Bar Matter No. 553 June 17, 1993 Adoption. Investment in the Phil.

US/Foreign Visa for Filipina

Spouse/Children. Call Marivic.
MAURICIO C. ULEP, petitioner,
vs. THE 7F Victoria Bldg. 429 UN Ave., LEGAL Ermita, Manila nr.
THE LEGAL CLINIC, INC., respondent. US Embassy CLINIC, INC.1 Tel. 521-7232; 521-7251; 522-2041;
521-0767
R E SO L U T I O N
It is the submission of petitioner that the advertisements above reproduced are
champterous, unethical, demeaning of the law profession, and destructive of the
confidence of the community in the integrity of the members of the bar and that, as a
REGALADO, J.: member of the legal profession, he is ashamed and offended by the said
advertisements, hence the reliefs sought in his petition as hereinbefore quoted.
Petitioner prays this Court "to order the respondent to cease and desist from issuing
advertisements similar to or of the same tenor as that of annexes "A" and "B" (of said In its answer to the petition, respondent admits the fact of publication of said
petition) and to perpetually prohibit persons or entities from making advertisements advertisement at its instance, but claims that it is not engaged in the practice of law
pertaining to the exercise of the law profession other than those allowed by law." but in the rendering of "legal support services" through paralegals with the use of
modern computers and electronic machines. Respondent further argues that assuming
that the services advertised are legal services, the act of advertising these services
The advertisements complained of by herein petitioner are as follows: should be allowed supposedly
in the light of the case of John R. Bates and Van O'Steen vs. State Bar of
Annex A Arizona,2 reportedly decided by the United States Supreme Court on June 7, 1977.

SECRET MARRIAGE? Considering the critical implications on the legal profession of the issues raised
P560.00 for a valid marriage. herein, we required the (1) Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), (2) Philippine Bar
Info on DIVORCE. ABSENCE. Association (PBA), (3) Philippine Lawyers' Association (PLA), (4) U.P. Womens
ANNULMENT. VISA. Lawyers' Circle (WILOCI), (5) Women Lawyers Association of the Philippines
(WLAP), and (6) Federacion International de Abogadas (FIDA) to submit their
THE Please call: 521-0767 LEGAL 5217232, 5222041 CLINIC, respective position papers on the controversy and, thereafter, their memoranda. 3 The
INC. 8:30 am— 6:00 pm 7-Flr. Victoria Bldg., UN Ave., Mla. said bar associations readily responded and extended their valuable services and
cooperation of which this Court takes note with appreciation and gratitude.
Annex B
The main issues posed for resolution before the Court are whether or not the services
GUAM DIVORCE. offered by respondent, The Legal Clinic, Inc., as advertised by it constitutes practice
of law and, in either case, whether the same can properly be the subject of the
advertisements herein complained of.
DON PARKINSON

Before proceeding with an in-depth analysis of the merits of this case, we deem it
an Attorney in Guam, is giving FREE BOOKS on Guam Divorce
proper and enlightening to present hereunder excerpts from the respective position
through The Legal Clinic beginning Monday to Friday during
papers adopted by the aforementioned bar associations and the memoranda
office hours.
submitted by them on the issues involved in this bar matter.
Guam divorce. Annulment of Marriage. Immigration Problems,
1. Integrated Bar of the Philippines:
Visa Ext. Quota/Non-quota Res. & Special Retiree's Visa.
Declaration of Absence. Remarriage to Filipina Fiancees.
xxx xxx xxx
Notwithstanding the subtle manner by which respondent connotes the rendering of legal services for legal problems, just
endeavored to distinguish the two terms, i.e., "legal support like a medical clinic connotes medical services for medical
services" vis-a-vis "legal services", common sense would readily problems. More importantly, the term "Legal Clinic" connotes
dictate that the same are essentially without substantial distinction. lawyers, as the term medical clinic connotes doctors.
