Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Pale Case Digests PDF
Pale Case Digests PDF
Cayetano vs Monsod:
FACTS: In 1991, Christian Monsod was appointed as the Chairman of the Commission on Elections. His
appointment was affirmed by the Commission on Appointments. Monsod’s appointment was opposed by Renato
Cayetano on the ground that he does not qualify for he failed to meet the Constitutional requirement which provides
that the chairman of the COMELEC should have been engaged in the practice law for at least ten years.
Monsod’s track record as a lawyer:
1. Passed the bar in 1960 with a rating of 86.55%.
2. Immediately after passing, worked in his father’s law firm for one year.
3. Thereafter, until 1970, he went abroad where he had a degree in economics and held various positions in
various foreign corporations.
4. In 1970, he returned to the Philippines and held executive jobs for various local corporations until 1986.
5. In 1986, he became a member of the Constitutional Commission.
ISSUE: Whether or not Monsod qualifies as chairman of the COMELEC. What constitutes practice of law?
HELD: Yes. Atty. Monsod’s past work experiences as a lawyer-economist, a lawyer-manager, a lawyer-
entrepreneur of industry, a lawyer-negotiator of contracts, and a lawyer-legislator of both the rich and the poor —
verily more than satisfy the constitutional requirement — that he has been engaged in the practice of law for at least
ten years.
As noted by various authorities, the practice of law is not limited to court appearances. The members of the bench
and bar and the informed laymen such as businessmen, know that in most developed societies today, substantially
more legal work is transacted in law offices than in the courtrooms. General practitioners of law who do both litigation
and non-litigation work also know that in most cases they find themselves spending more time doing what is loosely
described as business counseling than in trying cases. In the course of a working day the average general
practitioner wig engage in a number of legal tasks, each involving different legal doctrines, legal skills, legal
processes, legal institutions, clients, and other interested parties. Even the increasing numbers of lawyers in
specialized practice wig usually perform at least some legal services outside their specialty. By no means will most of
this work involve litigation, unless the lawyer is one of the relatively rare types — a litigator who specializes in this
work to the exclusion of much else. Instead, the work will require the lawyer to have mastered the full range of
traditional lawyer skills of client counseling, advice-giving, document drafting, and negotiation.
PRINCIPLE: PRACTICE OF LAW IS NOT ONLY LIMITED TO COURT APPEARANCES.
2.
Paguia vs Office of the President
FACTS: Petitioner Alan F. Paguia (petitioner),as citizen and taxpayer, filed this original action for the writ of certiorari to
invalidate President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo’s nomination of respondent former Chief Justice Hilario G. Davide, Jr. (respondent
Davide) as PermanentRepresentative to the United Nations (UN) for violation of Section 23 of Republic Act No. 7157 (RA7157), the
Philippine Foreign Service Act of 1991. Petitioner argues that respondent Davide’s age at that time of his nomination in March 2006,
70, disqualifies him from holding his post. Petitioner grounds his argument on Section 23of RA7157 pegging the mandatory
retirement age of all officers and employees of the Department of Foreign Affairs( DFA) at 65. Petitioners theorizes that section 23
imposes an absolute rule for all DFA employees, career or non career.
ISSUE: Whether or not Hilario Davide qualifies.
HELD: YES.
PRINCIPLE: The practice of law is not limited to the conduct of cases or litigation in court but also
embraces all other matters connected with the law and any work involving the determination by the legal mind of the
legal effects of facts and conditions.
3.
OCA VS LADAGA
Facts: Atty. Misael Ladaga, Branch Clerk of Court of the Regional Trial Court of Makati, appeared as counsel for and inbehalf
of his cousin, Narcisa Naldoza Ladaga, an accused in Criminal Case No. 84-885 for ―Falsification of Public Documents‖ before the
METC of Quezon City. It is also denied that the appearance of said respondent in said case was without the previous permission of
the Court. During the occasions that the respondent appeared as such counsel before the METC of Quezon City, he was on official
leave of absence. Moreover, his Presiding Judge, Judge Napoleon Inoturan was aware of the case he was handling. Respondent
appeared as pro bono counsel for his cousin-client Narcisa Ladaga. Respondent did not receive a single centavo from her. Helpless
as she was and respondent being the only lawyer in the family, he agreed to represent her out of his compassion and high regard
for her. This is the first time that respondent ever handled a case for a member of his family who is like a big sister to him. He
appeared for free and for the purpose of settling the case amicably. Furthermore, his Presiding Judge was aware of his appearance
as counsel for his cousin. On top of this, during all the years that he has been in government service, he has maintained his integrity
and independence. He failed to obtain a prior permission from the head of the Department. The presiding judge of the court to which
respondent is assigned is not the head of the Department contemplated by law.
For one thing, it has never been refuted that City Attorney Fule had been given permission by his immediate superior,
the Secretary of Justice, to represent the complainant in the case at bar, who is a relative. Based on the foregoing, it
is evident that the isolated instances when respondent appeared as pro bono counsel of his cousin in Criminal Case
No. 84885 does not constitute the ―private practice‖ of the law profession contemplated by law.
Issue: Whether or not Atty. Ladaga, upon such several appearances, was engages into private practice?
Held: NO Respondent is charged under Sec. 7(b)(2) of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and
Employees which prohibits civil servants from engaging in the private practice of their profession. A similar prohibition is found under
Sec. 35, Rule 138 of the Revised Rules of Court which disallows certain attorneys from engaging in the private practice of their
profession.
PRINCIPLE: the word private practice of law implies that one must have presented himself to be in the active and
continued practice of the legal profession and that his professional services are available to the public for a
compensation, as a source of his livelihood or in consideration of his said services.
4.
IN RE: CUNANAN
Facts: In the manner of the petitions for Admission to the Bar of unsuccessful candidates of 1946 to 1953. In recent years few
controversial issues have aroused so much public interest and concern as R.A. 972 popularly known as the ―Bar Flunkers’ Act of
1953 Generally a candidate is deemed passed if he obtains a general ave of 75% in all subjects w/o falling below 50% in any
subject, although for the past few exams the passing grades were changed depending on the strictness of the correcting of the bar
examinations.
Issues: Whether RA 972 is constitutional.
HELD: NO. Section 2 was declared unconstitutional due to the fatal defect of not being embraced in the title of the Act.
As per its title, the Act should affect only the bar flunkers of 1946 to 1955 Bar examinations. Section2 establishes a
permanent system for an indefinite time. It was also struck down for allowing partial passing, thus failing to take
account of the fact that laws and jurisprudence are not stationary.
PRINCIPLE: that the ultimate power to grant license for the practice of law belongs exclusively to this Court, and the
law passed by Congress on the matter is of permissive character, or as other authorities may say, merely to fix the
minimum conditions for the license.
5.
In re Almacen
FACTS: Atty. Almacen was the counsel of one Virginia Yaptinchay in a civil case. They lost in said civil case but
Almacen filed a Motion for Reconsideration. He notified the opposing party of said motion but he failed to indicate the
time and place of hearing of said motion. Hence, his motion was denied. He then appealed but the Court of Appeals
denied his appeal as it agreed with the trial court with regard to the motion for reconsideration. Eventually, Almacen
filed an appeal on certiorari before the Supreme Court which outrightly denied his appeal in a minute resolution.
ISSUE: Whether or not Almacen should be disciplined.
HELD: Yes. The Supreme Court first clarified that minute resolutions are needed because the Supreme Court cannot
accept every case or write full opinion for every petition they reject otherwise the High Court would be unable to
effectively carry out its constitutional duties. The proper role of the Supreme Court is to decide ―only those cases
which present questions whose resolutions will have immediate importance beyond the particular facts and parties
involved.‖ It should be remembered that a petition to review the decision of the Court of Appeals is not a matter of
right, but of sound judicial discretion; and so there is no need to fully explain the court’s denial. For one thing, the
facts and the law are already mentioned in the Court of Appeals’ opinion.
PRINCIPLE: The Constitution vests the power of controland regulation in the Supreme Court. Theconstitutional power to admit
candidates to thelegal profession is a judicial function and involvesthe exercise of discretion. Petition to that end isfiled with the
Supreme Court as are otherproceedings invoking judicial function
6.
In re Mendoza
Bachelor of Laws degree in this jurisdiction shall be admitted to the bar examination unless he or she has
satisfactorily completed the following course in a law school or university duly recognized by the government: civil law,
commercial law, remedial law, criminal law, public and private international law, political law, labor and social
legislation, medical jurisprudence, taxation and legal ethics. A Filipino citizen who graduated from a foreign law
school shall be admitted to the bar examination only upon submission to the Supreme Court of certifications showing:
(a) completion of all courses leading to the degree of Bachelor of Laws or its equivalent degree; (b) recognition or
accreditation of the law school by the proper authority; and (c) completion of all the fourth year subjects in the
Bachelor of Laws academic program in a law school duly recognized by the Philippine Government. SEC. 6. Pre-Law.
- An applicant for admission to the bar examination shall present a certificate issued by the proper government
agency that, before commencing the study of law, he or she had pursued and satisfactorily completed in an
authorized and recognized university or college, requiring for admission thereto the completion of a four-year high
school course, the course of study prescribed therein for a bachelor's degree in arts or sciences. A Filipino citizen
who completed and obtained his or her Bachelor of Laws degree or its equivalent in a foreign law school must
present proof of having completed a separate bachelor's degree course. The Clerk of Court, through the Office of the
Bar Confidant, is hereby directed to this resolution among all law schools in the country." Very truly yours, MA.LUISA
D. VILLARAMA\--Re: 1999 Bar Examination
7.
Re: 1999 Bar Examinations
The crux of the case involving Bar Matters Nos. 979 and 986 concerning Bar applicant Mark Anthony A. Purisima
stemmed from a Resolution issued by the Supreme Court on the April 13, 2000, disqualifying the applicant from
membership in the Bar after he successfully passed the previous year’s bar examinations. Such disqualification was
based on the declaration by the Court that Purisima’s examinations were null and void for two reasons: (1) that he
failed to submit the required certificate of completion of the pre-bar review course under oath for his conditional
admission to the 1999 Bar Examinations; and (2) that he committed a serious act of dishonesty when he made it
appear in his Petition to Take the 1999 Bar Examinations that he took his pre-bar review course at the Philippine Law
School (PLS) when, as certified by the school’s Acting Registrar, no such course was offered there since 1967.
ISSUE: IS HE QUALIFIED TO BE ADMITTED AS MEMBER OF THE BAR?
HELD: YES. There was only an honest mistake with respect to the documents given to the Supreme Court for the
application for bar and He did not commit with any grave dishonesty that would amount him to be disqualified for
admittance to law.
PRINICIPLES: every applicant for admission into the practice of law, two qualifications of relevance to this instant
case the requests of educational qualifications 65 and good moral character.
8.
Pangan vs. Ramos
A.M. No. 1053
September 7, 1979
FACTS: In 1979, a pending administrative case filed by Santa Pangan against Atty. Dionisio Ramos was delayed because Atty.
Ramos allegedly appeared before a court in Manila. When the records of the said case was checked (one which Atty. Ramos
appeared in), it was found that he used the name ―Atty. Pedro D.D. Ramos‖. In his defense, Atty. Ramos said he has the right to
use such name because in his birth certificate, his name listed was Pedro Dionisio Ramos. ―D.D.‖ stands for Dionisio Dayaw with
Dayaw being his mother‘s surname. However, in the roll of attorneys, his name listed was Dionisio D. Ramos.
ISSUE: Whether or not what Atty. Ramos did was correct.
HELD: No. The attorney‘s roll or register is the official record containing the names and signatures of those who are authorized
to practice law. A lawyer is not authorized to use a name other than the one inscribed in the Roll of Attorneys in his practice of
law. The official oath obliges the attorney solemnly to swear that he will do no falsehood. As an officer in the temple of justice,
an attorney has irrefragable obligations of truthfulness, candor and frankness. In representing himself to the court as ―Pedro D.D.
Ramos‖ instead of ―Dionisio D. Ramos‖, respondent has violated his solemn oath and has resorted to deception. The Supreme
Court hence severely reprimanded Atty. Ramos and warned that a similar infraction will warrant suspension or disbarment.
PRINCIPLE: The attorney's roll or register is the official record containing the names and signatures of those who are authorized
to practice law. A lawyer is not authorized to use a name other than the one inscribed in the Roll of Attorneys in his practice of
law.
9.
In Re: Argosino
B.M. No. 712
July 13, 1995
FACTS: This is a matter for admission to the bar and oath taking of a successful bar applicant. Argosinowas previously involved
with hazing that caused the death of Raul Camaligan but was sentenced withhomicide through reckless imprudence after he
pleaded guilty. He was sentenced with 2 yearsimprisonment where he applied for a probation thereafter which was granted by the
court with a 2 yr probation. He took the bar exam and passed but was not allowed to take oath. He filed a petition to allowhim to
take the attorney‘s oath of office averring that his probation was already terminated. The court notethat he spent only 10 months
of the probation period before it was terminated.
ISSUE: WON Argosino may take oath of office.
HELD: The court upheld the principle of maintaining the good morals of all Bar members, keeping inmind that such is of greater
importance so far as the general public and the proper administration of justice are concerned, than the possession of legal
learning. Hence he was asked by the court to produceevidence that would certify that he has reformed and have become a
responsible member of thecommunity through sworn statements of individuals who have a good reputation for truth and who
haveactually known Mr. Argosino for a significant period of time to certify he is morally fit to the admission of the law
profession. The court also ordered that said a copy of the proceeding be furnished to thefamily/relatives of Raul Camaligan.
PRINCIPLE: The requirement of good moral character to be satisfied by those who would seek admission to the bar must of
necessity be more stringent than the norm of conduct expected from members of the general public.
10.
RE: PETITION OF AL ARGOSINO TO TAKE THE LAWYERS OATH
B.M. No. 712
March 19, 1997
FACTS: Al Argosino passed the bar examinations of 1993. The Court however deferred his oath-taking due to his previous
conviction for Reckless Imprudence Resulting In Homicide. The criminal case arose from the death of a neophyte during
fraternity initiation rites. Argosino and seven (7) other accused initially entered pleas of not guilty to homicide charges but later
withdrew their initial pleas and upon re-arraignment all pleaded guilty to reckless imprudence resulting in homicide. On the basis
of such pleas, the trial court rendered judgment imposing on each of the accused a sentence of imprisonment of from (2) years
four (4) months and one (1) day to four (4) years. The trial court granted herein petitioner's application for probation. The trial
court issued an order approving a report submitted by the Probation Officer recommending Argosino's discharge from probation.
Argosino filed before the SC a petition to be allowed to take the lawyer's oath based on the order of his discharge from probation.
The Court then issued a resolution requiring petitioner Al C. Argosino to submit to the Court evidence that he may now be
regarded as complying with the requirement of good moral character imposed upon those seeking admission to the bar.
In compliance, Argosino submitted no less than fifteen (15) certifications/letters executed by 2 senators, 5 trial court judges, and
6 members of religious orders. He likewise submitted evidence that a scholarship foundation had been established in honor of the
hazing victim.
The SC required the attorney-father of the victim to comment on Argosino's prayer but the latter submitted the matter to the
sound discretion of the Court.
ISSUE: Whether or not a Bar-passer convict be allowed to take his lawyer‘s oath after release?
HELD: In allowing Mr. Argosino to take the lawyer's oath, the Court recognizes that Mr. Argosino is not inherently of bad moral
fiber. On the contrary, the various certifications show that he is a devout Catholic with a genuine concern for civic duties and
public service. The Court is persuaded that Mr. Argosino has exerted all efforts to atone for the death of Raul Camaligan. We are
prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt, taking judicial notice of the general tendency of youth to be rash, temerarious and
uncalculating. We stress to Mr. Argosino that the lawyer‘s oath 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 makes when taking the lawyer's oath. If all
lawyers conducted themselves strictly according to the lawyer's oath and the Code of Professional Responsibility, the
administration of justice will undoubtedly be faster, fairer and easier for everyone concerned.
The Court sincerely hopes that Mr. Argosino will continue with the assistance he has been giving to his community. As a lawyer
he will now be in a better position to render legal and other services to the more unfortunate members of society.
PRINCIPLE: 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 o f justice.
11.
In Re: Edillon
A.M. No. 1928
August 3, 1978
FACTS: The respondent Marcial A. Edillon is a duly licensed practicing Attorney in the Philippines. The IBP Board of
Governors recommended to the Court the removal of the name of the respondent from its Roll of Attorneys for stubborn refusal
to pay his membership dues assailing the provisions of the Rule of Court 139-A and the provisions of par. 2, Section 24, Article
III, of the IBP By-Laws pertaining to the organization of IBP, payment of membership fee and suspension for failure to pay the
same.
Edillon contends that the stated provisions constitute an invasion of his constitutional rights in the sense that he is being
compelled as a pre-condition to maintain his status as a lawyer in good standing, to be a member of the IBP and to pay the
corresponding dues, and that as a consequence of this compelled financial support of the said organization to which he is
admitted personally antagonistic, he is being deprived of the rights to liberty and properly guaranteed to him by the Constitution.
Hence, the respondent concludes the above provisions of the Court Rule and of the IBP By-Laws are void and of no legal force
and effect.
ISSUE: Whether or not the court may compel Atty. Edillion to pay his membership fee to the IBP.
HELD: The Integrated Bar is a State-organized Bar which every lawyer must be a member of as distinguished from bar
associations in which membership is merely optional and voluntary. All lawyers are subject to comply with the rules prescribed
for the governance of the Bar including payment a reasonable annual fees as one of the requirements. The Rules of Court only
compels him to pay his annual dues and it is not in violation of his constitutional freedom to associate. Bar integration does not
compel the lawyer to associate with anyone. He is free to attend or not the meeting of his Integrated Bar Chapter or vote or refuse
to vote in its election as he chooses. The only compulsion to which he is subjected is the payment of annual dues. Such
compulsion is justified as an exercise of the police power of the State. The right to practice law before the courts of this country
should be and is a matter subject to regulation and inquiry. And if the power to impose the fee as a regulatory measure is
recognize then a penalty designed to enforce its payment is not void as unreasonable as arbitrary. Furthermore, the Court has
jurisdiction over matters of admission, suspension, disbarment, and reinstatement of lawyers and their regulation as part of its
inherent judicial functions and responsibilities thus the court may compel all members of the Integrated Bar to pay their annual
dues. For
PRINCIPLE: The Supreme Court in order to further the State‘s legitimate interest in elevating the quality of professional legal
services, may require thet the cost of the regulatory program – the lawyers.
12
Docena vs Limon
A.C. No. 2387
September 10, 1998
FACTS: Respondent was petitioner‘s lawyer in a civil case. During that case, he asked the petitioners to post a supersedeas bond
to stay execution of the appealed decision. Petitioners forwarded the money to Limon. Later, the case was decided in their favor.
They were unable to recover the money because the clerk of court said no such bond had ever been filed. IBP suspended him for
one year. Hence this petition.
HELD: Disbarred (see Canon 1.01 and 16.01). Respondent‘s allegation that the money was payment of his fees was overcome by
other evidence. The law is not a trade nor craft but a profession. Its basic ideal is to render public service and to secure justice for
those who seek its aid. If it has to remain an honorable profession and attain its basic ideal, lawyers should not only master its
tenets and principles but should also, by their lives, accord continuing fidelity to them. By extorting money from his client
through deceit, Limon has sullied the integrity of his brethren in the law and has indirectly eroded the people‘s confidence in the
judicial system. He is disbarred for immoral, deceitful and unlawful conduct.
PRINCIPLE:
Rule 1.01 - A lawyer shall not engage in unlawful, dishonest, immoral or deceitful conduct.
Canon 16.01 - A lawyer shall account for all money or property collected or received from the client.
13.
Philippine Lawyer‘s Association vs. Agrava
G.R. No. L-12426
February 16, 1959
FACTS: On may 27, 1957, respondent Director issued a circular announcing that he had scheduled an examination for the
purpose of determining who are qualified to practice as patent attorneys before the Philippines Patent Office. According to the
circular, members of the Philippine Bar, engineers and other persons with sufficient scientific and technical training are qualified
to take the said examination. The petitioner contends that one who has passed the bar examination sand is licensed by the
Supreme Court to practice law in the Philippines and who is in good standing is duly qualified to practice before the Philippines
Patent Office and that the respondent Director‘s holding an examination for the purpose is in excess of his jurisdiction and is in
violation of the law.The respondent, in reply, maintains the prosecution of patent cases ― does not involve entirely or purely the
practice of law but includes the application of scientific and technical knowledge and training as a matter of actual practice so as
to include engineers and other individuals who passed the examination can practice before the Patent office. Furthermore, he
stressed that for the long time he is holding tests, this is the first time that his right has been questioned formally.
ISSUE: Whether or not the appearance before the patent Office and the preparation and the prosecution of patent application, etc.,
constitutes or is included in the practice of law.
HELD: The Supreme Court held that the practice of law includes such appearance before the Patent Office, the representation of
applicants, oppositors, and other persons, and the prosecution of their applications for patent, their opposition thereto, or the
enforcement of their rights in patent cases. Moreover, the practice before the patent Office involves the interpretation and
application of other laws and legal principles, as well as the existence of facts to be established in accordance with the law of
evidence and procedure. The practice of law is not limited to the conduct of cases or litigation in court but also embraces all other
matters connected with the law and any work involving the determination by the legal mind of the legal effects of facts and
conditions. Furthermore, the law provides that any party may appeal to the Supreme Court from any final order or decision of the
director. Thus, if the transactions of business in the Patent Office involved exclusively or mostly technical and scientific
knowledge and training, then logically, the appeal should be taken not to a court or judicial body, but rather to a board of
scientists, engineers or technical men, which is not the case.
PRINCIPLE: Under the present law, members of the Philippine Bar authorized by this Tribunal to practice law, and in good
standing, may practice their profession before the Patent Office, for the reason that much of the business in said office involves
the interpretation and determination of the scope and application of the Patent Law and other laws applicable, as well as the
presentation of evidence to establish facts involved; that part of the functions of the Patent director are judicial or quasi-judicial,
so much so that appeals from his orders and decisions are, under the law, taken to the Supreme Court.
