Judge Marinas Civil Procedure Lecture Series
Judge Marinas Civil Procedure Lecture Series
Judge Marinas Civil Procedure Lecture Series
MARINAS
resident of Brgy. ABC, and so is the defendant. Should they refer their
problem to the Lupon? Yes. Supposing plaintiff is a resident of Brgy. ABC
CIVIL ACTION
and respondent is a resident of Aurora Hill, should they bring the case before
the Lupon? Yes. Even if belonging to different Brgys in the same City or
and D is from LTB, must they still refer the case to the Lupon? No more. This
>Parties: Plaintiff (Brings the Action) and Defendant (One whom action is
is an exception.
brought against)
>Whoever is aggrieved must have a Cause of Action (COA)
>Take note that no lawyer must appear as a counsel before the Lupon. What
>COA Elements:
this case has not been referred to the Lupon because plaintiff and defendant
>Eg 1.Plaintiff and defendant enter into a contract of loan. The defendant
executes a promissory note (which states that loan is due on May 1, 2013).
Does the plaintiff have a right? Yes - the right to be paid.The plaintiff parted
with his money and thus has the right to be paid. (Proof is promissory note
thereof. If you are suing the Govt, Municipality, or Brgy, then bring the action
which the defendant executed). The defendant has the obligation to respect
to Court. State in the complaint that, This has not been referred to the
said right. Thus, defendant has the obligation to pay. (Considering that he
Lupon
executed the PN). Upon due date, no payment was made by defendant.
institution/subidivision/instrumentality
because
one
of
the
parties
is
Govt
Come weeks, still, no payments were made. Is there a violation of the right
of the plaintiff? YES, since the plaintiff has the right to be paid.Violation of
plaintiffs right caused damage (plaintiff loses money). Are all the elements
>Eg 2.Loan Due May 1, 2013. Secured January 1, 2013. March 1, 2013,
the plaintiff already made a demand for the payment. Defendant asserts due
date on PN so he does not pay plaintiff. Plaintiff files a case. Is there a COA?
None. Plaintiff has the right to be paid, and defendant has the obligation to
pay, but the latter has not yet violated the Plaintiffs right because said
violation will only come if on the due date there is no payment. Due date is
May 1, 2013, not March 1, 2013. Thus, if there is no violation, then how can
it cause damages? Thus, plaintiffs case can be dismissed for lack of cause
of action. Elements 3 and 4 of COA are not satisfied.
> The moment that a plaintiff has a COA, can he now proceed to court? NOT
YET. WHY? Remember the law on LGC (PD 1508) as to referral to the
Barangay Lupon. Barangay Lupon: Lupon Chairman (BrgyCapt). Mode by
which the Lupon gathers the plaintiff and defendant to forge a
settlement/agreement to prevent clogging of dockets of court. Even criminal
procedures penalty below 1 year and fine of P5000.00. In civil cases - ALL
CASES regardless of what nature will have to be referred to the Brgy. Lupon.
>If no settlement is reached in the Brgy, the Brgy issues a Certificate to file
action. This is to be attached in the complaint (pleading) that is to be filed
before the Court. That this case was referred to the Brgy but no settlement
has been reached, the Cert to file action is hereto attached as Annex XX
This shows compliance to referral to the Lupon.
>What is the effect if there is failure of referral to Lupon and there are no
exceptions to nonreferral? Action is dismissible under Rule 16, Par J
Failure to comply with the condition precedent Referral to the Lupon is a
condition precedent (Grounds for Motion to Dismiss are contained in Rule 16
Pars. A-J). The only ground where nonreferral to the lupon is clearly stated
as a ground is found in the Rules of Summary Procedure (Rule 70 pa, under
Forcible Entry and Unlawful Detainer)
VENUE
1.) BARANGAY:
>If parties reside in different Brgys (Same City/Municipality), then complaint
may be brought before either BrgyLupon (under the law, any of the 2
Lupons).
>For enforcement of settlement, it is much better that said complaint is
brought before a defendants Brgy.Eg. Plaintiff (Brgy.ABC) and Defendant
(Aurora Hill).May 1, 2013, demand letter was ignored. Plaintiff brings case
before Aurora Hill Lupon. Lupon calls for the defendant and a settlement is
reached. Plaintiff allows defendant to pay in installment (1st installment June
10, and every 10th of the month thereafter P20,000.00). Defendant binds
himself to do so. Settlement signed by plaintiff and defendant. (The moment
a settlement is reached in the Brgy, it becomes final and executory from the
execution of the settlement within 10 days. If neither would question or
repudiate the settlement after the end of the 10-day period, the agreed
settlement becomes final and has the binding force and effect of a decision
between the parties. If there is repudiation, then get a Certificate of no
action and file the case in court.
>Whose responsibility is it to enforce the settlement in the Brgy? The
Lupon.The Lupon will find it easier to enforce settlement against their own
constituent and thus avoid inconvenience and delay.
>Another scenario. Eg. Defendant pays for 2 months but then fails to pay
later. The BrgyLupon has 6 months to enforce settlement. 6 months went by
1.) RTCs Exclusive Jurisdiction would cover actions that are incapable of
and still no payment. Brgy. Is helpless and cant enforce. What is the
>Eg. Contract with an Engineer to build a house. Contract period expired but
house is still unfinished. Four posts were agreed upon but only 3 posts were
made. A year was given for the completion; however, the year has lapsed,
with money having been given and the house unfinished. What are the COA
incapable of PE? If the COA is for the Engineer to finish the house as agreed
given by the law (BP 129 as amended by RA 7651). Jurisdiction can either
be Original or Appellate. Original- Court can hear it for the first time.
>1. Nature of the Action Test (NAT): Read the complaint (Eg. Specific
Performance I want my house completed). Above example is incapable of
LEVELS OF COURTS
PE
complainant.
>Municipal Trial Court (MTC) In capital towns. Municipal Circuit Trial Court
(MCTC)- Two or more adjoining Municipalities are circuitized and grouped
>Eg. Plaintiff entrusted his certificate of stocks to the defendant because the
former had to leave for abroad. After years petitioner comes home and asks
closest to civilization or the town that has the biggest population. (MCTC of
defendant to turn over the Certs of Stocks. Defendant avoids petitioner, and
the latter goes to the company that issued the stocks and gets surprised that
Court (MeTC)- Only in Metro Manila (only one court with several branches).
he did not have any share in the company, that these have been cancelled
Municipal Trial Court in Cities- One in each city with several branches
and are now in the name of the defendant. The defendant executed a DOS
purportedly from the plaintiff to the defendant forging the signature of the
>Country is divided into Judicial Regions (Baguio belongs to the 1st Judicial
Region). One RTC for each Judicial Region, with several branches.
>Using the Ultimate Goal (End Goal). If the End Goal is money, then the
case is capable of PE. What does the defendant want in the end? He wants
the certificate of stocks back to his name. What do the Certificates of Stocks
case is capable of PE
> In the Philippines, the Prevailing Jurisprudence, we make use of the
special action wherein the State takes private property for public use upon
jurisdiction, then file it before the lower court (Respect for the higher courts,
lesser expenses (cheaper), and most important reason is that it affords more
incapable of PE. But if we use the UOT, then we will have to go to the
remedies of appeal.
assessed value of the property, and the value would then set jurisdiction.
>There is only one case under the original and exclusive jurisdiction of the
But the SC settled the issue in a case saying that it is the NAT that prevails
since Expropriation is incapable of PE, thus filed before the RTC regardless
of the value of the property.
JURISDICTION
2.) Recovery of Real Property (or ownership of real property or any interest
RTC
>Does it have an original and appellate jurisdiction? YES. Under original,
does it have exclusive jurisdiction? Yes. How about concurrent? Yes. RTCs
concurrent jurisdiction is with the CA and the SC as to petition for Certiorari,
petitions of Mandamus for MTCs. RTCs concurrent jurisdiction with the SC
would involve actions affecting ambassadors, consuls, and ministers.
therein).
property) Shows good faith that person intends to own the property. Real
property taxes are paid every year. Assessed Value is not the same as
2nd- ). Look at the GROSS VALUE of the Estate of the deceased (total
Market Value. Market Value is always higher. Market value is the amount
that the seller is willing to accept and the buyer is willing to pay. It is not
constant (fluctuates depending on prevailing conditions). Assessed Value,
5.) Claims for damages (and Monetary claims- contracts involving money,
Eg. Car borrowed but was never returned, then file Recovery of Personal
Property (No theft, because property was lent with consent). Basis would
be Jurisdiction Amounts (amount of damages or value of personal
>If the assessed value is above P20,000.00, file before the RTC. If the
property).
assessed value is P20,000.00 and below, file before the MTC. This refers
interests, the penalties, the surcharges. It is only the principal amount that
for RTC, and P50,000.00 and below for MeTC. Standards of Living in
jurisdiction.
amount of P50,000.00. In the Promissory Note, there are also Penalties and
that the RTC has no jurisdiction. Defendant alleges that 50m2 of land does
only consider the principal amount of the loan which is P150,000.00. The
not amount to P50,000.00, but only P5,000.00, thus to be filed before the
term used by the law is other cases where the demand exclusive of interest,
MTC. Therefore, defendant alleges that the case is to be dismissed for lack
Attorneys fees of
of jurisdiction. (Can the court, on its own, without any motion, dismiss a case
when it has no jurisdiction? YES). You are now the Judge. Will you grant the
motion? No. Deny the motion to dismiss because the court has jurisdiction.
The Law says that, recovery of property or ownership or any interest therein
P407,000.00. File before the RTC. Include all because we are dealing with
the assessed value prevails. So it doesnt matter whether you are after
the entire property or just a portion. What you look at is the assessed value
jurisdiction.
of the entire value of the property. The law was not created in order to
provide that every time there is a portion involved, mathematical calculation
6.) All cases not falling within the jurisdiction of any other courts, tribunals,
is then called for. The intent of the law is to take the entire assessed value of
>When asked in the quiz or exam about the problem above, answers
against the corporation, etc. All under the jurisdiction of the RTC (previously
NEVER DISMISS. Eg. I will deny the motion because the RTC has
jurisdiction. Under the law granting jurisdiction to courts, it states that
respective territories.
law (no need to give specifics) says that it is the assessed value of the
>Does the MTC have Original and Exclusive Jurisdiction? Yes. How about
RTC
COMPLETE,
has
jurisdiction.MAKE
YOUR
ANSWERS
SECOND HOUR
Upon renewal of contract, owner refuses and asks tenant to leave. Tenant
refuses to leave even with non-renewed lease contract. Illegally detaining
Law of the
property? YES. Owner can file a case of unlawful detainer. Since tenant
also refuses to pay rent, this accumulates up to P600,000.00. Can the MTC
the claim is above P300,000.00, then it belongs to the RTC. (In Metro
take jurisdiction? YES. Regardless of the amount, because the case belongs
to the original and exclusive jurisdiction of the MTC. Forcible Entry and
MTC (In Metro Manila MeTC, P400,000.00 and below). Eg. Your cargo is
jettisoned off of a ship and you want the shipper to pay it. Determine the
3.)
Apply the same Jurisdictional Amount. (No will shall pass property unless
penalties, and attorneys fees emanating from the principal loan. What did
FAMILY COURTS:
>Most cases under said courts are mostly criminal procedures or under
special proceedings, and not under civil procedures. The Family Courts, as
be one case related to one right violated. In the first case in the above
envisioned by the law, have not yet come into existence ( no budget daw).
example, the right of the plaintiff to be paid was violated. How about in the
second case? The same The right to be paid. When we say the right to
>There should be a Family Court in each City and Province (Capital Town) of
be paid, it does not only include any principal amount, but all subsequent
the Country. If the Capital Town is also a City, then that is where the FC is to
be found.
to talk about. The only reason why the latter came into existence is because
minor.
again and Rule 2 Lack of COA). However, since splitting does not belong
to any of those grounds mentioned, the 2nd case is dismissed due to RES
daw. He says that he is not a minor, and that private complainant are not
JUDICATA in relation to the first case disposed of. If the first case is still
minors as well. NO. Victim is a minor (Law uses the term victim, not private
pending at the time the second case is filed, the GROUND FOR DISMISSAL
IS LITIS PENDENTIA.