For who could deny that document search, evidence gathering,
assistance to layman in need of basic institutional services from Furthermore, the respondent's name, as published in the
government or non-government agencies like birth, marriage, advertisements subject of the present case, appears with (the)
property, or business registration, obtaining documents like scale(s) of justice, which all the more reinforces the impression
clearance, passports, local or foreign visas, constitutes practice of that it is being operated by members of the bar and that it offers
law? legal services. In addition, the advertisements in question appear
with a picture and name of a person being represented as a lawyer
xxx xxx xxx from Guam, and this practically removes whatever doubt may still
remain as to the nature of the service or services being offered.
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) does not wish to make
issue with respondent's foreign citations. Suffice it to state that the It thus becomes irrelevant whether respondent is merely offering
IBP has made its position manifest, to wit, that it strongly opposes "legal support services" as claimed by it, or whether it offers legal
the view espoused by respondent (to the effect that today it is services as any lawyer actively engaged in law practice does. And
alright to advertise one's legal services). it becomes unnecessary to make a distinction between "legal
services" and "legal support services," as the respondent would
The IBP accordingly declares in no uncertain terms its opposition have it. The advertisements in question leave no room for doubt in
to respondent's act of establishing a "legal clinic" and of the minds of the reading public that legal services are being offered
concomitantly advertising the same through newspaper by lawyers, whether true or not.
publications.
B. The advertisements in question are meant to induce the
The IBP would therefore invoke the administrative supervision of performance of acts contrary to law, morals, public order and
this Honorable Court to perpetually restrain respondent from public policy.
undertaking highly unethical activities in the field of law practice
as aforedescribed.4 It may be conceded that, as the respondent claims, the
advertisements in question are only meant to inform the general
xxx xxx xxx public of the services being offered by it. Said advertisements,
however, emphasize to Guam divorce, and any law student ought
A. The use of the name "The Legal Clinic, Inc." gives the to know that under the Family Code, there is only one instance
impression that respondent corporation is being operated by when a foreign divorce is recognized, and that is:
lawyers and that it renders legal services.
Article 26. . . .
While the respondent repeatedly denies that it offers legal services
to the public, the advertisements in question give the impression Where a marriage between a Filipino citizen and
that respondent is offering legal services. The Petition in fact a foreigner is validly celebrated and a divorce is
simply assumes this to be so, as earlier mentioned, apparently thereafter validly obtained abroad by the alien
because this (is) the effect that the advertisements have on the spouse capacitating him or her to remarry, the
reading public. Filipino spouse shall have capacity to remarry
under Philippine Law.
The impression created by the advertisements in question can be
traced, first of all, to the very name being used by respondent — It must not be forgotten, too, that the Family Code (defines) a
"The Legal Clinic, Inc." Such a name, it is respectfully submitted marriage as follows:
 Article 1. Marriage is special contract of simply because the jurisdiction of Philippine courts does not
permanent union between a man and woman extend to the place where the crime is committed.
entered into accordance with law for the
establishment of conjugal and family life. It is Even if it be assumed, arguendo, (that) the "legal support services"
the foundation of the family and an inviolable respondent offers do not constitute legal services as commonly
social institution whose nature, consequences, understood, the advertisements in question give the impression that
and incidents are governed by law and not respondent corporation is being operated by lawyers and that it
subject to stipulation, except that marriage offers legal services, as earlier discussed. Thus, the only logical
settlements may fix the property relation during consequence is that, in the eyes of an ordinary newspaper reader,
the marriage within the limits provided by this members of the bar themselves are encouraging or inducing the
Code. performance of acts which are contrary to law, morals, good
customs and the public good, thereby destroying and demeaning
By simply reading the questioned advertisements, it is obvious that the integrity of the Bar.
the message being conveyed is that Filipinos can avoid the legal
consequences of a marriage celebrated in accordance with our law, xxx xxx xxx
by simply going to Guam for a divorce. This is not only
misleading, but encourages, or serves to induce, violation of It is respectfully submitted that respondent should be enjoined
Philippine law. At the very least, this can be considered "the dark from causing the publication of the advertisements in question, or
side" of legal practice, where certain defects in Philippine laws are any other advertisements similar thereto. It is also submitted that
exploited for the sake of profit. At worst, this is outright respondent should be prohibited from further performing or
malpractice. offering some of the services it presently offers, or, at the very
least, from offering such services to the public in general.