14
Marcos v. Chief of Staff
G.R. No. L-4663
May 30, 1951
FACTS:
1 Alleged that the AFP Military Tribunals unlawfully excluded MARCOS and CONDORDIA from their right to appear
as counsel on the ground that they are DISQUALIFIED/EXEMPTED/INHIBITED from SEC 17, Article 17 of the
Constitution:
1 SEC. 17: No Senator or Member of the House of Representatives shall directly or indirectly be financially interested
in any contract with the Government or any subdivision or instrumentality thereof, or in any franchise or special
privilege granted by the Congress during his term of office.
2 He shall not appear as counsel before the Electoral Tribunals or before any court in any civil case wherein the
Government or any subdivision or instrumentality thereof is the adverse party, or in any criminal case wherein an
offer or employee of the Government is accused of an offense committed in relation to his office…‖
ISSUES:
• The meaning or scope of the words any court in Section 17 Article 17 of the 1935 Constitution
• Who are included under the terms inferior court in section 2 Article 7.
HELD: Section 17 of Article 17 prohibits any members of the Congress from appearing as counsel in any criminal case x x x.
This is not limited to civil but also to a military court or court martial since the latter is also a court of law and justice as is any
civil tribunal. Inferior courts are meant to be construed in its restricted sense and accordingly do not include court martials or
military courts for they are agencies of executive character and do not belong to the judicial branch unlike the term inferior court
is. Another, words used in one part are to receive the same interpretation when used in other parts unless the contrary is
applied/specified. For
PRINCIPLE: SEC. 17. No Senator or Member of the House of Representatives shall directly or indirectly be financially
interested in any contract with the Government or any subdivision or instrumentality thereof, or in any franchise or special
privilege granted by the Congress during his term of office. He shall not appear as counsel before the Electoral Tribunals or
before any court in any civil case wherein the Government or any subdivision or instrumentality thereof is the adverse party, or in
any criminal case wherein an offer or employee of the Government is accused of an offense committed in relation to his
office. . . ..
15
16.
[G.R. No. 51813-14]
Romulo Cantimbuhan, et. al. v. Hon. Nicanor J. Cruz, Jr.
Facts: Petitioner, Romulo Cantimbuhan, Nelson B. Malana, Robert V. Lucila, senior law students of the
University of the Philippines, members of the office of legal aid were disallowed from appearing as
counsel in a proceeding. Petitioners alleged that Respondent MTC Judge Nicanor J. Cruz, Jr., violated
Rule 134, sec. 34 of the Rules of Court. Cantimbuhan expounds that ‗in a court of justice of the Peace,
party may conduct litigation with aid of an agent or friend appointed by person for that purpose.
Respondent, through Fiscal Leodegario C. Quilatan, counters that appearances of agent or friends of party
litigants should only be allowed where there is a scarcity of legal practice.
Issue: Is the appearance of the petitioners valid?
Held: Yes. Appearance of petitioners are allowed. Rule 137, sec. 24 of Rules of Court provides that
appearance of non-member of the Philippine Bar is authorized to appear in Inferiors Courts, and may
conduct his litigation in person or with aid of an agent appointed by him for the purpose.
17.
[G.R. No. 154464]
Ferdinand A. Cruz v.Judge Priscilla Mijares
Facts: Petitioner Ferdinand A. Cruz sought to enter his appearance on his behalf before the RTC. He is a
fourth year law student. Respondent Judge Priscilla Mijares denied his appearance, due to his being as a
party litigant. Cruz filed against Mijares actions for the violation of Rule 138, sec. 34 of the Rules of
Court; and, another civil case due to the remark: ― Hay naku, masama mas marunong pa sa huwes,
ok?” to inhibit the respondent Judge. Mijares held that the failure of Cruz to submit promised documents
and jurisprudence is failure to satisfy requisites or conditions of Rule 139-A, hence the appearance was
denied.
Issue: Is the denial of appearance by respondent Judge, a grave a abuse of discretion?
Held: Yes. A non-lawyer may appear before any court and conduct his litigation personally, as provided
for by Rule 138, sec. 34—on a party litigant‘s ability to conduct his litigation personally—Rule 138-A on
Law Student Practice Rule, requires that a law student should successfully complete his third year of a
regular four-year law curriculum, enrolled in a recognized law school‘s clinical legal education program
approved by the Supreme Court.Appearance of the law student should be directly under supervision and
control of a member of the IBP duly accredited by law signed by supervising attorney. Rule 138 is not
superseded by Rule-138-A, it is only a guideline for law students to represent himself in Court.
The petitions were partially granted. The Court was ordered to admit entry of appearance in the civil case.
However, the inhibition is denied.
18
[A.M. No. MTJ-02-1459]
Imelda Y. Maderadav.Judge Ernesto H. Mediodea
Facts: Petitioner Imelda Y. Maderada, the Clerk of Court in 12th MCTC, charged against Judge Ernesto H.
Mediodea of the MCTC with ―gross ignorance of the law amounting to grave misconduct‖ for failing ―to
observe and apply the Revised Rules on Summary Procedure‖ in a civil case. On Sep. 7, 2001, a criminal
case of Forcible Entry was charged against Maderada, and was presided over by Judge Erlinda Tersol.
Due to Maderada‘s occupation as clerk of court, Tersol inhibited herself. During the case, the opposing
\party questions the appearance of Maderada as the cousel of herself and her co-plaintiff in the criminal
case. Respondent Judge refutes Maderada‘s assertion that she appeared as counsel on her own behalf
because she could not afford the services of a lawyer that it does not follow that her occupation as Clerk is
not enough to pay for the services of counsel. Furthermore, Mediodea alleges that Maderada did not
secure authority from this Court to appear as counsel, and that she failed to file her leave of absence every
time she appeared in court. OCA recommended that respondent judge be fined, however, Maderada is
also at fault for not seeking approval of the court to appear as counsel.
Issue: Is the appearance of Maderada as counsel valid?
Held: Yes. The OCA recommends Maderada to be fined for engaging in a private vocation or profession
when she appeared on her own behalf in court, the necessary implication was the she was in the practice
of law. A party has right to conduct litigation personally is recognized by law, sec. 34 of Rule 138 of the
Rules of Court. When the individuals do litigate they are not considered to be in the practice of law.
Maderada, in appearing for herself, not to the public as a lawyer nor demanding payment for it—therefore,
she cannot be in the practice of law. However, what is prohibited is, appearing as the counsel for her co-
plaintiff. It no longer follows the raison d’etre of protecting one’s own rights
19. A.M. No. 08-6-352-RTC, August 19, 2009
Facts:
In his query, Petitioner Atty. Buffee, who previously worked as Clerk of Court VI of RTC Branch # 81of
Romblon, questioned Section 7(b) (2) of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 6713, providing for a limitation on
public officials and employees during their incumbency, and those already separated from government
employment for a period of one (1) year after separation, in engaging in the private practice of their
profession. Petitioner contends that such law gives preferential treatment to an incumbent public
employee, who may engage in the private practice of his profession so long as this practice does not
conflict or tend to conflict with his official functions, while those who are retired, resigned, or otherwise
removed from government service is prohibited from engaging the practice of their profession within one
(1) year. Atty. Buffee engaged in the practice of law within the one year prohibition period after her
tenure in the government.
Issue:
Is Atty. Buffee‘s contention correct?
Held:
No. Section 7 of the law provides that Public Officials and employees are prohibited from engaging the
private practice of law during their tenure, except those practices that are authorized by law. The
prohibitions shall continue to apply for a period of one year after the public official or employee's
resignation, retirement, or separation from public office, except for the private practice of profession
under subsection (b)(2), which can already be undertaken even within the one-year prohibition period. As
an exception to this exception, the one-year prohibited period applies with respect to any matter before
the office the public officer or employee used to work with. The purpose of this law is to avoid any
conflict of interest on the part of the employee who may wittingly or unwittingly use confidential
information acquired from his employment, or use his or her familiarity with court personnel still with the
previous office.
20.
[A.C. No. 5321]
Ramon A. Gonzales v.Atty. Arnez C. Alcaraz
Facts: Ramon A. Gonzales filed a case for disbarment against Atty. Arnez C. Alcaraz with grave
misconduct, abuse of authority and acts unbecoming of a lawyer. Allegedly, Atty. Alcaraz cut-offed
Gonzales at south super expressway and after confrontation sped off in front of him. Atty. Alcaraz shot
Gonzales three times, hitting him barely at the stomach. Due to Gonzales act‘s he was prevented from
running away and was arrested. He searched by the authorities, but bribed them with money. He also
shouted that he was a lawyer and a customs officer.
Issue: Is Atty. Alcaraz guilty of gross misconduct, abuse of authority and acts unbecoming of a lawyer?
Held: Yes. Atty. Alcaraz is guilty and suspended for a year from the practice of law. The liability of Atty.
Alcaraz stemmed from Can. 1, and a violation of a penal law. Disbarment proceedings is sui generis,
dismissal of a penal case filed by complainant does not affect the disbarment case. The misconduct
committed, despite done in private capacity is still a valid subject for disbarment. Vengeful and violent
behavior exhibited by respondent reveals his conceit and delusions of self-importance, unbecoming of a
lawyer.
21.
[A.C. No. 6678]
Jocelyn A. Saquing v. Atty Noel A. Mora
Facts: Jocelyn Saquing filed a disbarment case in the office of the Bar Confidant against Atty. Noel A.
Mora for grave misconduct for allegedly conspiring with sps. Paulino and Manuela Mora, who refused to
return the contact price; who induced her to buy an unregistered parcel of land. A twin criminal case of
estaffa was also filed against Atty. Mora, for the sale of 7.828 sqm. of allegedly registered land in Jun.
2004. Atty. Mora performed a notarial act without a commission, as PAO Lawyer; prepared the Deed of
Sale of the unregistered lang. Once Saquing found out the land is unregistered, she refused to sign the
contract with representation of sps. Mora and Noel. Atty. Mora denied all allegations. The IBP Board
recommends that Atty. Mora is guilty of Rule 1.1 and punishes him with a reprimand.
Issue: Is Atty. Mora guilty of grave misconduct?
Held: Yes. Atty. Mora is guilty of violating 1.1 of Can.1, and punished with a reprimand. For a lawyer to
be disbarred there must be clear, convincing, and satisfactory evidence proving alleged misconduct.
Disbarment is reserved for the most severe form of disciplinary action. Respondent notarized the
Acknowledgement without receipt of a notarial admission, violating the rule on a lawyer‘s responsibility
to ―not engage in unlawful, dishonest, immoral or deceitful conduct.‖
22.
[A.C. 6968]
Atty. Orlando V. Dizon v. Atty. Marichu C. Lambino
Facts: Atty. Orlando V. Dizon is the Chief of the Special Operations Group of the NBI; and, Atty.
Marichu C. Lambino is the Legal Counsel of UP Diliman. During a rumble on Dec. 8, 1994, in the
campus of UP Diliman, there were two student-suspects, Francis carlo Taparan and Raymundo Narag.
They were situated in the office of Col. Bentain. Atty. Dizon requested to take the two in his custody, on
the account that the NBI was authorized to make warrantless arrests. Atty. Lambino advised against
Dizon, due to Dizon‘s lack of a warrant of arrest. The two student-suspects are eventually indicted in
Court. Atty. Dizon filed a complaint with the IBP against Atty. Lambino for the violation of Can. 1, Rule
1.1 to 1.3 of the Code of Professional Responsibility; and, Atty. Lambino countered by charging Atty.
Dizon with the violation of Can. 1, Rule 1.1 to 1.3; Can. 6, Rule 6.1 to 6.2; and, Can. 8, Rule 8.1. The
cases were consolidated by the IBP.
Issue: Is Atty. Dizon liable for violating Can. 1, Rule 1.2 of the CPR?
Held: Yes. The NBI Charter does not warrant arrests without warrant, such power is qualified to be in
accordance with existing law and rules. Atty. Dizon‘s persistence to arrest the suspected students without
warrant is a clear violation of Rule 1.2 of Can. 1, which holds that ―A lawyer shall not counsel or abet
activites aimed at defiance of the law or at lessening confidence in the legal system.‖
Atty. Lambino‘s charges were dismissed, due to the principle that UP official‘s objection to attempts of
arrest of Dizon is a valid resistance. PD No. 1829, sec. 1 (c) without rendering it unconstitutional, they
having ―a right to prevent the arrest of students at the time because their attempted arrest was illegal‖. The
acts of Atty. Lambino is legally justified in advising against the turnover of the suspects.
23
[A.C. No. 6672]
Pedro L. Linsangan v. Atty. Nicomedes Tolentino
Facts: Pedro L. Linsangan charges transgression of Can.8, Rule 8.2 against Atty. Nicomedes Tolentino.
He alleges that Atty. Tolentino stole clients by enticing them with money. Atty. Tolentino allegedly used
to work for Linsangan, and used to poach clients from Linsangan with promise of always getting a
favorable result.
Issue: Is Atty. Tolentino guilty of conduct unbecoming of lawyer?
Held: Yes. He is found guilty and is suspended for a year in violation of Rules 1.3, 2.3, 8.2 and 16.4 of
CPR Respondent clearly solicited employment. Lawyers should not lend money to his clients unless it is
at the expense of Justice. It is the duty of the lawyer to keep his independence of mind; undivided
attention to the case he is handling.
24 Khan v. Simbillo, A.C. No. 5299, August 19, 2003
Facts: Atty. Simbillo posted in an issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, an advertisement which
reads: ―ANULLMENT OF MARRIAGE Specialist 32-4333/521-2667. Posting as a potential customer,
Ms. Espeleta called up the number and was later on debriefed by Mrs. Simbillo stating that they can her
husband can guarantee a court decree within four to six months and that her husband charges P48,000, of
which, half is payable at the time of filing and the other half upon the rendering of the decision. Similar
advertisements were posted prior to the latest one.
Atty. Khan Jr. filed a complaint for improper advertising and solicitation of legal services against Atty.
Simbillo, in violation of Rule 2.03 and 3.01 of the CPR. In response, Atty. Simbillo raised that such
advertising and solicitation per se are not prohibited and that such practices should be allowed in this day
and age. Atty. Simbillo prayed that he be exonerated from all the charges against him and that the court
promulgate a ruling that advertisement of legal services offered by a lawyer is not contrary to law, public
policy and public order as long as it is dignified.
Issue: Is Atty. Simbillo guilty of illegal advertising and solicitation of legal business?
Held: Yes, the practice of law is not a business, but is a profession in which duty to public service,
and not money, is the primary consideration. Such gaining of a livelihood should be but a secondary
consideration. Furthermore, advertising as a self-styled ―Annulment of Marriage Specialist‖ he erodes and
undermines not only the stability but also the sanctity of an institution still considered sacrosanct. Despite
solicitation of legal business is not altogether proscribed, it must be done so in a proper and dignified
manner worthy of the legal profession.
Atty. Simbillo is foundy GUILTY of violation of Rules 2.03 and 3.01 of the CPE and is
SUSPENDED from the practice of law for one (1) year. Also, he is STERNLY WARNED that a
repetition of the same or similar offense will be dealt with more severely.
25 Ulep v. Legal Clinic, 223 SCRA 378 [1993]
Facts: Mr. Ulep files a complaint against Legal Clinic, stating that the latter is using
advertisements that are unethical and demeaning of the law profession, and asks the court to order said
respondent to cease and desist from further issuing advertisements of the same or of similar tenor.
In response, Legal Clinic raise that they are not engage in the practice of law, but rather in the
rendering of ―legal support services‖ through paralegals with the use of modern computers and electronic
machines and if they be considered as legal services, then such advertising should be allowed in
accordance to the case of Bates and Van O‘Steen vs. State Bar of Arizona.
Issue: Are such services considered as a practice of the law profession? And are such, a
violation of the CPE?
Held: Such practices are considered as practice of law in accordance to the definition of the
practice of law as defined in the Cayetano v. Monsod case. Taking into consideration of the nature and the
contents of the advertisement in question, which even includes a quotation of the fees, the court rules that
such does not fall into any of the allowable exceptions in the advertising of the law profession.
26 RE: Letter of the UP Law Faculty xxx , A.M. No. 10-10-4-SC, March 8, 2011
Facts: In the recent case of Vinuya v. Executive Secretary in which the court denied the petition
for certiorari filed by Filipino comfort women, as represented by Attys. Roque and Bagares, to compel
certain officers of executive department to espouse their claims for reparation and demand apology from
the Japanese government for the abuses committed to them by the Japanese soldiers during the World
War II.
UP law professors Catindig and Laforteza along with 35 other faculty members of the UP College of Law
together with Dean Marvic Leonen publicized ―Restoring Integrity‖, a manifesto calling for Justice Del
Castillo‘s (the ponente in the Vinuya case) resignation. It illustrated strong dissatisfaction of Justice Del
Castillo‘s explanation on how he cited the primary sources of the quoted portions and yet arrived at a
contrary conclusion to those of the authors of the authors of the articles supposedly plagiarized. The
opening sentence alone gives a good impression on how strongly worded the motion was. It read: An
extraordinary act of injustice has again been committed against the brave Filipinas who had suffered
abuse during a time of war. The two continued on and referred to the decision in the Vinuya v Executive
Secretary case as an act of dishonesty and misrepresentation by the highest court of the land. They went
on and alleged that Justice Del Castillo committed plagiarism and even accused the Court of perpetrating
extraordinary injustice by dismissing the petition of the comfort women as well as they even attempt to
advise the Court on how to go about the review of the case.
Issue: Should the respondents be disciplined as members of the BAR under the Code of
Professional Responsibility?
Held: All lawyers, whether they are judges, court employees, professors or private practitioners,
are officers of the Court and have voluntarily taken an oath, as an indispensable qualification for
admission to the Bar, to conduct themselves with good fidelity towards the courts.
While a lawyer is entitled to present his case with vigor and courage, such enthusiasm does not
justify the use of offensive and abusive language.
RULE 1 PURPOSE
Section 1. Purpose of the MCLE
Continuing legal education is required of members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (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.
Facts:
Herein petitioner is one of the petitioner in the case of Heirs of Gavino Igoy v Mactan Shangrila Hotel.
During the pendency of the case in the Court of Appeals, a friend of the petitioner introduced him to
herein respondent, a Justice of the Supreme Court. The latter was introduced to herein petitioner by his
friend to aid him in his pending case in CA, and asked for P20,000.00 from the petitioner. However the
case lost, and in turn, herein respondent Justice prepared the petitioner‘s case for a petition for review in
the Supreme Court and asked for another P20,000.00 from the petitioner, which the latter eventually gave.
Herein respondent denies that he asked for the money involve, stating that it was gratuitously given to
him by the petitioner as a token of gratitude. Eventually he resigned from his office.
Held:
W/O respondent‘s acts are unethical and may be subjected to disbarment
Issue:
Yes. Clearly the act committed by the respondent considering his position as a senior attorney in the
Highest Court of the Land, such acts of abusing his position to serve his own interest is violative of his
code of professional responsibility as a senior attorney, particularly cannon 6.02. His acts corrupted and
has indelibly sullied his record of government service for almost 28 years, and prejudiced the integrity of
the Court.
32 Olazo v Justice Tinga
In March 1990, the complainant filed a sales application covering a parcel of land situated
in Barangay Lower Bicutan in the Municipality of Taguig. The land (subject land) was previously part of
Fort Andres Bonifacio that was segregated and declared open for disposition pursuant to Proclamation No.
2476,[4] issued on January 7, 1986, and Proclamation No. 172,[5] issued on October 16, 1987.
To implement Proclamation No. 172, Memorandum No. 119 was issued by then Executive Secretary
Catalino Macaraig, creating a Committee on Awards whose duty was to study, evaluate, and make a
recommendation on the applications to purchase the lands declared open for disposition. The Committee
on Awards was headed by the Director of Lands and the respondent was one of the Committee members,
in his official capacity as the Congressman of Taguig and Pateros. The respondent‘s district includes the
areas covered by the proclamations.
The complainant alleges that herein respondent judge used his position and power to compel the
complainant‘s father as well as other relatives for the sale of different land properties.
Issue:
W/O the respondent judge gravely abused his position and committed acts contrary to the code of
professional responsibility?
Held:
Yes. Indeed, being a government lawyer in a public office, his acts constituted a violation of his code of
professional responsibility. Canon 6 of the Code of Professional Responsibility highlights the continuing
standard of ethical conduct to be observed by government lawyers in the discharge of their official tasks.
In addition to the standard of conduct laid down under R.A. No. 6713 for government employees, a
lawyer in the government service is obliged to observe the standard of conduct under the Code of
Professional Responsibility.
Complainant replied that the record had not yet been transmitted since a certified true copy of the
CA decision should first be presented. To this respondent retorted, ―You mean to say, I would have to go
to Manila to get a copy?‖ Complainant replied that respondent may show instead the copy sent to the
party he represents. Respondent then replied that complainant should‘ve notified him. Complainant
explained that it is not her duty to notify the respondent of such duty. Angered, respondent yelled stuff in
Ilocano and left the office, banging the door so loud. He then returned to the office and
shouted, “Ukinnam nga babai!” Later, complainant filed a manifestation that she won‘t appear in the
hearing of the case in view of the respondent‘s public apology, and that the latter was forgiven already.
Issue: Whether the respondent violated the Canons in the CPR.
Held: Respondent is fined the amount of 10k with a warning. Respondent was not the counsel of
record of Civil Case No. 784. His explanation that he will enter his appearance in the case when its
records were already transmitted to the MCTC is unacceptable. Not being the counsel of record
respondent had no right to impose his will on the clerk of court. He violated Rule 8.02, because this was
an act of encroachment. It matters not that he did so in good faith.
His act of raising his voice and uttering vulgar invectives to the clerk of court was not only ill-
mannered but also unbecoming considering that he did these in front of the complainant‘s
subordinates. For these, he violated Rules 7.03 and 8.01 and Canon 8.