(MTC has jurisdiction over all reckless imprudence cases regardless of the
>One COA is equivalent to only one Civil Action. For every right violated, we
resulting injury.
can only file one case to enforce that right that has been violated.
>When does the RTC have jurisdiction over Reckless Imprudence? When
accused abandons the victim, or death occurs, and at the time of Reckless
>However, there is also a rule that says 2 or more COA is equal to 1 CVA.
>Eg. There are 5 accused ages 16, 21, 23, 25, and 26. Where to file the
>Joinder of COA: The regular Joinder one plaintiff and one defendant, but
>Civil Cases- In the Family Court, a civil case may be filed as to Annulment
of Marriage, Legal Separation, etc. Anything involving the Family goes to the
several rights violated, he can file one case for every right violated. This is to
Family Court.
claim shall determine the jurisdiction of the court (100k + 100k + 150k =
350k, thus RTC). This joinder of actions, however, is only permissive.
parties. Is there a common question of fact and law? If yes, then there is
>RULE: 1 COA is equal to 1 Civil Action (1 right violated, 1 civil case to file.
>Eg. Plaintiff files a case against defendant for Sum of Money based on a
PN. That was the first case filed. In this first case of Sum of Money, the
his books that there are several unpaid accounts. A has an unpaid account
only asked for the principal amount. He wonders about the interests, the
payments agent).
surcharges, the attorneys fees, etc. So, he files a second case against
defendants separately? Yes. But can he file one case pursuant to the joinder
would usually come when one case belongs to the MTC while the other to
the RTC.
Jurisdiction.
>Eg. Plaintiff sum of money (P400,000.00 - RTC) and recovery
Since plaintiff believes that the land case is more controlling, he files both
cases in the MTC (for sum of money and recovery of possession). Is there a
jurisdiction, and not misjoinder) and proceed against the 2nd case.
>Eg. A, B, and C. (None. Separate jurisdictions under the rule,
>Rule for Real Action Where the real property is located. If the
not a ground for dismissal of the case, but the court will separate the
real property is in Baguio, then the venue must be in Baguio. Eg.Action for
before the RTC bec assessed value of the property is P30,000.00 which is in
the jurisdiction of the RTC. However, the sum of money is within the juris of
the MTC. Can this be? Yes. Because the RTC is a court of General
contract.
there a limit of the amount that the RTC can award? None. The MTC has a
plaintiff must choose the majority address where most of the defendants
limit though.
reside.
defendant is a resident of LTB. Plaintiff must file case before the RTC, either
reading the complaint and applying the Nature of the Action Test, we see that
in Baguio or LTB.
the law. Look at the allegation for determination of jurisdiction. RTC cannot
suddenly lower the allegation and pass it to the MTC. The RTC must accept
upon death. The moment the court takes cognizance, excludes all other
courts. What if he died abroad but his properties are in the Philippines? How
has not totally proven his/her COA. RTC judge found that plaintiff is only
can his heirs settle his estate? Where can they file? Where any of his
properties are located, and when such court takes cognizance, it is to the
>Eg. Complainant P100,000.00 filed before the MTC. It was then found
When plaintiff is a non-resident, he may file the rule on real action (So that
court can acquire jurisdiction over the res the thing or subject matter -
amount. Res judicata would set in, and plaintiff cant file another case to
only.
>If a case is dismissed for lack of jurisdiction, said case can be filed in the
court that has jurisdiction.
> Recall Splitting and Joinder, both concerning the avoidance of multiplicity
against defendant in the amount of 500k (RTC). However, aside from the
of suits.
assessed value is 35k (RTC). All belong to the RTC. Can plaintiff join
damages and recovery of property? YES. But if he joins them, then where
shall he file? RTC of LU, because the res is located there. If venue is
(totality rule).
wrong, then there is improper venue. He is bound by the res. But, he can
also file cases separately. Limitation arises when we join a real and a
applies only in the MTC, but can be done in the RTC, so long as one COA
personal action. The rules are clear as to where real actions are to be filed.
joined with the case for damages in Baguio? No. RTC yung nasa Baguo.
claims that defendant has not paid him his salaries for the duration of his
But supposing damages in Baguio amounts to 200K (MTC), then both can
be joined in LU where the res is located. When we join a real action and a
both in the RTC. Is this possible? No. Because salaries, ER-EE relationship
fall under the jurisdiction of the NLRC. You cannot use general jurisdiction of
the RTC because it has no jurisdiction over claims arising from employer-
present in ordinary civil cases, making them impossible to join with ordinary
they be sued in a class suit? No. (They may be too numerous, but
However, lessor discovers that tenant accumulated unpaid water bills, phone
bills, etc totaling to 200k. Is there a proper joinder? No. Unlawful detainer is
a SCVA, while damages as to bills are OCVA. The only allowable damages
in the land that they are occupying. Remedy is to file cases against
them individually. Action may also be joined.
>Can domestic corporations be parties? Yes. How about
under SCVA are unpaid rent and reasonable attorneys fees, as under the
rules. SCVA are usually dealt with summary procedures (no more trial).
SECOND HOUR
>PARTIES
>Plaintiff / Petitioner person who files the case. Plaintiff OCVA (initiated
Supposing it is a foreign
>Kinds of parties :
>Indispensible party- In every case, there has to be an
indispensible plaintiff (the very person who claims that his right has been
>In criminal procedure, the judge has the power of outright dismissal of
cases. The moment the judge sees no probable cause, he can dismiss it
outright. But if there is, then he may order the issuance of a warrant of
arrest.
>In civil procedure, can the court dismiss the case motupropio? Yes, but only
(joint obligation with Y). Is the relief complete? No. Must include Y to
and determined by allegations in the complaint. Eg. Filed in the RTC, but is
a complaint for unlawful detainer. The RTC can dismiss the case outright as
the case ought to have been filed in the MTC. Or claims for damages in the
because a judge allegedly gravely abused his discretion. Who are the
MTC for the amount of 500k can be dismissed outright due to lack of
>Prescription. Period within which to file the case, otherwise forever barred.
who benefited from the judgment of the judge (public respondent nominal
The court may dismiss on the grounds of prescription if the material dates
file an answer, not the public respondent. Judge may make an answer when
defendant entered the property, which at that time was in the possession of
Eg.
Case of recovery
versus defendant). If the married woman is the defendant, she must also be
properties. Dated July 11, 2013.Are there material dates mentioned? Yes
(Civil Code- husband is the administrator, head of the household, etc) In this
1940s. Clearly, prescription has set in (30 years for bad faith on real
case, the husband is the nominal or pro forma party. A married woman can
can ripen to ownership). Spells out that COA of plaintiff has expired.
profession, quasi-delicts, or if they have been living away from each other for
>Eg. Motion for reconsideration for denial of Petition for mandamus , should
>Quasi-parties Not actually a part of the suit, but suit is for their
benefit. Eg. Class suit- two requisites. First, there must be a common or
general interest among everybody. Second, they are too numerous that it
possession of the disputed land the court cannot immediately dismiss the
case. The court now takes cognizance of the case. However, court cannot
individuals. Can they all file a complaint (abatement of nuisance)? Yes, via
>In a criminal case, the court acquires jurisdiction over defendant via warrant
class suit (Common interest is to stop the factory, and numerous parties).
of arrest.
>In civil cases, there is Summons. Summons is a writ issued by the court
directed to the defendant for the latter to answer the complaint. Once
properly served, writ entitles the court to have jurisdiction over the person of
>How many copies of the complaint to be filed? One for the Court, and one
confuse this with personal service of pleadings. In this case, the sheriff goes
to the defendant and hands to the latter the summons. Then, the defendant
is an unknown defendant .
days for defendant to answer Just add 15 to that date to arrive at the
>Criminal actions John Doe. How about in Civil Actions? There are
deadline). Sheriff must give this directly to the defendant. The rule says
builder is unknown. Upon filing of civil action, who can be the defendant?
or cannot be found.
is to make a return stating that the summons with the attached copy of the
complaint has been served to the defendant personally on July 13, 2013 as
Court or permission from the Court is required. What then should be filed for
can be seen on the signature of the defendant appearing on the face of the
such? File for Motion for Leave of Court followed by whatever it is that you
summons.
defendant by Publication.
counsel this is to guide the plaintiffs counsel that such has been served as
well as with the 15-day period. The moment there is a lawyer, service should
>Priority Mode- Sheriff must exert all efforts and exhaust all remedies
>If all possible remedies have been exhausted, then use the next mode.
been in circulation for the past year, and judge determines whether to be
accredited or not submit all that have been put into circulation plus
is in charge.
>Prisoner Serve it to the warden. The warden will give it to the prisoner.
>What if summons did not really reach defendant (was given to a qualified
acquired? No, jurisdiction is not acquired. But why bother with publication?
the summons
Is jurisdiction
FIRST HOUR
>Warrant of arrest is to Criminal Procedure, whereas Summons is to Civil
Procedure.
>Summons is to acquire jurisdiction over a defendant.
>A case cannot proceed when court does not have jurisdiction over
defendant so a summons must be served.
>A copy of complaint is attached to summons served by sheriff.
>Modes:
1) Personal Service Priority Mode. If all efforts have been
exerted failed then:
She no longer cant marry another. She then files for Annulment. But
4) File an answer
and resorted to? Yes, because her status is affected. She wants to go back
>1) Ignores- 15-day period has lapsed and there is no answer filed. Would
plaintiff know that no answer has been filed? Yes. Based on Sheriffs Return
IN THE PHILIPPINES.
>Eg. Served on July 1. Just add 15. Defendant has until July 16 to answer.
By the way, what if plaintiff was never able to serve summons? Unserved
>How can ESS be resorted to then in a Personal Action (Claim for sum of
summons plaintiff must furnish the court new address, else case is going to
allege violation of his right, it is his duty to furnish the court the address of
Once attached,
the defendant for the court to furnish Alias Summons (Contains new
address). If defendant still cant be found in the new address, then Second
Court, such properties may now be sold in a public auction to the highest
bidder. The proceeds shall now pay the obligation of the defendant.
country, but police officers of Baguio cant go to Ifugao with such warrant
coordinate with Ifugao police officers. The Court can issue a warrant of
with the attached complaint must be sent to the last address of the defendant
address of the accused which is outside the territorial jurisdiction of the first
summons via publication. Motion for Leave of Court must still be acquired.
defendant.
>Finally able to serve to defendant, but no answer beyond July 16. What will
defendant has 60 days from the last date of publication to file a reply.
plaintiff do? Can now file a Motion to Declare defendant in default (MDDD).
Doesnt matter WON defendant reads it, so long as due process requirement
application for relief other than a pleading. What does it mean? A pleading is
over defendant.
also asking for a relief. A motion is more specific, however. Eg.Motion for
>In a criminal court, how can the Court acquire jurisdiction over an accused
etc.Specific.
Court).Commitment Mitimus.
>MOTIONS
Non Litigated
-Does not affect the rights of the adverse party.
-The court can act on this ex parte. NO NEED FOR A HEARING. Court can
-Affect
-A hea
heard.
VOLUNTARY APPEARANCE.
>VOLUNTARY APPEARANCE- Any act of defendant by which he submits
himself to the jurisdiction of the court, without the court having acquired
They have to
filed.
-Eg. Motion for Extension of Time to File an Answer, Motion for Postponement
(sometimes)
as a voluntary appearance.
>Or, summons was issued (but defective), and defendant files an answer. Is
the defect cured? YES. Tantamount to voluntary appearance.
>Eg. Counsel of defendant enters an appearance with Motion for extension
of time to file an answer. Extension was then granted. Thereafter, counsel of
defendant files a motion to dismiss grounded on invalid substituted of
summons because it was served to a visitor of the defendants house.