Rule 1.02. — A lawyer shall not counsel or abet
activities aimed at defiance of the law or at The IBP is aware of the fact that providing computerized legal
lessening confidence in the legal system. research, electronic data gathering, storage and retrieval,
standardized legal forms, investigators for gathering of evidence,
In addition, it may also be relevant to point out that advertisements and like services will greatly benefit the legal profession and
such as that shown in Annex "A" of the Petition, which contains a should not be stifled but instead encouraged. However, when the
cartoon of a motor vehicle with the words "Just Married" on its conduct of such business by non-members of the Bar encroaches
bumper and seems to address those planning a "secret marriage," if upon the practice of law, there can be no choice but to prohibit
not suggesting a "secret marriage," makes light of the "special such business.
contract of permanent union," the inviolable social institution,"
which is how the Family Code describes marriage, obviously to Admittedly, many of the services involved in the case at bar can be
emphasize its sanctity and inviolability. Worse, this particular better performed by specialists in other fields, such as computer
advertisement appears to encourage marriages celebrated in experts, who by reason of their having devoted time and effort
secrecy, which is suggestive of immoral publication of applications exclusively to such field cannot fulfill the exacting requirements
for a marriage license. for admission to the Bar. To prohibit them from "encroaching"
upon the legal profession will deny the profession of the great
If the article "Rx for Legal Problems" is to be reviewed, it can benefits and advantages of modern technology. Indeed, a lawyer
readily be concluded that the above impressions one may gather using a computer will be doing better than a lawyer using a
from the advertisements in question are accurate. The Sharon typewriter, even if both are (equal) in skill.
Cuneta-Gabby Concepcion example alone confirms what the
advertisements suggest. Here it can be seen that criminal acts are Both the Bench and the Bar, however, should be careful not to
being encouraged or committed allow or tolerate the illegal practice of law in any form, not only
(a bigamous marriage in Hong Kong or Las Vegas) with impunity for the protection of members of the Bar but also, and more
importantly, for the protection of the public. Technological 2. Philippine Bar Association:
development in the profession may be encouraged without
tolerating, but instead ensuring prevention of illegal practice. xxx xxx xxx.

There might be nothing objectionable if respondent is allowed to Respondent asserts that it "is not engaged in the practice of law but
perform all of its services, but only if such services are made engaged in giving legal support services to lawyers and laymen,
available exclusively to members of the Bench and Bar. through experienced paralegals, with the use of modern computers
Respondent would then be offering technical assistance, not legal and electronic machines" (pars. 2 and 3, Comment). This is absurd.
services. Alternatively, the more difficult task of carefully Unquestionably, respondent's acts of holding out itself to the public
distinguishing between which service may be offered to the public under the trade name "The Legal Clinic, Inc.," and soliciting
in general and which should be made available exclusively to employment for its enumerated services fall within the realm of a
members of the Bar may be undertaken. This, however, may practice which thus yields itself to the regulatory powers of the
require further proceedings because of the factual considerations Supreme Court. For respondent to say that it is merely engaged in
involved. paralegal work is to stretch credulity. Respondent's own
commercial advertisement which announces a certain Atty. Don
It must be emphasized, however, that some of respondent's services Parkinson to be handling the fields of law belies its pretense. From
ought to be prohibited outright, such as acts which tend to suggest all indications, respondent "The Legal Clinic, Inc." is offering and
or induce celebration abroad of marriages which are bigamous or rendering legal services through its reserve of lawyers. It has been
otherwise illegal and void under Philippine law. While respondent held that the practice of law is not limited to the conduct of cases
may not be prohibited from simply disseminating information in court, but includes drawing of deeds, incorporation, rendering
regarding such matters, it must be required to include, in the opinions, and advising clients as to their legal right and then take
information given, a disclaimer that it is not authorized to practice them to an attorney and ask the latter to look after their case in
law, that certain course of action may be illegal under Philippine court See Martin, Legal and Judicial Ethics, 1984 ed., p. 39).