The penalty was tempered because respondent apologized to the complainant and the latter
accepted it. This is not to say, however, that respondent should be absolved from his actuations. People
are accountable for the consequences of the things they say and do even if they repent afterwards.
40 Reyes v Chiong Jr.
A.C. No. 5148; July 1, 2003
Facts:
Complainant Atty. Reyes filed a case for disbarment against respondent Atty. Chiong
for violation of Canon 8 of the Code of Professional Responsibility wherein it states that lawyers should
treat each other with courtesy, dignity and civility. Chiong‘s client did not appear upon the court when
Prosecutor Salonga issued a subpoena for their preliminary investigation, the Prosecutor filed a criminal
complaint for estafa against said client. After which Chiong made an urgent motion to quash the warrant
concomitant with his filing fora civil complaint and collection for a sum of money and damages against
Atty. Reyes, Xu and the Prosecutor. Upon their confrontation, no settlement was reached. Chiong argues
that there was no disrespect impleading Atty. Reyes as co-defendant in Civil Case No. 4884 and no basis
to conclude that the suit was groundless. He argues that he impleaded theProsecutor because the criminal
investigation had irregularities due to the action of the Prosecutor to file estafa case de
spite the pendency for his client‘s motion for an opportunity tosubmit counter affidavit and evidence.
ISSUE:
Did respondent violate Canon 8 of the Code of Professional Responsibility?
HELD:
Yes, it was recommended by the IBP that defendant‘s purpose of filing for the collection suit with
damages was to be able to obtain leverage against the estafa case of his client. Clearly there was no need
to implead complainant and Prosecutor Salonga because they never had any participation in the business
transactions between Pan and Xu, clearly it was for the mere harassment of the two. Chiong was
suspended for two (2) years from the practice of law and was implemented immediately
41Cambaliza v Cristal-Tenorio
A.C. 6290; July 14, 2004
Facts:
Herein petitioner is a former employee of respondent in her law firm. The petitioner charged the
respondent with deceit, grossly immoral conduct, and malpractice or other gross misconduct in office.
However the case regarding deceit and grossly immoral conduct did not prosper for lack of evidence, but
the malpractice or other grossly immoral conduct in office alleging that she is engaging in the illegal
practice of law by her husband, who is not a member of the Philippine Bar and two other allegations. The
respondent contends that the petitioner is only trying to get even with her. However the petitioner decided
to withdraw the case, that she is no longer interested in pursuing the case. However the IBP still pursued
the case despite the motion to Withdraw, and found the respondent guilty of assisting authorized practice
of law.
Issue:
Whether or not respondent violated the Code of Professional Responsibility
Held:
It is clear that the acts committed by herein respondent in her practice of law allowing a non-member of
the Bar to misrepresent himself as a lawyer and practice law is clearly violative of Canon 9 and 9.01 Code
of Professional Responsibility. One of the duty of a lawyer is to prevent unauthorized practice of law or
atleast not to assist to it.
42 Republic v Kenrick Development Corporation
Facts:
In the case at bar it involves some parcels of land on which the respondent ordered a construction of
concrete perimeter fence around it which is located behind Civil Aviation Training Center of the Air
Transportation Office which in result dispossessed some of the ATO‘s prime land. Herein respondent
presented TCT‘s claiming ownership of the said property which is supposedly signed by a person name
Alfonso Concepcion. The Office of the Solicitor General filed a complaint against the latter and herein
respondent. The answer of the respondent was prepared and purportedly signed by Atty. Onofre Garlitos
Jr. However after thorough investigation, it was discovered that Atty. Garlitos did not sign the answer of
the respondent and instead transmitted an unsigned draft to the president of the respondent company.
Issue:
W/O the code of professional responsibility was violated through the act of leaving an unsigned draft to
the hands of an unauthorized person
Held:
Yes. It is violative of cannon 9.01 wherein it is clearly contemplated that no lawyer shall delegate to any
unqualified person any task in which only a member of the bar in good standing is allowed to perform. It
is clear that the act of Atty. Garlitos in transmitting an unsigned draft to an unqualified person renders
him negligent of his responsibility as a member of the Bar because such act is a clear indication that the
said lawyer is assigning the task of signing the paper he prepared to an unqualified person.
43
44
45
46
47
48 Re: Suspension of Atty. Bagabuyo
Adm. Case No. 7006, October 9, 2007.
Facts: In Criminal Case No. 5144, Presiding Judge Buyser declared that the evidence presented by
prosecution proves that the crime of homicide was committed by the convicted Luis Plaza, instead of
murder. Plaza‘s counsel then filed a Motion to Fix the Amount of Bail Bond to which the respondent
(Bagabuyo) objected on the ground that Plaza was originally charged with murder, which is non-bailable.
Judge Jose Manuel P. Tan then presided on the case and favorably resolved the Motion to Fix the Amount
of Bail Bond at an amount of Php 40, 000, to which the respondent (Bagabuyo) filed a motion for
reconsideration but was denied for lack of merit.
An article was then published in the Mindanao Gold Star Daily, entitled ―Senior prosecutor
lambasts Surigao judge for allowing murder suspect to bail out‖ indicating which the respondent
(Bagabuyo) admitted to holding a press conference but refused to answer whether he made the
contemptuous statements in the article directed to Judge Tan. The trial court declared him in contempt of
court due to his refusal to answer and will be arrested by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penalogy
(BJMP) if he does not post the required bond of Php 100, 000, which the respondent duly posted.
From September – October 2003, respondent (Bagabuyo) allegedly called Judge Tan an
ignoramus on the law, a liar and a dictator in radio interviews for Radio DXKS in relation to the trial
proceedings for Criminal Case No. 5144 which led to a hearing for a second contempt charge which he
neither attended nor informed the court of his absence. In a letter, Bagabuyo denied the charges thrown at
him and explained that he was merely exercising his freedom of speech and it was all without malice.
Held: Yes. Respondent (Bagabuyo) clearly violated Rule 11.05 of Canon 11 of the Canon Code of
Professional Responsibility.
Canon 11 of the Code of Professional Responsibility mandates a lawyer to ―observe and
maintain the respect due to the courts and to judicial officers and [he] should insist on
similar conduct by others.‖ Rule 11.05 of Canon 11 states that a lawyer ―shall submit
grievances against a judge to the proper authorities only.‖
Instead of directing his concerns to the proper authorities, Bagabuyo resorted to mass media (e.g.
newspaper, radio interviews) to air his grievances against Judge Tan. The Court is not against lawyers
raising grievances against erring judges but the rules clearly provide for the proper venue and procedure
for doing so, precisely because respect for the institution must always be maintained.
Respondent is also found guilty of violating Rule 13.02, Canon 13 of the Canon Code of
Professional Responsibility, which states that ―a lawyer shall not make public statements in the media
regarding a pending case tending to arouse public opinion for or against a party‖, after he made
statements in the newspaper article for the Mindanao Gold Star Daily.
Lastly, Respondent violated the Lawyer‘s Oath as he has sworn to ―conduct [himself] as a lawyer
according to the best of [his] knowledge and discretion with all good fidelity as well to the courts as to
[his] clients.‖ As a lawyer, Bagabuyo must maintain and uphold respect and dignity of the court and its
judicial officers to which he owes fidelity.
49 Agustin v Empleyo
A.C. No. 6986, March 6, 2006
Facts: Complainant, Julius Agustin, was charged for Forcible Entry with Preliminary Mandatory
Injunction and Damages in Civil Case No. B-259 for which Atty. Enrique S. Empleo acted as his legal
counsel. The case was pending in the 2nd Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC) in Negros Oriental.
MCTC then issued an order that the involved parties should submit their compromise agreement within
fifteen (15) days. However, there was no compromise agreement received by the MCTC during the 15-
day period. Thus, the case was dismissed after four years (on August 5, 2002).
With this, Agustin filed a disbarment case against his former counsel, Empleo, saying that he
contacted or visited Empleo several times regarding the submission of the compromise agreement, but
Empleo told him that the court can wait and he is busy with other pending cases. In his defense, Empleo
denied that that Agustin contacted him regarding the submission of the compromise agreement.
According to him, the non-submission of the compromise agreement was because Agustin did not contact
him on the agreement details, stressing that counsels merely assist their clients and they do not decide in
their clients‘ behalf.
Issue: Is Empleo liable or responsible in the non-submission of the compromise agreement to the MCTC
during the 15-day period?
Held: Yes, One of Empleo‘s assertions is correct. It is true that as a legal counsel Empleo cannot decide
without his client‘s consent. However, as a lawyer, his primary duty is to assist in the speedy, correct, and
efficient administration of justice. As an officer of the court, he must see to it that cases are disposed in
the soonest possible time.
Empleo, as Agustin‘s legal counsel, was completely aware on the pending court order that the
compromise agreement must be submitted during the 15-day period. Thus, he should have discussed with
Agustin the details of the agreement and the importance of its submission so he can make the necessary
legal action to ensure that the case will not be unduly delayed by four (4) years, which is utterly
inexcusable. Empleo was therefore reprimanded for failing to perform his duty as a lawyer and as a
member of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP).
50 Javellana v Lutero
G.R. No. L-23956, July 21, 1967
Facts: On March 29, 1963 the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Jaro, Iloilo filed a detainer complaint
against Javellana with the municipal court of Iloilo City, presided by Judge Lutero. The hearing was
postponed 4 times, all at the behest of the defendant's Atty. Hautea, on the grounds that "he has not
finished his business transactions in Manila" and that "he hurt his right foot toe." The last postponement
was granted by the municipal court with the warning that no further postponement would be entertained.
The case was called for trial on August 27, 1963, neither the defendant nor Atty. Hautea was
present. Atty. Peña who was present in court verbally moved for postponement of the trial on the ground
that Atty. Hautea cannot attend trial. Plaintiff objected since there was already previous admonition of
postponement. The trial proceeded and the municipal court rendered decision for the plaintiff and against
defendant. Atty. Hautea received a copy of the decision and filed a motion to set aside judgment and for
new trial. This motion was denied.
Atty. Hautea filed petition for relief with CFI Iloilo. CFI rendered judgment dismissing the
petition. Hence, the present recourse.
Facts: Petitioner was appointed Election Registrar for the Municipality of Cadiz, Province of
Negros Occidental. As he was counsel de parte for one of the accused in a case pending the sala of
respondent judge, he filed a motion to withdraw as such. Respondent judge denied his motion and also
appointed him as counsel de oficio for 2 defendants. Petitioner filed an urgent motion to be allowed to
withdraw as counsel de oficio because the COMELEC requires full time service as well as on the volume
or pressure of work of petitioner, which could prevent him from handling the case adequately.
Respondent judge denied the motion. Petitioner then instituted this certiorari proceeding.
Held: No. There was no incompatibility between duty of petitioner to defend the accused, and his task as
an election registrar. There is not likely at present, and in the immediate future, an exorbitant demand on
his time.
Petitioner‘s withdrawal as counsel de oficio would be an act showing his lack of fidelity to the duty
required of the legal profession. He ought to have known that membership in the bar is burdened with
conditions. The legal profession is dedicated to the ideal of service, and is not a mere trade. A lawyer may
be required to act as counsel de oficio to aid in the performance of the administration of justice. The fact
that such services are rendered without pay should not diminish the lawyer's zeal.
63 In re Filart
September 27, 1919
Facts: As the then deputy fiscal of Pangasinan, Respondent (Filart) was ordered by the court, not of his
own will, to defend the rights of thirty-seven (37) residents of Asingan who were pleading legal remedy
for their lands. However the 37 petitioners themselves filed a complaint after they were driven from their
lands and their houses destroyed as per court orders, against the respondent (Filart) for malpractice of the
law, fraud and negligence in prosecuting the appeal to the Supreme Court due to the following:
(1) failure of filing a satisfactory bill of exceptions on the statutory period of thirty (30)
days which was provided by Filart past the statutory period (a 51-day lapse after the
receipt of the notice of the denial of motion),
(2) failure to file a bond to prevent execution and
(3) assurances made by the respondent that all are taken care of,
For which the respondent (Filart) received sums of money totaling to Php 780 which he denied,
saying that he only received an amount of Php 160. Respondent (Filart) stated that he made an
oral motion to extend the period fixed by law to file the bill of exceptions, due to its length - for
which both parties agreed - and pressure of work in office, which the judge may have overlooked.
Held: Yes, Negligence or the lack of due care is a breach of the attorney's undertaking with his client, and
is indicative of a disregard of the attorney's duties to the court. The rights of the thirty-seven (37)
petitioners were prejudiced due to the failure of the respondent (Filart) to file or to prepare the necessary
pleadings in the proper prosecution of the cause. As per the ruling in Drais vs. Hoggan ([1875], 50 Cal.,
121), although many other cases might be cited, "if a judgment is obtained against a party upon a
complaint which is radically defective, and he desires to appeal, and procures bondsmen, but his attorney
neglects to do so until the time for appeal expires, the attorney is guilty of gross negligence, and is liable
for the loss sustained by the client."
64
PNB vs. Cedo
Adm. Case No. 3701, March 28, 1995
Principle: A law firm maintained by lawyers, who although not partners, maintain one office as well as
one clerical and supporting staff, violate of the Code of Professional Responsibility since the client’s
secrets and confidential records and information are exposed to the other lawyers and staff members
Facts:
While respondent was still the Asst. Vice President of complainant‘s Asset Management Group, he
intervened in the handling of the loan account of the spouses Ponciano and Eufemia Almeda with
complainant bank by writing demand letters to the couple. subsequently a civil action ensued between
complainant bank and the Almeda spouses as a result of this loan account, the latter were represented by
the law firm "Cedo, Ferrer, Maynigo & Associates" of which respondent is one of the Senior Partners. In
his Comment on the complaint respondent averred that he did not enter into a general partnership with
Atty. Pedro Ferrer nor with the other lawyers named therein. They are only using the aforesaid name to
designate a law firm maintained by lawyers, who although not partners, maintain one office as well as one
clerical and supporting staff. Each one of them handles their own cases independently and individually
receives the revenues therefrom which are not shared among them.
Yes. The court agrees with the IBP that assuming the alleged set-up of the firm to be true, it is in itself a
violation of the Code of Professional Responsibility (Rule 15.02) since the client’s secrets and
confidential records and information are exposed to the other lawyers and staff members at all times.
65
Rosa F. Mercado vs. Julito D. Vitriolo
A.C. No. 5108, May 26, 2005
Principle: To establish the violation of the privileged and confidential lawyer-client relationship,
complainant must specify the alleged communication in confidence that was violated.
Facts:
Complainant‘s husband filed Civil Case for annulment of their marriage. Subsequently, counsel of
complainant died and re entered his appearance before the trial court as collaborating counsel for
complainant. After the civil case, respondent filed a criminal action against complainant for violation of
Articles 171 and 172 (falsification of public document) of the Revised Penal Code. Complainant Mercado
alleged that said criminal complaint for falsification of public document disclosed confidential facts and
information relating to the civil case for annulment, then handled by respondent Vitriolo as her
counsel. This prompted complainant Mercado to bring this action against respondent. She claims that, in
filing the criminal case for falsification, respondent is guilty of breaching their privileged and confidential
lawyer-client relationship, and should be disbarred.
Issue: Did respondent violate the privileged and confidential lawyer-client relationship?
Held:
No. In fine, the factors are as follows:
(1) There exists an attorney-client relationship, or a prospective attorney-client relationship, and it is by
reason of this relationship that the client made the communication.
(2) The client made the communication in confidence.
(3) The legal advice must be sought from the attorney in his professional capacity.
.
Applying all these rules to the case at bar, we hold that the evidence on record fails to substantiate
complainant‘s allegations. We note that complainant did not even specify the alleged communication in
confidence disclosed by respondent. All her claims were couched in general terms and lacked specificity.
66
Hilado v. David
G.R. No. L-961, September 21, 1949
Principle: An information obtained from a client by a member or assistant of a law firm is information
imparted to the firm and binds every member to the same degree as if he obtained it personally
Facts:
Blandina Gamboa Hilado brought an action against Selim Jacob Assad to annul the sale of several houses
and lot executed during the Japanese occupation by Mrs. Hilado‘s now deceased husband. Attorney
Francisco entered his appearance as attorney of record for the defendant.
Attorney Dizon, in the name of his firm, wrote Attorney Francisco urging him to discontinue representing
the defendants on the ground that their client had consulted with him about her case
Held:
Yes. The defense that Attorney Agrava wrote the letter Exhibit A and that Attorney Francisco did not take
the trouble of reading it, would not take the case out of the interdiction. If this letter was written under the
circumstances explained by Attorney Francisco and he was unaware of its contents, the fact remains that
his firm did give Mrs. Hilado a formal professional advice from which, as heretofore demonstrated,
emerged the relation of attorney and client.
This letter binds and stops him in the same manner and to the same degree as if he personally had written
it. An information obtained from a client by a member or assistant of a law firm is information imparted
to the firm.
67
Paz v. Sanchez
A.C. No. 6125, 19 September 2006
Principle: Lawyers are deemed to represent conflicting interests when, in behalf of one client,
it is their duty to contend for that which duty to another client requires them to oppose.
Facts:
Complainant and his partners, engaged the services of respondent to assist them purchase of several
parcels of land from tenant-farmers in Pampanga. The complaint arose because respondent, allegedly
after the termination of his services in May 2000, filed a complaint before the Department of Agrarian
Reform Board in behalf of one Isidro Dizon for annulment of Transfer Certificate Title No. 420127-R
against complainant and his partners. Complainant explained that Dizon‘s property was among those
properties purchased by complainant with respondent‘s assistance. Complainant alleged that respondent
is guilty of representing conflicting interests when he represented Dizon in a case involving the same
properties and transactions in which he previously acted as complainant‘s counsel. Respondent
explained that he lent Dizon‘s title to complainant and his partners enabling them to transfer the title in
their names.
Issue: Was respondent liable for violation of the prohibition on representing conflicting interests?
Held:
Yes. Rule 15.03 of the Code of Professional Responsibility provides that ―a lawyer shall not represent
conflicting interests except by written consent of all concerned given after full disclosure of the
facts.‖ Lawyers are deemed to represent conflicting interests when, in behalf of one client, it is their duty
to contend for that which duty to another client requires them to oppose. By respondent‘s own admission,
when he filed the DARAB case on Dizon‘s behalf against complainant, both complainant and Dizon were
respondent‘s clients at that time.
68 Pacana, Jr. v. Atty. Pascual-Lopez
A.C. No. 8243, July 24, 2009
Principle: Documentary formalism is not an essential element in the employment of an attorney; the
contract may be express or implied
Facts:
Complainant was the Operations Director for Multitel Communications Corporation (MCC).
Subsequently, MCC changed its name to Precedent Communications Corporation (Precedent). According
to complainant, Multitel was besieged by demand letters from its members and investors because of the
failure of its investment schemes. Distraught, complainant sought the advice of respondent who also
happened to be a member of the Couples for Christ, a religious organization where complainant and his
wife were also active members. From then on, complainant and respondent constantly communicated,
with the former disclosing all his involvement and interests in Precedent and Precedent's relation with
Multitel. Respondent gave legal advice to complainant and even helped him prepare standard quitclaims
for creditors. In sum, complainant avers that a lawyer-client relationship was established between him and
respondent although no formal document was executed by them at that time.
After receiving a demand letter from respondent, complainant confronted respondent, it turns out that she
was now representing the defrauded investors of Multitel. Both parties continued to communicate and
exchange information regarding the persistent demands made by Multitel investors against complainant.
On November 9, 2004, fed up and dismayed with respondent's arrogance and evasiveness, complainant
decided to file an affidavit-complaint against respondent before the Commission on Bar Discipline of the
Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) seeking the disbarment of respondent. Respondent vehemently
denied being the lawyer for Precedent. She maintained that no formal engagement was executed between
her and complainant.
Issue: was a lawyer-client relationship established between respondent and complainant despite the
absence of a written contract?
Held:
Yes. The absence of a written contract will not preclude the finding that there was a professional
relationship between the parties. Documentary formalism is not an essential element in the employment
of an attorney; the contract may be express or implied. To establish the relation, it is sufficient that the
advice and assistance of an attorney is sought and received in any matter pertinent to his profession
69Bergonia v. Merrera
A.C. No. 5024, February 20, 2003
Principle: A motion for extension to file an appellant’s brief carries with it the presumption that the
applicant-lawyer will file the pleading within the period granted. Failure to so file the brief without any
reasonable excuse is a violation of the Canons of Professional Responsibility. For such violation, a
lawyer may be administratively sanctioned, especially if it results in damage to the client.
Facts:
Complainant filed a case for the quieting of title against the Parayno spouses. After due trial, the
Regional Trial Court promulgated its Decision in favor of the Parayno spouses. After due trial, Branch 48
of the same RTC rendered its Decision ordering complainant to vacate the premises and to surrender
possession thereof to the Parayno spouses. Thereafter, complainant appealed the RTC judgment to the
CA. Respondent, as counsel, received a Notice to File Brief. Acting on his Motion for extension to file
the appellant‘s brief, the CA in granted it. Even before the first extension had lapsed, however, he again
filed an Urgent Second Motion for extension to file brief, praying that he be given another one. The CA
again granted his Second Motion. Eventually, the deadline, which had already been extended twice,
lapsed without his filing the appellant‘s brief. Hence, the CA, upon motion of the appellees, dismissed
the appeal.
.
Issue: did respondent violate the canon of professional ethics?
Held:
Yes. Respondent claims that he never planted false hopes in the mind of complainant. Upon receiving the
Decision in Civil Case No. U-6061, he purportedly advised her that her chances of winning in the
appellate court were slim, because the ownership of the disputed land had already been adjudicated to the
other party in Civil Case No. U-4601. He avers that he tried to persuade her to accept her defeat ―like a
good soldier.‖
We are not persuaded. If, indeed, respondent failed to convince complainant to drop her appeal, he should
have just withdrawn his appearance. Based on his arguments in his Opposition to the Motion for
Execution and Demolition, however, we do not believe that he even tried to convince her to withdraw the
appeal. We are inclined to believe that this excuse was merely an afterthought to justify his negligence.