Should the motion to dismiss be granted? NO. Because when the counsel
entered his appearance as counsel of defendant to file motion for extension
of time, it was TANTAMOUNT TO VOLUNTARY APPEARANCE. You cannot
go to court and ask for a relief and subsequently question jurisdiction over
defendants person. Any act of defendant which would tend to show that he
is accepting jurisdiction over his person either by voluntarily filing an answer
or asking for a relief Tantamount to voluntary appearance.
SECOND HOUR
>Now that court has jurisdiction over defendant, anona?
>Defendant has four choices:
1) Ignores (Doesnt file an answer)
>After stating the Motion (Non-Litigated) Notice to the branch clerk of court:
Please submit the foregoing motion immediately for the consideration of the
court. (then signed by the lawyer).
>The Rules require that every pleading, motion, manifestation furnish the
Adverse Party (number 1 req)
>Adverse Party refers to the counsel. Service to the lawyer is service to
the client, but service to the client is not a service to the lawyer.
>Eg. Motion to Declare a Defendant in Default.
>Service of Pleadings vs. Filing of Pleadings.
>Service of Pleadings is the act of furnishing the adverse party all copies of
pleadings, motions, etc.
>Only pleading not served to adverse party Complaint. The court via the
sheriff serves the complaint (attached to summons) to the defendant.
Courts job, aside from gaining jurisdiction over defendant.
>Filing of Pleadings is the act of pleadings to Court.
>What comes first, service or filing? Service comes first, because what is
filed in court should bear the proof of service. If Proof of Service of
pleading is not present, the court is not bound to accept pleading. It is the
first thing that the court looks for.
-Eg. M
lawyer signs). The one that bears the Registry Receipt is the one filed in
court because it bears the proof of service. Is that sufficient? No. The rules
say that when it comes to service of pleadings, priority mode is always
personal service. If other modes are resorted to, there is a required WRITEN
EXPLANATION (TO OBVIATE DELAY) as to why it was not served
personally. Put explanation below registry receipt (eg. Service was done
through registered mail due to the distance between the plaintiff counsels
office, or due to lack of personnel in the defendant counsels office to make
service). Without explanation, pleading is treated as a mere scrap of paper.
As if nothing was ever filed. Failed to comply with the rule (if no personal
service, then via registered mail, with written explanation). Such rule was
incorporated was to OBVIATE DELAY. Date of mailing is the date of filing.
15 days to file an answer. Eg.July 16 deadline to file an answer. Served to
plaintiffs counsel, and a copy is filed in court. Court receives it July 27. Is it
late? No because via registered mail. Because the date of mailing will be the
date of filing, provided via REGISTERED MAIL.
>Notice of Hearing (Litigated) must comply with the 3-DAY NOTICE RULE
and THE 10-DAY HEARING RULE.
>3-day notice rule refers to the service of motion to the adverse party. The
adverse party must receive the motion at least 3 days before the intended
hearing. In other words, the proof of service must show that the counsel of
the adverse party received it before 3 days the scheduled hearing. This is to
give them time to prepare for hearing. (Eg. Hearing is set July 26, 2013.
Adverse Party must receive notice not later than July 23).
>10-day hearing rule Created to obviate delay. Hearing should be set
within 10 days from the date of filing. (Eg. Hearing is on July 26. Filing
should have been from July 16 and up). Take note, filing comes AFTER
service. So if it has been filed on the 16th, a proof of service should be
existent. Can the date of service be the same with the date of filing? Yes.
Naturally, if 10-day hearing rule is complied with, automatically the 3-day
notice rule would have been complied with because service comes first prior
to filing.
>Motion Day why Friday? Because fly-day. Potanginah.TuesdaysThursdays daw ay hearing day.Right to a neutral and impartial judge.
Judges fly back to their homes. However, the rule as to appointment in
home stations has been relaxed. According with the Rules Committee,
motions should not be heard together with the trial of the case. Motions are
disposed off quickly, except when there is a witness.
>Eg. Accused was convicted and sentenced to suffer imprisonment for 1
year (double registration during the election). His counsel (defense) filed an
MR and asked that it be set for a hearing; however, he never addressed it to
the adverse party (prosecutor), but to the clerk of court. The defense lawyer
only copy furnished the prosecutor, but never addressed it to him. The
court regarded it as a mere scrap of paper. Within 15 days after
promulgation, decision may be appealed. But if acquittal, final. When
decision becomes final, it becomes executor. In the case at bar, the 15 days
lapsed and decision became final, thus a warrant of arrest was issued.
Notice of hearing should always be addressed to the adverse party
(Prosecutor).
>MDDD- Technically, it is a nonlitigated motion because defendant had 15
days and he did not make use of it and therefore he no longer has any right,
letting the 15-day period lapse. Can the court act on it immediately? Yes.
However, rules say that they should be given a liberal interpretation kanu ta
decide on the merits. If MDDD is granted, the court issues an order
declaring defendant in default.
>What is the effect when a defendant is declared in default? Defendant
LOSES HIS STANDING IN COURT. A defendant declared in default is
entitled to notices but he cannot do anything he can also be present in
hearings but he cannot object, because he loses his standing. He cannot do
anything anymore already. Two things can happen when he is declared in
default and loses standing: (1) Court can render judgment by default. Since
there is no longer a defendant, the court looks at the contents of the
complaint. If allegations in the complaint are sufficient to warrant a
judgment, judgment is rendered, usually in favor of plaintiff. Otherwise, court
will direct plaintiff to present evidence ex parte. Court can even authorize
clerk of court to receive evidence ex parte, provided COC is a member of the
bar. In the MTCs, COCs are not required to be lawyers. It is only in the
RTCs that COCs and Branch COCs are required to be lawyers.
>If the first thing a defendant can do is not to do anything, THE SECOND
thing a defendant can do is to FILE A MOTION FOR A BILL OF
PARTICULARS (MBOP)
>Particulars- details. MBOP because there are complaints that are vague,
ambiguous, or unclear.Defendant cannot understand what plaintiff wants.
An MBOP can both be a litigated and nonlitigated motion, depending on how
judge would see it. RULES FOR LITIGATED MOTIONS NEED TO BE
COMPLIED WITH. Setting of hearing would then be discretionary upon the
judge.
>If the judge looks at the MBOP and looks at the complaint and agrees with
the defendant that complaint cannot be understood, the judge would grant
MBOP immediately and asks plaintiff to comply with the BOP (nonlitigated).
>However, if judge finds the complaint clear, the judge would then set the
motion for hearing (litigated).
VN-20130723-00001
2ND HOUR
1ST HOUR
01:04:40
>How does plaintiff comply with MBOP? First, he can file an amended
complaint. If it is an amended complaint, how can it be shown that there is
an amended. Underline the amendments (or capitalize, bold, italicized,
open-close quotation, etc). Eg. Plaintiff wants to explain bad faith so goes
that the bad faith consists of chorvachorva (notice underline- to show
amendment).
>Must an amended complaint be served again with summons to defendant?
No need. A summons is served just for the court to acquire jurisdiction over
defendant. Since jurisdiction has already been acquired, plaintiff would just
furnish a copy of the amended complaint to the defendant follow the priority
mode.
>Second way is for plaintiff to submit a compliance or a manifestation. He
says, in compliance with the order of the court granting the MBOP, the
plaintiff submits compliance.
As the details to the bad faith,
chorvachorvachorva. Fully explain ambiguous provisions. Such is then
furnished to the adverse counsel via personal or registered mail.
>What if the court has granted MBOP but plaintiff did not comply? First, the
court can order that all those vague allegations in the complaint will be
stricken off of the complaint. Worse, the court can direct the plaintiff to show
cause why his case should not be dismissed because he failed to comply
with the order.
>If COA is stricken off, then defendant may file an MD on the grounds of
Lack of COA. So plaintiff should comply with MBOP.
>THIRD THING A DEFENDANT CAN DO IS TO FILE A MOTION TO
DISMISS (Rule 16, A-J)
>This is always a litigated motion, thus requirements must be complied with.
>Summons discourages filing of motion to dismiss. It asks defendant to put
grounds for MD as affirmative defenses in the answer. Affirmative defenses
are actually grounds for MD.
>If answer is filed and there are affirmative defenses, the court conducts a
preliminary hearing.
>The discouragement of filing of MD is for the quicker administration of
justice. Thing is, if you still wish to push through with an MD, a counterclaim
may not be filed along with it. There is no such animal. If MD is granted,
whatever claim that defendant has over plaintiff may also disappear.
>Can the defendant also have a claim against plaintiff? Of course
Counterclaim.
>But if in the ANSWER THE AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSES ARE GRANTED
and the case is dismissed, such dismissal is only limited to the complaint of
the plaintiff. How about the defendants claim? It can now be pursued.
>Omnibus Motion Rule states that any and all grounds for a motion to
dismiss should be indicated in only one motion, otherwise you are deemed to
have deemed those grounds except for those that are nonwaivable.
>What if defendant only alleges 2 and doesnt include a 3rdnonwaivable
ground, and the court denies the 2, can defendant raise the 3rd? NO.
>Eg. Opposite. The law says 300k and below, MTC. After trial, the plaintiff is
able to prove that he incurred more than 300k 400k in fact. Can the MTC
award 400k? No. Such is beyond its jurisdiction. Its limitation is only up to
300k. It can never go beyondits limit, unlike the RTC that can go below coz
it is a court of general jurisdiction. Plaintiff kase is so bobo he should have
filed it before the RTC. Moral Lesson of the story, bloat your damages to be
able to bring it to the RTC.
>You can question the courts jurisdiction over the subject matter at any
stage of the proceedings even on the first time on appeal, unless jurisdiction
by estoppel has set in.
>Eg. Bus ticket venue fixed in Pasay (shall be in the corporate offices of
>The court should only not have jurisdiction over the subject matter but also
over the person of the defendant.
>(2) Lack of jurisdiction over the person of the defendant. In order for
court to acquire jurisdiction over defendant, it has to issue summons which
has to be validly served to defendant via person, substituted, constructive, or
extraterritorial service (actions affecting status of plaintiff, or relating to
property of defendant in the Philippines).
in interest.
require that all civil actions should be executed in the name of the real party
>Real Party in Interest- Party who stands to be benefited, injured, or
prejudiced by whatever decision that the court makes. In other words, all
civil actions must be prosecuted by a real party in interest. Refers to the
indispensible party (someone who should bring the case) vs indispensible
>Eg. Defendant cant be located despite all efforts. And sooooooOOO, the
sheriff resorted to substituted service of summons. The defendant was
made aware that there was a summons issued against him so he goes to a
lawyer. Upon receipt, lawyer files his favorite motion MFEFA. Needs time
to prepare an intelligent answer daw, so asks for 15 more days from
tomorrow. Court grants motion. Then lawyer finds out that summons was
served to anusineighbor via substituted, so within the 15 days of extension,
lawyer files an MD on the ground of Lack of Jurisdiction over the person of
the defendant. Grant or Deny? Deny the MD. He is deemed to have waived
the second ground because he already asked for a relief, and thus cannot go
back and question jurisdiction of court. By asking for relief (MFEFA), lawyer
has waived 2nd ground. Instead of MFEFA, lawyer should have immediately
filed MD grounded on MFEFA.
>In Crim Pro Voluntary Surrender. Just like in Civ Pro voluntary
appearance - asking for relief. Jurisdiction upon this time could no longer be
questioned. Another voluntary appearance is filing of an answer even
without receiving a summons.
>Is filing of MD for lack of jurisdiction over subject matter asking for relief
from court? Yes. All motions ask for relief. So, Aside from Lack of
Jurisdiction over person of defendant (eg.MD for lack of jurisdiction over subj
matter, lack of juris over person of defendant, and LOJ bec of improper
venue, all in one motion). The MD based on the first ground was denied.
Are the other grounds deemed to have been waived by seeking these 3
together? NO. OMNIBUS MOTION RULE.
however, the title is now in the name of Z. Who is the indispensible plaintiff
(real party in interest)? It is O, because he is the owner of the property, and
whatever the court decides, he stands to be either benefited or injured
(prejudiced). Who is the indispensible defendant? It is Z because the title is
in his name. A case filed against X or Y will not return title to O. If against Z,
title may be recovered, making him the indispensible defendant. However, O
may also include X as an indispensible defendant for DAMAGES. But simply
for recovery of title, then against Z would be sufficient.
