
are not enough lawyers, the appointment of non-lawyers
as notaries public may be allowed, but a non-lawyer who
wishes to be commissioned as a notary public must apply
directly with the Supreme Court, and such petitions will be
decided on a case to case basis.

• municipal judges as notaries: among members of the

bench, only municipal judges may act as notaries. There
are 2 reasons to not limit the authority of the municipal

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judge as an ex officio notary public to the notarization of
documents in connection with the performance of his
official functions:
1) A municipal judge has miscellaneous powers, such
as the power to solemnize marriages, administer
oaths, take depositions, the exercise of which could
be facilitated by allowing the judge to act as a
notary EVEN if the documents are not connected
with the performance of his ordinary official duties.
(Opus v. Barnia, 114 SCRA 552 (1982))
2) Includes any act performed by a regular notary
public: The demands of public service also justify
that the authority of the municipal judge as notary
public ex officio should not be limited to notarizing
documents connected only with the exercise of
their official duties. They should be allowed to act
and perform any service within the competency of a
notary public. In our rural areas and communities,
there are few regular notaries, and they do not
keep regular office hours. It would be more
convenient and less expensive for the public,
especially the common people to have ready
access to the municipal judge at his official station
instead of traveling to the provincial capital or to the
big towns where most lawyers practice as regular
notaries. (Lapena v. Marcos, 114 SCRA 572
(1982)).

* A municipal judge may not collect the notarial fees for

himself because the law provides that officers acting as
notaries public ex officio shall charge for their services
the fees prescribed by law and account therefor as
government funds. (supra Lapena citing RAC Sec 231-
252, and Rule 141, Sec. 6(h) and 9 of the Revised
Rules of Court.) Municipal judges, however, were not
allowed to collect any notarial fees at all, even in behalf
of the municipality, when the Department of Local
Government organized barrio associations and barrio
cooperatives in 1973. (SC Circular No. 2, may 24,
1973)
E. Fees and dues
1. Must show proof of payment of their privilege tax as well as their
dues as members of the IBP.
2. Must state the IBP Chapter to which he belongs, the number of
the corresponding IBP receipt of up-to-date payments of dues,
and his respective License Numbers.

*These are prerequisites to the judge acting on the application

(Memorandum Circular No. 3, Feb. 17, 1976)

II. Appointment and Term

A. Appointed by the Executive Judges in multi-sala RTCs in provinces and
cities (Sec. 232, RAC)
B. Shall end at the expiration of the two (2) year period beginning on the first
(1st) day of January of the year in which the appointment was made (Sec.
239, RAC)

III. Jurisdiction
A. Under the Notarial Law, the jurisdiction of a notary public in general, used
to be CO-EXTENSIVE with the province for which he was commissioned;

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and for the notary public in the City of Manila, the jurisdiction is CO-
EXTENSIVE with said city.
B. Circular 8 of 1985 however, clarified further that the notary public may be
commissioned for the same term only by one court within the Metro
Manila region.
C. Hence, the notary’s jurisdiction is now co-extensive, not with the
jurisdiction of the entire judicial district, but with the jurisdiction of the
appointing court. Notarial acts performed beyond jurisdictional limits have
no effect. In Tecson v. Tecson (61 Phil 781 (1935)), the SC ruled that
acknowledgements made without jurisdiction are void and the document
remains private.

IV. Powers
Section 241 of the Revised Administrative Act enumerates the General
Powers of a Notary Public:
1. To administer all oaths and affirmations provided for by law:
a. in all matters incident to his notarial office;
b. in the execution of:
1. Affidavits
2. Depositions
3. Other documents requiring an oath
2. To receive proof or acknowledgment of all writings relating to
commerce, such as
a. Ships, vessels or boats:
1. Bills of Exchange
2. Bottomries
3. Mortgages
4. Hypothecations
b. Charter parties or affreightments
c. Letters of attorney
d. Land/buildings or interest therein:
1. Deeds
2. Mortgages
3. Transfers and assignments
e. Other writings as are commonly provided or acknowledged before
notaries.
3 3. To act as magistrate in the writing of affidavits or depositions
4. To make declarations and certify the truth thereof under his seal of office,
concerning all matters done by him in virtue of his office.