70
Rural Bank of Calape v. Atty. Florido
A.C. No. 5736, June 18, 2010
Principle: A lawyer must employ only fair and honest means to attain the lawful objectives of
his client
Facts:
According to RBCI respondent and his clients, through force and intimidation, with the use of
armed men, forcibly took over the management and the premises of RBCI. In his comment, respondent
denied RBCI‘s allegations. Respondent explained that he acted in accordance with the authority granted
upon him by the Nazareno-Relampagos group, the lawfully and validly elected Board of Directors of
RBCI.
ISSUE: Does the acts of Atty. Ricafort constitute a grave violation of the Code of Professional
Responsibility?
Held:
Yes. The courts has held that Atty. Ricafort violated Canon 16, and Rules 16.01, and Canon 17 of the
Code of Professional Responsibility by taking advantage of the vulnerability of his clients and by being
dishonest in his dealings with them by refusing to return the amount of P65,000.00 to them and,
accordingly, disbar him. The Bar Confidant was directed to strike out his name from the Roll of Attorneys.
Atty. Ricafort was ordered to return to Erlinda R. Tarog the sums of P65,000.00 and P15,000.00, plus
interest of six percent per annum reckoned from the demand made on December 3,2002, within twenty
days from notice.
73
Villanueva v. Atty. Ishiwata
Facts:
Atty. Ishiwata, in handling the case of Salvador G. Villanueva against J.T. Transport, Inc. for payment of
his unpaid wages, separation pay, and other benefits, ultimately received payments from J.T. Transport
of 4 checks amounting to P225,000.00 to release the latter from all its obligations to him. However, the
respondent gave complainant only P45,000 as first installment, without advising him that the settlement
award has been paid in full. Complainant then learned that J.T. transport has already settled all its
obligations to him. He then made repeated demands to the respondent to deliver to him the balance.
Ishiwata refused to comply stating that he should hire a new lawyer to send him a demand letter. The
respondent denied the charge. In his comment, complainant claims that it was actually the wife, zenaida
Villanueva, who hired his services. Due to serious ailment he acquired the services of another for
research which he paid P33,000.00 with complainant’s knowledge. He also claims that since J.T.
Transport paid in installments he also would pay the complainant in installments. He paid complainants
wife of P90,000.00 in two sums (P11,000 and P79,000) where the receipts issued was said to be lost by
her secretary. Deducted his 25% attorney’s fee or P56,250.00 from the award. Thus leaving only P750
only as remaining payment.
Issue: Did the respondent violate Canon 16 and rules 16.01, 16.02, 16.03?
Held:
Yes, the Supreme Court has held that the respondent’s failure to return the balance to complainant upon
demand gave rise to the presumption that he misappropriated it in violation of the trust reposed on
him. His act is indicative of lack of integrity and propriety. His claim that he gave complainant’s alleged
wite the amount of P11,000 and P79,000 is not true. He could not show the corresponding receipts. A
lawyer pledges himself not to delay any man for money and he is bound to conduct himself with good
fidelity to his clients. Any money collected for the client or other trust property coming into the lawyer’s
possession should promptly be reported by him. A lawyer must at all times conduct himself, especially in
his dealings with his clients and the public at large, with honesty and integrity in a manner beyond
reproach. A violation of the high standards of the legal profession subjects the erring lawyer to
administrative sanctions by this court. Suspended for one year and ordered to restitute complainant the
sum of P154,500.
74
Vda de Caiña v. Hon. Victoriano
Facts:
Petitioners are the widow and children of the late Valeriana Caiña who was the owner of a parcel of land
covered by TCT No. 21702. A portion of this property was transferred to one Gavina Cierte de Andal and
as a result said title was cancelled and a new one issued in their names. Respondent Flaviano Dalisay
was the attorney of Elena Peralta Vda. De Caina, in an action for ejectment. The case was dismissed
and appealed to the CFI of Rizal. Because of the non-appearance of defendant, the latter was declared
in default and judgment was rendered in favor of plaintiff. Dalisay they filed a motion in the same
ejectment case for annotation of his attorney’s lien on the back of TCT, claiming that the services he had
rendered to the widow and her children who were presented by him in said case failed to pay him his
attorney’s fees which he fixed at P2,020. The motion was set for hearing and thereafter the same was
granted wherein the court ordered petitioners to surrender their duplicate copy of said certificate in order
that the annotation requested may be made. Upon receipt of the copy petitioners filed a motion for
reconsideration alleging that they were never furnished with a copy of respondent’s motion, nor notified
of the date of its hearing, for which reason they were not able to appear to contest the same. Dalisay
contested this motion stating that the petitioners were furnished a copy via registered mail three days
before the hearing. The court denied the motion hence this certiorari.
Issue:
May the attorney’s lien be ordered annotated on the back of the TCT?
Held:
No, the lien which respondent attorney tried to enforce for the satisfaction of his professional fee
is charging in the sense that his purpose is to make of record his claim in order that it may be considered
in the execution of the judgment that may be rendered in the case, and this he has already done. Thus he
had already caused a statement of his claim to be entered in the record of the ejectment case and that is
all what the rule requires of him to do. The lien of respondent is not of a nature which attaches to the
property in litigation but is at most a personal claim enforceable by a writ of execution.
Note: No relation
75
Linsangan v. Atty. Tolentino
Facts:
A complaint for disbarment was filed by Pedro Linsangan against Atty. Nicomedes Tolentino for
solicitation of clients and encroachment of professional services. Complaint alleged that respondent, with
the help of paralegal Fe Marie Labiano, convinced his clients to transfer legal representation.
Respondent promised them financial assistance and expeditious collection on their claims. To induce
them to hire his services, he persistently called them and sent them text messages. To support his
allegations, complainant presented the sworn affidavit of James Gregorio attesting that Labiano tried to
prevail upon him to sever his lawyer-client relations with complainant and utilize respondent’s services
instead, in exchange for a loan of P50, 000.00. Complainant also attached ―respondent’s‖ calling card.
Respondent, in his defense, denied knowing Labiano and authorizing the printing and circulation of the
said calling card.
Issue:
Is the respondent guilty of violating rule 16.04 of the CPR?
Held:
Yes. The court has held that by engaging in a money-lending venture with his clients as borrowers,
respondent violated 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 a
legal matter he is handling for the client.‖ The rule is that a lawyer shall not lend money to his client. The
only exception is, when in the interest of justice, he has to advance necessary expenses (such as filing
fees, stenographer’s fees for transcript of stenographic notes, cash bond or premium for surety bond,
etc.) for a matter that he is handling for the client. The rule is intended to safeguard the lawyer’s
independence of mind so that the free exercise of his judgment may not be adversely affected. It seeks to
ensure his undivided attention to the case he is handling as well as his entire devotion and fidelity to the
client’s cause. If the lawyer lends money to the client in connection with the client’s case, the lawyer in
effect acquires an interest in the subject matter of the case or an additional stake in its outcome. Either of
these circumstances may lead the lawyer to consider his own recovery rather than that of his client, or to
accept a settlement which may take care of his interest in the verdict to the prejudice of the client in
violation of his duty of undivided fidelity to the client’s cause.
76 Hernandez v Go
A.C. No. 1526, January 31, 2005
Facts: Complainant‘s husband abandoned her and her son. Her husband has a lot of debt and numerous
creditors demanded payments of his loan from her. She hired Go to settle the matter.
Go persuaded complainant to execute deeds of sale of all the properties in order for Go to sell
the lots and from the proceeds pay her creditors.
Complainant came to know that Go paid her creditors with his own money and kept the
properties. Hence, this petition for disbarment.
Issue: Did Go abuse the trust and confidence reposed in him by complainant?
Held: Yes. The records show that complainant entrusted to Go her land titles and allowed him to sell her
lots, believing that the proceeds thereof would be used to pay her creditors. Go, however, abused her trust
and confidence when he did not sell her properties to others but to himself and spent his own money to
pay her obligations.
Undoubtedly, Go‘s conduct has made him unfit to remain in the legal profession. He has
definitely fallen below the moral bar when he engaged in deceitful, dishonest, unlawful and grossly
immoral acts. We have been exacting in our demand for integrity and good moral character of members
of the Bar. Go is found guilty of gross misconduct and is DISBARRED from the practice of law.
77 Abiero v Juanino
A.C. No. 5302, February 18,2005
Facts: Complainant hired respondent as counsel de part in an NLRC case. Labor Arbiter ruled in favor of
complainant. On appeal, NLRC reversed the decision of the labor arbiter and dismissed the case for lack
of basis. Complainant followed up the case with respondent. Respondent would always advise him to call
on a later date as he does not have any news on the case. Respondent filed a motion for extension of time
for filing a petition for review.
Thereafter, complainant verified with CA the status of the case and he found out that there was no
petition for review filed. Consequently, the NLRC case became final and executory. Thus, complainant
filed this administrative case against respondent.
Issue: Did respondent violate Canon 17 and 18 of the Code of Professional Responsibility?
Held: Yes. As a lawyer, respondent should know that he is not required to seek prior approval from the
labor arbiter before he could file a motion for execution. Failure to appeal to the Court of Appeals despite
instructions by the client to do so constitutes inexcusable negligence on the part of counsel. Once a lawyer
consents to defend the cause of his client, he owes fidelity to such cause and must at all times be mindful
of the trust and confidence reposed in him. He is bound to protect his client‘s interest to the best of his
ability and perform his duties to his client with utmost diligence. For having neglected a legal matter
entrusted to him by his client, respondent did not serve his client with diligence and competence. His
inexcusable negligence on such matter renders him liable for violation of Canons 17 and 18 of the Code
of Professional Responsibility.
78
Dimarucot v. People
Facts:
Petitioner was convicted of a criminal case for frustrated homicide in the RTC of Malolos, Bulacan. Upon
receiving the notice to file appellant’s brief, petitioner thru his counsel de parte requested and was
granted additional period of twenty (20) days within which to file said brief. This was followed by three
successive motions for extension which were all granted by the CA. On August 29, 2007, the CA issued
a Resolution dismissing the appeal. The petitioner filed a motion for reconsideration, his counsel
admitting that he was at fault in failing to file the appellant’s brief due to ―personal problems emanating
from his [counsel’s] wife’s recent surgical operation.‖ It was thus prayed that the CA allow petitioner to file
his appellant’s brief which counsel undertook to submit within seven (7) days. By Resolution, the CA,
finding the allegations of petitioner unpersuasive and considering that the intended appellant’s brief was
not at all filed denied the motion for reconsideration. The petitioner then filed an Omnibus Motion to (1)
Omnibus Motion to Reconsider, (2) to expunge the same from book of entries of judgment, and (3) To
give Accused-Appellant a final period of thirty days to file appellant’s brief. Citing again his personal
problems and depression and his advanced age of 76 and medical condition, attaching copies of his birth
certificate, medical certificate and certifications from the barangay and church minister.
Issue: Did the CA commit grave abuse of discretion by dismissing the petition?
Held:
No. No grave abuse of discretion was committed by the CA in considering the appeal abandoned with the
failure of petitioner to file his appeal brief despite four (4) extensions granted to him and non-compliance
to date. Dismissal of appeal by the appellate court sans notice to the accused for failure to prosecute by
itself is not an indication of grave abuse. Thus, although it does not appear that the appellate court has
given the appellant such notice before dismissing the appeal, if the appellant has filed a motion for
reconsideration of, or to set aside, the order dismissing the appeal, in which he stated the reasons why he
failed to file his brief on time and the appellate court denied the motion after considering said reasons, the
dismissal was held proper. Likewise, where the appeal was dismissed without prior notice, but the
appellant took no steps either by himself or through counsel to have the appeal reinstated, such an
attitude of indifference and inaction amounts to his abandonment and renunciation of the right granted to
him by law to prosecute his appeal. Negligence of counsel is not a defense for the failure to file the
appellant’s brief within the reglementary period. The right to appeal is not a natural right and is not a part
of due process. It is merely a statutory privilege, and may be exercised only in accordance with the law.
The party who seeks to avail of the same must comply with the requirements of the rules. Failing to do so,
the right to appeal is lost.
Note: No Relation
79 APEX MINING, INC., ENGR. PANFILO FRIAS and ENGR. REY DIONISIO, petitioners,
vs.
HON. COURT OF APPEALS, HON. PEDRO CASIA, as Judge of Branch 2, Tagum, Davao del Norte,
MIGUEL BAGAIPO, ALFREDO ROA, EDGAR BARERA, BONIFACIO BARIUS, JR., FRANCISCO
BELLO and LEOPOLDO CAGATIN, respondents.
FACTS:
The present petition stemmed from a complaint for damages filed on 9 December 1987 by herein private
respondents, Miguel Bagaipo, Alfredo Roa, Edgar Barrera, Bonifacio Baruis, Jr., Francisco Bello, and
Leopoldo I. Cagatin, against herein petitioners Apex Mining Corporation (hereafter APEX) and/or Engr.
Panfilo Frias and Engr. Rey Dionisio before the Regional Trial Court of Davao del Norte.
The complaint alleged in substance that sometime in November 1987, the bulldozer owned by APEX, due
to its negligence, damaged private respondents mining claim known as Tunnel T-45, thereby putting a
stop to private respondents‘ mining operations. Respondent‘s won in the trial Court, petitioner‘s lawyer
then filed an appeal however it was dismissed for failure to pay the docket fees within the reglamentary
period. A writ of execution was then issued against petitioners.
Thereafter, APEX confronted its retained counsel about the matter and it was only then that APEX
learned that its appeal of the judgment against it in Civil Case No. 2131 had been dismissed by the Court
of Appeals.
On 26 February 1996, APEX and/or Engr. Panfilo Frias and Engr. Rey Dionisio, through their new
counsel, filed a Petition for Annulment of Judgment with application for the issuance of a writ of
preliminary injunction and/or temporary restraining order before the Court of Appeals. Petitioners
contended that the actuation of their former counsel constituted professional chicanery amounting to
extrinsic or collateral fraud properly warranting the annulment of the judgment of the trial court and that
by reason of said actuation of their former counsel they have been unduly deprived of their right to be
heard and to due process of law through no fault of their own.
ISSUE:
Are the complained acts of the former counsel of the petitioners tantamount to fraud?
HELD:
Petition granted.
A judgment can be annulled only on two grounds: (1) lack of jurisdiction and (2) extrinsic fraud.Fraud is
regarded as extrinsic or collateral where it has prevented a party from having a trial or from presenting all
of his case to the court. It is the kind of fraud which denied the party the opportunity to fully litigate upon
the trial all the rights or defenses he was entitled to assert.
Petitioners cannot be faulted in not inquiring into the records and status of the case. They expected that
their counsel would amply protect their interest since they were their retained counsel which handled a
majority, if not all of the cases of petitioners, including the case subject of this petition.
80. Rasmus G. Anderson vs. Reynaldo A. Cardeño
Facts: On February 16, 1985, Anderson, Jr., the petitioner, through his counsel Atty. Cesar S. de
Guzman, filed an Amended Complaint before the RTC of Binangonan, Rizal, entitled “Rasmus Anderson,
Jr., Plaintiff v. Spouses Juanito Maybituin and Rosario Cerrado, et al., Defendants.” During this case‘s
proceedings, Atty. de Guzman died, and later on was replaced by the respondent Atty. Reynaldo A.
Cardeno.
On July 19, 1990, the petitioner filed an administrative complaint against complaint against the
respondent who allegedly caused ―the loss‖ or the adverse ruling against him in the aforementioned case.
He allege that:
―1.) That when the respondents in the civil case filed a Demurrer to Evidence, Atty. Cardeño did
not file an opposition thereto and did not appear at the formal hearing set for the purpose of considering
the merits of the demurrer. Thus, in addition to finding merit in the demurrer, the trial court, noting the
non-appearance of Atty. Cardeño, assumed that even he, the plaintiff‘s counsel, appeared convinced that
there was merit, validity and reasonableness in the demurrer filed;
2.) That after the trial court issued an Order finding the respondents‘ demurrer to evidence
meritorious, Atty. Cardeño did not even file a Motion for Reconsideration thereof, which in turn caused
the same order to become final and executory;
3.) That even prior to the above events and in view of what the complainant perceived to be
respondent lawyer‘s loss of interest in the case, complainant verbally told Atty. Cardeño to withdraw as
his counsel. However, Atty. Cardeño allegedly insisted on continuing to represent the complainant as the
case was already in its closing stage.‖
In respondent‘s defense, he said that the complainant was uncooperative as a client. That the
records turned over to him were in disarray, and that the complainant did not disclose him certain
particulars regarding the case.
Issue: Is the defense of the respondent lawyer enough for him to still be considered as competent and
diligent lawyer.
Held: No. The Supreme Court said that ―As a lawyer representing the cause of his client, he should
have taken more control over the handling of the case. Knowing that his client was based in the United
States should, with more reason, have moved him to secure all the legal means available to him either to
continue representing his client effectively or to make the necessary manifestation in court, with the
client‘s conformity, that he was withdrawing as counsel of record. That his client did not agree to
terminate his services is a mere allegation that has not been substantiated.‖
The Supreme Court added that the rule is clear in its mandate that a lawyer should not
undertake a legal service that he is not qualified to render, nor should a lawyer handle any legal matter
without adequate preparation. And the lawyer has a duty to prepare for the trial with diligence, for his
negligence will render him liable.
Also, a lawyer should never neglect a legal matter entrusted to him, otherwise his negligence in
fulfilling his duty subjects him to disciplinary action. Respondent is reminded that the practice of law is a
special privilege bestowed only upon those who are competent intellectually, academically and morally.
81. Juan v. Atty. Baria, A.C. No. 5817, May 27, 2004.
Facts: The complainant De Juan was a former client of the respondent Atty. Baria regarding a labor case
filed with the NLRC. In the said labor case, the Labor Arbiter favored the complainant, but the company
appealed to NLRC which then reversed the prior decision.
The complainant alleges that it was the respondent‘s fault why the decision was reversed. When
she asked the respondent on what to do, the respondent said that ―Paano iyan iha…eh…hindi ako
marunong gumawa ng Motion for Reconsideration.‖
The respondent explained that he warned the complainant that he is just a new lawyer.
Issue: Is there any culpable negligence, as would warrant disciplinary action, in failing to file for the
complainant a motion for reconsideration from the decision of the NLRC.
Held: Yes. The Supreme Court said that ―no lawyer is obliged to advocate for every person who may
wish to become his client, but once he agrees to take up the cause of a client, the lawyer owes fidelity to
such cause and must be mindful of the trust and confidence reposed in him.‖
Also, the Court also added that a lawyer is not at liberty to abandon his client and withdraw his
services without reasonable cause and only upon notice appropriate in the circumstances. It is because
that the client is entitled to the benefit of any and every remedy and defense that is authorized by the law
and he may expect his lawyer to assert every such remedy or defense.
After complainant had expressed an interest to file a motion for reconsideration, it was
incumbent upon counsel to diligently return to his books and re-familiarize himself with the procedural
rules for a motion for reconsideration.
82. De Roy vs CA G.R. No. 80718 January 29, 1988
FACTS:Case of certiorari seeking to declare null and void the resolution denying petitioners'
motion for extension of time to file a motion for reconsideration and directed entry of judgment
since the decision had become final; and the resolution denying the petitioners' motion for
reconsideration for having been filed out of time. 15-dayperiod for appealing or for filing a
Motion for Reconsideration cannot be extended. Petitioners contend that the rule enunciated in
case of Habaluyas Enterprises Inc. vs Japon should not be made to apply to them owing to the
non-publication of the HABALUYAS decision in the Official Gazette as of the time the subject
decision of the CA was promulgated.
ISSUE: Is the petitioner's contention meritorious?
HELD: There is no law requiring the publication of Supreme Court decisions in the Official
Gazette before they can be binding and as a condition to their becoming effective. It is the
bounden duty of counsel as lawyer in active law practice to keep abreast of decisions of the
Supreme Court particularly where issues have been clarified, consistently reiterated, and
published in the advance reports of Supreme Court decisions (G. R. s) and in such publications
as the Supreme Court Reports Annotated (SCRA) and law journals.
83. Legarda vs. Court of Appeals, G.R. No. 94457, March 18, 1991
Facts: The petitioner Legarda engaged in the services of her counsel (not named in the case) regarding a
case which envolves a parcel of land in question. In the said case, the counsel filed his appearance with an
urgent motion for extension of time to file the answer within ten (10) days from February 26, 1985.
However, the counsel failed to file the answer within the extended period prayed for.
The counsel of the other party filed an ex-parte motion to declare the petitioner default, which
was granted by the trial court. Later on, the trial court rendered a decision in favor of the private
respondent party. The counsel of the petitioner was given a copy of the decision, but he did not take any
action, thus, later on making the judgment final and executory.
The petitioner was abroad during the trial of the case, and as she was shocked of what happened
to her case and property, she did not lose faith in her counsel and asked the latter for appropriate action
possible.
The counsel then filed a petition for annulment of judgment and its amendment before the CA.
The latter court‘s judgment was rendered against the petitioner, of which the counsel was notified.
However, the counsel did not inform the petitioner about it. It was only through repeated telephone
inquiries that the petitioner learned through the counsel‘s secretary that the judgment became final.
Issue: Is there any lack of preparation, which is violative of the Canon 18 of the CPR.
Held: Yes. The Supreme Court said that the lawyer owes entire devotion to the interest of his client,
warmth and zeal in the maintenance and defense of his rights and the exertion of his utmost learning and
ability, to the end that nothing can be taken or withheld from his client except in accordance with the law.
He should present every remedy or defense authorized by the law in support of his client's cause,
regardless of his own personal views. In the full discharge of his duties to his client, the lawyer should not
be afraid of the possibility that he may displease the judge or the general public.
