Case 1. Rape and RA 7610. Our team obtained a dismissal order from the Regional Trial Court, Branch 73, Olongapo City for our client – a former US Navy Serviceman who was accused of various crimes of Rape, and violation of RA 7610 (Child Abuse Law) and Acts of Lasciviousness at the Regional Trial Court of Olongapo City. The case was filed by his Filipino wife for and on behalf of her minor daughter from another man. Our client vehemently denied the charges and viewed them as harassment and retaliatory suits because of the previous annulment case that he filed against his wife. We timely raised the issue of a serious violation of the constitutional right of our client to speedy trial due to the unreasonable delay of the prosecution to prosecute the case.
Case 2. Bigamy. Our team successfully secured a dismissal order for our client from the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court (RTC). While his first marriage occurred in Muntinlupa City, the second marriage was held in Australia. This second marriage was registered with both the Philippine Embassy in Australia and subsequently with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA, formerly NSO). Upon learning of the second marriage, the first wife filed a bigamy case, leading to our client’s arrest at NAIA upon his return to the Philippines.
We proactively filed a Motion to Quash the Bigamy Information before arraignment. Our argument centered on the court’s lack of jurisdiction over the case. Since the second marriage occurred outside Philippine territory, and none of the exceptions outlined in Article 2 of the Revised Penal Code applied, the Muntinlupa RTC rightfully upheld our motion and dismissed the case.
Case 3. Violation of RA 9262 (Psychological Abuse). Our team achieved a complete victory for our client in the Manila Regional Trial Court, Branch 43, securing his acquittal on charges of psychological abuse under Republic Act No. 9262 (RA 9262). The complainant alleged illicit marital relations causing mental or emotional anguish and public humiliation.
The case presented unique difficulties. Initially archived due to our client’s absence in Singapore, it was reactivated upon the Department of Foreign Affairs revoking his passport. We advised his return to face the charges and facilitated his travel back, including securing bail upon arrival.
Facing a formidable opponent – a former Caloocan City chief prosecutor representing the private complainant – we meticulously built a strong defense. We presented compelling evidence refuting the claims of psychological abuse. Additionally, our motion resulted in the initial presiding judge recusing themself from the case.
This successful outcome demonstrates our team’s dedication to vigorously defending our clients, even in complex and high-stakes situations.
