12 Philippine Free Legal Advice Groups

by | Updated: May 12, 2023 | Blog, Other Practice Areas

Scales of Justice

This is a list of free legal advice organizations in the Philippines.

I sincerely hope this helps everyone better access the courts.

I provide a starting point but you would have to call or go to the actual organizations to clarify actual requirements, telephone numbers or the detailed processes of how to avail of these services.

Take note, I may not be able to answer questions on how to apply since I have not been through the process as an applicant. .

It is best to get in touch with the actual organization itself.

They would know the details best.

Government Organizations

Government offices are available nationwide.
They are the go-to source for legal advice for child support, criminal issues or labor concerns.
Find their contact information and other available data below.

Public Attorney's Office

1. Public Attorney’s Office

Area Served: Nationwide

Contact Information:
Address: Located in your local hall of justice which is usually in the municipal or town hall.
Website: http://www.pao.gov.ph/

Focus: The PAO only serves those whose income is less than the amount identified below.

  • Php 14,000 for Metro Manila
  • Php 13,000 for other cities
  • Php 12,000 elsewhere

They cannot not serve in cases where:

  • When there is a conflict of interest
  • Have higher income than that which is indicated above
  • Defend in a bouncing checks case
  • Prosecute criminal cases
  • Adoption cases except where the adopter is the biological parent or step-parent of the adoptee

Requirements:

  • An Affidavit of Indigency
  • Latest Income Tax Return or pay slip or other proofs of income
  • Certificate of Indigency from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, its local District Office, or the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office having jurisdiction over the residence of the applicant

Notes:

The PAO is your go-to source for free legal aid and should be considered especially if your need is urgent and income is tight.

The difference between a PAO lawyer and a private lawyer is in their workload and in the continuity of their service.

A PAO lawyer handled 458 cases on average in 2017 while a private lawyer might only handle 40. This means less time per client.

In addition, there is frequent turnover for cases meaning that your PAO lawyer will likely change over the course of the case. An average case can take years so you might work with many lawyers over time.

DOLE logo

2. Department of Labor and Employment

Area Served: Nationwide

Contact Information:

Address:
Main Office: Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Philippines.
Local DOLE offices can be found all over the country but you’d have to locate what the nearest one is.
Telephone: 1349 from landlines
Email: https://www.dole.gov.ph/queries/submit

Focus: Only labor related complaints

Requirements: Please check with your local DOLE

Department of Social Welfare and Development Logo

3. Department of Social Welfare and Development

Area Served: Nationwide

Contact Information:

Address:
Main Office: 389 San Rafael Street corner Legarda Street, Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines
Local DSWD offices can be found all over the country but you’d have to locate what the nearest one is.
Telephone: +63-2-733-0010 to 18
Email: foncr@dswd.gov.ph

Focus: Only social work complaints such as women and children issues

Requirements: Please check with your local DSWD

Special Interest Groups

Office Tower of a Special Interest Group

Special interest legal aid groups give assistance to a particular cause.
They may serve human rights goals or cater to marginalized sectors of society.
Although they may take cases that are nationwide, they are only found in a few areas.

Saligan Logo

4. Saligan

Area Served: Naga and Davao

Contact Information:

Address: G/F Hoffner Building, Social Development Complex, Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights, Quezon City, Philippines
Telephone: (632) 426-6001 loc. 4858-4860
Email: aligan@saligan.org

Focus: Handles women, workers, the urban poor, indigenous, moro and peace

Requirements: Call or go in person to see what is possible.

FLAG Logo

5. Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG)

FLAG Logo
Area Served: Nationwide

Contact Information:

Address: Room 116 Alumni Center Annex, Magsaysay Avenue, UP Campus, Diliman, Quezon City
Telephone: +63 2 920 5132
Website: http://flagfaqs.blogspot.com/
Email: flag@flag.com.ph

Focus: Human rights

Requirements: Call or go in person to see what is possible.

University Legal Aid Offices

University Teacher with a Blackboard

Universities with legal programs have free aid clinics.
Run by senior law students under the supervision of a practicing lawyer, they often accept cases for indigents.
I’ve listed several but check universities near you as well.

Ateneo De Manila Law

6. Ateneo Legal Services Center (ALSC)

Area Served: Makati and Mandaluyong

Contact Information:

Address: 20 Rockwell Drive, Rockwell Center 1200 Makati City, Philippines
Telephone: +63 (02) 899-7691 ext. 2113
Website: http://www.ateneo.edu/aps/law/ateneo-law-center/ateneo-legal-services-center
Email: alsc.law@ ateneo.edu

Focus: ALSC only serves indigent clients with:

  • Php 14,000 for Metro Manila
  • Php 13,000 for other cities
  • Php 12,000 elsewhere

They cannot not serve in cases where for:

  • Sum of money
  • Annulment
  • Bouncing checks case
  • Forfeiture or
  • Other cases that are not consistent with the indigency claim.

Requirements:

  • An affidavit of indigency
  • Latest Income Tax Return or pay slip or other proofs of income
  • Certificate of Indigency from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, its local District Office, or the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office having jurisdiction over the residence of the applicant
  • Latest Income Tax Return or pay slip or other proofs of income

Notes:

Expect to work with several different student lawyers over the course of your case. It is important to know the details of your case well so as to be able to introduce each lawyer to the facts over time. Although there is documentation, it is important to fill in data gaps that may exist.