>Necessary Party (Proper)-Indispensible (cant be done without) vs
Necessary (for complete relief).
>Eg. Landowner mortgages his property to X (1st mortgage). However, he
again mortgages it to Y (2n mortgage). He doesnt his loan to X or Y. Now,
X, the first mortgagee, wants to forclose the property. If he files X vs
Landowner, is that sufficient? Yes, contains indispensible parties. Sufficient,
however there is still the issue with Y who also has a justified claim, being
the 2nd mortgagee. So in order to have complete relief to settle issue once
and for all, X should include Y. X is the indispensible plaintiff, Landowner is
the indispensible defendant, and Y is the necessary defendant. Because
even without Y, there can still be a case. However, the issue of 2 nd mortgage
must be settled so include Y.
>Pro Forma (Nominal) Party- For form, needed because the law requires so.
>As to juridical persons: Domestic Corporation must state in its complaint for
Eg. A married woman sues. The rules require that she should be assisted
the Republic of the Philippines, and duly registered under the Securities and
husband is the Pro Forma Party. Such is the case except as provided by law
liability arising from crime, separation de facto for 1 year, etc). Another eg. In
a petition for certiorari, prohibition, and mandamus, the Judge is a pro forma
business in the Philippines. No, it cannot sue but it can be sued if it is doing
party and is not required to file an answer, else ignorance of the law. Private
respondent is the person who will file an answer because said party stands
>So what should corporation state to give it legal capacity to sue? It should
state that it is legally engaged in business in the Philippines, and its authority
>Quasi-Party- Those who really do not appear in court but are affected by
For a foreign corp illegally doing business, since it cannot sue, in a complaint
requisites.
suit.
>Eg. New company brings out a new car. Unknown to the customers, there
>Where are corporate cases filed? Used to belong to the SEC, but now
Corporate/Commercial Courts.
>Legal capacity is stated and alleged in the complaint, also citing its
while the thousand others will be the quasi-parties. They will not go to court,
on lack of capacity to sue because their documents are spurious. Same may
prejudiced.
apply for other grounds used for lack of capacity to sue. Defendant must
>Eg. Landowner wants to evict all squatters from his property. Landowner
vs X, Y, Z, and all other persons occupying land. Will this prosper as a class
iskwater.
2 HOUR
COA (rule 2). Failure to State a COA is more of how complaint was stated.
This is also a
other. General Rule All actions must be prosecuted in the name of the real
party in interest. Eg. Principal (owner of car) commissions agent to sell his
car. Agent finds a buyer and sells it to the latter. However, buyer doesnt
>Eg. In the complaint of plaintiff who claims ownership over land, he stets
pay full price so agent files a case against the former. Buyer files an MD.
(sic) he states that I erected a swimming pool and planted palm trees and
Who is the real party in interest (RPII)? In other words, who gets to be
cattages (sic) and benches over the land. I own all these improvements,
and thus files a quieting of title against a defendant also claiming ownership
the action in the name of the real party in interest? No. Buyer can now file
over property. His title is noisy jeje. Plaintiff alleges that since he put up all
the improvements on the land, therefore he owns the land. What is wrong?
interest). However, agent may amend the complaint and state, Principal, as
represented by the agent to cure defect. Now, action is in the name of the
real party in interest. The agent now becomes the representative party
because he acts in representation of another person. But what would be a
better ground? Lack of Cause of Action. Why? Go over the elements. As to
right, agent doesnt have any; rather, the principal.
First element
palangwaleyna.
>Whom else can be a representative party? Guardian over ward.Fiduciary
Capacity.
>Lack of Capacity to Sue- We speak more of characteristic of plaintiff.
Eg.Minority. A minor cannot sue. However, minor must be assisted by
parents or a guardian. Must reach the age of emancipation (21 daw).
Insanity.
>Test. Look at allegations. Do you believe all of it? Can you give the plaintiff
what he wants? If both gets a YES, then there is a COA. But if YES as to
allegations but NO to giving of what plaintiff wants, then there is failure to
state COA. Said ground is waivable.
>What if defendant files an answer and does not question failure to state
COA nor includes it in his affirmative defenses, and then during trial plaintiff
is now showing evidence that he owns land which is why he made
improvements, can defendant now raise the abovementioned ground? The
defendant is too late. Ground has been waived. Must have been questioned
at the earliest possible time.
>Lack of Capacity to Sue vs Lack of Personality to Sue. Different from each
other. General Rule All actions must be prosecuted in the name of the real
party in interest. Eg. Principal (owner of car) commissions agent to sell his
car. Agent finds a buyer and sells it to the latter. However, buyer doesnt
pay full price so agent files a case against the former. Buyer files an MD.
Who is the real party in interest (RPII)? In other words, who gets to be
affected by a decision? Of course, the Principal. So, if Agent vs. Buyer, is
the action in the name of the real party in interest? No. Buyer can now file
an MD on the ground Lack of capacity to sue (agent not a real party in
interest). However, agent may amend the complaint and state, Principal, as
represented by the agent to cure defect. Now, action is in the name of the
real party in interest. The agent now becomes the representative party
because he acts in representation of another person. But what would be a
better ground? Lack of Cause of Action. Why? Go over the elements. As to
right, agent doesnt have any; rather, the principal.
First element
palangwaleyna.
>Whom else can be a representative party? Guardian over ward.Fiduciary
Capacity.
>Lack of Capacity to Sue- We speak more of characteristic of plaintiff.
Eg.Minority. A minor cannot sue. However, minor must be assisted by
parents or a guardian. Must reach the age of emancipation (21 daw).
Insanity.
First Hour
that interrupted the period. Start counting again from the time of the receipt
>WAIVABLE
>How about on the internet? Person orders red Ferrari but gets a yellow
pickup truck and pays with credit card. Is there a breach? Yes. How does
person prove that he did order a red Ferrari considering the Statutes of
>Remember that Plaintiff files the initiatory pleading (starts the ball rolling),
provide that for those transactions that require written documents under
with provided there are documents that can be produced that can be
>Answer contains the defenses of the defendant. These defenses can either
>ADs are all the grounds for MD. Yes, even if all those things that you are
saying are true, still you cannot recover from me because GROUND. ADs
one goes to court, all other requirements must have been complied with (Eg.
>Can a Ds answer include both AD and ND? YES. Why? Just in case his
and earnest efforts were exerted via several family meetings in order to
the AD, the hearing continues and looks at the remaining defenses, the ND
Family would refer to cases involved parents and children immediate family
(Specific Denials).
>An answer may both have AD and ND, or only the ND.
denies said allegation by stating that D does not know how to write.
Absolute Denial + Explanation. What if only the absolute denial was given
but was never explained? This is what is called a Negative Pregnant (Open
to multiple interpretations).
>Eg. In the allegation- That defendant appeared in the house of the plaintiff
within the remaining period he has left after he filed the motion to dismiss.
defendant admits being in the house of the plaintiff but denies signing the
promissory note because the defendant does not know how to write.
MD is a litigated motion, this was heard on July 12. However, the court
denied it on July 22. However, Ds counsel received this on July 26. How
many days does D have left to file an answer? and up to when? According
to NCC, exclude the 1 day and include the last day. Also, the filing of the
suffered depression and couldnt eat or sleep, thus defendant must be made
motion interrupts the period. When counting the days, we include weekends
and holidays. And if the last day falls on a weekend or on a holiday, it does
LITERAL DENIAL, having no basis to say whether such are true or not.
not continue to run until the next working day. Thus, based on said rules,
>Look at the answers filed by defendants and try to identify what kind of
when summons was received, according to the NCC, and also exclude filing
of MD on July 5, since this interrupts running of period. Given so, 3 days has
>Who brings out the issues in every case? It is the DEFENDANT. Why?
Then, count 12 days from July 26 (again, exclude July 26 from counting
complaint, we just have a story about how his right is violated. We still dont
have an issue because we do not know whether such allegations are true or
the 12th day (last day as according to the NCC). Thus, he has 12 days left to
false. Upon the answer of the defendant, admissions and denials are made.
>Why start counting from July 26? Because it was the date when defendant
st
Second Hour
>The answer of the defendant usually need not contain verification. But
Verification becomes
the effect that everything his lawyer wrote was the truth. Again, if not under
instrument that becomes the basis of the case, eg. Promissory Note
>Must the D furnish a copy of his answer to the P? YES. How? Same with
put in writing, which could be a gospel truth unless proven otherwise. What
acquired a proof of service. D then files the same in Court, however absent
is its connection with the verification? The rules require that when such
Court grant the motion? YES. Why? Because D failed to include a written
explanation as to why personal service was not done and registered mail
everything stated by the lawyer is the truth and that client can prove such
claims as truth, and signed by the client. To determine that the specific
>Aside from the answer, the D may also couple another pleading with his
defenses, but the CC contains the COA of the D. For plaintiff, COA against
document? Yes, because it is the basis for the sum of money, showing that a
>SOOOoooOOooww, its like dot! You think you are di only one? Me I also
loan has been incurred. In the Ds answer, he says, I specifically deny that I
have!
how I sign my name. I just scribble my initials, and yet in the PN, my name is
>How will the plaintiff file the CC? By coupling it with the answer. Answer
clearly spelled out. Did the D specifically deny it? YES. However, there is
with Counterclaim.
>In one document, the D has 2 pleadings: 1st pleading is the answer
containing all his defenses, while the 2nd pleading is the CC containing the
COA.
same case? Depends on the court, but must be brought before judgment is
(under no duress) and Genuineness Real signature, and he was the one
who signed it. If this would be the case, as a judge, should you grant the
brought out an issue but admitted it, because he did not make a specific
from the plaintiff, then there is no ground for the CCC of the defendant.
>Because this case was filed against me, my reputation in the community
did not give me the money. In effect, what D is saying is that there is no
got besmirched
>Judge M: uuuUUoooOOhhh you just let me finish dis! Thats the problem.
Because denial was merely partial. Verification is needed for denials where
>I have to defend myself, which is why I hired a lawyer to whom I promise to
>And that is a CC. Is it compulsory? Yes, because it would not have arisen if
(DEG). Consideration refers to the intrinsic part, unlike DEG which refers to
the extrinsic part. The actionable document rule only presupposes due
>Ill see you on Tuesday for the quiz, and Ariel, thank you so much for the
execution and genuineness of the document itself and does not talk of any
VN-20130731-00002
FIRST HOUR
>RECAP:
>Negative defenses- Specific Denials
>Affirmative denials Grounds for MD
>Must they be verified? General Rule, NO. But if answer is based on an
actionable document, then specific denial must be under oath. Via sworn
statement of defendant in the verification.Based on an answerable document
verified.
without a CCC. Decision D, return the car to the P, the latter is the rightful
owner of the car. Decision becomes final and executory. After returning the
>Eg. Defendant files a claim against Plaintiff if D himself has a claim against
car, D realizes that he forgot about all the improvements he made on the car.
when he made improvements on the car. As the P, have the case dismissed
>How about the Answer, is that also a CC? No, the A contains the defenses.
and grounded on RES JUDICATA. There is now a law of the case from the
From the word itself, it is an answer against the complaint. But for a CC, it
1st case. The D should have raised the damages in the CC, because it would
have been a CCC as it arises from the same transaction subject matter of
the complaint.
>GUIDE QUESTION: Will the evidence needed in the first case (in the
>If Compulsory, it arises from the same transaction subject matter of the
complaint filed) be the same evidence that will have to be produced in the 2 nd
complaint.
case? In fthe first case, P had to prove that he owned the car, and therefore
was entitled to it. What about D? D also had to prove that he had a reason
constrained to hire the services of a lawyer for which the P should be made
to own and thus keep the car in order for the case to be dismissed. So,
to pay. I suffered sleepless nights thinking about what this case is going to
those are the sets of evidence needed proof that P owned the car and that
D also had a right to the car. You go to the next case for damages. What
evidence now does the D have to prove? He will have to prove that he was
the owner of the car which is why he installed all the improvements. And
>Those are all compulsory complaints because they arise from the same
what does the P have to prove so that he wont be liable for damages? He
would have to prove that he was the owner of the car so the D would have
court.