84. Sambajon, et al. vs Suing 503 SCRA 1 (2006)
FACTS: Sambajon, et al. are parties to a previous labor case in which Atty. Jose Suing is the
counsel of their employer Microplast, Inc. A judgment in favor of them was rendered by the
Labor Arbiter and a writ of execution was issued against Microplast, Inc. In the meantime, the
Labor Arbiter dismissed the case insofar as the seven complainants are concerned on the basis of
individual Release Waiver and Quitclaims purportedly signed and sworn to by them. Petitioner‘s
subsequently filed an administrative complaint alleging that respondent, acting in collusion with
his clients Johnny and Manuel Rodil, frustrated the implementation of the Writ of Execution by
presenting before the Labor Arbiter the spurious documents. A Complaint seeking the
disbarment of Atty. Jose A. Suing on the grounds of deceit, malpractice, violation of Lawyer‘s
Oath and the Code of Professional Responsibility was also filed. During the
administrative hearings before the IBP Commissioner, it was apparent that Atty. Suing was
coaching his client to prevent himself from being incriminated. It was also revealed that the
Release Waiver and Quitclaims allegedly signed were not the same documents originally presented
to the employees to be signed.
ISSUE: Whether or not the acts of Respondent Atty. Suing is an act arguably violative of the
Lawyers‘ Code of Ethics
HELD: Yes. In the interest of Justice, the SC gave the petition due course notwithstanding the
fact that it was filed out of time. As an officer of the court, a lawyer is called upon to assist in
the administration of justice. He is an instrument to advance its cause. Any act on his part that
tends to obstruct, perverts or impedes administration of justice constitutes misconduct. While the
disbarment of respondent is under the facts and circumstances attended to the case, not
reasonable, neither is reprimanded as recommended by IBP. Court finds respondent‘s suspension
from practice of law for 6 months.
85. Adrimisin v. Javier, A.C. No. 2591, 08 September 2006
Facts:
Petitioner filed a complaint against respondent for violation of Canon 16 and Rule 18.03 of the Code of
Professional Responsibility. Petitioner contends that respondent failed to keep his promise when the he
took the Php. 500.00 bail bond and promised the former‘s son-in-law will be released on bail from jail for
the crime of theft. Petitioner also contended that respondent failed to return the amount upon demand;
hence this petition.
Issue:
Is Respondent guilty of violation of Canon 16 and Rule 18.03 of the Code of Professional Responsibility?
Held:
Yes. The Code mandates every lawyer to hold in trust all moneys and properties of his client that
may come into his possession. Consequently, a lawyer should account for the money received from a
client. The Code also enjoins a lawyer not to neglect a legal matter entrusted to him, and his negligence in
connection therewith shall render him liable. In the present case, money for the payment of the bond‘s
premium was not used for the purpose intended. Hence, respondent must return the amount to
complainant upon demand. A lawyer‘s failure to return upon demand the funds held by him on behalf of
his client gives rise to the presumption that he has appropriated the same for his own use in violation of
the trust reposed in him by his client. Such act is a gross violation of general morality as well as of
professional ethics. It impairs public confidence in the legal profession and deserves punishment.
86. Valeriana U. Dalisay vs. Melanio Mauricio, A.C. No. 5655, April 22, 2005
Facts: On October 13, 2001, Valeriana U. Dalisay, complainant, engaged respondent‘s services as
counsel in a civil case pending before the MTC in Binangonan, Rizal. Notwithstanding his receipt of
documents and attorney‘s fees in the total amount of P56,000.00 from complainant, respondent never
rendered legal services for her. Thus, she terminated the attorney-client relationship and demanded the
return of her money and documents, but respondent refused.
Upon IBP‘s investigation, it was found out that no action had been taken nor any pleadings has
been prepared by the respondent. The only thing the respondent did was his alleged conferences and
opinions rendered when the complainant frequented his law office.
Issue: Is there any negligence regarding the legal matter entrusted by the complainant to the respondent.
Held: Yes. The Rule 18.03 of the CPR is a basic postulate in legal ethics. When a lawyer takes a
client‘s cause, he covenants that he will exercise due diligence in protecting his rights. The failure to
exercise that degree of vigilance and attention makes such lawyer unworthy of the trust reposed in him by
his client and makes him answerable not just to his client but also to the legal profession, the courts and
society.
The respondent‘s inaction in the civil case, is a violation of Canon 17, Canon 18, and Rule
18.03.
87. Peter D. Garrucho vs. Court of Appeals, G.R. No. 143791, January 14, 2005
Facts: The petitioner is the then Secretary of the Department of Tourism and Chairman of the
Board of Directors of the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) who requested the then
Commissioner of Immigration and Deportation Andrea Domingo to issue Hold Departure Orders
against Ramon Binamira and Faustino Roberto. This was in connection with the investigation
being conducted by the DOJ involving anomalous transactions regarding government securities
affecting the PTA which entailed the loss of some P161,000,000.00. Then Commissioner
Domingo granted the request and issued Hold Departure Order against Binamira and Roberto
on the said date. Roberto requested the lifting of the order, and Secretary Garrucho opposed
the same in a Letter dated August 22, 1990.
Roberto then filed a complaint for prohibition and damages against petitioner Garrucho and
Commissioner Domingo in the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Makati City. Binamira, for his part,
filed a complaint-in-intervention in the case. Petitioner Garrucho was represented by private
practitioners Remollo & Associates, whose offices were located at Suite No. 23, Legaspi Suites,
178 Salcedo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City.
On April 16, 1997, the trial court rendered judgment in favor of respondent Binamira. Later on,
the petitioner appealed the decision to the CA. The latter court then sent a notice through
registered mail to the petitioner’s counsel directing him to file his brief as appellant. However,
the notice was returned to the court. The envelope containing the said notice was stamped,
thus: ―Return To Sender, Moved Out.‖ And again, the mail was returned for the second time to
CA after sending the mail to the petitioner in his office. As it was said to be ―unclaimed.‖ The CA
then issued a Resolution dismissing the appeal of the petitioner for his failure to file his brief. A
copy of the resolution was sent by registered mail to the petitioner’s counsel, but the said
resolution was returned to the court with a notation stamped on the envelope ―Return To Sender,
Moved Out.‖The CA then had a separate copy of the notice served by registered mail on the
petitioner at his office address, but the same was returned to the CA with the notation
―Unclaimed.‖
Later on, the filed a petition for certiorari against CA due to the fact that he never received any
resolution by the CA.
Upon investigation, it was learned that the petitioner did not receive the copies of the Resolution
and the notice because he was no longer in his office during the time it was sent. His counsel,
on the other hand, have already transferred his office in a different address which is why he
never received any copy of the notice or resolution.
Issue: Can the petitioner blame his counsel for not checking the status of his appeal in CA?
Held: No. Supreme Court said that it is the duty of the party and his counsel to device a
system for the receipt of a change in his address. It is also the responsibility of a party to inform
the court of the change of his address so that in the event the court orders that an order or
resolution be served on the said party to enable him to receive the said resolution or order.
However, both, in this case, did not take that in consideration as they both did not inform the
court regarding their change of address to which the notices and resolutions are said to be
delivered.
The petitioner has nobody to blame but himself. It was his responsibility to check the
status of his appeal in the CA from time to time, from his counsel or from the CA. Litigants,
represented by counsel, should not expect that all they need to do is sit back, relax and await
the outcome of their case. They should give the necessary assistance to their counsel for what
is at stake is their interest in the case.
The party-litigant should not rely totally on his counsel to litigate his case even if the
latter expressly assures that the former’s presence in court will no longer be needed.
88. Anastacio-Briones v. Zapanta. AC No. 6226
Facts: Petitioner Estela Anastacio-Briones engaged the services of respondent to file three civil cases
involving a parcel of land located in Antipolo City. The complainant said that she showed respondent a
copy of "Discharge and Appearance of Counsels with Ex-parte Motion to Cancel the October 25, 2002
Hearing" she intended to file. Prior to the hearing, she said that she informed respondent of her joint
venture agreement with a real estate developer who offered the services of its own counsel. Complainant
added that respondent requested her not to file it and he would submit a withdrawal of appearance instead.
Complainant also informed respondent that she could not attend the hearing on January 6, 2003 because
of other commitments. Respondent allegedly assured her that he would be present in the hearing.
On the said day, both the complainant and the respondent failed to appear in the hearing—
resulting to the declaration of the trial court that they have waived their right to present further witnesses
and directed them to file their formal offer of evidence within ten days from notice.
Instead of filing a formal offer of evidence, the respondent filed a withdrawal of appearance. But
five days later, ―the trial court dismissed the case with prejudice.‖
On May 5, 2003, complainant learned that the cases were dismissed and that respondent did not
attend the January 6, 2003 hearing and did not file a formal offer of evidence.
Complainant prayed that respondent be disbarred for abandoning her case and withdrawing his
appearance as counsel without her knowledge.
The respondent denied promising complainant that he would attend the January 6, 2003 hearing.
According to him, complainant informed his secretary that her new lawyer would attend. Respondent
claimed further that complainant‘s new lawyer should be faulted for belatedly filing an entry of
appearance and a motion for reconsideration. Respondent also claimed that he was merely being used as a
scapegoat for complainant‘s own negligence in pursuing the cases.
Issue: Is there any liability arising from the acts of the respondent?
Held: Yes. In the Report and Recommendation of IBP, it said that the respondent is found liable for
negligence in the performance of his duties as a counsel, and for ciolating CPR.
The Supreme Court said that ―until a lawyer‘s withdrawal shall have been approved, he remains
counsel of record and is expected by his client as well as by the court to do what the interests of his client
require. He must still appear on the date of hearing for the attorney-client relation does not terminate
formally until there is a withdrawal of his appearance on record.‖
―Certainly not to be overlooked is the duty of an attorney to inform his client of the
developments of the case. We note that it was only on May 5, 2003 that complainant learned that she
defaulted in the case. As a lawyer mindful of the interest of his client, respondent should have informed
the complainant of the court‘s order addressed to him, especially if he considered himself discharged in
order for complainant and her new counsel to be guided accordingly.‖
Fernando Martin O. Pena vs Atty. Lolito G. Aparico
Facts:
Respondent Atty Aparico appeared as legal counsel of Grace Hufana in a illegal dismissal case
before NLRC. In the said complaint, respondent submitted a claim for separation pay arising
from the alleged dismissal. Complainant, Pena rejected the claim thus Atty. Aparico in behalf of
Hufana wrote a demand letter. The contents of which threatened the company with the filing of
criminal cases for tax evasion and falsification of documents. Believing that the content deviated
from accepted ethical standards, complainant filed a case charging respondent with violation of
Canon 19.01.
ISSUE: IS there a violation of Canon 19.01?
Held:
Canon 19 of CPR states that ―lawyer shall represent his client with zeal within the bounds of law,‖ a
lawyer is reminded that legal practitioner's duty is not to his client but to the administration of justice.
More so, Canon 19.01 of CPR commands that ―lawyer shall employ only fair and honest means... shall
not threaten to present unfounded criminal charges to obtain improper advantage in any case or
proceeding.‖ In the case, respondent does not deny authorship of the threatening letter but defended that it
was just a standard practice making demand letter that would encourage settlement of disputes. However,
his defense is untenable for the threat already constitutes ―blackmail- the extortion of money by threats of
accusation.‖It is quite evident that the threat to file cases against complainant was designed to secure
some leverage to compel the latter to give his client's demands; there's an implied promise ―to keep silent.‖
The threat to file a baseless and unfounded criminal charges against complainant have nothing to do with
his client's claim for separation pay, evidently it went beyond ethical standards. Disbarment is too severe
but he is guilty under Canon 19.01; stern warning.
DALISAY VS MAURICIO
FACTS:
Dalisay, complainant, engaged the services of Mauricio (respondent) as a counsel in a pending
case before MTC,Binangonan, Rizal. Notwithstanding his receipt of documents and attorney's
fees, respondent never rendered legal services. Dalisay terminated the attorney client relationship
and demanded the return of her money and documents, which was refused by the respondent.
IBP recommended that respondent be required to refund the money received. However, when
respondent learned of decision of IBP, he verified the status of the pending case and he learned
that decision of Trial court holds that documents submitted by complainant are not official
records. Respondent then filed a Sworn Affidavit Complaint against Dalisay charging her with
violations of RPC, alleged that complainant offered tampered evidence.
ISSUE: Is respondent guitly of malpractice when he failed to cal upon the attention of his client?
DECISION
Court ruled that respondent, as a lawyer it is axiomatic that he is not obliged to act either as adviser or
advocate for every person who wish to become his client. He has the right to decline employment.
Nevertheless, once he accepts money from client, an attorney-client relationship is already established,
giving rise to the duty of fidelity to the client's cause. He should have returned the money if did not do
anything. He did not take any action on the case despite having been paid, this is tantamount to
abandonment of his duties as lawyer. Lastly, respondent's contention that falsified documents would
justify his inability to render legal services will not exonerate him. Under Canon 19.02 which outlines
procedure in dealing with clients who perpetrated fraud in legal proceeding, the lawyer has duty to
―promptly call upon the client to rectify the same, and failing which he shall terminate the relationship
with such client in accordance with the Rules of Court.‖ Thus, respondent is guilty of malpractice and
gross misconduct.
RIZALINO FERNANDEZ]vs. ATTY. REYNALDO NOVERO, JR.
Facts:
A complaint for disbarment was filed against Atty. Reynaldo Novero, Jr for the alleged patent and gross
neglect in the handling of Civil Case No. 7500. Imputed negligent acts are following: 1. Failure to attend
the scheduled hearing; 2. notwithstanding receipts of notice, he failed to formally offer exhibits; 3. failure
to file motion within reglementary period as a result said motion was denied; and 4. Respondent tried to
shift the blame to complainant. Respondent asserted that he had no knowledge of what had happened
prior to the case before he handled it because complainant did not furnish him records. Furthermore, he
asserted that his failure to formally offer exhibit was because complainant could not be reached, and the
latter even tried to take over the handling of the case by insisting to present more witnesses who
nevertheless failed to appear during trial.
Issue: Is respondent guilty for allowing his client dictate him in handling the procedure of the case?
Decision:
Yes. Respondent remiss in observing the standard care, diligence and competence prescribed for members
of the bar in the performance of professional duties. His defense that the delay was made intentionally by
the complainant is proof of his incompetence as complainant's counsel. His failure to file formal offer of
exhibits constitutes inexcusable negligence as it proved fatal to the cause of his client since it led to
dismissal of the case. A counsel must constantly keep in mind that his actions or omissions, even
malfeasance or non-feasance, would be binding on his client. Respondent‘s attempt to evade
responsibility by shifting the blame on complainant is apparent. His averment that complainant failed to
turn over to him the records and stenographic notes of the case only highlights his incompetence and
inadequacy in handling complainant‘s case. Respondent refers to the alleged obnoxious attitude of
complainant in trying to manipulate the manner in which he was handling the case as the main reason for
his failure to formally offer his exhibits in contravention of the order of the court. But respondent should
bear in mind that while a lawyer owes utmost zeal and devotion to the interest of his client, he also has
the responsibility of employing only fair and honest means to attain the lawful objectives of his client and
he should not allow the latter to dictate the procedure in handling the case. Atty. Novero, Jr. is
Suspended.
92. Shirley Loria Toledo, et al.. vs. Alfredo E. Kallos, A.M. No. RTJ-05-1900, January 28, 2005
Facts:
Petitioners filed a complaint against respondent judge, who was previously Petitioner‘s counsel in a civil
case involving a recovery of hereditary shares with damages, for violation of the Code of Professional
Responsibility and to order respondent to cease and desist from claiming attorney‘s fees, amounting to
1/3 of the hereditary shares.
Issue:
Is Respondent judge liable under Canon 20 of the Code of Professional Responsibility?
Held:
Yes. Canon 20 of the Code of Professional Responsibility allows lawyers to charge fair and reasonable
fees. As long as a lawyer honestly and in good faith serves and represents the interest of the client, he
should have a reasonable compensation for his service. Lawyers are thus as much entitled to judicial
protection against injustice on the part of their clients as the clients are against abuses on the part of
counsel. The duty of the court is not only to see that lawyers act in a proper and lawful manner, but also
to see that lawyers are paid their just and lawful fees. It should be stressed in this connection that the
absence of a written contract will not preclude the finding that there was a professional relationship that
justifies the collection of attorney‘s fees for professional services rendered. Documentary formalism is
not an essential element in the employment of an attorney; the contract may be express or implied. To
establish the relation, it is sufficient that the advice and assistance of an attorney is sought and received in
any matter pertinent to his profession. Hence, with or without a contingency agreement between the
complainants and the respondent, the trial court must determine the propriety of respondent‘s claim for
attorney‘s fees and the reasonable amount thereof.
93. Lijauco vs Atty. Terrado A.C. No. 6317, August 31, 2006
FACTS: On February 13, 2004, an administrative complaint was filed by complainant
Luzviminda C. Lijauco against respondent Atty. Rogelio P. Terrado for gross misconduct,
malpractice and conduct unbecoming of an officer of the court when he neglected a legal matter
entrusted to him despite receipt of payment representing attorney‘s fees.
ISSUE: Whether or not the ruling of the IBP Board of Governors is proper?
HELD: Yes. The records show that Atty.Terrado acted as complainant‘s counsel in the drafting
of the compromise agreement between Ms. Lijauco and the bank regarding LRC Case No. B-
2610. He lured Ms. Lijauco to participate in a compromise agreement with a false and
misleading assurance that the latter can still recover her foreclosed property even after three
years from foreclosure. Atty. Terrado violated Rule1.01 Canon 1 of the CPR which says that a
lawyer shall not engage in unlawful, dishonest,immoral or deceitful conduct. Furthermore, the
Investigating Commissioner observed that the fee of P 70,000 for legal assistance in the recovery
of the deposit amounting to P 180,000 is unreasonable and is violative of Canon 20 of the CPR.
Atty. Terrada was also found guilty of violating Rule 9.02 of the CPR by openly admitting that
he divided the legal fees with two other people as a referral fee.
94. Doy Mercantile, Inc. v. AMA Computer College, G.R. No. 155311, March 31, 2004
Facts:
Petitioner filed an action to reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals in awarding Atty. Eduardo P.
Gabriel, Jr. attorney‘s fees amounting to Php. 200, 000.00. Petitioner contended that the Court of Appeals
erred in applying Section 24 of Rule 138 of the Rules of Court and Canon 20 Rule 20.01 of the Code of
Professional Responsibility.
Issue:
Is the Php. 200, 000.00 attorney‘s fees reasonable?
Held:
Yes. The issue of the reasonableness of attorney‘s fees based on quantum meruit is a question of fact and
well-settled is the rule that conclusions and findings of fact by the lower courts are entitled to great weight
on appeal and will not be disturbed except for strong and cogent reasons. The trial court‘s initial award of
P2000, 000.00 as attorney‘s fees of Atty. Gabriel, Jr. is reasonable. On the other hand, the increased
award of P500, 000.00 cannot be justified, taking into account the recognized parameters of quantum
meruit. Although Rule 138 of the Rules of Court and Rule 20.01 of the Code of Professional
Responsibility list several other factors in setting such fees, these are mere guides in ascertaining the real
value of the lawyer‘s service. Courts are not bound to consider all these factors in fixing attorney‘s fees.
95. Pineda v. Atty De Jesus, G.R. No. 1552244
Facts: Aurora Pineda filed for declaration of nullity of marriage against Vinson Pineda. Aurora
proposed a settlement regarding visitation rights and the separation of properties which was accepted by
Vinson. Settlement was approved by the trial court and their marriage was declared null and void.
Throughout the proceedings the respondent counsels were compensated but they still billed
petitioner additional legal fees in amounting to P16.5M. Vinson refused to pay the additional fees but
instead paid P1.2M.
Respondents filed a complaint with the same trial court.
Trial court ordered Vinson to pay a total of P9M. CA reduced the amount to a total of P2M.
Held: A lawyer may enforce his right to his fees by filing the petition as an incident of the main
action. RTC has jurisdiction.
The respondents were seeking to collect P50M which was 10% of the value of the properties
awarded to Vinson. What respondents were demanding was additional payment for service rendered in
the same case. The professional engagement between petitioner and respondents was governed
by quantum meruit.
Rule 20.4 of the Code of Professional Responsibility advises lawyers to avoid controversies with
clients concerning their compensation and to resort to judicial action only to prevent imposition, injustice
or fraud. Suits to collect fees should be avoided and should be filed only when circumstances force
lawyers to resort to it. In this case, there was no justification for the additional legal fees sought by
respondents. It was an act of unconscionable greed.
96
97
98. Montano vs. IBP, AM No. 4215, May 21, 2001
Facts:
Montano filed an action for disbarment against Atty. Juan Dealca, counsel of the Petitioner in [CA-G.R.
CV No. 37467], for the latter‘s withdrawal of his legal services to the former because of non-payment of
attorney‘s fees. Montano contends that such behavior is unbecoming of being a member of the bar and
must be disbarred.
Issue:
Is Atty. Dealca‘s withdrawal of his legal services from his client constitute gross immoral conduct?
Held:
Yes. Atty. Dealca is hereby reprimanded and with a warning that repetition of the same act shall be dealt
with more severely. Under Canon 22 of the Code of Professional Responsibility, a lawyer shall withdraw
his services only for good cause and upon notice appropriate in the circumstances.
99 Gatmaytan vs. Ilao, A.C. No. 6086, January 26, 2005
Facts:
Petitioner Atty. Gatmaitan filed an appeal from the decision of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to
dismiss his petition for disbarment against one Atty. Ilao for violation of certain Canons in the Code of
Professional Responsibility. Petitioner contended that his petition was dismissed without the
Commissioner conducting an investigation. He asserts that instead of dismissing outright the complaint
for lack of merit, Commissioner San Juan should have conducted an investigation of the charged
violations of the Canons of Professional Responsibility by respondent pursuant to Rule 139-B, Section 8
of the Rules of Court.
Issue:
Is Petitioner‘s contention correct?
Held:
No. Under Section 5 of Rule 139-B of the Rules of Court, If the complaint does not merit action, or if the
answer shows to the satisfaction of the Investigator that the complaint is not meritorious, the same may be
dismissed by the Board of Governors upon his recommendation. In the case at bar, Commissioner San
Juan did not see the need to conduct an investigation because, to her mind, the instances when an
investigation shall push through did not arise. Respondent Atty. Ilao did submit his answer to the
complaint and after the exchange of pleadings between the parties, the Commissioner made the
determination that the complaint does not merit action and must therefore be dismissed.