UP Diliman Law Logo

7. University of the Philippines Office of Legal Aid

Area: Metro Manila

Contact Information:

Address: Office of Legal Aid, UP College of Law, Malcolm Hall, Diliman Quezon City
Telephone: +63-2-920-5514 loc. 106
Website: http://law.upd.edu.ph/office-of-legal-aid/

Focus: UP only serves indigent clients but you would have to find out how they determine what an indigent is.

Requirements: UP needs to be contacted directly to determine what the requirements are.

Notes: As with many student programs listed here, expect that your case will be managed by several students over the course of the case.

San Beda Legal Aid Bureau Logo

8. San Beda Legal Aid Bureau, Manila

Area: Around Manila

Contact Information:

Main
San Beda College Mendiola, Manila
Phone: (02) 735-6011 local 6120
Schedule: M-W-F 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Quiapo Branch
3rd Floor Legal Council Office
Pop Benedict VI Building
Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene
910 Plaza Miranda, Quiapo, Manila
Schedule: T-TH 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Pandacan Branch
Sinag sa Sais Center
Pandacan, Manila
Schedule: F 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Focus: Serves those of limited means

Requirements: There is an application process but you would need to call or go in person to find out these details.

San Beda Legal Aid Bureau Logo

9. San Beda Legal Aid Bureau, Alabang

Area: Around Alabang

Contact Information:

Address: 8 Don Manolo Blvd., Alabang Hills Village, Alabang, 1770 Muntinlupa City, P.O. Box 402 Ayala Alabang
Phone Number: +63-2-236-7222 trunkline
Website: http://www.sanbeda-alabang.edu.ph/bede/index.php/other-links/archives-ay-2012-2013/361-sol-legal-aid-bureau

Focus: Serves those of limited means

Requirements: There is an application process but you would need to call or go in person to find out these details.

UST Law Logo

10. University of St. Thomas, RJ Roberto Concepcion Legal Aid

Area: Around Manila

Contact Information:

Address: Espana Blvd., Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines 1008
Phone Number: +63(02) 731-4027 / +63(02) 406-1611 (Local 8225)
Website: http://www.ustcivillaw.com/cj-roberto-concepcion-legal-aid

Focus: Extends free legal assistance assistance to indigents and those belonging to the marginalized sector

Requirements: There is an application process but you would need to call or go in person to find out these details.

San Sebastian College of Law Logo

11. Sebastinian Office of Legal Aid

Area: Around Manila

Contact Information:

Address: Recto Ave, Quiapo, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila
Telephone: +63-2-734-8931 Local: 313 & 173
Website: http://law.sscrmnl.edu.ph/contact-information/

Focus: You would have to call or go in person to know.

Requirements: You would have to call or go in person to know.

Xavier University Logo

12. Xavier University Center for Legal Assistance

Area Served: Cagayan De Oro

Contact Information:

Address: Xavier Unviersity – Ateneo de Cagayan, Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro City, 9000, Philippines
Telephone: (088) 853-9800 Local 9176 / 9177 / 9180 / 9181
Email: xucla@xu.edu.ph
Website: http://www.xu.edu.ph/xavier-university-center-for-legal-assistance

Focus: Specifically for the poor and marginalized.

Requirements: Call to determine what documents you need to prepare in advance

137 Comments

  1. Mark Schiffrin

    Great read!!! Thanks for sharing such a great blog, blog like these is really helpful.

    Reply
  2. Portal

    First time Ive visited your blog good find! Thanks.

    Reply
    • lawyerphilippinesadmin

      Thank you!

      Reply
  3. Stremove.com

    The Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG), in its primer on human rights, also recommends that you stay calm, not resist arrest or offer any physical resistance, and ask a relative, friend or even anybody to witness the arrest. Make sure to get the witness’ name and address.

    Reply
  4. Ivory

    Good day po! from Bohol Province. Tanong kulang po about my case of paper process for my no birth year of entry correction. Hence the the City LCR is on leaved for one month so OIC Signature ang na submit to PSA National. The town LCR told me that my document is tentative to be approved or rejected. I call National PSA they said it depend if the OIC is on there list. I ask for list, unfortunately they can’t provide. It’s already more than two years kuna pong hands own process kasi can’t afford to pay to do it for me. ANY REPLY AND COMMENT IS APPRECIATED.

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britanico

      I am confused as to the situation.

      Do you mean to say that the LCR has processed the correction and it is in PSA Main? If so, the you must follow up with PSA Main.

      PSA Main will usually have a signatory list. If this list is not updated, the you must work with PSA Main and the LCR to rectify the situation as this is an internal process in the PSA and they are the only ones who can address it.

      Reply
  5. Leigh

    Hello! I would like to seek legal advice about changing my surname back to my mother’s maiden surname.
    My parents are not married. Technically, I’ve always used my father’s surname in school even without any signed affidavit at the back of my birth certificate. But before graduating high school, my father signed an affidavit changing my surname to his because I won’t be allowed to use his surname on my high school diploma if it’s not on my birth certificate. I was just 15 years old that time. I honestly told him I don’t want to use his surname because of personal issues but he still changed it anyway.
    So, my question is, Can I still change it back? What kind of procedures do I need go through? I’m of legal age now and I really wanted to use my Mom’s surname before going back to college. Please, I’m really hoping you could help me with my inquiry.