>Are those sets of evidence the same with the 1 st case? YES. Thus, a CCC
>Eg. P vs D for sum of money. Because this was only for 300k, it was filed
and should be raised in the main complaint with the answer or anytime
in the MTC. However, the D had a CC. In his CC, he says that, I am an
before judgment. If filed with the answer, then OK. But if filed before
Now, because of what you did, you should pay me. But since I am not only
>When you file a motion for leave of court, you have to attach what you want
>Is that a compulsory CC? NO. Why not? It may arise from the same
>This is because the Court must first read the CC to determine whether they
the MTC. So can the MTC take cognizance of the CC? It cannot because it
MTC can dismiss it outright. So even if it arises from the same transaction,
attached to the Motion may now be admitted and made part of the records of
the case.
>Are we saying then that the D can file another separate case in the RTC,
this time the D as P, and the P as D as a CC? YES, provided that he has
Prosecution.
>Supposing the first case was dismissed in the MTC because the D was
Prayer
able to prove that he paid. How about the case filed in the RTC? Will it
>Eg. Interesting case daw. A truck and a van had a collision along a bend in
However, during the presentation of the evidence of the CC, the P did not
the road. Van landed in the ravine and was totally wrecked, while the truck
appear. The children testified about the cases filed by the old disgruntled
only suffered some damages on the front part. The first one who filed the
fellow. Now the children were claiming for attorneys fees and damages.
case was the truck owner against the van owner, claiming that the damages
amounted to 120k, thus filing it in the MTC. The van owner, upon filing of the
case against him, also filed a case against truck owner. Because the van
was totally wrecked, the van owner filed a claim of 450k against truck owner
before the RTC. The truck owner filed an MD based on litispendentia. Same
Anxiety and
parties, subject matter, and reliefs sought in both cases. Truck owner said
that D should have instead filed a CCC, because his claim arises from the
same transaction subject matter of the complaint. But van owner questioned
the possibility of this since his claims was outside the jurisdiction of the MTC.
Truly, Ds case is a CCC, but because of the amount, it is taken out of the
jurisdiction of the RTC. If 2 cases are allowed to continue, there may be
conflicting decisions.
goes to E and asks him about the finances. D asks, what have you been
doing with the money, bitch? D files his answer and also files an XC against
CC.
Upon
hearing and court finds merit in the affirmative defenses in the answer and
dismisses the case, the dismissal is only limited to the complaint.
>The decision further continues, The D is given 15 days from the receipt of
this order/resolution stating whether he will pursue his CC in the same case,
or choose to separately pursue.
>If D pursues it in the same case, such is set for reception of evidence.
>That is why do not file an MD else you foreclose (once MD is granted) your
chance to file a CC. Because there is no such animal as a MD with CC.
Instead, file an Answer with CC so that you can pursue the CC even if the
case is dismissed by merit of affirmative defenses.
SECOND HOUR
>Students: Maam rest, REEEST!!!
>Judge M: No. Ill finish this.
>Another Eg. 1st case was filed by P against H&W for cancellation of a deed
of sale (DOS) claiming that the DOS was not signed by the W, the property
being conjugal, and that any disposition thereof needed wifes consent. In
the DOS, it is alleged that the Ws signature was a forgery. Another ground
that was mentioned was that the DOS was null and void because the H&W
are members of the indigenous people. Under the NCIP, for the disposition
of a land by someone from the IP, it should bear the approval of the NCIP.
Why? To show that IP understand what they are disposing of that it is an
ancestral land. Anyway, as alleged, the DOS had no approval from the
NCIP. However, the case was dismissed because it turned out that there
was no forgery and that the NCIP approved it. The H&W was able to
produce a DOS with the approval of the NCIP. What was attached to the
main case.
>Can it be raised at any time before judgment (like a CC)? YES, but with
Leave of Court. The court will allow filing of XC on grounds of FAME, before
filed a case (2 case) against the H (W passed away) for damages because
H rented out the property to somebody else, and that P was claiming the
court). The children filed an Answer with CC. Their answer contained
the person who filed the case. E can file 2 answers- Answer to a complaint,
nd
rentals alleging that he was the owner. But because of Res Judicata, the
case was dismissed. The H then also died, and the P filed a 3 rd case against
incurred several expenses because of these expenses from the time of our
parents by the same old man. Thus we should be entitled to damages.
Thus, the 3rd case was dismissed, and the children of H&W were allowed to
manifest whether they would like to pursue the CC in the same case or file
another case. The children decided on the former, thus the court set the CC
for hearing to receive evidence. No more pretrial. Was P notified? Yes.
FINALS
AUGUST 29, 2013
AMENDMENT
-Any correction, substitution, alteration of the original pleading.
-Underline the amended in the heading Amended Complaint
-Went to the house is changed to Went to the store
-This is done for the Court to see what exactly are the changes
made. It can also be put in bold letters (consider etiquette), but
underlining is sufficient.
-Whats important is that the Court immediately notices the changes
made.
-Can the Plaintiff amend his complaint? Yes. Can the Defendant
amend his answer? Yes. When? It depends on the kinds of
amendments made.
-1) Amendment as a Matter of Right- A matter of right. You can put
any amendment. It is only a matter of right if done once before a
responsive pleading is served (not filed). There is a difference
between served and filed.
-For the plaintiff, he can amend his complaint as a matter of right
before he receives the answer, and not when it is filed.
-Eg. Today, you receive the answer. [Since service comes before
filing (what is filed in court is one that shows proof of service)]
However, the defendant wont be able to bring the answer to Court
tomorrow. He is only able to bring it to Court on Monday. From
today and tomorrow, can you still amend your complaint as a matter
of right? No more. Because you received the answer today
(served to you).
-If as a matter of right, you can amend anything. Eg.P vs. D for
Forcible Entry. The assessed value of the property is 50K and P files
the case before the RTC. Right away, the Court can dismiss it
outright. On what ground?Lack of Jurisdiction.Even if the amount is
50K. Why? Because Forcible Entry is under the exclusive jurisdiction
of the MTC. But, the RTC was not able to see that. It took
cognizance of the case. When summons was served on defendant,
he saw that it was for Forcible Entry and was filed before the RTC.
Thus, D filed an MD grounded upon LOJ. Plaintiff receives MD. This
time, P files an amended complaint. The MD is set for hearing on
Friday next week, Sept 6. He thus files an amended complaint, and
underlines amended and changes complaint Recovery of
Possession and underlines it. Is this amendment allowed? (an
amendment conferring jurisdiction to a court that had previously no
jurisdiction super super substantial). Yes, the amendment is
allowed. Because it is an amendment as a matter of right. ONLY
ONCE BEFORE A RESPONSIVE PLEADING IS SERVED. But wait!
There was a Motion to Dismiss! No, an MD is not a responsive
pleading. What is a responsive pleading to the complaint?
ANSWER. Was there an answer filed? None. What was filed by D
was an MD.
-Thus, under this, any kind of amendment can be made provided it is
done only once.
What do we attach? The original copy. You will learn in your rules on
evidence that the best exhibit is the original document itself. At the
end, the witness signs.Since it must be under oath then Jurat.
-NOT YET COMPLETE. The lawyer who took the statement must
also prepare an attestation clause. He will state that he, as the
lawyer, was the one who propounded the questions to the witness,
received the answers, recorded it, and did not in any way coach the
witness. He also has to appear before a notary public and he himself
will testify to the notary public as to the truth of his attestation clause.
-EFFECTS of Amendments:
1) It supersedes the pleading it intends to amend. Supersedes
prevails. Prevailing complaint / answer, superseding the old
ones.Now controlling. Original complaint / answer remains on
record. Its just that it will no longer be considered because it has
been superseded.
-So in the Judicial Affidavit, you will see 2 Notaries Public. (The
lawyer who took the statement and the lawyer who subscribed to the
oath of the first lawyer).
-Judicial Affidavit must be submitted together with pretrial brief. If not
submitted, or a wrong JudA is submitted, the judge can fine you.
Finest Judges.
-In trial, the witness who has a JudA is presented. He will take the
witness stand and will be sworn in. Will be shown and asked about
the JudA for direct testimony. This cuts down the proceedings.
-JudAare attached together with the exhibits. It is submitted to the
court and furnished to the adverse party, for the latter to be ready for
the cross. (photocopies of the JA and exhibits
-JDR IS MANDATORY IN ALL CIVIL CASES. However, in criminal
cases, if the penalty is 6 years and below, it is mandatory (MTC has
jurisdiction). Thus, all criminal cases before the MTC requires the
use of JDR. But if penalty is 6 years, one day and up, the JDR will
apply only if the accused gives his consent. In these criminal cases,
who will get the testimony of witnesses? The prosecutors. Huge
implication, as it cuts short their gulf gulf time.
-For criminal cases, JDR is not applicable until January 1, 2014.
They have a 1 year reprieve to arrange logistics in their office.
However, if there is a private prosecutor, JDR applies. The private
prosec has to prepare the JudA.
-Supposing the lawyer is lazy and puts things straight in English?
Upon cross-exam of said witness and English is used, testimony can
be objected against. Once the court sustains this, the witness can
no longer be presented. JudA was wrong from the start because it
was prepared in English. So make sure you put it in the dialect of the
witness.
-Lawyers perception, not the witness.
-The JudA of witnesses must be submitted together with the pretrial
brief, at least 5 days before the pretrial date.
-On the day of the pretrial, we do not have the pretrial. Why?
Because we will have the Court Annexed Mediation (CAM). File it
first in Court then go to Mediation.
-In the Philippines, there is a referral to the Lupon but it doesnt work
because it is very political so they go to court anyway.
-Under the new rules (which will take effect probably next year), you
have to show that you have undergone 2 mediations before going to
Court (patterned from Canadian system). Under the new rules, you
go first to mediation. If it fails, go for arbitration.
-Right now we have mediation, but it is not in the Rules of Court. So
what is its authority? Check Rule 18 (Pretrial), under Section 2
(Things to consider during pretrial)- Alternative Modes of Dispute
Resolution. There must be other ways to resolve the case without
going to court. What would this be? Mediation.
-Accredited mediator is one who has undergone the necessary
training conducted by the SC under the Philippine Judicial Academy.
Qualification At least 30 years of age.
SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
FIRST HOUR
-Because we have CAM, on the day of the pretrial, we refer the
matter to mediation. If it is settled, then they have a compromise
agreement, the court issues a judgment based on the comp-ag which
becomes final and executory on the day it is executed. However, if
mediation fails, we go to judicial dispute resolution where the judge
acts as a mediator. We get the parties to come to a resolution of
their problems.
-In JDR, you do not look at the rights of the parties, but rather at their
interests. There may be rights that may be disregarded. If they
agree, the judge drafts out the comp-ag and lets the parties sign it.
The moment the comp-ag is approved, it becomes final and
executory on that same day.
-In JDR, there is an Early Neutral Evaluation. Both parties are hardheaded and would not like to look at proposals. Judge gives a
neutral evaluation of the outcome of the case based on their
evidence. Eg. You know, basing on your evidence, I think I will
judge in favor of the plaintiff.
-If JDR fails and then goes to court, a different judge will handle the
case. The parties have the right to the cold neutrality of a judge.
With an ENE, impartiality is destroyed.
-If JDR fails, all discussed matter remain confidential and may not be
used against each other in trial. Then, Judge will have the case reraffled in other courts. Sometimes, this is the Pre-Trial proper but will
be conducted by another court.
-Supposing there is only 1 MTC judge and 1 RTC judge? That is why
JDR is not jurisdictional. In single sala courts, if it is JDR, the RTC
judge does the JDR of MTC cases vice versa.
-2 judges Judge to whom the case was filed for JDR and the Judge
who conducts PT up to issuance of decision.