law, that it is not authorized or capable of rendering a legal
opinion, that a lawyer should be consulted before deciding on It is apt to recall that only natural persons can engage in the
which course of action to take, and that it cannot recommend any practice of law, and such limitation cannot be evaded by
particular lawyer without subjecting itself to possible sanctions for a corporation employing competent lawyers to practice for it.
illegal practice of law. Obviously, this is the scheme or device by which respondent "The
Legal Clinic, Inc." holds out itself to the public and solicits
If respondent is allowed to advertise, advertising should be employment of its legal services. It is an odious vehicle for
directed exclusively at members of the Bar, with a clear and deception, especially so when the public cannot ventilate any
unmistakable disclaimer that it is not authorized to practice law or grievance for malpractice against the business conduit. Precisely,
perform legal services. the limitation of practice of law to persons who have been duly
admitted as members of the Bar (Sec. 1, Rule 138, Revised Rules
The benefits of being assisted by paralegals cannot be ignored. But of Court) is to subject the members to the discipline of the
nobody should be allowed to represent himself as a "paralegal" for Supreme Court. Although respondent uses its business name, the
profit, without such term being clearly defined by rule or persons and the lawyers who act for it are subject to court
regulation, and without any adequate and effective means of discipline. The practice of law is not a profession open to all who
regulating his activities. Also, law practice in a corporate form may wish to engage in it nor can it be assigned to another (See 5 Am.
prove to be advantageous to the legal profession, but before Jur. 270). It is a personal right limited to persons who have
allowance of such practice may be considered, the corporation's qualified themselves under the law. It follows that not only
Article of Incorporation and By-laws must conform to each and respondent but also all the persons who are acting for respondent
every provision of the Code of Professional Responsibility and the are the persons engaged in unethical law practice. 6
Rules of Court.5
3. Philippine Lawyers' Association:
The Philippine Lawyers' Association's position, in answer to the In resolving, the issues before this Honorable Court, paramount
issues stated herein, are wit: consideration should be given to the protection of the general
public from the danger of being exploited by unqualified persons
1. The Legal Clinic is engaged in the practice of law; or entities who may be engaged in the practice of law.

2. Such practice is unauthorized; At present, becoming a lawyer requires one to take a rigorous four-
year course of study on top of a four-year bachelor of arts or
3. The advertisements complained of are not only unethical, but sciences course and then to take and pass the bar examinations.
also misleading and patently immoral; and Only then, is a lawyer qualified to practice law.

4. The Honorable Supreme Court has the power to supress and While the use of a paralegal is sanctioned in many jurisdiction as
punish the Legal Clinic and its corporate officers for its an aid to the administration of justice, there are in those
unauthorized practice of law and for its unethical, misleading and jurisdictions, courses of study and/or standards which would
immoral advertising. qualify these paralegals to deal with the general public as such.
While it may now be the opportune time to establish these courses
of study and/or standards, the fact remains that at present, these do
xxx xxx xxx not exist in the Philippines. In the meantime, this Honorable Court
may decide to make measures to protect the general public from
Respondent posits that is it not engaged in the practice of law. It being exploited by those who may be dealing with the general
claims that it merely renders "legal support services" to answers, public in the guise of being "paralegals" without being qualified to
litigants and the general public as enunciated in the Primary do so.
Purpose Clause of its Article(s) of Incorporation. (See pages 2 to 5
of Respondent's Comment). But its advertised services, as In the same manner, the general public should also be protected
enumerated above, clearly and convincingly show that it is indeed from the dangers which may be brought about by advertising of
engaged in law practice, albeit outside of court. legal services. While it appears that lawyers are prohibited under
the present Code of Professional Responsibility from advertising, it
As advertised, it offers the general public its advisory services on appears in the instant case that legal services are being advertised
Persons and Family Relations Law, particularly regarding foreign not by lawyers but by an entity staffed by "paralegals." Clearly,
divorces, annulment of marriages, secret marriages, absence and measures should be taken to protect the general public from falling
adoption; Immigration Laws, particularly on visa related problems, prey to those who advertise legal services without being qualified
immigration problems; the Investments Law of the Philippines and to offer such services. 8
such other related laws.