• Sec. 241 is broad enough to cover more familiar acts requiring

notarization under different and more specific provisions of law, such as
the acknowledgement of wills under Article 806.

• A function not mentioned in Sec. 241 but mentioned in Sec. 246 is

the making of protests, which is required in instances such as those
provided under the Negotiable Instruments Law and the Code of
Commerce.

Five Functions:
1. Attests: he witnesses, or sees, as an officer, that a person named in the
document swears before God or affirms that certain facts set forth in the
document are true.
2. Certifies: he writes on the same instrument that the person named therein
did appear before him on a certain day and at a certain place and did
there swear before God or affirm that the facts stated therein are true.
3. Takes an Acknowledgement: the man named in a deed or other
conveyance comes to him with the deed and tells him that he is the man
named as grantor in the deed, and that he signed the deed and means to
convey the property to the person named therein.

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4. Certifies the same: he writes on the deed theses facts, that he knows the
man named in the deed and that the said man did sign it and means to
convey it.
5. Protest: he writes down how and when he performed certain acts which
he is called upon to perform as a public official.

* In a nutshell, attestation and certification pertain to statements made or facts

related by parties. The act of taking acknowledgement and certifying the same
pertain to conveyances made by parties. Making protests pertain to the performance
of certain acts by notaries themselves which they are called upon to do under law.

V. Duties
The law imposes on the notary public two kinds of duties:
A. Formal: execution of formalities required by law

* Rational: Since the notarial document is entitled to full faith and credit upon
its face, notaries public must observe the utmost care to comply with the
elementary formalities in the performance of their duties so that the
confidence of the public in the integrity of this form of conveyancing will not
be undermined.

1. Notarial Seal (Sec. 244 RAC)

i. Must have a seal of office, an impression of which appearing
directly on the paper or parchment on which the writhing is
printed shall be as valid as if made on wax or wafer,
ii. Features:
a. must be made of metal
b. there must be engraved on it the name of the
province followed by the word “Philippines,” the name of
the notary public, and the words “notary public” across the
center.
iii. It must be procured at the notary’s expense and must be
affixed to papers officially signed by the notary.

2. Notarial Register (Sec. 245 RAC)

* It is a record of his official acts as a notary and a certified copy of

such record or any part thereof shall be supplied to any person
applying and paying the legal fees for it.

i. Entries (Sec. 246 RAC)

- Recorded in chronological order:
• The person(s) executing/swearing
• The witnesses
• The notarial fees collected
• A correct copy of the instrument
• A description of the substance

* No blank lines between entries, must be numbered

consecutively, beginning with the number “one” in each
calendar year. The number of the document and the
corresponding pages of the register in which the document
is entered must be stated in the documents notarized.

* Additional Requirements for Protest:

Notary must indicate in the register a full and true record of
all the proceedings and a note as to the following:
• Whether demand was made, to whom, when, and
where it was made
• Whether the protestor presented the document

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REVIEWER
ATENEO CENTRAL BAR OPERATIONS 2002
TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
• Whether notices were given and to whom, when,
and in what manner, or whether they were made,
and to whom, when, and where directed.

ii. Weekly Certification (Sec. 246 RAC)

• At the end of each week, the notary shall certify in his
register the number of the instruments executed, sworn
to, acknowledged, or protested before him; or if none,
he shall make a certificate showing this fact.

iii. Forwarding of Entries to the Clerk of Court

• Within the first ten (10) days of the month next
following, the notary public shall forward to and file with
the clerk of the RTC of the area over which he
exercised jurisdiction (1) certified copies of each
month’s entries and any instrument acknowledged
before him; or if no entry was made, a statement to that
effect.

iv. Forwarding the Notarial Register (Sec 247 RAC)

• The register is forwarded in 2 instances: when the
register is filled or within fifteen days after the
expiration of the commission; unless the notary is
reappointed.
• The register is addressed to the clerk of court, and the
clerk of court forwards the register to the appointing
judge who will then investigate any irregularities.
• If irregularities exist, the judge will recommend the
case to a fiscal and defer forwarding the register to the
National Library until termination of the case against
the notary public.