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britanico

      If your fathers name is on your birth certificate and is reflected in all your records, it will not be easy to change it to your mothers name.

      Without knowing case facts and assessing the documents, it is not possible to be sure as to your exact situation, thus regard this as general information.

      Reply
  6. Archie

    Hello po,

    Tanong ko lang po sana kung sa anong klaseng lawyer ako pwede humingi ng advice regarding public records po? mali po kasi yun pangalan na nakalagay. Thanks po!

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britanico

      Hi Archie – Check out our birth certificate post.

      This may help you.

      Reply
  7. Pablo

    I am now annulled. However we took a property when we were dating, under my x’s name from a developer. Then when we were married the property was approved by bank unionbank. Then now I tried to check with the bank who is the property named under, the bank said it is only under my x. As same with the developer. Can I still dispute it under the court via lawyer? Can it be possible for a legal advise on this situation?

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britanico

      Sent an email.

      Reply
    • MARY ANN TOMADA

      Hello po, hihingi po sna ako ng advice about sa annulment ng kapatid ko. OFW po cia ngaun at 12 years napo cia sa ibang bansa at dpa nakakabalik dto sa Pilipinas since po na umalis cia. May 2 kids po cia na naiwan sa aken at ako napo ang nagpalaki. May suporta nmn po sa kapatid ko para sa mga anak nia, doon po sa ex husband nia never po nag support since umalis ang kapatid ko. May sarili nadn po kc pamilya ung bayaw ko at ang kapatid ko dn po ay meron nadn kinakasama sa ibang bansa at pareho dn po silang nagkaanak sa mga kinakasama nila ngaun. Ung kapatid ko po is gusto napo niang magpakasal sa Pinoy dn na kinakasama nia ngaun para maging legal na silang mag asawa. Gusto po ng kapatid ko kung paano nia mapapa annulled ung kasal nila nong ex husband nia? Sna po mabigyan nio po ako ng advice kc gusto po malaman ng kapatid ko kung paano mapapawalang bisa ung kasal nia sa dati niang asawa. Salamat po.and Godbless ?

      Reply
  8. Hans

    Dear Sir/Madam,
    About three months ago, my Filipina wife unilaterally declared she is separated from our 6 years of Common Law Marriage. She took our 5 year old daughter with her. I was not able to do anything as I was forced by her Financial Infidelity to return to my homeland to hastily get more money. She messaged me that I no longer have a family, that I should not return to the Philippines and refused to accept any financial assistance for both of them.
    She refused reconciliation and now refuse to answer when I may meet her and our 5 year old daughter.
    Please advise me, what solutions can I avail off?

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britanico

      Will send an email.

      Reply
  9. don

    Hi, may I ask what will happen next, defendant po kami, nadismiss na po ang civil case sa RTC, inakyat po ng complainant sa court of appeals, what are we going to do next po? thanks

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      There are different avenues based on what the case facts are.

      It is best you speak with the lawyer currently handling your concerns.

      Reply
  10. ces

    I have read that the Legal Separation doesn’t allow you to remarry here in the Philippines. You were just separated legally from “bed and board”. But the law says that both of you are still married. How can we get married if my boyfriend was still married and the only option for us is filing an Annulment. We can’t afford to file such case. Do we have any other option to get married? Thank you

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Annulment is the only way if he and his wife are both Filipinos.

      The other option of Recognition of Foreign Divorce would not apply if neither of you are foreigners (or not dual citizens as well).

      Reply
  11. ces

    Ma’am/Sir, Do I have any other option other than annulment? Thank you

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      If you are both Filipinos and are going through a case for the purposes of remarrying, annulment is your only option.

      If you are a Filipino married to a foreigner who is NOT a dual citizen, Recognition of Foreign Divorce is an option.

      If you only want to separate property buy do not want to remarry, then legal separation is an option.

      Note, the only way to end a marriage is through court.

      Reply
  12. ces

    Ma’am/Sir,

    Good Day! My boyfriend and I has been together for almost 6 years. The concern is my boyfriend is married before but he did not seen his wife and doesn’t have any communication for her for almost 10 years. Me and my boyfriend want to get married. I would like to seek help, on where we can apply for Petition for Presumptive Death because we can’t afford to file for annulment case. I would like to ask, how much it costs for filing this petition. And also, my salary is just enough for my everyday needs. I would like to ask, what was the process of filing this and also the requirements needed. Is my idea for filing presumptive death is right, do you have any opinion on what to do on my situation. I hope you can help me. Thank you very much

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Filing presumptive death should only be undertaken when there is a real chance that the spouse is actually deceased.

      An investigation is usually requested to be sure that someone has passed and the case can be denied for lack of proof and grounds.

      It is not necessarily cheaper than annulment and it carries risks.

      It is best to file for annulment.

      Reply
  13. Remedios

    Hello po. Ask ko lang po kung paano mapapawalang bisa yung adverse claim na pinalagay ng bayaw ko na namatay na sa aming titulo?

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      To remove an adverse claim on a title requires going to court.