A perusal of the questioned advertisements of Respondent,
Its advertised services unmistakably require the application of the however, seems to give the impression that information regarding
aforesaid law, the legal principles and procedures related thereto, validity of marriages, divorce, annulment of marriage,
the legal advices based thereon and which activities call for legal immigration, visa extensions, declaration of absence, adoption and
training, knowledge and experience. foreign investment, which are in essence, legal matters , will be
given to them if they avail of its services. The Respondent's name
Applying the test laid down by the Court in the aforecited Agrava — The Legal Clinic, Inc. — does not help matters. It gives the
Case, the activities of respondent fall squarely and are embraced in impression again that Respondent will or can cure the legal
what lawyers and laymen equally term as "the practice of law."7 problems brought to them. Assuming that Respondent is, as
claimed, staffed purely by paralegals, it also gives the misleading
4. U.P. Women Lawyers' Circle: impression that there are lawyers involved in The Legal Clinic,
Inc., as there are doctors in any medical clinic, when only
"paralegals" are involved in The Legal Clinic, Inc.
Respondent's allegations are further belied by the very admissions In the case (of) In re Taguda, 53 Phil. 37, the Supreme Court held
of its President and majority stockholder, Atty. Nogales, who gave that solicitation for clients by an attorney by circulars of
an insight on the structure and main purpose of Respondent advertisements, is unprofessional, and offenses of this character
corporation in the aforementioned "Starweek" article."9 justify permanent elimination from the Bar. 10

5. Women Lawyer's Association of the Philippines: 6. Federacion Internacional de Abogados:

Annexes "A" and "B" of the petition are clearly advertisements to xxx xxx xxx
solicit cases for the purpose of gain which, as provided for under
the above cited law, (are) illegal and against the Code of 1.7 That entities admittedly not engaged in the practice of law,
Professional Responsibility of lawyers in this country. such as management consultancy firms or travel agencies, whether
run by lawyers or not, perform the services rendered by
Annex "A" of the petition is not only illegal in that it is an Respondent does not necessarily lead to the conclusion that
advertisement to solicit cases, but it is illegal in that in bold letters Respondent is not unlawfully practicing law. In the same vein,
it announces that the Legal Clinic, Inc., could work out/cause the however, the fact that the business of respondent (assuming it can
celebration of a secret marriage which is not only illegal but be engaged in independently of the practice of law) involves
immoral in this country. While it is advertised that one has to go to knowledge of the law does not necessarily make respondent guilty
said agency and pay P560 for a valid marriage it is certainly of unlawful practice of law.
fooling the public for valid marriages in the Philippines are
solemnized only by officers authorized to do so under the law. And . . . . Of necessity, no one . . . . acting as a
to employ an agency for said purpose of contracting marriage is consultant can render effective service unless he
not necessary. is familiar with such statutes and regulations. He
must be careful not to suggest a course of
No amount of reasoning that in the USA, Canada and other conduct which the law forbids. It seems . . .
countries the trend is towards allowing lawyers to advertise their .clear that (the consultant's) knowledge of the
special skills to enable people to obtain from qualified practitioners law, and his use of that knowledge as a factor in
legal services for their particular needs can justify the use of determining what measures he shall recommend,
advertisements such as are the subject matter of the petition, for do not constitute the practice of law . . . . It is not
one (cannot) justify an illegal act even by whatever merit the only presumed that all men know the law, but it
illegal act may serve. The law has yet to be amended so that such is a fact that most men have considerable
act could become justifiable. acquaintance with broad features of the law . . . .
Our knowledge of the law — accurate or
We submit further that these advertisements that seem to project inaccurate — moulds our conduct not only when
that secret marriages and divorce are possible in this country for a we are acting for ourselves, but when we are
fee, when in fact it is not so, are highly reprehensible. serving others. Bankers, liquor dealers and
laymen generally possess rather precise
It would encourage people to consult this clinic about how they knowledge of the laws touching their particular
could go about having a secret marriage here, when it cannot nor business or profession. A good example is the
should ever be attempted, and seek advice on divorce, where in architect, who must be familiar with zoning,
this country there is none, except under the Code of Muslim building and fire prevention codes, factory and
Personal Laws in the Philippines. It is also against good morals and tenement house statutes, and who draws plans
is deceitful because it falsely represents to the public to be able to and specification in harmony with the law. This
do that which by our laws cannot be done (and) by our Code of is not practicing law.