100 Yap-Paras vs Atty. Paras G.R. No. 147824
FACTS: On September 9, 1998, herein petitioner-movant filed a verified petition praying for the
disbarment of her estranged husband respondent Atty. Justo Paras alleging facts of deceit,
malpractice, grave misconduct, grossly immoral conduct and violation of oath as a lawyer
committed by the latter. On February 14, 2005, the Court issued a Resolution finding Atty. Paras
guilty of committing a falsehood in violation of his lawyer‘s oath and of the Code of Professional
Responsibility. Thus, the Court resolved to suspend Atty. Paras from the practice of law for a
period of one year, with a warning that commission of the same or similar offense in the future
will result in the imposition of a more severe penalty.
ISSUE: Whether or not Atty. Justo Yap violated his lawyer‘s oath and CPR.
HELD: Yes. Respondent violated his lawyer‘s oath as well as the Code of Professional
Responsibility which mandates upon each lawyer, as his duty to society and to the courts, the
obligation to obey the laws of the land and to do no falsehood nor consent to the doing of any in
court. Respondent has been deplorably lacking in the candor required of him as a member of the
Bar and an officer of the court in his acts of applying for the issuance of a free patent over the
properties in issue despite his knowledge that the same had already been sold by his mother to
complainant‘s sister.
The facts and evidence obtaining in the instant case indubitably reveal respondent‘s failure to
live up to his duties as a lawyer in consonance with the strictures of the lawyer‘s oath and the
Code of Professional Responsibility, thereby occasioning sanction from this Court.
101.
Sps. Rafols, Jr. v. Atty. Barrios
Facts:
Complainants were the plaintiff in a civil case wherein they sought the cancellation of a deed of sale. The
complainants were represented by the respondent, paying him P15,000 as acceptance fee. The
respondent visited the complainants at their residence and informed Manuel that the judge handling their
case wanted to talk to him. The respondent and Manuel thus went to the East Royal Hotel’s coffee shop
where Judge Dizon Jr. was already waiting. The respondent introduced Manuel to the Judge, who
informed Manuel that their case was already pending in his sala. The judge likewise said that he would
resolve the case in their favor, assuring their success up to the Court of Appeals, if they could deliver
P150,000 to him.
Held:
Yes. The respondent’s act of introducing the complainants to the judge strongly implied that the
respondent was aware of the illegal purpose of the judge in wanting to talk with the respondent’s clients.
Thus, the court unqualifiedly accepted the aptness of the following evaluation made in the Office of the
Bar Confidant’s report and recommendation. The practice of law is a privilege heavily burdened with
conditions. The attorney is a vanguard of our legal system, and, as such, is expected to maintain not only
legal proficiency but also a very high standard of morality, honesty, integrity, and fair dealing in order that
the people's faith and confidence in the legal system are ensured. Any violation of the high moral
standards of the legal profession justifies the imposition on the attorney of the appropriate penalty,
including suspension and disbarment. Specifically, the Code of Professional Responsibility enjoins an
attorney from engaging in unlawful, dishonest, or deceitful conduct. Corollary to this injunction is the rule
that an attorney shall at all times uphold the integrity and dignity of the Legal Profession and support the
activities of the Integrated Bar.
102. Mendoza v. Mercado, A.M. No. 1484, June 19, 1980
Facts:
On July 1, 1975, Arsenio V. Mendoza filed a complaint, charging Arsenio Mercado, an assistant
provincial fiscal of Bulacan, with professional incompetence because in 1957 he notarized a deed of
donation mortis causa which in 1974 was decree void by the Court of First Instance of Bulacan for not
having been executed in the form of a last will and testament. In that instrument, Agueda Mendoza
donated to her sister, Felisa P. Mendoza, her share in a house and lot with an area of nine hundred
seventy-two square meters, located at Sta. Maria, Bulacan. Allegedly because of the nullity of the deed of
donation, the devise of that share to complainant Arsenio V. Mendoza and Generoso Mendoza in the last
will and testament of the donee, Felisa P. Mendoza, became ineffectual or inoperative.
Issue:
Should Respondent be punished for his incompetence?
Held:
No. Professional incompetence is not among the grounds for disbarment specified in section 27, Rule 138
of the Rules of Court. It is true that the enumeration of the grounds for disbarment in section 27 is not
exclusive and that there may be a case where a lawyer should be disbarred for inexcusable ignorance of
the law. Nevertheless, in the instant case, we are satisfied that discipline action should not be taken
against the respondent for having ratified a deed of donation mortis causa which was not in the form of a
will.
103. Tabang v. Atty. Gacott
A.C. No. 6490, September 29, 2004
Facts:
On February 3, 2003, complainants Lilia Tabang and her mother, Concepcion Tabang, filed before the Integrated Bar of the
Philippines (IBP) a verified complaint for disbarment or suspension against respondent Atty. Glenn C. Gacott for gross misconduct,
deceit and gross dishonesty. Sometime between the years 1984 and 1985, Lilia sought the legal advice of Gacott, regarding her
desire to buy a 30-hectare agricultural land in Barangay Bacungan, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, which consists of several parcels of
land belonging to different owners. Judge Gacott informed Lilia that under the agrarian reform program of the government, she is
prohibited from acquiring vast tracks of agricultural land, as she already owns other parcels of land. Lilia bought the parcels of land
using fictitious names. Complainants decided to sell the subject parcels of land because they needed money for their medication
and other necessary expenses. On the pretext that he is going to help them sell the subject property to prospective buyers,
respondent borrowed the seven land titles from complainants but He informed complainants that he lost all the seven land titles.
Thereafter, respondent caused the publication of a notice representing himself as the owner of the subject parcels of land and
indicating therein his desire to sell the said properties. Eventually, respondent was able to sell the seven parcels of land to seven
individuals. However, only three of these buyers were legitimate, while the remaining four are dummies of respondent. As a result
of selling the three parcels of land, respondent was able to receiveP3,773,675.00. None of the proceeds of the sale was remitted to
complainants. Complainants contend that in executing the various Revocation of Special Power of Attorney and Affidavit of
Recovery, affixing thereon the signatures of the fictitious registered owners of the disputed parcels of land, and in arrogating the
ownership over the said lands upon himself, respondent committed gross misconduct, dishonesty and deceit. Respondent filed his
Answer to the Complaint denying the material allegations of the complainants.
Issue: Is Atty. Gascott guilty of Gross Misconduct, Deceit and Dishonesty?
Ruling: The Administrative case is hereby REMANDED to the IBP. In a report dated March 4, 2004, Commissioner Navarro found
respondent guilty of gross misconduct for violating Rule 1.01 of Canon 1 of the Code of Professional Responsibility. Accordingly she
recommended that respondent be suspended from the practice of law for six months. On April 16, 2004, the Board of Governors of
the IBP passed a resolution adopting the report of Commissioner Navarro. However, the Board modified the recommended penalty
and imposed the supreme punishment of disbarment. The case should be remanded for further proceedings. A lawyer may be
disbarred or suspended for any violation of his oath, a patent disregard of his duties, or an odious deportment unbecoming an
attorney. Among the grounds enumerated in Section 27, Rule 138 of the Rules of Court are deceit, malpractice, gross misconduct in
office, grossly immoral conduct, conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude, any violation of the oath which he is required to take
before admission to the practice of law, willful disobedience of any lawful order of a superior court, corrupt or willful appearance as
an attorney for a party to a case without authority to do so. The grounds are not preclusive in nature even as they are broad enough
as to cover practically any kind of impropriety that a lawyer does or commits in his professional career or in his private life. A lawyer
must at no time be wanting in probity and moral fiber which are not only conditions precedent to his entrance to the Bar but are
likewise essential demands for his continued membership therein. Nonetheless, the power to disbar must be exercised with great
caution. For the court to exercise its disciplinary powers, the case against the respondent must be established by clear, convincing
and satisfactory proof. Indeed, considering the serious consequences of the disbarment or suspension of a member of the Bar, the
Supreme Court has consistently held that clearly preponderant evidence is necessary to justify the imposition of the administrative
penalty.
In Re: Suspension of Pelaez
March 3, 1923
Facts:
The respondent Vicente Pelaez is a member of the Philippine Bar, residing at Cebu, Cebu. On March 20, 1918, he was appointed
guardian of the minor Gracia Cabrera. As such guardian, he came into possession of certain property and shares. Being the
guardian of the minor, he borrowed P2800 from the Philippine National Bank Cebu Branch. To guarantee the loan, without the
knowledge or consent of the Court of First Instance of Cebu, deposited with the Cebu branch of the Philippine National Bank the
shares of stock corresponding to the guardianship and executed written agreement without the authority of the Court of First
Instance of Cebu which caused the judge of First Instance to suspend him from the legal profession.
Issue: May Atty. Pelaez be disbarred or suspended of his non-professional misconduct
Ruling: Yes. Section 21 of the Code of Civil Procedure provides that a member of the bar may be removed or suspended from this
office as lawyer by the Supreme Court for any of the causes therein enumerated. It will be noticed that our statute merely provides
that certain cause shall be deemed sufficient for the revocation or suspension of an attorney's license. It does not provide that these
shall constitute the only causes for disbarment, or that an attorney may not be disbarred or suspended for other reasons. It is a well-
settled rule that a statutory enumeration of the grounds of disbarment is not to be taken as a limitation of the general power of the
court in this respect. Even where the Legislature has specified the grounds for disbarment, the inherent power of the court over its
officer is not restricted. The prior tendency of the decisions of this court has been toward the conclusion that a member of the bar
may be removed or suspended from his office as lawyer for other than statutory grounds. Indeed, the statute is so phrased as to be
broad enough to cover practically any misconduct of a lawyer. a court will not assume jurisdiction to discipline one of its officers for
misconduct alleged to have been committed in his private capacity. But this is a general rule with many exceptions. The courts
sometimes stress the point that the attorney has shown, through misconduct outside of his professional dealings, a want of such
professional honesty as render him unworthy of public confidence, and an unfit and unsafe person to manage the legal business of
others. The reason why such a distinction can be drawn is because it is the court which admits an attorney to the bar, and the court
requires for such admission the possession of good moral character.
Cojuangco Jr. v. Atty. Palma
A.C. No. 2474, June 30, 2005
Facts:
On June 22, 1982, respondent Atty. Leo J. Palma, despite his subsisting marriage, wed Maria Luisa Cojuangco, the daughter of
complainant Eduardo M. Cojuangco, Jr. Thus, the latter filed on November 1982, a complaint disbarment against respondent. Palma
moved to dismiss the complaint. On March 2, 1983, the court referred the case to OSG for investigation and recommendation. The
Assistant Solicitor General heard the testimonies of the complainant and his witness in the presence of respondent’s counsel. On
March 19, 1984 respondent filed with the OSG an urgent motion to suspend proceedings on the ground that the final actions of his
civil case for the declaration of nullity of marriage between him and his wife Lisa, poses a prejudicial question to the disbarment
proceeding, but it was denied. The OSG transferred the disbarment case to the IBP, the latter found respondent guilty of gross
immoral conduct and violation of his oath as a lawyer, hence, was suspended from the practice of law for a period of three years. In
his motion for reconsideration, respondent alleged that he acted under a ―firm factual and legal conviction in declaring before the
Hong Kong Marriage Registry that he is a bachelor because his first marriage is void even if there is judicial declaration of nullity.
Issue: Whether or not a subsequent void marriage still needs a judicial declaration of nullity for the purpose of remarriage.
Held: Respondents arguments that he was of the ―firm factual and legal conviction when he declared before the HIC authorities that
he was a bachelor since his first marriage is void and does not need judicial declaration of nullity‖ cannot exonerate him. In Terre v.
Terre, the same defense was raised by respondent lawyer whose disbarment was also sought. We held: ―xxx respondent Jordan
Terre, being a lawyer, knew or should have known that such an argument ran counter to the prevailing case law of this court which
holds that purposes of determining whether a person is legally free to contract a second marriage, a judicial declaration that the first
marriage was null and void an initio is essential. Even if we were to assume, arguendo merely, that Jordan Terre held that mistaken
belief in good faith, the same result will follow. For if we are to hold Jordan Terre to his own argument, his first marriage to
complainant Dorothy Terre must be deemed valid, with the result that his second marriage must be regarded as bigamous and
criminal.
In Re: xxx B.M. No. 793 July 30, 2004
Facts:
In a Letter dated August 20, 1996, the District Court of Guam informed this Court of the suspension of Atty. Leon G. Maquera
(Maquera) from the practice of law in Guam. He was suspended from the practice of law in Guam for misconduct, as he acquired his
client's property as payment for his legal services, then sold it and as a consequence obtained an unreasonably high fee for
handling
his client's case. Under Section 27, Rule 138 of the Revised Rules of Court, the disbarment or suspension of a member of the
Philippine Bar in a foreign jurisdiction, where he has also been admitted as an attorney, is also a ground for his disbarment or
suspension in this realm, provided the foreign court's action is by reason of an act or omission constituting deceit, malpractice or
other gross misconduct, grossly immoral conduct, or a violation of the lawyer's oath. The case was referred by the Court to the
Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) for investigation report and recommendation. In its decision, the Superior Court of Guam
stated that Maquera was the counsel of a certain Castro. Benavente the creditor Castro,
obtained a judgement against Castro, thus Castro;s property was to be sold at a public auction in satisfaction of his obligation to
Benavente. However, Castro retains the right of redemption. In consideration of Maquera¶s legal services, Castro entered into an
oral agreement with Maquera and assigned his right of redemption in favor of the latter. On January 8, 1988, Maquera exercised
Castro's right of redemption by paying Benavente US$525.00 in satisfaction of the judgment debt. Thereafter, Maquera had the title
to the property transferred in his name.And after, sold the property to C.S. Chang and C.C. Chang for Three Hundred Twenty
Thousand U.S. Dollars (US$320,000.00). The Guam Bar Ethics Committee filed a Petition in the Superior Court of Guam praying
that Maquera be sanctioned for violations of Rules 1.5 and 1.8(a) of the Model Rules of Professional Conduct (Model Rules) in force
in Guam. In its Petition, theCommittee claimed that Maquera obtained an unreasonably high fee for his services. The Committee
further alleged that Maquera himself admitted his failure to comply with the requirement in Rule 1.8 (a) of the Model Rules that a
lawyer shall not enter into a business transaction with a client or knowingly acquire a pecuniary interest adverse to a client unless
the transaction and the terms governing the lawyer's acquisition of such interest are fair and reasonable to the client, and are fully
disclosed to, and understood by the client and reduced in writing. On the basis of the Decision of the Superior Court of Guam, the
IBP concluded that although the said court found Maquera liable for misconduct, "there is no evidence to establish that Maquera
committed a breach of ethics in the Philippines."However, the IBP still resolved to suspend him indefinitely for his failure to pay his
annual dues as a member of the IBP since 1977, which failure is, in turn, a ground for removal of the name of the delinquent
member from the Roll of Attorneys under Section 10, Rule 139-A of the Revised Rules of Court.
Issue:Whether or not Maquera, who was suspended from the practice of law in Guam, be suspended as member of the Philippine
Bar on the same ground of his suspension in Guam.
Ruling: The power of the Court to disbar or suspend a lawyer for acts or omissions committed in a foreign jurisdiction is found in
Section 27, Rule 138 of the Revised Rules of Court, as amended by Supreme Court Resolution dated February 13, 1992, which
states: Section 27. Disbarment or suspension of attorneys by Supreme Court, grounds therefor.²A member of the bar may be
disbarred or suspended from his office as attorney by the Supreme Court for any deceit, malpractice, or other gross misconduct in
such office, grossly immoral conduct, or by reason of his conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude, or for any violation of the
oath which he is required to take before admission to practice, or for a willful disobedience appearing as attorney for a party toa
case without authority to do so. The practice of soliciting cases at law for the purpose of gain, either personally or through paid
agents or brokers, constitutes malpractice.
Soriano v. Atty. Dizon
A.C. No. 6792, January 25, 2006
Facts:
This is a case of disbarment filed against the accused due to his conviction of frustrated homicide.the case stemmed from a traffic
altercation by the respondent with the complainant. In the course of their trouble, respondent was able to hit the neck of the
complainant by his revolver making the complainant physically paralyzed.the manner which the respondent attacked the
complainant and a credible corroboration of witnesses as to the crime lead the conviction of the respondent of the said crime but
later the rtc suspended the sentence by granting the respondent a probation.respondent banking his defense on a concocted story
and alibi which later disregarded by the court due to existence of credible documentary and testimonial evidence.
Issue: whether his crime of frustrated homicide involves moral turpitude? Whether his conviction warrants disbarment?
Ruling: the court resolved the matter by declaring the actuation of the respondent in the crime of frustrated homicide involved moral
turpitude.the court also consider the findings of treachery as a further indications of skewed morals of respondent.it is also glaringly
clear that respondent seriously transgressed canon 1 of the code of professional responsibility thru his possession of an unlicensed
fire arm and his unjust refusal to satisfy civil liabilities.the court remind him both the attorney¶s oath and code of professional
responsibility.the appalling vindictiveness and,treachery, and brazen dishonesty of respondent clearly show his unworthiness to
continue as member of the bar.thus the court,disbarred the respondent and ordered the name of the latter be stricken from the roll of
attorneys.
Guiang v. Antonio
A.C. No. 2473 February 3, 1993
Facts:
In May 1981, petitioner retained the services of Atty. Antonio as her counsel in connection with civil case docketed as CA-G.R. No.
62250, "Heirs of Rita Reyes vs. Brigido Valencia", then on appeal with the Court of Appeals. The Court of Appeals had rendered a
decision on February 27, 1981 adverse to plaintiffs, one of whom was the petitioner. The Court of Appeals granted Atty. Antonio's
motion for Reconsideration on April 22, 1981 and giving petitioner up to May 27, 1981 to file the motion. On May 26, 1981,
Atty. Antonio filed another motion for extension which was granted. On June 26, 1981, respondent filed the Motion for
Reconsideration which the Court of Appeals denied on July 27, 1981. Respondent failed to file the appeal within the 15-day period
from receipt of the denial by the Court of Appeals. The adverse decision of the Court of Appeals became final; hence, this petition
for disbarment.
Issue: Is the respondent guilty of negligence and malpractice?
Ruling: Yes. The Bar Confidant found the respondent guilty of negligence and malpractice for violating Rule 18.03, Canon 18 of the
Code of Professional Responsibility which provides: A lawyer shall not neglect a legal matter entrusted to him and his negligence in
connection therewith shall render him liable. Added to this offense are the highly improper statements in respondent's pleadings
describing his client's case as "hopeless or beyond legal remedy" after neglecting to file the appeal on time. No formal, trial-like,
hearing was conducted by the Bar Confidant wherein Atty. Leonardo B. Antonio could been given an opportunity orally to explain his
side. However, written comments on the administrative complaint clearly present to the Court his reasons for his omission in
attending to his client's cause. All the material facts are on record, thus this case can be decided without need for a trial-type
hearing.The court find the recommendation of the Bar Confidant holding the respondent guilty of negligence and malpractice, in
violation of the Code of Professional Responsibility, to be well-taken. Accordingly, the Court RESOLVED to suspend respondent
from the practice of law for six (6) months effective upon receipt of this decision. Let this Resolution be spread on the personal
record of respondent Atty. Leonardo B. Antonio in the Office of the Bar Confidant and copies thereof furnished to all courts of the
land.
Re: 2003 Bar Examinations
B.M. No. 1222, April 24, 2009
Facts:
The leakage of bar questions in mercantile law during the 2003 bar examinations warranted the nullification of the results in that
subject and the subsequent distribution of the corresponding percentage thereof among the seven bar subjects. thorough
investigation revealed that a certain Danilo De Guzman, one of the assistant attorneys at the Balgos and Perez Law Firm, was
responsible for the leakage. Atty. Marcial Balgos, a senior partner in the firms, happened to have been commissioned by Justice
Jose Vitug to prepare questions in mercantile law. Atty. De Guzman admitted to downloading the questions from Atty. Balgos'
computer and distributing the same to two of his brothers in the Beta Sigma Lambda fraternity. From the point, the leaked questions
spread and an unknown number of examinees were able to obtain copies thereof. Atty. De Guzman was thus disbarred, while Atty.
Balgos was reprimanded for his negligence and lack of due care in safeguarding the proposed questions in mercantile law.
ISSUE: Whether or not disbarment was proper
HELD: Yes. Atty. De guzman, by transmitting and distributing the stolen test questions to some members of the beta sigma lambda
fraternity, possibly for pecuniary profit and to give them undue advantage over the other examinees in mercantile law, abetted
cheating and dishonesty by his fraternity brothers in the examination, which is violative of rule 1.01 of canon 1 as well as canon 7 of
the code of professional responsibility. De guzman was guilty of misconduct unbecoming a member of the bar. He violated the law
instead of promoting respect for it and degraded the noble profession instead of upholding its dignity and integrity.
110.Overgaard vs Atty. Valdez A.C. 7902 March 31, 2009
FACTS: Lawyer Valdez committed multiple violations of the canons of the Code of Professional
Responsibility by having taken full retainer's fee and not having done anything regarding
Complainant Overgaard's cases to the latter's prejudice and dismay.
ISSUE: Whether or not Valdez committed multiple violations on the Code of Professional
Responsibility and thus his disbarment should be sustained.
HELD: The disbarment of Valdez should be upheld.
Canon 16: A lawyer shall hold in trust all money and properties of his client that may come into
his possession.
It is a lawyer's duty to properly account for the money he received from his client. (Rule 16.01)
The Court finds that Atty. Valdez has committed multiple violations on the canons of the Code
of Professional Responsibility because he did not observe the fundamental duties of honesty and
good faith. (Canon 1, Rule 1.01; Canon 15; Canon17;Canon 18 Rule 18.03;Canon 16 Rule
16.01)
The PRACTICE OF LAW IS NOT A RIGHT, BUT A PRIVILEGE. It is granted only to those
of good moral character. The Bar must maintain a high standard of honesty and fair dealing.