      There is no other way to do this.

      Reply
  14. Noel P.

    Hi, tanong ko lang po kung ano po ang dapat namin gwin ng asawa ko, pinanganak po siya dito sa pinas pero U.S. citizen. 23 years old na po siya, pwede po b siya maging filipino citizen?hnd pa po siya nakakaalis magmula pinanganak po siya sa pinas hanggang ngaun. Ano po ang dapat namin gawin. Salamat po

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Hi:

      It seems as if this is administrative naturalization.

      I have a post on it that discusses this in detail.

      I have also sent you an email.

      Reply
  15. K2019

    I have a question on correction of certificate of live birth. Hope you can send me contact person that I can talk to regarding possible legal process to undergo.

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  16. Bren

    Hi. Can you recommend lawyers who are practicing family law… I am planning to file for an annulment case and my financial capabilities are somewhat limited but still willing to file. So can you recommend lawyers with that definition. Thank you and hoping to your soonest reply.

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  17. Anonymous

    i ma’am.. I hope you can help our situation.. My father in law died last month and left some conjugal properties, so as a son (my husband) has a right to the conjugal property according to the law, but suddenly my mother-in-law denied that my husband is her legal son, she said that my husband was adopted child and they don’t make any legal papers for his adoption, they only registered my husband as their son in PSA as late registration due to negligence before but did not mentioned about his adoption, that’s why he has a birth certificate. My husband stayed to them for almost 25 years as their son and we are all shock for this, my mother-in-law don’t want my husband to get his share in the property that my father-in-law left to us, so how can we fight to her with this situation and how to get my husband share? I hope you can answer my concerns. Thank you very much.

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  18. Cristina F.

    Good day!
    Gusto ko pong mag ask ng assistance about my situation. Gusto ko pong mag file ng complain against my ex- US citizen bf sa embassy nya. I have 2 children with him, which I have given birth to my youngest 1 and half months ago.He’s not regularly sending financial support ever since my eldest was born last year and got worst for my second baby. He doesn’t express any intention to visit us here and to acknowledge our second child, which until this time my baby’s birth certificate is still not registered. He doesn’t communicate anymore. He tricked me to leave my job and send me home promising he will support me and my children and will visit us regularly,that rendered me jobless and don’t have means to support even myself since im an OFW and the one supporting my parents too.
    I would like to ask assistance how I can file a complain to claim the legal rights and acknowledgement my children deserved?
    I would appreciate any legal assistance or advice you can provide since I can’t afford to pay for legal counsel this time.

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Hi Cristina:

      You may ask at the embassy but I don’t believe they offer support for this situation.

      If he is in the US, it may be best to consult a lawyer there to see how US law can work for you. If he is in the Philippines and permanently lives here, then the PAO at the local hall of justice can help.

      Reply
  19. Anonymous

    Good morning, Attorney. I would like to seek help in getting myself and an aunt assigned as legal guardians of my nephew (my sister’s son). We no longer have any means of communication with both parents and it is difficult for us to get my nephew a passport and update his birth certificate (there should be no middle name) without the mother’s signature.

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  20. Ruth

    Quick question: is it allowed to hire a lawyer to take care of correcting my name?

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Yes, it is possible.

      I sent you an email as well.

      Reply
  21. Christine

    I need to consult a lawyer regarding child support

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  22. Christine

    I am a single mother and I want to inquire regarding child support.

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  23. Jan Bautista

    Dear Atty, thank goodness I found this online. We do not qualify for free legal aid, though we still need help. Can we ask how much is the consultation fee for a solid breach of contract case against a building contractor who turned out be an unlicensed one. Would appreciate your reply. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Atty. Francesco Britancio

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  24. NaghahanapNGTamangKatarunganAtTulong

    Hi good morning atty. I need your advice or assistance About what happened to my father and brother in their case there’s a lot of circumstances happened that we can defend in court against to the offender but sadly we still dont have a lawyer until now. but i notice some procedure that i cant answer if its right or not. Im going to start About arresting . After the incident 15 to 20 minutes ago my father and brother decide going to the nearest police station to confess or report the said incident but when they arrive at the station they handed a piece of paper to my mom to fill up some personal information like name.age and etc. Before to proceed for report/blotter. While writing the duty desk officer asking if what happened just out of his curiosity after answering some questions they detained Without any reason or even ideas to us especially to the persons they entered in jail . Also the report we want to record on their office denied. And base on the record i check And they Already Detained for 2days Is was ARRESTED. Atty pls i badly needed your help thats not the only thing i discover . About reglementory period and inquest .We cant afford For consultIng to a lawyer . Can you please email me ? ?? Thank you so much youre responsed is so much appreciated not only for me . Also to each member of my family . God blessed

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      I suggest working with the PAO.

      They can usually be found in your local Hall of Justice.

      Reply
  25. Iya

    Good day, kanino po ako pwede lumapit about sa paulit ulit na pag message nung ex girlfriend ng kapatid ko sa pamilya ko? They had a child pero willing naman po si kuya na sustentuhan yung bata, yung babae lang po kasi lagi nanggugulo sa pamilya ko. Salamat po

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Try the PAO.