Morals should not be done.
But suppose the architect, asked by his client to given by our schools cannot be used by the
omit a fire tower, replies that it is required by the graduates in their business.
statute. Or the industrial relations expert cites, in
support of some measure that he recommends, a In determining whether a man is practicing law,
decision of the National Labor Relations Board. we should consider his work for any particular
Are they practicing law? In my opinion, they are client or customer, as a whole. I can imagine
not, provided no separate fee is charged for the defendant being engaged primarily to advise as
legal advice or information, and the legal to the law defining his client's obligations to his
question is subordinate and incidental to a major employees, to guide his client's obligations to his
non-legal problem. employees, to guide his client along the path
charted by law. This, of course, would be the
It is largely a matter of degree and of custom. practice of the law. But such is not the fact in the
case before me. Defendant's primarily efforts are
If it were usual for one intending to erect a along economic and psychological lines. The law
building on his land to engage a lawyer to advise only provides the frame within which he must
him and the architect in respect to the building work, just as the zoning code limits the kind of
code and the like, then an architect who building the limits the kind of building the
performed this function would probably be architect may plan. The incidental legal advice
considered to be trespassing on territory reserved or information defendant may give, does not
for licensed attorneys. Likewise, if the industrial transform his activities into the practice of law.
relations field had been pre-empted by lawyers, Let me add that if, even as a minor feature of his
or custom placed a lawyer always at the elbow of work, he performed services which are
the lay personnel man. But this is not the case. customarily reserved to members of the bar, he
The most important body of the industrial would be practicing law. For instance, if as part
relations experts are the officers and business of a welfare program, he drew employees' wills.
agents of the labor unions and few of them are
lawyers. Among the larger corporate employers, Another branch of defendant's work is the
it has been the practice for some years to representations of the employer in the adjustment
delegate special responsibility in employee of grievances and in collective bargaining, with
matters to a management group chosen for their or without a mediator. This is not per se the
practical knowledge and skill in such matter, and practice of law. Anyone may use an agent for
without regard to legal thinking or lack of it. negotiations and may select an agent particularly
More recently, consultants like the defendants skilled in the subject under discussion, and the
have the same service that the larger employers person appointed is free to accept the
get from their own specialized staff. employment whether or not he is a member of
the bar. Here, however, there may be an
The handling of industrial relations is growing exception where the business turns on a question
into a recognized profession for which of law. Most real estate sales are negotiated by
appropriate courses are offered by our leading brokers who are not lawyers. But if the value of
universities. The court should be very cautious the land depends on a disputed right-of-way and
about declaring [that] a widespread, well- the principal role of the negotiator is to assess
established method of conducting business is the probable outcome of the dispute and
unlawful, or that the considerable class of men persuade the opposite party to the same opinion,
who customarily perform a certain function have then it may be that only a lawyer can accept the
no right to do so, or that the technical education assignment. Or if a controversy between an
employer and his men grows from differing
 interpretations of a contract, or of a statute, it is 1.9. If the person involved is both lawyer and non-lawyer, the
quite likely that defendant should not handle it. Code of Professional Responsibility succintly states the rule of
But I need not reach a definite conclusion here, conduct:
since the situation is not presented by the proofs.
Rule 15.08 — A lawyer who is engaged in another profession or
Defendant also appears to represent the employer occupation concurrently with the practice of law shall make clear
before administrative agencies of the federal to his client whether he is acting as a lawyer or in another capacity.
government, especially before trial examiners of
the National Labor Relations Board. An agency 1.10. In the present case. the Legal Clinic appears to render
of the federal government, acting by virtue of an wedding services (See Annex "A" Petition). Services on routine,
authority granted by the Congress, may regulate straightforward marriages, like securing a marriage license, and
the representation of parties before such agency. making arrangements with a priest or a judge, may not constitute
The State of New Jersey is without power to practice of law. However, if the problem is as complicated as that
interfere with such determination or to forbid described in "Rx for Legal Problems" on the Sharon Cuneta-Gabby
representation before the agency by one whom Concepcion-Richard Gomez case, then what may be involved is
the agency admits. The rules of the National actually the practice of law. If a non-lawyer, such as the Legal
Labor Relations Board give to a party the right to Clinic, renders such services then it is engaged in the unauthorized
appear in person, or by counsel, or by other practice of law.
