Drug Buy-Bust Operations – Are They Valid?

In the prosecution of drug cases, the burden of proof or, in legal parlance, onus probandi lies with the arresting officers to show that there is no irregularity in the conduct of a buy-bust operation, implementation of a search warrant, in flagrante arrest or any other arrest or seizure against a person arrested for violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act.

Inheritance Without a Will: The Legal Landscape of Intestacy

Dealing with inheritance after the death of a loved one who left no last will and testament (“Will”) generates undue tension among remaining heirs as regards their successional right over the estate of a deceased. When the interests of the heirs are not perfectly aligned with each other, issues on inheritance may arise which in turn may create misunderstanding and promote discord among relatives. To this end, having a basic understanding of the intestate laws may help alleviate such concerns.

De-Coding Software Copyright: A Guide to Protecting Your Computer Program

In general, the author of the literary and artistic work is the owner of the copyright. Thus, in case of computer programs, the person who wrote the lines of code generally owns the copyright.

Simplified Guidelines for the Transfer of Land & Condominium Title

Land or property disputes are unfortunately widespread not only in the Philippines but in other countries as well. These disputes typically stem from informal transfer of land or property, lack of proof of ownership, or fraudulent transactions.

Deciphering The Philippine Trademark Law

In the Philippines, these distinctive logos, brands, and names are trademarks which are protected by Republic Act No. 8293 or the “Intellectual Property Code”. As a general rule, trademark rights are conferred upon its registration with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPO) through the Bureau of Trademarks. Once registered, the owner of the trademark has the exclusive right to use such trademark and, consequently, sue any other person who infringes or makes use of such trademark without authority.

Understanding Child Custody: The Path to Protecting Children

Child custody battles are undoubtedly one of the most drama-filled legal proceedings that involve the welfare of a minor child. In this legal tug-of-war, the child is often exposed to a hostile and toxic environment where each parent tries to outdo the other in proving their unsuitability for custody.

Foreign Equity Capital Guidelines: Minimum Paid-Up Capital for Domestic Corporation with Foreign Ownership

If a foreign corporation is interested in extending its business in the Philippines, there are different modes available which includes incorporating a subsidiary or an affiliate in the Philippines which, depending on the degree of foreign ownership, would require the following capitalization:

The Not So Small Benefits of Filing a Small Claims Case

Having troubles collecting rent, reimbursements, liquidated damages arising from a contract, or payment of debt or loan? Were you not paid for a service performed or a thing sold? Or are you simply having trouble in the enforcement of a money claim pursuant to a barangay amicable settlement?

Annulment VS. Legal Separation

Know the difference of annulment and legal separation in the Philippines.

A Guide to Philippine Spousal Visas

Ever wondered why Disney fairy tales begin their narration with the phrase “in a far far far away land”? It…