      Reply
  26. Anonymous

    Dear attys, we bought a house po from an individual, the contract I have from the seller is the Deed of conditional sale. The amount of the house is 1.1M 5 years to pay with 16% interest per year. 25k per monthly mortgage. We were able to pay 500k amount na po as of date, pero ngayon is tight na tight na po ang budget. Meron pong naka indicate the contract na if we failed to pay 3 consecutive months pwede na po nyang kunin ang bahay. We failed to pay po at ang option na nakikita namin is to loan sa bank or pag-ibig para po sana lumiit ang monthly payment namin, pero wala pa po kasing title ang bahay kaya hindi ko po ma-asikaso yung sa loan options. Ang sabi po ng seller wala pa din daw po ang title pero lalabas na daw any time soon.

    Meron din po akong napansin sa agreement namin na hindi ko po alam kung malaki o maliit na problema po ba.

    Yung seller po kasi as pumirma as witness sa conditional sale at iba ang pangalan na nakalagay as owner of the house. Ang payment po namin ay derecho po sa seller, wala po kaming resibo ang sabi po kasi nya is kung gusto daw po namin ng resibo everytime kami ay magbabayad kami ang magbabayad ng tax, hindi ko po sure kung ano po yun, kaya ang ginawa po namin is yung sa paraan po nya, everytime po na magbabayad kami isusulat nya sa likod ng conditional sale yung date, amount ng bayad at pipirmahan nya po, may pagkakataon din po na magdedeposit kami sa banko po nya.

    Ganito naman po ang status ng papel ng bahay. ORIGINAL OWNER -> 1st buyer (New owner) -> 2nd buyer (SELLER) -> KAMI

    Yung paper po between the original owner and 1st buyer ang malinis po at pirmado ng both parties, pero yung papers po between the 1st buyer and the 2nd buyer which is our seller ay hindi po malinis, at hindi pirmado ng both parties. Pero yung papers po between the seller at kami ay pirmado ng both parties pero yung seller nga po ay nakapirma as witness lang.

    Ano po kayang type na agreement ang meron kami? pwede po ba talagang mabawi saamin ang bahay?

    Marami pong salamat!

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  27. Janina

    Hello po. Ask ko lang po about Birth certificate issue. Magpapatanggal po ng middle name kasi gamit ko pong middle name is sa mother ko kaya ang lumalabas magkapatid kami. Paano po process nun. Thank you po.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      The situation, your documents and the actual birth certificate need to be examined.

      Discuss this with the LCR.

      Bring the documents and explain the situation.

      They can advise you properly.

      Reply
  28. Carlo

    Hi, can I know which one of these institutions offer free legal immigration consultation? I’d like to ask a few queries about my student visa being downgraded to a tourist visa then applied again to working visa here in the PH. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      I am not entirely sure.

      These legal groups mostly service those whose income is less than Php 14,000 a month in Metro Manila, Php 13,000 is secondary cities, and Php 12,000 elsewhere.

      I am not certain you qualify for this.

      Reply
      • Maricor

        Hi,

        Can you recommend 2-3 lawyers who are expert in annulment, marital issues and child support? Preferably the ones who do not charge very high professional fees.

        Thank you.

      • Lawyers in the Philippines

        Sent an email.

  29. Shaun D

    I have a problem with my birth certificate. I am already 25 years old but I’ve been using the wrong last name all those years since my parents insisted on using my father’s last name instead of my mother’s last name which was in my Birth Certificate. However, they made an annotation to correct it to use my father’s last name but new PSA copies of my birth certificate still uses my mother’s maiden name last name.

    I believe a court hearing is needed to fix this. How much will this cost me in total? My father contacted some people and he said it will need a court hearing and a lawyer which will cost 150000-200000. Are there any alternatives?

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  30. Loth

    Hi, may ma recommend po ba kayo na lawyers specialization anf lands and properties? thanks

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  31. Joe

    Hello po! It may sound like a joke po pero I would really like to change my name legally. I like to change my first name, not my middle name nor my last name, just my first name. Is it possible po ba to change my first name legally? If it is possible po, how? I can’t seem to find any article po kasi about legally changing first names here in the Philippines. Hopefully you can help me about this!! Thank you and more power!!

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Hi:

      Yes you can change your name.

      However, it will require going to court.

      The legal basis is found in RA 9048:

      Section 4. Grounds for Change of First Name or Nickname. – The petition for change of first name or nickname may be allowed in any of the following cases:

      (1) The petitioner finds the first name or nickname to be ridiculous, tainted with dishonor or extremely difficult to write or pronounce.

      (2) The new first name or nickname has been habitually and continuously used by the petitioner and he has been publicly known by that by that first name or nickname in the community: or

      (3) The change will avoid confusion.

      Reply
  32. —p—

    Can you recommend a lawyer with extensive experience in child support? And how much would be the legal fees?

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  33. Alicia

    Hi,

    As my salary is above the margin for PAO and other legal group, I would be needing assistance regarding marital, property and child support issues. Please send me a message.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  34. Minitte

    Hello po. I just want to ask about some issues po. My father is being summoned by a public attorney due to some of my mother’s concerns po. The attorney told me po na papuntahin sa kanya si papa para papermahin ng mga terms niya for costudy. Do my father needs a lawyer din po before signing the termd?

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      That will depend on your father.

