Narag vs.

Narag, 291 SCRA 451

25JUL

FACTS:

Atty. Dominador Narag was alleged to have abandoned his family for his paramour who was once his student in
tertiary level. The administrative complaint of disbarment was filed by her wife, Mrs. Julieta Narag. Respondent
filed motion to dismiss because allegedly the complainant fabricated the story as well as the love letters while
under extreme emotional confusion arising from jealousy. The case took an unexpected turn when another
complaint was filed, the wife as again the complainant but now together with their seven children as co-
signatories. After several hearings, the facts became clear, that the respondent indeed abandoned his family as
against morals, based on testimonial evidences. In addition, the assailed relationship bore two children.

ISSUE:

Whether or not respondent is guilty of gross immorality and for having violated and the Code of Ethics for Lawyers
culpable for disbarment.

HELD:

YES. Respondent disbarred.

RATIO:

The complainant was able to establish, by clear and convincing evidence, that the respondent breached the high
and exacting moral standards set for the members of the law profession.

Good moral character is not only a condition precedent to the practice of law, but a continuing qualification for all
members of the bar.

CANON 7 — A lawyer shall at all times uphold the integrity and dignity of the legal profession, and support the
activities of the Integrated Bar.

Rule 7.03 — A lawyer shall not engage in conduct that adversely reflects on his fitness to practice law, nor should
he, whether in public or private life, behave in a scandalous manner to the discredit of the legal profession.

Undoubtedly, the canons of law practice were violated.