-Are all cases mediatable? Yes, except when it comes to probate.
-All civil cases, regardless of what kind of parties (natural or juridical),
are to undergo JDR. Regardless of their residence, undergo JDR.
PRETRIAL PROPER
-PT judge handles everything from PT to issuance of judgment.
-During the PT, the presence of all the parties is mandatory. It is not
enough that only the lawyers are present. However, if the parties
cannot be physically present, they execute a special power of
attorney in favor of a lawyer or whoever is going to represent them in
the pretrial.
-SPA, for purposes of pretrial, the authority of the attorney-in-fact
must be stated as contained in the rules (RULE 18, Sec 2). This rule
shows things to be considered during pre-trial.
-Right now, mediation and JDR are not covered by the rules. But
where do we derive authority? Look at Rule 18 alternative rules of
dispute resolution. One of the things to be considered during pretrial.
-Alternative ways of dispute resolution other steps to be taken
aside from relying on the court .
-If you cannot be personally present, the SPA should contain the
authority to enter into any of those listed from letters A to I. I hereby
give my attorney-in-fact the power to abc copy all
-If it is not all included, it merely becomes a regular SPA, and does
not contain the proper authority necessary.
-Can an SPA also be used in mediation and JDR? Yes. However, it
must also contain not only all those mentioned in Rule 18, but also
the authority to enter into settlement in mediation or JDR.
-The presence of the parties is more important than the presence of
the lawyer in the pretrial. If plaintiff is absent or has an AIF whose
authority is not complete, what is the effect? If plaintiff is the one who
is absent, the complaint is dismissed. What if the lawyer is
present? Still, the complaint is dismissed (unless the lawyer has a
complete SPA). However, the dismissal is only limited to the
complaint. What happens if there is a counterclaim? The defendant
is allowed to present evidence on the counterclaim.
-Why? Presence of the parties is mandatory.
-If it is the defendant who is absent, or the lawyer is not armed with
an authority, or there is an authority but does not comply with the
rules, the plaintiff will be allowed to present evidence ex parte (before
the branch clerk of court who is a lawyer just like in default). What
happens to the CC of the D? It will be dismissed as well.
-If their lawyers are present, but the parties are absent, the case will
be dismissed.
-But if vice versa, the court will reset the pretrial and cite the lawyers
in contempt, or fine them for failure to appear.
-If it is a corporation or juridical person, usually the president or the
CEO represents. But, such authority must be contained in a board
resolution authorizing the former (or even their lawyer) to represent
them during the pretrial.
-If the defendant with the XC is the one present, he will be allowed to
present evidence ex parte against the absent defendant. But if the
defendant against whom the XC is filed is present and the defendant
who filed the XC is absent, then the XC will be dismissed.
-During the PT, the court will now issue a PT Order (PTO). Usually,
the first paragraph of the PTO will contain the authority given to
representatives (which shall be attached and made part of the record
of the case). Then, there is a brief summary of the case. Then, there
is the stipulation of facts. Under this, there are those that are
admitted and those that are disputed (Take note of stipulations of
proposals).
-You have to be smart enough to know what and what not to admit.
When it comes to admissions, be very careful. Under the admitted
facts, presentation of evidence is no longer necessary, because they
have already been admitted. If not admitted, put it under disputed.
During trial, these are now called Judicial Admissions because they
were admitted during the proceedings conducted in court. No need
to present proof as they are the evidence in themselves. However,
those that are disputed shall be subjected to the trial. Eg. Disputing
against the signing of the promissory note has to be disproved.
Thats why in the stipulation of facts, be careful with what you admit
or deny.
-After stipulation of facts, we go to the issues. The issue is
sometimes factual (detailed eg. WON the defendant signed the
PN), but more often than not, shortened (eg. WON the plaintiff is
entitled to his cause of action).
-Because of the JAR, the parties identify and mark the exhibits. Prior
to the JAR, the exhibits are listed in a documentary manner. But
now, documentary exhibits are no longer included. Testimonial
nalang.
-Trial Dates- In civil cases, the plaintiff always presents the evidence
first. In criminal cases, the prosecution is to present evidence first
because of the accused persons constitutional right to presumption
of innocence. However, accused may present evidence first when he
pleads a justifying circumstance.
-Is there an instance where defendant presents evidence first in civil
cases? NONE. In civil cases, it is the plaintiff that claims his right is
violated. He has to be the one to present evidence.
-Usually, in JAR, 1 day = 1 witness.
-The PTO shall guide the trial. No other witnesses can be included.
Should have been included in the PTO. All witnesses should have
been named in the beginning. No surprise attacks. Should appraise
each other of evidence.
-These can now give rise to the Motion for Summary Judgment.
This motion is filed only after pretrial. You want the court to resolve
the case already, based on the pleadings, the complaint, the
admissions, etc.
SECOND HOUR
-After Pre-Trial, we now go to Trial. So what happens during Trial?
This is the time where parties present their evidence.
-Eg. P vs D and E. D has a CC (vs P) and an XC (vs E). E has a 3 rd
PC against F (E as 3rd PP vs F as 3rd PD). F has a CC against E.
-The P presents evidence first, of the allegations in his complaint. He
cant defend himself against CC yet. Next, D presents evidence as
to 1) defenses in his answer, 2) his CC against P, and then 3) his XC
against E. D presents evidence all at once. After he presents
evidence, is he done? Yes. Then, it is Es turn 1) defenses against
the Complaint, 2) defenses against the XC, 3) his evidence of his
allegations in his 3rd PC. Next, F as to his 1) defenses in his answer
to the 3rd PC from E, 2) and his CC against the 3rd Party (E).
-After everyone has presented evidence, who goes next again? It
would be P, presenting his rebuttal against the CC of D or any other
allegations. As for D, he can file a surrebuttal against the rebuttal.
There is no longer rebuttal against surrebuttal.
-There is also what we call Separate Trials. On motion of the
parties, the court may allow upon its discretion separate trials. Same
as above. First trial would be for P to present evidence as above.
Second trial would involve D as above. And so on. In separate trials,
there can only be one judgment if there is one case.
-In the first approach, all the parties have to be present, unlike in the
separate trials, the parties involved will need to be present. The first
method is the procedure adopted now. The separate trials are
discretionary upon the court.
-All witnesses are subjected to direct, cross, redirect, recross. But
now, JDR takes its place.
-This time, upon filing of postponement, there is now a fee.
-Illness Med Cert subscribed by a notary.
-Subpoena- a Court writ/process directed to a person to appear and
testify in court under penalty of law.
-Subpoena ad testificandum and Subpoena ducestecum. The first
one refers to the act of testifying. As to the latter, it is directed to a
witness to bring certain documents, books, or records to the court.
Must he testify on them? Not necessarily. Because these are just
records in his possession, and he would not necessarily know about
it or its contents.
-A subpoena is a coercive process. Fail not under penalty of law.
-For criminal cases, a witness who disregards a subpoena can be
arrested and can be made to pay a bond.
-In civil cases, the court can have the witness show cause as to why
he should not be cited in contempt for refusal to honor the subpoena.
But as an exception, a witness may be allowed to ignore the
subpoena upon invocation of Viatory Right.
-Viatory Right- if he lives more than 100 kilometers from where he is
to testify.
-However, if Kilometrage has been paid, viatory right cannot be
invoked. Subpoena must be honored.
-What if you cant afford the kilometrage of an important witness?
Check modes of discovery.
-COVERAGE OF THE QUIZ ON THURSDAY IS FROM 3 rd PARTY
COMPLAINT UP TO SUBPOENA. WHAT IS TO BE TAKEN UP
TOMORROW (SEPT 4) SHALL NOT BE INCLUDED.
SEPT 4
FIRST HOUR
-Presentation of Evidence- After Plaintiff presents evidence, the D
may file a demurer to evidence (DTE)
-What is a Motion to Acquit? Criminal case = Motion for DTE
-MD based on insufficiency of evidence = Motion for DTE
-There is no demurer if prosecution or Plaintiff has not yet presented
evidence.
-Criminal Case DTE- must ask for LOC
-There is presentation of exhibits.
-Parties are given 10 days to make comments.
-Court would either admit evidence or not.
-Court wont admit on the following grounds:
-Not material to the case
-Not competent
-Not relevant,
-Now, with the JDR, all exhibits shall be contained.
-If Plaintiff is convinced that the evidence presented is not sufficient
to reach a degree required to have preponderance of evidence, he
may file a Motion for DTE. No need for LOC in civil cases.
-In criminal cases, if the Court grants demurer, this is tantamount to
acquittal.
-If the court denies the DTE, the accused is made to present
evidence.
-If Motion for DTE is filed without LOC, or Motion for LOC was denied
and still a DTE was filed, this can still be either granted or denied.
-If denied, the case is deemed submitted for decision. No chance to
present evidence because it is not with LOC. If it is a criminal case,
always ask for an LOC before filing an LTE.
>CIVIL CASES, for DTE, no need for LOC.
-Once court makes its ruling on the formal offer of evidence, then file
the DTE right away. This can either be granted or denied.
-If granted, this leads to the dismissal of the case.
-If denied, the Defendant is made to present evidence. No har no
foul.
-If the case is dismissed, does the P have a remedy? Yes. Via
Appeal.Unlike in an acquittal (Final and Executory) where double
jeopardy would arise.
-On appeal, if the appellate court agrees with the trial court, the
former will affirm resolution of the trial court and thus dismiss the
case.
-if The appellate court disagrees with the trial court, it will reverse the
ruling of the latter, which is tantamount to denial.
-Will the defendant be allowed to present evidence? No more. That
is the danger. No longer allowed to present evidence.
-Case will be decided based on Ps evidence alone.
-Will the appellate court decide on the case or remand? The AC will
decide on the case on its own. This is because the D is already
depreived of his chance to present evidence. Plaintiff wins.
JUDGMENT DAY
-Some use the word decision. Once it becomes FE judgment.
-Rules require judgment must be personally prepared by the judge,
must be in writing, and must clearly state the facts and the law upon
which it is based.
-Decision: Facts, law, body, and dispositive (decretal) portion
wherefore.
-Decretal / Dispositive portion is the judgment because it is the one
that will be executed.
-What if the body is in conflict with the dispositive portion? Which will
prevail? Dispositive portion will prevail, unless there is a glaring error
that dispositive portion is wrong.
-Judgment must be very clear as to leave no doubt, else a party may
file a Motion for Clarificatory Judgment.
-Judgment can either be without presentation of evidence or with
presentation of evidence.
1) Judgment WITHOUT presentation of evidence
a) Judgment by default
-Allegations in complaint are sufficient
-Can also be with presentation of evidence. When? If the
court feels that
-Allegations in the complaint are not sufficient for
judgment; or
-There is a claim for damages (proven beyond
certainty)
FINALS COVERAGE
The moment MR is filed, the court may set it on the date filed for
hearing or the court sets it on its own. If the court sets the hearing,
notice of hearing is sent to person who filed the motion.
b)
Note: FAME is the same ground for Motion to Lift Order of Default. If
such grounds were already used in MTLO, such ground can no
longer be used in MNT. Use a different one (from FAME)
Fraud as a ground pertains to Extrinsic Fraud.
give due course to the appeal or to the MR? The trial court acts first
on motions that are still within its jurisdiction. The court must act on
any and all incidents while it has jurisdiction of a case. If the period
within which to appeal by either parties has expired and there is a
pending appeal, that is the time that the court gives due course to the
appeal. Appellate court will not act on any MR or MNT. It will only
act on appeals. That is why the trial court has to wait up to the last
day for any remedies from the parties prior to giving due course to an
appeal.
SEPTEMBER 11
-Ordinary Appeal
-If appeal is made before the RTC, appellant will be direct to submit
his memorandum on appeal (written statement about errors
committed by lower court and what appellant is asking for).
-Memorandum on appeal Discuss the errors, why they are errors,
and how the court should resolve the errors.
-Copy of Memo should be furnished to Appellee. The appellee has
15 days to file own Memo on Appeal from date of receipt of
Appellants Memo.