Lawyers must conduct themselves beyond reproach at all times, whether they are dealing with
their clients or the public at large, and a violation of the high moral standards of the legal
profession justifies the imposition of the appropriate penalty, including suspension and
disbarment.
In this case, SC finds that suspension for 3 years recommended by the IBP is not sufficient
punishment for the unacceptable acts and omissions of Respondent Valdez. For violating
elementary principles of professional ethics and failing to observe the fundamental duties of
honesty and good faith, respondent has proven himself unworthy of membership in this noble
profession. Disbarred.
111. In Re: Avanceña, Adm. Case No. 407, March 31, 2009
FACTS:
Respondent was convicted for Falsification of a Public Document under Art. 172 of the Revised
Penal Code and the decision was rendered to that effect that the Court has found that said respondent has
taken advantage of the law profession in committing said crime. The President of the Philippines
extended conditional pardon to Petitioner. Petitioner challenges the decision of the Supreme Court.
FACTS:
Irene Santos died and was survived by her husband and two nieces, daughters of her deceased
brother. Her husband filed a petition for the issuance of letters of administration, naming himself and the
two nieces as the surviving heirs of the decedent. He was later named by the court as
administrator. Thereafter, an unverified manifestation was filed by Adela Gutierrez, one of the nieces, in
court, attesting to a deed of assignment conveying all her interest in participating in the proceedings to her
sister. On a later date however, another manifestation was filed by Adela, alleging that the deed of
assignment mentioned in the earlier filed manifestation was procured by the administrator by fraud and
that she signed the same by mistake. She alleged that she was misled by the husband in signing said
manifestation in exchange for money loaned to her by her sister, and that she continuously seeks to
participate in the intestate proceedings of her aunt. She then filed a motion to transfer the special
proceedings in the same branch where a case for the nullity of deed of assignment was filed. This motion
was denied. Adela then sought that the administrator be ordered to furnish her all records of the
proceedings. The administrator opposed this on the ground of the earlier filed manifestation. The court
ordered in favor of the administrator.
FACTS:
Sometime in February, 1993, a certain Ceferino Tigas wrote a letter, addressed to Hon.
Reynaldo Suarez of the Office of the Court Administrator of the Supreme Court, charging that
irregularities and corruption were being committed by the respondent Presiding Judge of the Municipal
Trial Court of Angat, Bulacan. Because of this, an Entrapment Operation was made by the NBI in order
to convict the respondent judge of Bribery. After the entrapment operation was conducted, petitioner
asked for the removal of respondent judge from his office.
HELD/DOCTRINE: (Qualification of Judges)
The Supreme Court reiterated the ruling in the case of Raquiza v. Castaneda, Jr that -
“The ground for the removal of a judicial officer should be established beyond
reasonable doubt. Such is the rule where the charges on which the removal is sought is
misconduct in office, willful neglect, corruption, incompetency, etc. The general rules in regard
to admissibility of evidence in criminal trials apply.”
Reasonable doubt is the inability to let the judicial mind rest easy upon the certainty of guilt
after a thorough investigation of the whole evidence.[16] The principle of reasonable doubt being
applicable in the instant case, therefore, we find that the alleged act of bribery committed by respondent
has not been sufficiently and convincingly proven to warrant the imposition of any penalty against
respondent.
114 Ramirez v. Corpus-Macandog, Adm. Matter Nos. R-351-RTJ, R-359-RTJ-R-621-RTJ, R-684-RTJ,
R-87-RTJ & 86-4-9987-RTC, September 26, 1986
FACTS:
Respondent Judge acted improperly when she rendered rulings based on directives she received
from a government official. In her defense, the respondent judge claimed at that time, the country was
then under a revolutionary government, and to promote peace she made certain rulings acting on the
pressure of the government official.
“Even accepting for the nonce that there was this supposed pressure from a source
twice removed from the national official mentioned earlier, her confessed act of succumbing to
this pressure on the telephone is a patent betrayal of the public trust reposed on respondent as an
arbiter of the law and a revelation of her weak moral character. By her appointment to the office,
the public has laid on respondent their confidence that she is mentally and morally fit to pass
upon the merits of their varied contentions. For this reason, they expect her to be fearless in her
pursuit to render justice, to be unafraid to displease any person, interest or power and to be
equipped with a moral fiber strong enough to resist the temptations lurking in her office.
Regrettably, respondent has dismally failed to exhibit these qualities required of those holding
such office.”
115 Ajeno v. Inserto, Adm. Matter No. 1098-CFI, May 31, 1976
FACTS:
In a verified complaint dated October 25, 1975, complainant Ludovico Ajeno of Barotac,
Nuevo, Iloilo, charged Judge Sancho Y. Inserto of the Court of First Instance, Iloilo City for ignorance of
the law, particularly Article 39 of the Revised Penal Code. In his comment to the charge of complainant,
respondent Judge admitted his error; that it was never his intention to oppress anyone, much less the
complainant; that at the time he committed the mistake he was relying on the doctrine that what the
Constitution prohibits is imprisonment for debt arising exclusively from action ex contractu and does not
include damages arising from action ex delictu, fines, penalties imposed in criminal proceedings.
Complainant thus prays this Court to remove respondent Judge from office "for incompetence and for
lack of the highest degree of intellectual responsibility and integrity required of him by the nature of his
office. ... "
HELD/DOCTRINE: (Independence)
The Canons of Judicial Ethics would not allow that such conduct pass without any word of
admonition to the erring respondent Judge. When he accepted his position he owed it to the dignity of the
court, to the legal profession and to the public, to know the very law. he is supposed to apply to a given
controversy. Even in the remaining years of his stay in the judiciary he should keep abreast with the
changes in the law and with the latest decisions and precedents. Although a judge is nearing retirement he
should not relax in his study of the law and court decisions. Service in the judiciary means a continuous
study and research on the law from beginning to end. In this respect respondent Judge has failed.
The Supreme Court only reprimanded the Respondent Judge because he committed the error in
good faith.
116 6. Office of the Court Administrator v. Judge Floro, Jr., A.M. No. RTC-99-146
FACTS:
On July 20, 1999 Floro was placed on preventive suspension during the investigation against
him, for a variety of reasons including:
· Violating a variety of rules governing judicial conduct, including circulating a business card
containing self-congratulatory statements, and announcing his qualifications in court
· declarations in criminal cases on the side of the accused
· having a private law practice while a judge
· having hearings without the presence of a prosecuting attorney
· ordering mental and physical examinations of an accused over the objections of a prosecutor on
unjustified grounds
The investigation resulted in 13 charges. In March, 2001 the Supreme Court reviewed a report
incorporating psychiatric and psychological findings of multiple doctors which judged the evidence to be
substantiated, and recommended Floro be declared unfit to be a judge, effective immediately. Over the
next several years the Supreme Court undertook an investigation, ultimately handing down a unanimous
decision that Floro be dismissed from the bench. The court did not rule that Floro was insane, but did
suffer from psychosis that impaired his judgment.
HELD/DOCTRINE: (Independence)
After 68 months of suspension, on April 7, 2006 the Supreme Court fined Floro 40,000 pesos and
removed him from his position with three years back pay, allowances, and benefits. The court did not find
Floro guilty of gross misconduct or corruption but did find that his mental health indicated "gross
deficiency in competence and independence".
FACTS:
The national dailies collectively reported that Court of Appeals Associate Justice Demetrio G.
Demetria tried to intercede on behalf of suspected Chinese drug queen Yu Yuk Lai, alias Sze Yuk Lai,
who went in and out of prison to play in a Manila casino. The Respondent Court of Appeals Justice
denied the accusations.
HELD/DOCTRINE: (Independence)
The Supreme Court held:
In sum, we find the testimonies of the prosecution witnesses convincing and trustworthy,
as compared to those of the defense which do not only defy natural human experience but are
also riddled with major inconsistencies which create well-founded and overriding doubts.
The conduct and behavior of everyone connected with an office charged with the
dispensation of justice is circumscribed with the heavy of responsibility. His at all times must be
characterized with propriety and must be above suspicion.39 His must be free of even a whiff of
impropriety, not only with respect to the performance of his judicial duties, but also his behavior
outside the courtroom and as a private individual.
Respondent is dismissed from the Judicial service and barred from holding public office.
119 Martinez v. Gironella, G.R. No. L-37635, July 22,1975
FACTS:
Martinez, Duclan and Bayongan were charged with Murder. Martinez and Duclan were still at
large when Bayongan was acquitted by the respondent Judge. Martinez surrendered to the Philippine
Constabulary and pleaded and was later arraigned to the same court who handled the case of Bayongan
Counsel for accused Cresencio Martinez moved that the trial Judge inhibit himself from hearing
the case on its merits on the grounds "(1) that the respondent had the chance to pass upon the issue and
has formed an opinion as to who committed the crime of murder; (2) that it would not be fair that he
would sit, hear and pass judgment; and (3) that the respondent is no longer impartial."
HELD/DOCTRINE: (Independence)
A Judge has the duty not only to render a just and impartial decision, but also render it in such a
manner as to be free from any suspicion as to its fairness and impartiality, and also as to the judge's
integrity. While we grant respondent's capacity to render a just and impartial decision, his statement in the
decision acquitting Arnold Bayongan to the effect that the "crime was committed by Cresencio Martinez"
renders it impossible for respondent to be free from the suspicion that in deciding petitioner's case,
respondent will be biased and prejudiced. We therefore hold that under these circumstances petitioner has
the right to have his case decided by another Judge.
Issue: Did respondent violate the New Code of Judicial Conduct for the Philippine Judiciary?
Held:
Yes. Effective and efficient administration of justice demands nothing less than a faithful adherence to the
rules and orders laid down by this Court, and in this regard, respondent judge failed to show such
adherence. Instead, he demonstrated his defiance of the Court's clear order that should have been obeyed
by him without delay.
After a thorough evaluation of the records of this case, we agree with the Office of the Court
Administrator that respondent judge's deliberate refusal to obey our order is a grave misconduct that
merits the supreme penalty of dismissal from the service.
141 Jaime Lim Co vs Judge Ruben Plata
Facts: Complainant Co was the private offended party in criminal case filed against spouses Milagros and
Jose Villaceran, respectively, for violation of Batas Pambansa Blg. 22, otherwise known as the Bouncing
Checks Law. These were filed at the sala of the respondent judge and validly ordered warrant of arrest
against the Villacerans. Before the warrant of arrest could be served upon them, the accused Villacerans
voluntarily appeared before the respondent Judge and separately filed Applications for Bail. Respondent
Judge granted bail to the accused Villacerans in the reduced amount of P50,000 each. By virtue of the
property bonds posted by the accused Villacerans, respondent Judge recalled the Warrant of Arrest issued
against them. Complainant Co charged respondent Judge with gross partiality by pointing out the
following irregularities in the Applications for Bail filed by the accused Villacerans, and the grant thereof
by the respondent Judge, which allegedly demonstrated respondent Judge‘s gross partiality for the said
accused.
Issue: Is the Judge guilty of impartiality and violation of Judicial ethics?
Held: Yes, The respondent Judge is guilty of violating Canon 2 of the Code of Judicial Ethics for his
failure to avoid the appearance of impropriety. Given that the documents herein had been prepared by his
staff, respondent Judge had the responsibility of reviewing the said documents when submitted to him,
before affixing his signature thereon. Respondent Judge‘s signature carried a lot of weight and could turn
an ordinary piece of paper into an official act of the court, thus, he should have checked, and if necessary,
double-checked, whether the forms were properly filled-out and the information therein were correct, in
order to avoid similar controversies in the future.
142. Martinez v. Pahimulin
Adm. Matter No. 78-MJ, August 30, 1982
Facts: Atty. Buenaventura B. Martinez was cross-examining Pilar Harada, a witness for the defendant,
when opposing counsel objected in such a way that he was suggesting to the witness the answer to the
question. Complainant asked respondent Judge to stop him from coaching the witness and to limit his
objection on legal grounds. Judge Pahimulin told complainant that opposing counsel was 'still talking.'
Atty. Martinez insisted that respondent stop opposing counsel from talking because he was putting into
the mouth of the witness the answer to his question. This remark of complainant angered the judge who,
in a loud voice told him: "You are a disrespectful lawyer." Complainant remarked: 'Then, Your Honor, I
have to quit as a lawyer.' At this juncture, respondent banged his gavel telling complainant: 'You are a
disrespectful lawyer. You talk too much. Complainant was about to make an explanation but respondent
told him: 'Get out. I do not want to hear you. You have already quitted‘. Petitioner filed complaint
charging him of oppression, inefficiency, discourtesy, dishonesty, intolerance, misconduct and slander.
Issue: Did the respondent judge act with propriety in dealing with the Atty. Martinez?
Held: No. Both the complainant and the respondent were remiss in the observance of their duties in
maintaining the high esteem and regard for the court. As counsel for the plaintiff, complainant was bound
to defend and protect the interest of his client but when respondent judge tried to explain something in
connection with his objection and cautioned him from continuing with his objection as the opposing
counsel was still talking, complainant should have heeded such admonition. For if everybody would be
talking at the same time there will be chaos in the courtroom" and that "on the other hand, the respondent
should not have lost his temper when he was continuedly interrupted by the complainant. Instead of
shouting at the complainant, he should have maintained his composure. While the respect and dignity of
the court had to be upheld, respondent should not have acted with anger and shouted at the lawyer who
must have suffered embarrassment in front of many people. He should have acted with utmost sobriety
and for this he should be censured. "
Principle: Canon 4, section 2 As a subject of constant public scrutiny, judges must accept personal
restrictions that might be viewed as burdensome by the ordinary citizen and should do so freely and
willingly. In particular, judges shall conduct themselves in a way that is consistent with the dignity of the
judicial office.
143. Luzuriaga v. Bromo
Adm. Matter No. 2385-MJ, August 19, 1982
Facts: Jonathan A. Luzuriaga charged Judge Jesus B. Bromo of the with electioneering. He alleged that
respondent Judge, without being appointed as watcher, unduly intervened the proceedings of the Citizens
Election Committee by getting inside the polling center and asked the Chairman of the Citizens Election
Committee to stop the casting of votes, despite the authority given by the Election Registrar. He also
alleges that respondent openly campaigned for all the candidates of the opposition party, and he was the
brain of the election tactics and strategies of the opposition. Lastly, he alleges that respondent personally
intervened in favor of the opposition during the canvassing of votes held at the Tayasan Municipal Hall.
Respondent Judge denied that he interrupted the proceedings, explaining that he merely accompanied his
wife to visit the various voting centers on Election Day as it was already 7:00 P.M.. They noticed that in
Voting Center No. 33 people were crowding and no voting was going on, and the Chairman seemed
confused on what to do, so he asked permission from the Chairman that he be allowed to say something
and suggest a solution to the problem. Commenting on his alleged open campaign for the opposition
candidates, respondent Judge contended that during the campaign period, he was busy with his duties as
Municipal Judge disposing 28 cases during the month of January; that he cannot afford to lose his 18
years of service in the government after having survived the circuitization of the municipal courts through
hard work and efficiency. On the charge of intervention in the canvassing of votes by the Municipal
Board of Canvassers, respondent Judge averred that although he knew beforehand that his wife had
already won as vice-mayor, yet he called the attention of the Board of Canvassers, for the sake of clarity,
to the error it committed in Voting Center No. 10 wherein his wife was credited with only 86 votes
instead of 106 which was listed in the election returns, and that upon noticing their mistake, the Board of
Canvassers corrected their tallies and thanked him for correcting them.
Issue: Is Judge Bromo violated any of the provisions of the Election Code of 1978 relative to the instant
charge of electioneering?
Held: No. The Judge is the visible representation of the law and, above all, a living symbol of justice in
the community in which he serves or resides. In his zeal to uphold the law, a judge should not lose sight
of one basic judicial norm that his official conduct should be free from appearance of impropriety and
more importantly, his personal behavior, not only in the Bench and in the performance of his official
duties but also in his everyday life, should be beyond reproach. The judicial office demands that the
incumbent should conduct himself in such a manner as to merit the respect, reverence and confidence of
the people. As a judicial officer respondent then should have been studiously careful in avoiding the
commission of any transgression on the law, lest his example demoralize the people of the community.
While it is true that respondent Judge is the husband of the vice-mayoral candidate in the January 30,
1980 elections in Tayasan, Negros Oriental, and understandably, it was his duty to protect his wife, still,
he should have been more discreet and judicious in doing An act that would give the impression of
tainting his official conduct and judicial stature with some political hues and overtones, even if he must
take no little pain in seeing to it that his official, as well as private conduct, carries not the least vestige of
impropriety, to preserve the respect and reverence of the people to his office as well as to his person.
Principle: Canon 4, Sec. 6. Judges, like any other citizen, are entitled to freedom of expression, belief,
association and assembly, but in exercising such rights, they shall always conduct themselves in such a
manner as to preserve the dignity of the judicial office and the impartiality and independence of the
judiciary.
144
Barrera vs Barrera
G.R. No. L-31589. July 31, 1970
Facts:
Respondent Judge Alfredo Catolico of the CFI of Cavite was cited for contempt and asked why no
disciplinary action should be taken against him. The Counsel for the plaintiff in Barrera v. Barrera
requested that the CFI of Cavite presided over by the Hon. Judge Alfredo Catolico be authorized to
continue with the hearing of the above-entitled case pursuant to Section 3, Rule 22 of the Rules of Court.
They contended that the said case was a pending trial that needed to be decided on. The plaintiff is said to
have one more witness to present before and thereafter she will be willing to rest her case. However, on
this date, this case was not again heard because the new Presiding Judge did not arrive due to bad weather.
As a result, the case exceeded the 3-month expiry period. As a result, the presiding judge held that he may
no longer continue with the trial of the case and thus he dismissed the case. The court ordered the
respondent judge to continue with the trial of the case but the said judge refused to do so. Aside from this,
he further demonstrated his defiance to the orders of the Supreme Court by directing negative comments
towards the said court.
Issue:
Should Judge Alfredo Catolico be cited for contempt?
Held:
Yes. The said judge—despite the fact that he was given the opportunity to defend his name—remained
adamant and obdurate. His explanation was filed on November 24 and it was apparent that further
reflection did not occasion a change of heart. Respondent Judge Alfredo Catalico was therefore
reprimanded by the Supreme Court.
145
Mamba vs Garcia
A.M. No. MTJ-96-1110. June 15, 2001
Facts:
This case is about a petition that was filed by the concerned citizens of Tuao, Cagayan denouncing certain
acts of Judge Dominador Garcia of the MTC of Tuao, Cagayan when he handled the case of People vs
Renato Bulatao. The said complaint was treated as an administrative complaint and was refered to
Executive Judge Orlando Beltran for investigation. On August 23, 1996 a case concerning the illegal
possession of firearms was filed against Renato Bulatao before the sala of the respondent judge. The
respondent judge was not present on the first day of the hearing; thus, it was postponed. Butalao then
confided to the NBI agents that the respondent judge offered to dismiss the case against him in exchange
for a certain amount of money. The NBI then conducted an entrapment operation against the respondent
judge; which resulted to the respondent‘s arrest. After the investigation, Executive Judge Beltran then
scheduled hearings for the reception of evidence for the respondent. The respondent judge did not appear
despite due notice; thus, he was deemed to have waived his right to present evidence to show his
innocence. Only his counter-affidavit was considered.
Issue:
Should Judge Dominador Garcia be held liable for his acts?
Held:
Yes. The acts of the respondent Judge were improper; he violated the duty of every Judge to uphold the
integrity of the judiciary and to avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety in all activities. A
judge's official conduct should be free from the appearance of impropriety, and his personal behavior,
not only upon the bench and in the performance of official duties but also in his everyday life, should be
beyond reproach.They must conduct themselves in such a manner that they give no ground for reproach.
The Court, therefore, held that respondent Judge Dominador Garcia is guilty of serious misconduct. He
was then dismissed from service and his leave credits and retirement benefits were forfeited.
FACTS:
In these two (2) administrative complaints, respondent Judge Ausberto B. Jaramillo, Jr., of the Regional
Trial Court, Br. 30, San Pablo City, is charged with various corrupt practices detrimental to the
administration of justice.
In the first case complainants allege that Judge Jaramillo in the guise of forging peace between the
litigants was actually demanding money from one of the parties in exchange for a favourable
decision. The Court found him guilty of this charge and was metted out with a 1 month suspension.
The second case was for bribery in which Judge Jaramillo demanded luxury car, money and valuables
from the estate of complainant‘s late grandfather. In his defense Judge Jaramillo stated that he did not
demand for any valuables or money and that the car was not in his possession but in the Court stemming
from a lawful order he issued. He further averred that the times that he used the car was only for
maintenance purposes. Judge Jaramillo was held only administrably liable for these charges.
ISSUE:
Violation of Canon 1 and 2 of the Code of Judicial Conduct
HELD:
While respondent judge may not necessarily be held administratively liable for issuing the orders
complained of, he certainly is accountable for violating Canons 1 and 2 of the Code of Judicial Conduct
and of committing a corrupt practice under Sec. 7, par. (d), of R.A. No. 6713.
The role of the judiciary in bringing justice to conflicting interests in society cannot be overemphasized.
As the visible representation of law and justice, judges are expected to conduct themselves in a manner
that would enhance the respect and confidence of our people in the judicial system. They are particularly
mandated not only to uphold the integrity and independence of the judiciary but also to avoid impropriety
and the appearance of impropriety in their actions. For judges sit as the embodiment of the people's sense
of justice, their last recourse where all other institutions have failed. Sadly, respondent judge carelessly
disregarded these stringent judicial norms. Worse, his acceptance of the Galant Super Saloon for his
personal use and convenience as well as his evident personal interest in it have defiled the "public trust"
character of the judicial office. These serious transgressions cannot be countenanced. By his actions,
respondent has clearly demonstrated his difficulty and inability to keep up with the conduct required of
judges. Consequently, he should not be permitted to stay a minute longer in office. We have repeatedly
held that there is no place in the judiciary for those who cannot meet the exacting standards of judicial
conduct and integrity.
