DANTES vs.

DANTES, AC No 6486, September 22, 2004

FACTS:

A complaint for disbarment was filed by Emma Dantes (complainant) against her husband Atty.
Crispin Dantes on the ground of immorality, abandonment, and violation of professional ethics and law.
She alleged that respondent is a philanderer, had illicit relationship with two women, one of which he
has illegitimate children. From this point in time, respondent failed to give regular support. Complainant
further pointed out that these acts of respondent constitute a violation of his lawyer’s oath and his
moral and legal obligation to be a role model to the community. Complainant and respondent were
married on January 19, 1979 and have 3 children.

ISSUE:

Whether or not respondent is liable for violation of the Code of Professional Responsibility.

HELD:

Yes, the respondent violated Rule 1.01 of Canon 1 and Rule 7.03 of Canon 7 of the Code of
Professional Responsibility. In this case, the respondent’s acts of engaging in illicit relationship with two
other women during the subsistence of marriage constitutes grossly immoral conduct warranting the
imposition of appropriate sanctions. Respondent had breached the high and exacting moral standards
set for members of the law profession. He has made a mockery of marriage which is a sacred institution
demanding respect and dignity. Hence, the respondent is disbarred.