-Appellant is directed to submit Memo on Appeal first, lest it result to
dismissal of appeal. Likewise, failure to submit within 15 days
dismissal.
-Filing of the Memo on Appeal is mandatory.
-What if Appellee disregards submission of Memo on Appeal? Will
the case be automatically decided against appellees favor? NO.
Wont affect decision. It is up to the appellee WON he submits
Memo. Some appellees may even make a manifestation adopting
the decision of the lower court as his memorandum on appeal
(because appellee won in the lower court)
-As a rule, appeal is submitted for decision. No trial. But now, the
court sets case to JDR on appeal. Usually doesnt work. Reraffled to
court that will resolve the appeal.
-In a crim case, accused appeals but does not submit a memo on
appeal. Will appeal be dismissed? NO. Here is where it varies. If it
is a crim case that is being appealed to the RTC from the MTC, the
accused and the prosec are given 15 days to SIMULTANEOUSLY
submit their respective memoranda. After 15 days, WON a memo is
submitted by either party, the RTC will decide the case based on the
records from the MTC. The appellate court will still have to go over
the entire records, unlike in a civil case.
-Is there a JDR on appeal in a crim case? Yes, as to the Civil aspect
only in cases of violations against BP 22, estafa, and theft.
-Eg. P vs D in the MTC. D files an MD grounded on LOJ. MTC
grants the MD. D wins. What is the remedy of P? Appeal or Rule
65?Appeal. MD is a final order, and not an interlocutory order.
Where will P file his appeal? Before the RTC.
-If the MTC dismisses it for LOJ, who then has a jurisdiction over the
case? Naturally, the RTC. Thus, if the case was dismissed by the
MTC for LOJ, and is appealed before the RTC, then the latter will
take cognizance of the case as if it was filed with it originally. No
need for RTC to ask the P to file the case before it again. It treats the
appeal as if the case has been originally filed before it. RTC will
require the P to pay additional docket fees.
-When the case is already before the RTC, it will no longer look at the
LOJ. It will now direct the D to file answer. However, if the LOJ is an
affirmative defense in the answer previously submitted to the MTC,
then the RTC will set the case for pre-trial. But if there was no answer
in the MTC, only an MD based on LOJ, then in the RTC the court will
ask the D to file an answer.
-In the same case, the D files an answer; however, after pre-trial,
trial, and finally in the decision of the MTC, it discovers that it has no
jurisdiction (or D includes LOJ as an affirmative defense but MTC
denies it), and D keeps insisting that MTC has no jurisdiction. What
will the MTC do? Will it decide the case on the merits? NO.
Because a court that has no jurisdiction cannot render a decision on
a subject case. Any decision it renders is null and void. Thus, the
MTC shall dismiss the case.
-In the above-case, if P files an appeal before the RTC and the latter
agrees that the MTC indeed did not have jurisdiction, the RTC shall
accept the case as if it has been originally filed before it. The MTC
trial shall be adopted.
-How about presentation of witnesses? The RTC did not get
opportunity to observe the demeanor of the witnesses? The RTC will
have to base it on the written transcripts, but may require the parties
to submit respective position papers to aid the court in the decision.
Then, the case will be decided on the merits.
-Take note: This is applicable only if the ground is LOJ and it is from
the MTC to the RTC in an ordinary appeal.
-Single salaMTC, bring the JDR on appeal to the nearest RTC.
How about a 2nd one? Depends on the SC. It may foreclose any
further MR.
-For Mode 2, must the RTC forward the entire records to the CA?
Only if the CA requires. Sometimes the petition is complete in itself
so the CA wont have to rely on the records.
-How about for Mode 3, from CA to SC, must the entire records of the
case be submitted to the latter? YES.
-Are there decisions of the RTC directly appealable to the SC via
Mode 3? Yes. Decisions involving constitutionality of law, executive
agreements, Pres decree, etc. Or, WON a tax should be imposed.
Jurisdiction of the court. Pure questions of law. CA may be
bypassed.
-Once the SCs decision becomes final and executory, is there a
mode of appeal left? None. You pray.
-After judgment becomes final, supposedly for execution. However,
there are remedies after Finality of Judgment (Acts of Grace,
Consuelo de bobo) Construed strictly against party availing of this
remedy. If court finds out there could have been remedies before
finality, court dismisses this outright.
REMEDIES AFTER FINALITY
1) Petition for Relief from Judgment
-Asking to be relieved from judgment.
-To be filed before the same court that rendered the decision.
-Grounds: FAME (+AFFIDAVIT OF MERITS). However, if this has
been used in a Motion to Lift Order of Default, or has been used in a
Motion for a New Trial, this can no longer be used here.
-Act of grace. Complied with strictly.
-Must be filed within 60 days from notice of judgment AND within 6
months from entry of judgment.
-Eg. Ds counsel receives decision on Feb 5, 2013. He had 15 days.
He did not do anything about it, nor informed D about it. Because
there was no appeal, the decision became F&E on March 1, 2013.
Thus, P filed a motion for issuance of a writ of execution. Court
grants it. On April 1, the sheriff, with the writ, goes to the D. Sheriff
tells D the latter has to pay P 1M, according to the decision. D only
finds out about it, so he has notice of the judgment. His lawyer never
bothered informing him about it. D goes to another counsel on May
1. On May 15, D files a petition for relief from judgment. Was it filed
in time? YES. May 15 is still within 60 days from April 1. It is
likewise within 6 months from entry of judgment (March 1). Date of
entry is date of finality.
-What if D only goes to a lawyer on May 1, and it is only on July 1
that the PRFJ was filed. Is it still within the reglementary period? No
more. Even if it is within 6 months from entry of judgment, it is
beyond the 60-day period from date of notice of judgment. Thus,
filed out of time.
-What if he only found out about it on September 1, and files a PRFJ
on October 1. Was it filed on time? No. Within 60 days from notice,
but the 6-month period ended in August.
-Take note, the 60 days from notice and the 6 months from entry
should coincide.
-In an SC decision, PRFJ filed within the 6-month period and on the
61st day after notice of decision. The SC allowed this, saying that the
1-day lapse is negligible.
-In another case, PRFJ was filed within the 62 nd day and within the 6month period. The SC ruled against this, saying that the trial court is
correct in dismissing the petition because the rules are clear.
-Do not be misled by the decisions as they apply in those cases only.
Always be guided by the rules.
SEPTEMBER 12
-If PRFJ is denied, can this be appealed? No. Denial of a PRFJ is
not a final order, but rather, interlocutory. Thus, the remedy is
Petition for Certiorari under Rule 65. It is not a final order because
what comes next? An execution of the order. The decision has
already become final.
-When a PRFJ is filed, a restraining order or prelim inj may be prayed
for- for the court not to issue a writ of execution, to avoid the defeat
of the PRFJ.
-If PRFJ is granted, it is the same as if a MNT has been granted.
This means that the judgment is vacated (even if it has attained
finality). Thus, back to court to present the evidence which were not
presented due to FAME.
-Take note. Rule 38, sec 6. Theres something wrong. MR.
-Afterwards, a new decision may be issued, allowing for the remedies
before finality of a judgment.
-That is why a provisional remedy to stop execution may be asked
for.
The decision can still be executed but not by mere motion. Rather,
through an action. Revival of judgment.
-Eg. P vs D for recovery of possession. P wins up to SC. P forgets
about it for 5 years, and suddenly remembers that he won. Can he
file a motion for execution of judgment? No more. File an action for
revival of judgment.
-Revival- docket fees need to be paid. Motion for execution no
docket fees.
-Action for revival verification + CNFS.
-File revival before the RTC (incapable of pecuniary estimation). Will
the court go about trial once again? No need. The decision of the
court in the recovery of possession case is revived. quoting the
dispositive portion---. Wait again for 15-day period for it to be F&E
(DOUBLE FINALITY OF A JUDGMENT)
- DOUBLE FINALITY OF A JUDGMENT- Judgment in the previous
case became F&E but was never executed in 5 years by virtue of a
motion and is revived by an action and becomes final once again.
Thus, another 5 years for execution by motion.
-Supposing another 5 years lapsed and revived judgment was not
executed. Can an action for the revival of a revived judgment be
filed? Allowed, provided it does not prescribe (10 years from first
revival).
-If the delay for issuance of writ of execution is caused by the losing
party, the other party will be favored.
-A writ of execution has no prescriptive period.
SEPTEMBER 25, 2013
MODES OF DISCOVERY
-Modes of discovery- shortens proceedings
-One mode not expressly disallowed (sometimes turns out to be a
mere hearsay) such as private investigation. For personal purposes.
1) Deposition
A) ORAL: -Made outside the court. Testimony made within the
court.
-Either oral examination or written interrogatories.
-Deposition is used to preserve witnesses statements.
-Taken outside the court before a Notary Public or a Judge (different
from the judge in charge of the case)
-Expenses- to be paid by the one having the statements taken.
-If no answer has been filed yet, then a deposition is to be taken with
leave of court.
-If an answer has been filed, taking of deposition is now a matter of
right.
-In both cases, the other party has to be notified. If lawyer of adverse
party does not appear despite notification, said party deemed to have
waived right to cross-examine.
-If there are objections during deposition, these will be noted by the
NP/judge and put on record. The judge in the trial will rule on these
objections if such are presented as evidence. After transcription,
parties and witness need to meet again and verify. Both parties are
entitled to a copy of the deposition.
B) Deposition through Written Interrogatories
-Prepare the questions and send it to the Notary Public. The latter
will summon the deponent and swear him under oath. The Notary
Public now asks the questions while the stenographer transcribes the
records. A copy of the questions with the answers are then sent
back to the Ps counsel and to Ds counsel. Upon receipt, Ds
counsel prepares cross written interrogatories and sends it back to
the NP. The NP calls for the deponent once again asks him the
cross-exam questions. Stenographer transcribes. NP sends back
questions and answers back to parties. Same happens with redirect
and recross. All the results are provided for both parties.
-During trial, can P decide not to present depositions in court? Yes.
However, adverse party can present it.
-Substitution- substitute can use deposition (father- son).
-Can a party give their deposition? Yes. Annulment.
2) Interrogatories to Parties.
-Distinguish from written interrogatories - can refer to a party or a
non-party. In Interrogatories to Parties it refers to parties alone.
Party to party.
-This is used to elicit information from the adverse party. Thus,
prepare a set of questions which you will request for the other party
to answer.
-No need for LOC, just send it to the other party.
-Limit to factual questions. What Where When How
-Avoid Why
-Gives copy to the sheriff, to the court, and to the winning party.
Once sheriff receives 3rd party claim, he shall no longer take said
property.
-If winning party would like the sheriff to take hold of the alleged
property of the 3rd party, the 3rd party would have to post bond, which
is more or less the equivalent value of the subject property. Bond
answers for damages in case erroneous levy.
3) Recovery of possession
-Recovery of possession- judgment as follows: directing
defendant to turn over possession to the plaintiff. How can sheriff
execute this?
-Eg. Parcel of land. Sheriff would just present said land to plaintiff.
Thats it. If there are plants there, the defendant may be allowed to
uproot said plants without prejudice to allowing the defendant to
harvest crops when ripe for harvest.
-Supposing there is a house on said property? Remove all the stuff
and padlock the house. Tapos give the key to the plaintiff. Thats it.
-Supposing plaintiff says he doesnt need the house and wants it
demolished? The sheriff cant demolish. The plaintiff has to file a
motion for the issuance of a writ of demolition. This is clitigatednotify the defendant to give him a chance to demolish it himself.
-When writ is issued and is to be executed, law enforcers should be
at hand to keep the peace.
-Supposing it is reconveyance?
-If after the 1-year redemption period lapses and the title of the
highest bidder registered owner becomes incontrovertible and
indefeasible, the remedy is reconveyance.
-Reconveyance respects indefeasibility or incontrovertibility, but asks
court to convey property to person who files the action.
-Deed of reconveyance- executed by loser (defendant) in favor of
winner (plaintiff- the one who brought and won the action for
reconveyance). Must include technical description of property.
