
Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Manila
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List of the best lawyers in Manila, Philippines


Atty. Rainier Mamangun

KCJ LAW OFFICE

Attorney Baculio - Notary Public

Villasis Law Center - Bar Review

Sison Reyes & Associates, Al Kanz Building

DE BORJA LAMORENA AND DUANO LAW OFFICES
30 minutes Free Consultation
Ancheta Attorneys-at-Law

Caraan and Associates Law Offices

Laygo Caliuag Barrantes Law Office
Philippines Divorce & Separation Legal Questions answered by Lawyers
Browse our 61 legal questions about Divorce & Separation in Philippines and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
- About Concubinage
- Good day from Recososa Law Firm!In reference to your concern regarding a potential concubinage case to be filed by your former spouse, allow us to provide you with substantial guidance grounded in Philippine law.Under Article 334 of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines, concubinage is committed by a husband who keeps a mistress in the conjugal dwelling, or has sexual intercourse under scandalous circumstances with a woman who is not his wife, or cohabits with such woman in any other place. The penalty imposed on the husband is prision correccional in its minimum and medium periods, while the concubine or mistress may only suffer destierro.a.) Based on the facts you have provided, there appears to be no evidence that you and your former spouse cohabited as husband and wife in the same household after marriage. This undermines one of the key elements of concubinage which involves cohabitation or the keeping of a mistress in the conjugal dwelling.b.) The mere existence of a child from another relationship, while it may serve as circumstantial evidence of a new relationship, does not automatically prove the existence of concubinage unless it can be shown that the relationship occurred under scandalous circumstances or that there was cohabitation.c.) Furthermore, your continued support for your children from the first marriage may reflect your good faith and sense of responsibility, which could support your defense should a complaint be filed.d.) Please note that concubinage is a private crime under Philippine law, which means it cannot proceed without a formal complaint filed by the legal wife, and it cannot be initiated merely based on assumptions or social media content. Moreover, you mentioned that you and your spouse separated informally in 2016 to 2018. This may be considered in weighing your lack of criminal intent, particularly in light of the consistent marital separation and lack of shared residency.As for your concern about affordability, we understand your situation and offer a reasonable consultation fee. We highly recommend that you hire a lawyer to protect your rights, prevent potential harassment, and prepare a legal defense, if necessary. We can also assist in possible legal remedies, including drafting a counter-affidavit or filing for annulment or legal separation if warranted by the facts.We can schedule an initial consultation via zoom call. Client may schedule a convenient date and time of the meeting through the below calendly link:👉 https://calendly.com/recososalawfirmThere is a 2,000 Philippine Peso consultation fee but we will refund consultation fee when client hires us after the consultation. Alternatively, client can also call or text on the below contact number +639175046510 or email [email protected] are here to assist you.
- I am a foreigner what is the quickest to get my foreign divorce recognized
- Hi, this is Atty. Roque. You need to file a Petition for Recognition of your divorce decree. You may email us at [email protected]. Thanks.
- How many years is the process of divorcing?
- Hello and thank you for your enquiry. The length and cost of the divorce process varies depending on the nature of the divorce petition, location of the court and if minor children are involved. For advice tailored to your specific circumstances you may contact a legal practitioner for further information.Please note that the above is general information only and does not constitute legal advice or create attorney client relationship.
About Divorce & Separation Law in Manila, Philippines
The Philippines is one of the few countries in the world where divorce remains largely unavailable. However, there are legal means to end marriages, such as annulment and legal separation. Annulment seeks to establish that the marriage never legally existed, while legal separation allows spouses to live separately, but the marriage remains in existence.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Navigating the complex legal processes associated with annulment and legal separation can be challenging and emotional. Working with a knowledgeable lawyer can help ensure that your rights are protected, your interests are advocated for, and that the precise requirements of the law are adhered to. They can support you in handling matters such as property division, child custody, child support, and alimony.
Local Laws Overview
In Manila, Philippines, annulment is more common than legal separation. Annulment can be granted on various grounds including psychological incapacity, fraud, force, intimidation or undue influence, and impotence or physical incapability. Legal separation can be granted upon grounds such as repeated physical violence or grossly abusive conduct directed against the petitioner, physical violence or moral pressure to compel the petitioner to change religious or political affiliation, and attempt of respondent to corrupt or induce the petitioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the legal grounds for annulment in Manila, Philippines?
Some legal grounds include psychological incapacity, fraud, force, intimidation or undue influence, impotence or physical incapability among others.
What is the difference between legal separation and annulment?
In annulment, the court declares that the marriage is invalid from the beginning. In legal separation, the couple is still married but are legally permitted to live separately.
How long does the annulment process take?
The annulment process can take anywhere between 1 to 2 years, or longer in some cases, largely depending on the intricacies of the case and the efficiency of the judicial system.
What happens to shared property after the annulment?
The division of assets and property is determined by the court during the annulment process. Depending on the nature of the property and the agreement between the parties, the court distributes the properties equitably.
How does legal separation affect child custody?
Child custody is determined by the court as part of the legal separation process based on the best interests of the child.
Additional Resources
Families in the Philippines can find support from various government bodies and organizations, such as The Philippine Commission on Women, The Department of Social Welfare and Development, and The Public Attorney's Office.
Next Steps
If you are going through separation or seeking an annulment, consulting with a reputable family lawyer familiar with Manila laws should be your first step. They can guide you through the process, advise you on your rights and obligations, assist in arrangements related to property, finances, and children, and ensure you make informed decisions.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.