      Does he agree? Does he wish to fight what the attorney says?

      If so, then it may be best to have legal counsel.

      Reply
  35. Jeannelle

    Good afternoon,

    May I ask po for an advice regarding po sa cousin ko na lalaki. Yung family po nila (Tita, Tito, and cousins ko po) nakatira sa bahay po namin. Ina allowed naman po namin sila na tumira especially my tita nd tito na nakatira na po samin ever since. Ngayon po na pag kasunduan po ng parents ko and family po nila na allowed po silang tumira sa bahay namin pero pag nag asawa na po yung mga cousins ko at may sarili na po silang family aalis na po sila ng bahay. Ngayon po yung cousin ko na lalaki (19 years old) nabuntis niya po yung gf niya na (15 years old) and binibigyan niya po ng problema yung parents niya kakahingi ng pera, binubugbog at minumura niya po parents niya at ayaw din po niyang umalis ng bahay. Gusto na po ng parents niya at ng family ko na umalis na po sana siya ng bahay dahil po sa nangyayari. Paano po kaya ang magandang gawin?

    Salamat po and God bless!

    P.S: nabarangay na rin po siya.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Go to the Barangay.

      Ask them for their advice on this matter.

      Reply
  36. Mila

    Hi!
    Needing assistance re marital issues and child support.

    Thanks

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
  37. Jason

    Hi. Any recommendation of law office or lawyer that could handle land and land titles concerns? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
      • Jas

        May habol pa po ba ang tito ko sa lupa na pinamana sakanya ng lola niya pero inaangkin na ng mga nangupahan? Nag file siya ng ejectment case before nanalo pero lumaban daw ng cancellation of title at nanalo daw po. Maari bang mapawalang bisa ang titolo kong orihinal lahat ng binigay ng dokumento? Nasa abroad ang tito ko at di rin sigurado kung nanalo nga sila sa cancellation of title pero pwede pa po ba ipa buksan ang kaso kung totoo nga at iprisinta na siya ang nag mamay ari ng lupa ngunit ako na pamangkin ang haharap pag kailangan sa korte. Salamat po sa sagot

      • Atty. Francesco Britancio

        Hi Jas:

        This first thing that must be done is to assess the case.

        This will mean studying all the documents, interviewing your uncle, and devoting time to due diligence.

        It’s tough to comment without this information as the situation is far too vague; the answer could be anything.

  38. Raquel

    Hi im raquel bondoc, i have a problem about my b-certicificate. The time of nso i get my b-certificate no record. Nso release me negative record. Thats why i need late registration. So late registration b-certificate done. PSA comes i have another record of b-certificate. What will i do all my legal document and government issued id is base on my late registration record. And is my true b-day. Can you help. PSA TOLD ME I NEED A COURT ORDER TO CANCELL THE OTHER B-CERTIFICATE THAT WAS ISSUE BY PSA. MY REAL OR TRUE B-DAY IS IN THE RECORD OF LATE REGISTRATION. HOPEFULLY YOU CAN HELP ME. THANKS

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Hi:

      The type of correction depends on what exactly is written on the birth certificate.

      It is not possible to assess it without seeing the document.

      First, present the document for assessment. Then, advice can be given as to the steps that need to be done.

      Reply
      • Yong

        Sir ask lang po.. Mag kano po ba ang bail nang qualified theft.. Ang kapatid ko kasi may sabpuena na natangap last week.. Mag 10days na bukas ang letter….hindi siya naka response….natakot..
        Anong mang yari sa kanya sir? May warrnt ba na matanggap? Kong mayroon man ilang days kaya nya matanggap..
        Salamat po..

      • Lawyers in the Philippines

        Hi:

        I suggest you engage a lawyer to defend your brother.

        He can examine the case files and discuss your options thoroughly.

  39. Jun

    Dear Atty. Gusto ko po sanang humingi ng legal advice regarding sa letter executed/signed by the admin manager of property mamagement office last year stating our agreement on lease that will resume this month. Pero nag resign na po yun manager at ayaw i honor nung in charge yun nakasaad sa letter. Parang na fraud or i was given false promises para ako mag agree on their terms. Saan po kayang legal assistance group ako pwede magpa advice for lower fees and if I can ask them for a demand letter for the in charge in the property management office. I hope you can help me. Thanks po.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Dear Jun:

      Most legal assistance groups require the petitioner to be indigent which means an income lower than Php 14,000 in MM.

      As you likely do not fall under this category, you must engage a private lawyer.

      Reply
    • Raquel

      Hi sa matulungan nyo ako sa problema ko

      Reply
      • Lawyers in the Philippines

        The Office does not offer free legal advice.

        However the list of free legal advice groups above may be able to help you.

        Note that you must be indigent to be eligible.

  40. Jessie

    Hello po, yung kapatid ko po basta na lang hinuli ng mga pulis dahil sa drugs. Walang nakuhang drugs sa kanya nung nahuli and hindi rin nahuli sa akto na nagdadrugs sya pero kinasuhan po sya ng pusher at user. Ngayon po nakakulong sya at binubugbog pa sa kulungan. Ask ko po kung pano namin ilalaban yun? Saan po ako pede lumapit? Hindi kami magfafall sa indigency pero hindi po namin afford ang mag-abogado. Pls sana po mabigyan nyo ako ng advice. Salamat po.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      I do not know of any free legal advice groups currently as most that I am aware of require proof of indigency.