WHEREFORE, for his gross misconduct and violation of Canon 1 of the Code of Judicial Conduct in
A.M. No. RTJ-93-944, and his violation of Sec. 7, par. (d), of R.A. 6713, and Canons 1 and 2 of the Code
of Judicial Conduct in A.M. No. RTJ-93-959, respondent JUDGE AUSBERTO JARAMILLO, JR.,
Regional Trial Court, Branch 30, San Pablo City, is DISMISSED from the service with prejudice to
reinstatement or appointment to any public office, including government-owned or controlled
corporations, with forfeiture of all retirement benefits and privileges, if any. This dismissal shall be
immediately executory.
150
Aquino vs. Valenciano
FACTS:
The doctrine is undisputed that no court has the power to interfere by injunction with the judgments or
orders of another court of concurrent jurisdiction having the power to grant the relief sought by injunction.
1 But this has not dissuaded respondent Judge Julito B. Valenciano from issuing the controversial
restraining order of 21 October 1992 for which he is now administratively charged.
The complainant filed a case of robbery against certain Romeo Matias and several John Does. The Court
granted a search and seizure order for the fish cages that were subject of the complaint. while the law
enforcement officers were about to finish implementing the order, respondent Judge Julito B. Valenciano
of the Municipal Circuit Trial Court of Polangui-Libon, Albay, granted an urgentex-parte petition for the
issuance of a restraining order and/or writ of preliminary injunction filed by Romeo Matias as an incident
to a complaint for grave coercion against herein complainant Renato V. Aquino and others directing the
accused "to desist from uprooting and gathering the fish cages belonging to Romeo Matias.
On the basis of the foregoing circumstances, complainants now charge respondent Judge with gross
ignorance of the law, abuse of authority, bias and malicious attempt to hinder, delay and frustrate the
administration of justice.
Respondent in his answer alleged that he was not aware that an order of search and seizure was issued by
another court that first gained cognizance of the complaint.
ISSUE:
No court has the power to interfere by injunction with the judgments or orders of another court of
concurrent jurisdiction having the power to grant the relief sought by injunction.
HELD:
Respondent Judge cannot invoke lack of knowledge of the existence of the search and seizure order
simply because of the alleged absence of concrete evidence to that effect by complainants at the time he
issued the restraining order. The fallacy of this argument is readily discernible as the complainants were
not given any change to establish that concrete evidence prior to the issuance of the restraining order.
Moreover, it was explicitly stated in the restraining order that the fishing cages allegedly owned by
Matias were being uprooted and taken away by Aquino and his group by virtue of an alleged search and
seizure order issued by the Municipal Judge of Buhi, Camarines Sur. This information was conveyed to
respondent Judge through the testimonies of Matias himself and his witnesses.
WHEREFORE, for issuing in grave abuse of discretion the subject temporary restraining order that would
interfere with or frustrate the implementation of an order of another court of co-equal jurisdiction,
respondent Judge Julito B. Valenciano should be as he is hereby FINED P15,000.00 with WARNING
that a commission of the same or similar act in the future will be dealt with more severely.
151
PARAYNO vs. MENESES
FACTS:
Petitioner Rodolfo Parayno is the incumbent municipal mayor of Urdaneta, Pangasinan. The other
petitioners, namely, Clemartin Arboleda, Eduardo Perez, Casimiro Carancho, Diosdado Samson, Maximo
Sumera and Marcelino Dela Cruz, are members of the Sangguniang Bayan of the municipality who, along
with Parayno, are the protestees in separate election protests now still pending with the court a quo.
This petition for certiorari seeks to set aside the orders of respondent Judge Iluminado Meneses of Branch
49, Regional Trial Court, of Urdaneta, Pangasinan, voluntarily inhibiting himself from hearing the
election cases and denying petitioners' motion for the reconsideration thereof. The Executive Judge
allowed for the inhibition and re-assigned and re-raffled the case.
Claiming impropriety in the assignment of the case, petitioner Parayno assailed before this Court the
order of the Executive Judge. The Court issued a temporary restraining order and promptly remanded the
case to the Court of Appeals for proper disposition.
ISSUE:
Is the inhibition proper/allowable?
HELD:
Petition granted.
Section 1, Rule 137, of the Rules of Court reads:
Sec. 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, or 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.
The underlying reason for the above rule is obviously to ensure that a judge, sitting in a case, will at all
times be free from inclinations or prejudices and be well capable to render a just and independent
judgment. A litigant, we often hear, is entitled to nothing less than the cold neutrality of a judge. Due
process requires it. Indeed, he not only must be able to so act without bias but should even appear to so
be. Impartiality is a state of mind; hence, the need for some kind of manifestation of its reality.
Verily, a judge may, in the exercise of his sound discretion, inhibit himself voluntarily from sitting in a
case, but it should be based on good, sound or ethical grounds or for just and valid reasons. It is not
enough that a party throws some tenuous allegations of partiality at the judge. No less than imperative is
that it is the judge's sacred duty to administer justice without fear or favor.
152
HURTADO vs. JUDALENA
FACTS:
This is a petition for certiorari with a prayer for a writ of preliminary injunction, to annul the order of
April 2, 1975, issued by the respondent Judge Arsenio M. Gonong in Civil Case No. 485-IV of the Court
of First Instance of Ilocos Norte, upon the ground that the said order was issued in violation of Section 1,
Rule 137 of the Revised Rules of Court, the respondent judge being the brother of the private respondent
Isabel G. Judalena.
Palmarin Q. Hurtado filed a motion for the dissolution of the writ of preliminary injunction in order to
preserve the status quo until the designation of another judge to try the case, with a prayer that the
respondent judge hear the motion to give him an opportunity to rectify the mistake error he had
committed in taking cognizance of the case and in granting, ex-parte, the issuance of the writ of
preliminary injunction
ISSUE:
Inhibition of Judges from taking cognizance of cases wherein close relatives are involved.
HELD:
Section 1, Rule 137 of the Revised Rules of Court enumerates without ambiguity the cases in which any
judge or judicial officer is disqualified from acting as such. The said section, in no uncertain terms,
expressly prohibits a judge or judicial officer from sitting in a case where he is related to either party
within the sixth degree of consanguinity or affinity. This is mandatory.
In the case at bar, it is not denied that the respondent judge is the brother of the respondent Isabel G.
Judalena and their close relationship notwithstanding, and despite the prohibition mentioned above, the
respondent judge took cognizance of the case and issued the controversial order directing the issuance of
a writ of preliminary injunction, after which he inhibited himself from sitting on the case for the same
reasons. Such action, to our mind, is reprehensible as it erodes the all important confidence in the
impartiality of the judiciary.
WHEREFORE, the writ prayed for is hereby granted and the order of April 2. 1975, issued in Civil Case
No. 485-IV of the Court of First Instance of Ilocos Norte, is hereby annulled and set aside. The temporary
restraining order heretofore issued is hereby made permanent. With costs against the respondents.
153
ROAN I. LIBARIOS VS JUDGE ROSARITO F. DABALOS
Topic: CANON 1 SECTION 4
FACTS:
An administrative complaint was filed by Roan I. Libarios for and on behalf of his client Mariano Corvera,
Jr. against respondent Judge Rosarito F. Dabalos, for grave ignorance of the law, grave abuse of
discretion, gross misconduct and partiality, relative to the issuance of a warrant of arrest of the respondent
judge against the accused Tranquilino Calo Jr.and Belarmino Alloco for the crime of murder fixing their
bail without any prior hearing.
ISSUE:
W/N Judge Rosarito F. Dabalos violated the New Code of Judicial Conduct.
RULING:
Yes. A judge should endeavor diligently to ascertain the facts and the applicable law unswayed by
partisan or personal interests, public opinion or fear of criticism. He should not have allowed himself to
be swayed into issuing an order fixing bail for the temporary release of the accused charged with
murder, without a hearing, which is contrary to established principles of law. It has been an established
legal principle or rule that in cases where a person is accused of a capital offense, the trial court must
conduct a hearing in a summary proceeding, to allow the prosecution an opportunity to present, within
a reasonable time, all evidence it may desire to produce to prove that the evidence of guilt against the
accused is strong, before resolving the issue of bail for the temporary release of the accused. A judge
should not only render a just, correct and impartial decision but should do so in a manner as to be free
from any suspicion as to his fairness, impartiality and integrity. The respondent judge is imposed of a
FINE of TWENTY THOUSAND PESOS (P20,000.00) and WARNED to exercise more care and diligence in
the performance of his duties as a judge, and that the same or similar offense in the future will be dealt
with more severally
154
Albos vs Alaba
Facts:On 27 August 1990, Nimfa Albos filed with the Municipal Trial Court ("MTC") of
Tanauan, Leyte, a complaint for grave oral defamation against one Rebecca
Songalia. Sometime in October, 1990, the complainant, accompanied by her
mother, went to the MTC to verify the status of the case. The two were told by the
Clerk of Court that the complaint was "not yet signed" by the respondent judge.
Forthwith, they went to see the respondent judge himself to inquire about it. The
latter reportedly reacted by throwing the complaint on top of his table and by
exclaiming," (h)ere they are; I am returning them to you anyway, they are useless.
You will lose in your case." chanrobles virtual lawlibrary
The complainant hired a lawyer. The latter filed the complaint against Songalia with,
instead, the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor of Leyte.
On 14 January 1991, the complainant, through counsel, filed a motion asking
respondent Judge Alaba to inhibit himself from trying the case. The
respondent refused to act on the motion and even allegedly challenged the
complainant’s counsel to a fight. The judge subsequently dismissed the case.
Issue: Is respondent judge guilty of misconduct?
Held: Yes. A judge is bound never to consider lightly a motion for his inhibition that
questions or puts to doubt, however insignificant, his supposed predilection to a
case pending before him. While he must exercise great prudence and utmost
caution in considering and evaluating a challenge to his impartiality, he is expected,
nevertheless, to act with good dispatch. Any delay, let alone an inaction, on his part
can only fuel, whether justified or not, an intensified distrust on his capability to
render dispassionate judgment on the case.chanrobles law library : red
Judges are, and they should be, encouraged to engage in any lawful enterprise that
may help bring about an improved administration of justice. But, be that as it may,
judges must not allow themselves to be thereby distracted from the performance of
their judicial tasks which must remain at all times to be their foremost and
overriding concern.
155
Lapena vs Marcos
Facts: The complaint alleged that respondents, during their incumbency as members of the Board of
Directors of TARELCO, holding offices of trust, committed acts of dishonesty, breach of trust and gross
misconduct by transacting and attending business board meetings during office hours, receiving
compensation for such attendance, and making it appear that they reported for duty in their respective
offices and for which they also received their salaries. The complaint further alleged that respondents
conspired among themselves as members of the Board and diverted and converted funds of the
cooperative by using the same for payment of their personal accident policies, to the damage and
prejudice of TARELCO and its members. Complainant also alleged that when respondent Marcos ratified
applications for membership of applicants with TARELCO, which act was authorized and tolerated by his
co-respondent as member of the Board, he received the sum of P4,236.00 on March 12, 1977 and P1,500
on March 16, 1977 as ex-oficio notary public in his capacity as a judge, knowing it to be a violation of the
law and the by-laws of the said cooperative. Complainant also averred that respondent likewise defrauded
the TARELCO and its members by various acts which he will prove when this administrative case is
given due course.
Respondent Judge has admitted that he received the sums of P4,236.00 and P1,500.00 on March 12,
1977 and March 16, 1977, respectively, as notarial fees for having ratified applications for membership
with TARELCO in his capacity as notary public ex oficio.
Issue: Is respondent judge guilty?
Held: Yes. The Notarial Law as contained in the Revised Administrative Code, Sections 231 to 252 and
Sections 2632-2633 and the Rules of Court, Rule 141, Sections 6(h) and 9, require that "(o)fficers acting
as notaries public ex oficio shall charge for their services the fees prescribed by law and account therefor
as for Government funds."
Accordingly, respondent Municipal Judge Martonino Marcos is duty-bound to account and turn-over to
the Government the sums of P4,236.00 and P1,500.00 admittedly collected by him as notarial fees on
March 12, 1977 and March 16, 1977, respectively.
156
Barbarona vs Canda
Facts: Complainants Regino and Conceso Barbarona are brothers. Conceso and complainants‘ father,
Hermogenes Barbarona, were the defendants in a case for quieting of title and damages, docketed as Civil
Case No. 356, in respondent judge‘s court. Gerardo Magallanes, the plaintiff in that case, alleged that he
was the true and lawful owner and possessor of two parcels of land. However, Magallanes alleged he and
his workers were prevented from cutting the bamboo thickets on the parcels of land by complainant
Conceso Barbarona and Hermogenes Barbarona who claimed ownership of the bamboos thickets.
Magallanes therefor prayed that respondent judge declare his titles to the properties clear from any cloud
of doubt and order the Barbaronas to respect his ownership and possession and to pay damages.
The Barbaronas moved for the dismissal of the case on the ground of lack of jurisdiction of the
court. They alleged that they were tenants and that the case involved a landlord-tenant relationship. In
addition, they contended that the case involved a cause of action which was incapable of pecuniary
estimation.
However, in his order, dated May 16, 1995, respondent judge denied the Barbaronas‘ motion and declared
them in default. The order was based on the fact that the motion to dismiss lacked proof of service and
was thus considered a mere scrap of paper which did not toll the running of the reglementary period to
file an answer.
Issue: Is respondent judge guilty?
Held: We find that respondent judge failed to comply with the requisites under Circular No. 1-90. In his
comment, dated March 2, 1999, respondent judge sought to justify his act by claiming that it was ―an
isolated [instance]‖ because there was no available notary public at the time in July 9, 1993. However,
even if in truth there was no notary public on July 9, 1993 in the municipality of Liloy, where the Deed of
Absolute Sale was prepared, respondent judge failed to certify this fact in the document itself. Moreover,
respondent judge failed to remit the P18.50 fees he received to the municipal treasurer as required by
Circular No. 1-90. Instead, he remitted the money to the Judiciary Development Fund
157
Seares vs Salazar
Facts: Dr. Seares is the private complainant in Criminal Cases Nos. 5760 to 5763, for Violation of B.P.
22. Complainant alleges that these cases were submitted for decision on February 14, 1996. Since then
no decision has yet been rendered. Furthermore, respondent disregarded the directive of Senior Deputy
Court Administrator Reynaldo L. Suarez in a note dated august 8, 1996 that the criminal cases be decided
soonest considering the lapse of the 90-day period within which to resolve the same
Another sworn letter complaint dated January 20, 1997 was filed by complainant questioning the
propriety of the action taken by respondent when she set the hearing of the aforecited cases in December
30, 1996 and ordered the accused to present evidence despite the fact that this had long been submitted
for decision. Complainant submits that when respondent ordered the resetting for further hearing of said
cases, she displayed a blatant disregard of the law and the order of higher judicial authority
Issue: Is respondent judge guilty of ignorance of law?
Held: Under Rule 3.01 of Canon 3 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, a judge must be faithful to the law
and maintain professional competence, and Rule 3.05 admonishes all judges to dispose of the court‘s
business promptly and to decide the case within the period fixed by law. The 90-day period to decide or
resolve the case submitted for decision, fixed no less by the Constitution, is a mandatory
requirement. Hence, non-compliance thereof shall subject the erring judge to administrative sanction as
this Court may deem appropriate. It is only in certain meritorious cases, i.e., those involving difficult
questions of law or complex issue[2] or when the judge is burdened by heavy caseloads,[3] that a longer
period to decide may be allowed but only upon proper application made with the Supreme Court by the
concerned judge.
158
Hold Departure Order issued by Judge Madronio
Facts: This refers to the indorsement, dated January 15, 1999, of the Secretary of Justice concerning a
"hold-departure" order issued on December 22, 1998 by Acting Judge Aniceto L. Madronio, Jr.,
Municipal Trial Court, Manaoag, Pangasinan, in Criminal Case No. 5275, entitled "People of the
Philippines v. Christopher Castrence," which is for forcible abduction with rape and homicide. The
Secretary of Justice calls attention to the fact that the order in question is contrary to Circular No. 39-97,
dated June 19, 1997, of this Court.
Issue: Is respondent judge guilty?
Held: Yes. In his comment, Judge Madronio admits his mistake, stating that he signed the hold departure
order through oversight and pleading for leniency in view of his cardiac illness which required surgery
and his assignment to three salas in addition to the Municipal Trial Court in Manaoag.
[1]
In several recent cases involving similar violations, this Court imposed the penalty of reprimand on the
offending judges. Indeed, this is not the first time that a complaint for violation of Circular No. 39-97 has
been filed against Judge Madronio. In our Resolution, dated August 17, 1999 in Administrative Matter
No. 99-7-105-MTC, Judge Madronio was found guilty of a similar violation of Circular No. 39-97 and
reprimanded with warning that a repetition of the same or similar act would be dealt with more severely.
His illness, additional assignments, and the fact that he issued the second hold departure order in violation
of Circular No. 39-97 prior to the release of our Resolution cannot excuse him. However, considering that
the act complained of in this case was committed on December 22, 1998, before the decision in his
previous case, the Court agrees with the recommendation of the Court Administrator that as in the
previous case, Judge Madronio be simply reprimanded.
159
Loyola vs Gabo
Facts: respondent Judge Basilio R. Gabo, Jr. stands charged with a violation of Section 3 (e), R.A.
3019, for issuing an unjust interlocutory order, and with gross ignorance of the law. According to
the complainant the respondent judge directed that accused SPO2 German be held in the custody
of his immediate superior, the Chief of Police of Sta. Maria, Bulacan, an order sans any legal and
factual basis, instead of ordering the arrest of the said accused being indicted for murder, a
heinous and non-bailable crime. Thereafter, respondent judge denied the motion for
reconsideration interposed by the Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for the Military.
Issue: Is respondent judge guilty of gross ignorance of law?
Held: Yes. The prosecution must first be accorded an opportunity to present evidence because by
the very nature of deciding applications for bail, it is on the basis of such evidence that judicial
discretion is exercised in determining whether the evidence of guilt of the accused is strong. In
other words, discretion must be exercised regularly, legally and within the confines of procedural
due process, that is, after evaluation of the evidence submitted by the prosecution. Any order
issued in the absence thereof is not a product of sound judicial discretion but of whim and
[10]
caprice and outright arbitrariness. Granting bail in non-bailable offenses without hearing is
gross ignorance of the law.[11] Misspped
That the prosecutor interposed no objection to the release of the accused to the custody of the
petitioner Chief of Police, on the ground that from the records of the case, accused's "indictment
was based on circumstantial evidence," did not and should not excuse respondent judge from his
judicial duty to conduct a summary proceeding to determine the strength of evidence against the
accused, as to entitle him to post bail. What is more, as the Information itself categorically states
that no bail is recommended for accused,[12] the respondent judge should have been alerted to
conduct a summary hearing. Spped
Thus, the doctrine of res ipsa loquitor, i.e., that the Court may impose its authority upon erring
judges whose actuations, on their face, would show gross incompetence, ignorance of the law, or
misconduct, is obviously applicable in the instant case.[13]
160
Lim vs Dumlao
Facts: Complainant averred that she filed two criminal cases for carnapping and theft with the Regional
Trial Court of Santiago City, Isabela, Branch 35, against a certain Herman A. Medina. On May 8, 2003,
Medina was apprehended and detained at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Santiago City
Jail, by virtue of a Warrant of Arrest issued by then Presiding Judge Fe Albano Madrid of Branch 35.
On May 9, 2003, respondent judge issued three separate orders for the release of Medina on the ground
that he had posted bail with his court. Complainant alleged that respondent judge frequently approves
bail bonds for cases filed in other courts and outside the territorial jurisdiction of his court. He also issues
search warrants for implementation outside of his court‘s jurisdiction which, resultantly, are often
quashed and the corresponding cases dismissed because the articles seized were inadmissible as evidence.
Issue: Is respondent judge guily of gross ignorance of law?
Held: In this case, respondent judge appears undeterred in disregarding the law. He has
continued to exhibit such behavior that betray an unconcerned stance about the previous
penalties he has received and the warnings previously given that any repetition of similar
infractions shall be dealt with more severely. Thus, we are imposing a penalty more severe
than a fine. Given the circumstances, suspension from office for six (6) months without salary
and benefits is reasonable.
161
Bentulan vs Dumatol
Facts: On 1 August 1991, Atty. Cynthia Madamba, Clerk of Court of the respondent‘s court, informed the
complainant that he had already finished writing the decision but that it was with the respondent for
approval and signing.
Complainant further avers that in August 1991, he again inquired about the decision and the respondent
personally informed him that he would resolve the case the following month since he would have to give
priority first to cases involving prisoners. On account of the actuations of the respondent, the complainant
sought assistance from the Office of the Court Administrator. On 28 October 1991, Atty. Andrew
Inocencio of the said Office told the complainant that the respondent would inform the Office about the
case on the last day of October. But since by November the said Office had not received any call from the
respondent, the complainant went to the sala of the respondent on 25 November 1991. He was assured by
Atty. Madamba that the decision would be released on 15 December 1991. On 16 December 1991, the
respondent again assured the complainant that the decision would be released before the end of the year.
The respondent explained that since he heard only the last part of the case, he still needed time to study
the case records. On 27 December 1991, the respondent again assured him that the decision would be
released after New Year.
Issue: Is respondent judge guilty for neglect of duty?
Held: Yes. In the present case, respondent Judge simply lacks the eagerness and zeal
to decide the subject case. The case was submitted for decision on September 1989
and the draft of the decision was prepared only in November 1991. Worst, the draft
was among those gutted by the fire which occurred in January 1992.
Had the respondent Judge been more dedicated in his work, the case would have
been resolved way before the fire. There would have been no need for
reconstitution. Had the respondent Judge been more mindful that ‘justice delayed is
justice denied,’ the case would not have dragged up to this date."crala w vi rtua 1aw lib rary