Tag: Family Law

  • A Complete Guide to Annulment in the Philippines: Process, Requirements, Timeline, and Costs

    A Complete Guide to Annulment in the Philippines: Process, Requirements, Timeline, and Costs

    I. Introduction: The Reality of Marriage Dissolution in the Philippines Some marriages aren’t meant to last forever. In fact, the law may even recognize that certain marriages should never have existed in the first place. Married life can be challenging, and it becomes even more difficult when the relationship began under unhealthy circumstances such as…

  • How much does the entire Nullity/Annulment process cost? What is the cost breakdown?

    How much does the entire Nullity/Annulment process cost? What is the cost breakdown?

    Item Fee/Amount Range Remarks Attorney’s Fees 100,000 – 450,000+ Based on standard practice Court Filing Fees 5,000 – 10,000+ Set by Supreme Court; fee may vary depending on property included Psychological Evaluation 18,000 – 50,000+ Professional Fee of psychiatrist or psychologist Publication (if required) 5,000 – 35,000+ For summons by publication Miscellaneous/Incidental expenses 5,000 –…

  • When Is a Marriage “Never Existed” vs. “Can Still Be Fixed”?

    When Is a Marriage “Never Existed” vs. “Can Still Be Fixed”?

    Understanding the Fundamental Difference Between a Declaration of Nullity and Annulment A declaration of nullity applies to a marriage that was void from the very beginning—as if it never existed at all—while an annulment applies to a voidable marriage that was valid until a court declares it annulled. Yet, even for void marriages, Philippine law…

  • Sole Parental Authority of Mothers Over Illegitimate Children in the Philippines

    Sole Parental Authority of Mothers Over Illegitimate Children in the Philippines

    Parents often encounter legal and practical challenges when it comes to child custody, especially in situations involving travel or relocation abroad. One common concern arises when a child is born outside of marriage and embassies or immigration offices ask for the biological father’s consent to issue a visa or allow travel. This situation can be…

  • Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate: Why Is It Necessary?

    Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate: Why Is It Necessary?

    At our law office, we’ve handled numerous cases involving extrajudicial settlement of estate, and one of the most common questions we get from clients is: Why do we need this? Many assume that once a loved one passes away, their heirs can immediately take possession of the assets without any legal formalities. However, that’s not…

  • Filing for Annulment While Living Abroad

    Filing for Annulment While Living Abroad

    Are you a Filipino currently residing abroad but seeking to file for annulment in the Philippines? Recent amendments to the rules have made the process more accessible. Philippine law recognizes that Filipinos abroad may need to seek annulment. Under the January 24, 2023 Amended Guidelines and Rules issued by the Supreme Court, here’s what you…

  • Understanding Annulment Proceedings in the Philippines

    Understanding Annulment Proceedings in the Philippines

    Developments in Jurisprudence on the Nullity of Marriage in the Philippines Marriage is a lifelong commitment, but not all marriages are legally valid. In the Philippines, the nullity of marriage is governed by the Family Code, and over the years, jurisprudence has refined the interpretation of laws regarding void marriages. Judicial Declaration of Nullity is…