      Reply
  41. Alias: Jade

    Hi po. Kanino po pwedeng lumapit kung about cyber libel pero ang monthly income ko po ay mataas sa nabanggit na income for PAO – single parent. Thank you po.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Try going to the PNP Cyber Crimes unit.

      Reply
  42. Renz

    We filed RA 7610 (Acts of Laschivousness) to my daughter’s teacher. The case was filed last year and at the time the incident happened she was just 10 years old. The defendant is on bail. Our case is handled by a Prosecutor and the case havn’t been to trial yet because 2 months ago the defendant filed motion for inhibition and it was granted. We would like to get a private lawyer but the thing is we will not qualify as indigent. Our income is enough to sustain us with our needs. Hope you could recommend a lawyer that is good in handling child abuse case that will not cost a fortune. Looking forward for your recommendation. Thank you and God bless!

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Dear Renz:

      I am sorry for the situation.

      The Office currently does not handle pro bono cases.

      There may be some special interest groups that can take this on, but the ones I am familiar with require their clients to be indigent.

      Reply
  43. Alias: Alex

    Hi

    We need help with free or low fee legal assistance in a case against us: Petition for cancellation of simulated certificate of live birth

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Hi:

      We currently have no pro bono program.

      Have you tried working with the Public Attorney’s office?

      Reply
  44. Joy de Jemel

    Hi,

    May we ask where can we have a free legal assistance about lands? This is for our senior citizen father who’s having a battle with his 2 brothers regarding the small piece of land. The mother title was named after 2 brothers since most of the other siblings are jobless including my father who are not capable to produce certain documents. Then last year, my father asked his siblings including the two if he can have his share transferred to his name. The two brothers agreed with a signed deed of sale. Through the help of my younger sister from her little bonus, our father was able to got his share about 50sqm from the mother title. It was placed under his name legally last June 2018 following all the LRA requirements and necessary payments. Then, one of his two brothers started to assault our father learning that we secured a land title. He didn’t stop assaulting and pestering our father especially when he found out that my sister will build a new house in our land for our jobless parents. He eventually asked the other brother to stopped the house construction even we have an approved building permit and just last month they both attacked and threatened our father that they will not stop until they got back the land. They can’t accept the truth and even accused my sister that we faked all the land pertaining documents. Lastly, just the other day, one of the two brothers informed their other siblings that he will file a case against my father for blocking his already built house. The part of my father is actually at the front of his brother’s house but to avoid issues and conflict, the original designed of our father’s house was changed and adjusted making it smaller compare from the agreed portion and land title. Also, that was the approved layout by the Municipal Engineer when we applied for building permit. The brother don’t want to accept it and seek an attorney. Now, we are concern on the safety of our father especially that he has been assaulted several times plus we want to be ready for any questions legally. We do not have means to get a private lawyer as I, myself is a full time mom and other siblings has limited ibcome only. We want to seek your assistance for us to help and protect our father. We appreciate your response.

    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Hi:

      The above list of free legal groups may be able to help as we ourselves do not currently offer pro-bono services.

      As your father to go to one of the legal groups mentioned to see if they can help him in his situation. He will need to prove that he is jobless and does not have the means to hire a private lawyer.

      Reply
  45. Easterity

    Hello… Can you recommend a lawyer focusing on annulment and adultery case? I am an ofw. I am hopingvyou can provide me one whom I can.contact through email.. I am really looking forward to hear from you soon.. Thanks in advance.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
    • Maria Luisa San Pedro

      May charge po for legal counseling? Magkano po?

      Reply
      • Atty. Francesco Britancio

        Sent an email.

  46. Naldo

    Hello po available mga resources para sa naturalization? Mahirap, kasi wala informations sa online! Salamat po!

    Reply
  47. Pamela M.

    Hello papano po humingi ng legal advise regarding sa family reunion visa processing namen magina to Germany.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      If you are immigrating to Germany, you must consult with a german lawyer familiar with these laws.

      Reply
  48. Ana Mercedes

    My mom passed away last April 9. Five days before her death, she asked her nurse to contact her friend to go to the hospital (where she was confined) since she has to give that person some orders. Apparently, my mom told her to make a last will and testament and dictated to her what she wants to be written on her will. She arrived after lunch and came back in the evening along with her 2 sisters, niece as witnesses and a notary public. The nurse was the 4th witness. My question is, is it right that all of her witnesses are her relatives, except for the nurse. They are not even our relatives!

    Hope you could help.

    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Hi:

      As long as the witnesses are of sound mind, 18 years of age, able to read and write, not blind, deaf or dumb, not have been convicted by final judgement of falsification, perjury or false testimony and domiciled in the Philippines, they can be witnesses to your mother’s will.

      Reply
  49. Eds

    Hi! I want to inquire if how much is the judicial acknowledgement of divorce acquired by a foreign spouse abroad and how long will it take? Your response is highly appreciated and thank you in advance.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent you an email.

      Reply
  50. Leo

    Blessed day po.