3. Taxes
i. Residence Certificate (now Community Tax Certificate)
(Sec. 251 RAC)
• The notary must certify that parties to the notarized
document either presented their proper residence
certificates or are exempt from presenting such
certificates.
• He must enter, as part of the certification, the number,
place of issue, and date of the residence certificate.

ii. Documentary Stamp Taxes

SEC 201 of the NIRC: no notary public or other officer authorized
to administer oaths shall add his jurat or acknowledgement to any
document subject to documentary stamp tax unless the proper
documentary stamps are affixed thereto and cancelled.

4. Date of Commission’s Expiry (Sec. 250, RAC)

• A notary must affix to all acknowledgements taken and
certified by him according to law, a statement of the date on
which his commission will expire.

5. Notarial Fees (Sec. 252, RAC)

• No fees, except as such as is expressly prescribed and
allowed by law, shall be collected or received for any service
rendered by a notary public.
• Rule 141, Section 9 of the Revised Rules of Court provides a
schedule of fees. SC Circular No. 10, May 18, 1988,
increased the amount of notarial fees, and IBP

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REVIEWER
ATENEO CENTRAL BAR OPERATIONS 2002
TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
Memorandum Circular No. 001-87, September 2, 1987
published a table of fees that may be charged by notaries
public.

B. Substantial: verification of the capacity and identity of the parties as well

as the legality of the act executed.

• Soto v. Lacre, 77 SCRA 453 (1977), gave 3 duties:

1. He must ascertain the identity of the party signing
2. He must ensure that the act is voluntary
3. He must verify the capacity of the parties

• SC seems to also require that notaries, as lawyers,

look into the validity of the acts or statements which they will verify: it
is for the notary to inform himself of the facts to which he intends to
certify and to take part in no illegal enterprise. Asuncion v. CA, 150
SCRA 353 (1987)

• Rational: there is no question that the role of the notary

is, among others, to guard against any illegal or immoral
arrangements. (Cabrillas, The Notarial Act, 87 SCRA 3234 (1933).

VI. Effects of Notarization

A. Local
Effects of NOTARIZATION
1. The notary, in effect, proclaims to the world:
a. That all the parties therein personally appeared before him
b. That they are personally known to him
c. That they are the same persons who executed the instrument
d. That he inquired into the voluntariness of the execution of the
instrument; and
e. That they acknowledged personally before him that they
voluntarily and freely executed the same

2. Converts a private document into a public one and renders it

admissible in court without further proof of its authenticity. (Joson vs.
Baltazar) Documents enjoy a presumption of regularity. It constitutes
prima facie evidence of the facts which give rise to their execution and of
the date of said execution, but not of the truthfulness of the statements.
The reason for the former presumption is that the law assumes that the
act which the officer witnesses and certified to or the date written by him
are not shown to be false since notaries are public officers.

B. Foreign
1. Acts performed by notaries public are respected not only within
their particular jurisdictions but also in other countries, because their
office exists and is recognized throughout the commercial world and
has been said to be known to the law of nations.
2. The practice of courts of taking judicial notice of the seals of
notaries public seems to exist as a matter of comity among nations, in
the absence of a treaty.