-The title along with the deed of reconveyance is submitted to the
register of deeds. Cancels the previous one and issues a new one in
favor of the winner.
-Supposing defendant doesnt want to execute a deed of
reconveyance? He cant be cited for contempt. However, the court
can order another (usually the clerk of court) to execute said deed of
reconveyance in favor of plaintiff.
-Defendant possesses owners duplicate copy of the title, however, is
given 10 days to surrender said title to court or register of deed from
the date of the execution of the deed.
-No registration of any deed concerning registered property will be
effected unless the owners duplicate copy of the title is surrendered.
Else, there will forever be a cloud of doubt with such floating title.
-If not surrendered, court orders said duplicate copy to be declared
null and void and orders registrar to issue a new owners duplicate
copy of title in the name of the registered owner (defendant). As if a
new duplicate has been issued kasingaayawisurrenderyungunang
duplicate, which was thus declared null and void. Now with the new
duplicate, along with the deed of conveyance, shall be surrendered
to the register of deeds. Said copy will be cancelled, and a TCT shall
be issued in the name of the plaintiff. Now reconveyed.
OCTOBER 1, 2013
4) Special Judgment
-One where defendant-obligor can perform the obligation alone. (eg.
Mandamus BAWADI to reconnect water supply.
AlangannaBeneco)
-If they refuse- contempt of court.
-Another is support.
-Action for support- one filed by minor child assisted by parent.
-Petition for support can be coupled with provisional remedy of
support pendent lite.
-No need to post bond.
-In initial hearing, if a ground is found to exist, may grant pendent lite
while case goes on (pending litigation)
-Why is it a special judgment? Because only the father can give the
support. If the father dies, the case dies as well. If the child dies, the
case dies as well.
-This is also a continuing judgment. The court may grant increase
even after 5 years from finality of judgment (eg. Growing child needs
bigger support)
-What if mother of child refuses support because she has a stable job
but then loses her job and files an action for the execution of the
PROVISIONAL REMEDIES
Provisional means temporary.
These remedies cannot be filed on their own. They have to be
coupled with the main action.
Again, remember why a person files a civil case, because there is a
cause of action.
How will you get temporary relief or resolution to keep defendant
from violating your right?Through provisional remedies.
Kinds of Provisional Remedies (Rules 56-60):
1. Attachment
2. Preliminary Injunction
3. Receivership
4. Replevin
5. Support Pendente Lite
What is common among the first four remedies? It may be obtained
through the mere execution of an affidavit (why he is availing of
such remedy).
Kinds:
1.
2.
Take note that the 20 days includes the 72 hours (so bale 17 days
extension nalang). Posting of bond is required. If judge finds no
urgency and does not issue a TRO (reconcile this with notes
highlighted in blue), the judge will set the case for hearing to
determine whether a writ of preliminary injunction will issue. The
applicant plaintiff has to prove that he really has a right that will be
protected by the injunction. Upon issuance of preliminary injunction,
it will mean that defendant cant do what he is doing while case is
pending. If plaintiff cant prove that they really have a right, the
injunction becomes permanent.
-Extended TRO for CA 60 days. For SC- until lifted.
-There is a law that prohibits courts from issuing TRO or prelim
injunction against public infrastructure projects.
-Unconstitutional tax measure- no injunction. Rather, pay tax under
protest.
3) Receivership
-Receiver- 3rd party appointed and tasked by the court to administer
the property subject of the litigation.
-Main action
-Eg. Husband mismanages properties so wife wants to be appointed
as administrator so she files a petition for appointment as
administrator of conjugal properties (main action) and asks a
provisional remedy for receivership to prevent all properties from
dissipating while case is pending. The court will appoint a receiver to
manage the properties, to preserve it up to end of trial.
-Who can the court appoint? Both the wife and husband may
recommend, but the court chooses. Receiver answers only to the
court.
-2 bonds- Receiverships bond and receivers bond.
-Receivership bond posted by wife which husband might sustain
because of deprivation of administrative powers.
-Receivers bond- posted by receiver supposing he might mismanage
the property.
-Receivers get a salary chargeable against expenses of
administration. If job is done, accounting and inventory is conducted
by said receiver. Afterwards, get bond back.
-Receiver manages property while case is pending.
-Receivership bond cannot be applied for ex parte. Always with
hearing.
-Provisional remedy of receivership may be provided at a latter stage
or at the end (eg when conjugal partnership of gains is dissolved and
remaining is put in trust for children) receiver in aid of execution.
4) Replevin
-Main action- Recovery of personal property with prayer for the writ of
replevin.
-The first 3 provrems- the court sets the bond.
-In replevin, the applicant himself sets the bond based on the affidavit
he executes.
-Eg. Car company sells car to buyer via downpayment and then
installment. Buyer defaults in installment, so acceleration clause
occurs. Since full purchase price not paid, ownership still belongs to
company. Thus, company files recovery of personal prop with prayer
for writ of replevin. In its affidavit, it will state that it is the owner of
the car, along with the market value of the car, the latter becoming
the basis of the bond. However, the bond will be twice the amount of
the fair market value. When the company files the complaint along
with the affidavit, this must contain the bond, because replevin is
issued ex parte. All that is issued ex parte cannot be executed
without acquiring jurisdiction over defendant. The court needs
-If in attachment there is a counter-bond, here there is a redelivery
bond.
-The defendant is given 5 days to file redelivery bond which is the
same amount as the bond.
-Where to file for recovery of personal property- depends on the
value of the personal property (jurisdictional amount)
OCTOBER 5, 2013
6) Expropriation
-Eminent Domain is the right (substantive). This is how it used to be
called.
-How is it enforced? Through expropriation proceedings.
-Filed before the RTC- incapable of pecuniary estimation.
-2 stages of trial:
a) propriety of expropriation
-If there is no payment within said period, the court will order the sale
of the real estate at a public auction to the highest bidder.
Thereafter, sheriff issues a certificate of sale which is registered with
the appropriate register of deeds (place where property is located)
and such is the operative act that will start the 1-year right of
redemption.
-Distinguish Equity of redemption vs Right of redemption.
-If not redeemed in 1 year, the sheriff issues a final cert of sale which
consolidates title.
-Supposing the real property is sold at 900K during public auction
(but the debt was at 1M), so there is still a balance of 100K. Ask the
court for a deficiency judgment. Orders defendant still to be liable for
100k, in spite of the sale.
-How is deficiency judgment executed? Through an ordinary action
for sum of money.
-What you should only know is the what is equity of redemption and
what is right of redemption- kunana.
-Mam: Question?
-Franco: Maam what is the
-Sorry guysnakakabaliw mag-type ng derederetso
-If paid in the given time (within equity of redemption), then there is a
cancellation of the mortgage, and title becomes clean again.
8) Partition
-This provision is for real property. But can you partition personal
property? Yes if it is divisible (kabans of rice)
-What if indivisible, such as a vehicle? Then sell it and partition the
money.
-The partition in special civil action usually covers real estate.
-There are 2 stages in partition.
a) First Stage: (not named)
-Establish propriety of partition.
-Prove co-ownership. The reason for partition is because there is a
co-ownership. Co-owners have no specific ownership.
-Prescriptive period within which to file a case of partition?
Imprescriptible.
-Eg. Co-owners A, B, and C. A repudiates co-ownership. A says,
excuse me, I am the only owner of the property because I spent on
it, made improvements upon it, and paid taxes for it. And you B and
C, you did nothing NOTHING! You just enjoyed the fruits of my
labor. Therefore, I am now the owner of this property. In short, A is
repudiating the co-ownership, declaring that he is the sole owner.
Yet, the title is in the name of A, B, and C. Can B and C still file
partition? No more because A repudiated the co-ownership. So
whats the remedy? AccionReinvindicatoria to recover ownership.
And if it is to recover ownership, what happens? Prescription can set
in. Prescriptive period for AR is 10 years.
-For as long as co-ownership is recognized among all co-owners,
partition is the appropriate action, which is imprescriptible. But for as
long as a co-owner repudiates the co-ownership and declares that he
is the sole owner, then then AR prescriptible.
-So that is the first stage.
-After the first stage, the court decides that there is a co-ownership.
Is this appealable? Yes. Record on appeal.
b) Second Stage: Partition itself.
-Can be left to commissioners, or the co-owners themselves have
their partition agreement (equivalent to a compromise agreementCourt will just approve it and renders judgment in accordance with
said agreement).
-Commissioners help them thresh out division.
-Is oral partition valid? (eg. When parents point and talk bagim jay
aggapu jay kayo ijayngatoingganaijayniyog, etc. tapnuhan kayo agaapa nu nataykamin)
-VALID, provided it has been consummated during the lifetime of said
parents (each sibling takes possession).
-Thus, there is no longer co-ownership to establish. Another sibling
cant file a case for partition.
9) Ejectment Cases Forcible Entry / Unlawful Detainer
-Original and exclusive jurisdiction of the MTC.
9) Unlawful Detainer
-Common in Baguio City.
-Every right to remain in the property, but upon losing right, you are
asked to leave.
-Must a demand be made for the person to vacate?
-If ground is expiration of an express contract, NO DEMAND is
necessary (Eg. Contract of lease with specific date, nonrenewable)
-Upon end of contract, there is now illegal detention of the property,
the person being aware of the conditions of the contract, thus not
necessitating notice or demand.
-Supposing there is no written contract? Period will depend on
payment of rent (eg. Monthly, edi monthly.Weekly, edi weekly.Daily,
etc. Hourly, ibanayan. Short time)
-Implied contract- There is NEED OF DEMAND, so that lessee will be
aware that he is no longer authorized to occupy.
-What if the ground of the unlawful detainer is nonpayment of rent? 2
demands must be made: A demand to pay and a demand to vacate.
-What if the grounds are based on other violations of the contract?
(eg. Subleasing, overcapacity, turned into a sari sari store, etc) if the
grounds are violations of other provisions of the lease contract, then
demand is necessary.
-What kind of damages can be collected in unlawful detainer?
Rentals and reasonable attorneys fees.None other.
-What if lessee has not been paying city services. Will a case for
unlawful detainer and damages (covering elec bill, water, phone bills,
etc) prosper? No. A special civil action and an ordinary civil action
cannot be joined (remember limitations?)
imprisonment, and even both, especially if the judge does not like
your face.
-Contempt- disrespect and disobedience of the court. The court
deserves every respect it can get. Judiciary is among the 3 pillars of
the government.
a) Direct contempt- if sign of disrespect is done within the sight and
hearing of the judge.
Anything that serves disrespect or
disturbs/disrupts the proceedings.
-Summary. No need for a proper charge or hearing.
-Will there be a service of sentence right away? Yes. Brought to jail,
pay, or both.
-Eg. Honking lawyer, drunk janitor.
-Penalties in MTC is different from that of the higher courts.
-Higher penalty in direct contempt, vs indirect.
b) Indirect contempt- opposite of direct.
-If it is not within sight and hearing, or disobedience (eg. TRO).Or
refusal to allow inspection/ survey.
-Indirect contempt needs a proper charge or petition.
-All the special civil actions are original / initiatory actions, so
they require verification and CNFS, and payment of docket fees
(except Direct contempt. Summary)
-In indirect contempt, you have to have a petition. But if it is in
connection to the main case, then a motion is fine.
-There will be a hearing.
-Remedies of person cited in contempt.
-Direct contempt:
-File a petition for certiorari under rule 65.
-Judge is pikon, thus grave abuse of discretion.
-Indirect contempt:
-Appeal the decision in the hearing of the indirect contempt case.
-Read on the penalties of contempt.
-Ended the lecture with the story of the weird and wild prosecutor
who ended up being decided upon by Judge M.
Super verbatim: coverage of exam from judgment..ay no nonono,
from remedie - from remedies before finality up to special civil
actions. Bring your notebook but DO NOT WRITE anything on it.
Leave it blank, leave it blank from back to front. And bring your
permit. Ok? So, can we have lunch now? Okay, so lets have
lunch.
END OF CIVIL
PROCEDURE