    I have applied for the Red Ribbon of my Marriage Certificate thru LBC since I am an OFW however it was rejected by the DFA since my name in the Marriage Certificate is misspelled as compared to my passport and birth certificate. How can I have this corrected?

    Looking forward for your reply. Thanks and God bless.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent an email.

      Reply
      • C I A Ferrer

        Hi,how can we apply for the adoption of my child from a previous relationship? My husband wants to change my son’s last name to his. He did not receive any financial support from his biological father for over 9years now as he abandoned me and the child. Please I need your help to change his last name.

        Sincerely yours,
        Ida

      • Atty. Francesco Britanico

        Sent you an email.

  51. Les

    Hello, I’m asking for my friend, where can we ask for help regarding hospital negligence?
    Please, we really need some help ?

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      If you wish to pursue a case for medical malpractice, you must have a expert witness (i.e. another doctor) to testify that there was error.

      As such, medical malpractice cases are often very difficult to pursue.

      However, you may consult with the PAO if you are determined to push through with this case.

      Currently, the office does not have the resources to be able to pursue pro-bono cases.

      Reply
      • sheila

        hello good afternoon po,
        magkano po ang fee pag sa violation of article 171 (4) in relation to article 172 of the revised penal code
        violation of article 315 (3) (a) of the revised penal vode

      • Lawyers in the Philippines

        Sent you a reply.

  52. Ana

    Good Day Atty.!

    May I inquire certain legal matter regarding Marriage Certificate.

    Is Confidential Marriage Certificate Solemnized in California by both Filipino Citizens valid in the Philippines upon reporting of marriage at DFA?

    The California Confidential Marriage Certificate requires NO witness however, in our Law of Marrige there is a NEED for two witnesses.

    I reviewed the Report for Marriage FORM and it has spaces for two Witnesses. Is it valid if I leave it blank since My Marriage Certificate doesn’t have any? Or would DFA validate it since it doesn’t have witnesses?

    Your legal advice is deeply appreciated.

    Thank you and more blessings ahead.

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent you an email.

      Reply
      • Nissa

        Hi!
        Any recommendations for anullment application? I’m not indigent however, my monthly income is just exactly right for all my bills and other liabilities as a head of the family. Pls advice where can I seek assistance for my marriage anullment application.

      • Lawyers in the Philippines

        Dear Nissa:

        I do not know of any free service that currently handles annulments for non-indigents.

        Those that I am aware of require indigency.

        We are private lawyers ourselves and do not have a pro-bono arm at the moment.

      • Michael

        Good day po. Paano po ba and magkano aabutin ng null and void na marriage wala nmn po seremonya or pinuntahan na nagkasal, means may naglakad lng nang nasa ospital ng manganak ang nanay ng aking anak. Akala namin about lng sa birth certificate ng aming anak that time 2001. Hindi ko akalain na cenomar ko advisory 5 ang lumabas sa PSA. Maraming salamat po

      • Atty. Francesco Britanico

        You will have to go through annulment to formally recognize that the marriage was void and to end the marriage and clear your civil status.

        Without going to court, you will still be considered married.

      • Flordeliza

        Greetings. Nakatira po ako sa residential gated community at ang kapitbahay ko na kadikit mismo ng bakod ko ay tinayuan niya ng semi resort ang lupa niya na around 130 sq meter. Pina pa rent niya ang bahay na meron swimming pool at mula nuon ay naging sobrang ingay na ang lugar ko
        madalas overnight pa ang mga nag re rent. Sana po ay mapayuhan ninyo ako kung ano ang dapat kong gawin, naging sobrang ingay at magulo na po dito sa neighborhood namin na private at ang mga sasakyan ng mga umuupa ay nakabalandra sa kalsada. Salamat po in advance sa payo ninyo, God bless..

      • lawyerphilippinesadmin

        You might find in the Homeowners association that operating a commercial property is not allowed. You can bring it to the homeowner’s association or you might try the barangay.

    • Anonymous

      My motherbis showing signs of dementia and it is getting worse. She refusesvto see a specialist. We have properties and bank time deposits and she is can be easily manipulated by people around her and I just received a call from the bank manager that she tried to withdraw a hige amount of money with someone we have not seen. I am an only child so I dont get anybsupport or advise. Please see what I can do to protect her and the assets from people who tries to trick her.

      Reply
      • Lawyers in the Philippines

        Sent an email.

  53. Paola

    Hi po.san po pwede humingi ng libreng tulong from attorney regarding illegal dismissal, pregnant discrimination. Salamat po

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Dear Paola:

      Please see above organizations that give free legal advice.

      They can certainly help you.

      Reply
      • amy

        hello po magkano po ang consultation for fake marriage and fake identity

      • Lawyers in the Philippines

        Sent an email.

    • Leah

      Good day po!
      Ano po requirements for recognition of divorce.we are both filipino citizen nung time of divorce ( USA).

      Reply
      • FCB Law

        At least either the husband or the wife must be a non-Filipino at the time of the divorce.

  54. cheche

    Hi magkano po ang consultation fee nyo po? for child support.

    Reply
  55. gina

    Magkano po Ang charge nyo at how many weeks process Ang Philippines Judicial Acknowledgement Sa Foreign divorce in EU?

    Reply
    • Lawyers in the Philippines

      Sent you an email.

      Reply

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