VII. Liabilities
A. Criminal
1. Liable for violation of Art, 171 of RPC on falsification who, by
taking advantage of his official position, commits the following:
i. Counterfeiting or imitating any handwriting, signature, or
rubric
ii. Causing it to appear that persons have participated in any
act or proceeding when they did not in fact so participate

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REVIEWER
ATENEO CENTRAL BAR OPERATIONS 2002
TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES
iii. Attributing to persons who have participated in an act or
proceedings statements other than those in fact made by
them
iv. Making untruthful statements
v. Altering true dates
vi. Making any alteration or intercalation in a genuine
document which changes its meaning
vii. Issuing in an authenticated form a document purporting to
be a copy of an original document when no such original
exists, or including in such copy a statement contrary to, or
different from, that of the genuine original
viii. Intercalating any instrument or note relative to the issuance
thereof in a protocol, registry, or official book.

2. Subject to laws governing actuations of public officers

B. Civil
• There is no doctrine, decision or law imposing direct civil liability upon
a notary public, whether on tort or on contract, for damages caused to
people as a result of his default in the performance of his notarial
duties.
• No decision by the SC has made the general principles of tort or
contract applicable to notaries, although the SC in Soto v. Lucre
(supra) held that it is necessary to adduce and to prove negligence,
malice, or corruption on the part of the notary to hold him liable.
• However, what the SC has done in cases where it discovered that the
misconduct of the notary public was due to negligence, malice, or
corruption and directly resulted in fraud or damage was NOT to order
him to pay damages but to discipline him administratively instead.
(see In re: Rusiana, 105 Phil 1328 (1959), Sabayle v. Tandayag, 158
SCRA 497 (1988), and Ramirez v. Ner, 21 SCRA 207 (1967).

C. Administrative
1. Under the RAC
• Failure to comply with the duties under the notarial register
(Sec. 249 (a, b, c, e)) RAC); may be subject to dismissal or
fine under Sec 2633 of RAC.
• Failure to affix date of expiration: risks having his
commission revoked. (Sec. 249 (d) RAC) Certification after
expiration: subject to fine (Sec. 2632)
• Failure to note CTC: ground for revocation and fine. (Sec.
249 (g) and 2633 RAC)
• Failure to affix/cancel doc stamps: fine (Sec. 201 NIRC)
• Failure to make a report to the RTC judge concerning his
duties when required by such judge (Sec. 249 (f) RAC)
• Any other dereliction or act which shall appear to the judge
to constitute good cause for removal (Sec. 249 (h) RAC)
• Overcharging fees: fine (Ibabao v. Villa, 104 SCRA 325
(1981))

2. As a Member of the Bar

• SC resorts to its powers of supervision over notaries as
lawyers
• As administrative proceedings, cases for disbarment or
malpractice are easier to establish and more quickly decided
than a criminal case.
• Even if a criminal case against a notary for the same acts
has not been filed or decided, the SC may punish the
lawyer-notary administratively.
• Criminal conviction is not a prerequisite to disbarment
proceedings. Prima Facie violations are sufficient.

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REVIEWER
ATENEO CENTRAL BAR OPERATIONS 2002
TOLOSA & ASSOCIATES

VIII. Defenses
A. Criminal cases
• Avail of the usual defenses in criminal cases

B. Administrative Cases
Lawyer-notary has two lines of defense:
1. The presumption of regularity in the performance of his duties
• If the presumption is overturned, the notary may
still prove good faith and diligence.

2. Good faith and diligence

• Good faith may be exempting or mitigating.
Examples:
• The notary readily admitted his fault or was candid with the
Court
• He did the acts because he was prevailed upon by the
parties
• He committed a wrong doing out of generosity or sincere
desire to help
• He did not fully realize the implications of the agreement
• He relied on the assurances of a party or a fellow lawyer
• The injured party filed the case merely to harass the notary
• The notary was merely caught in the cross-fire of a fight
between the parties

* Bad faith is always aggravating and has consistently resulted

in disbarment.
Examples:
• Lied to the court
• Presented false evidence in his defense
• Took advantage of his position to defraud a party

* Diligence has been mitigating, but negligence is never

exempting. However, negligence is a lesser evil compared to
bad faith. Negligence has been punished by penalties ranging
from admonition at best to 6 months suspension at worst.

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