representative. Rules and Regulations,
September 11th, 1946, S. 203.31. 'Counsel' here 1.11. The Legal Clinic also appears to give information on divorce,
means a licensed attorney, and ther absence, annulment of marriage and visas (See Annexes "A" and
representative' one not a lawyer. In this phase of "B" Petition). Purely giving informational materials may not
his work, defendant may lawfully do whatever constitute of law. The business is similar to that of a bookstore
the Labor Board allows, even arguing questions where the customer buys materials on the subject and determines
purely legal. (Auerbacher v. Wood, 53 A. 2d 800, on the subject and determines by himself what courses of action to
cited in Statsky, Introduction to Paralegalism take.
[1974], at pp. 154-156.).
It is not entirely improbable, however, that aside from purely
1.8 From the foregoing, it can be said that a person engaged in a giving information, the Legal Clinic's paralegals may apply the law
lawful calling (which may involve knowledge of the law) is not to the particular problem of the client, and give legal advice. Such
engaged in the practice of law provided that: would constitute unauthorized practice of law.

(a) The legal question is subordinate and incidental to a major non- It cannot be claimed that the publication of a
legal problem;. legal text which publication of a legal text which
purports to say what the law is amount to legal
(b) The services performed are not customarily reserved to practice. And the mere fact that the principles or
members of the bar; . rules stated in the text may be accepted by a
particular reader as a solution to his problem
(c) No separate fee is charged for the legal advice or information. does not affect this. . . . . Apparently it is urged
that the conjoining of these two, that is, the text
All these must be considered in relation to the work for any and the forms, with advice as to how the forms
particular client as a whole. should be filled out, constitutes the unlawful
practice of law. But that is the situation with
many approved and accepted texts. Dacey's book
is sold to the public at large. There is no
personal contact or relationship with a v. Winder, 348, NYS 2D 270 [1973], cited in
particular individual. Nor does there exist that Statsky, supra at p. 101.).
relation of confidence and trust so necessary to
the status of attorney and client. THIS IS THE 1.12. Respondent, of course, states that its services are "strictly
ESSENTIAL OF LEGAL PRACTICE — THE non-diagnostic, non-advisory. "It is not controverted, however, that
REPRESENTATION AND ADVISING OF A if the services "involve giving legal advice or counselling," such
PARTICULAR PERSON IN A PARTICULAR would constitute practice of law (Comment, par. 6.2). It is in this
SITUATION. At most the book assumes to offer light that FIDA submits that a factual inquiry may be necessary for
general advice on common problems, and does the judicious disposition of this case.
not purport to give personal advice on a specific
problem peculiar to a designated or readily xxx xxx xxx
identified person. Similarly the defendant's
publication does not purport to give personal
advice on a specific problem peculiar to a 2.10. Annex "A" may be ethically objectionable in that it can give
designated or readily identified person in a the impression (or perpetuate the wrong notion) that there is a
particular situation — in their publication and secret marriage. With all the solemnities, formalities and other
sale of the kits, such publication and sale did not requisites of marriages (See Articles 2, et seq., Family Code), no
constitutes the unlawful practice of law . . . . Philippine marriage can be secret.
There being no legal impediment under the
statute to the sale of the kit, there was no proper 2.11. Annex "B" may likewise be ethically objectionable. The
basis for the injunction against defendant second paragraph thereof (which is not necessarily related to the
maintaining an office for the purpose of selling first paragraph) fails to state the limitation that only "paralegal
to persons seeking a divorce, separation, services?" or "legal support services", and not legal services, are
annulment or separation agreement any printed available." 11
material or writings relating to matrimonial law
or the prohibition in the memorandum of A prefatory discussion on the meaning of the phrase "practice of law" becomes
modification of the judgment against defendant exigent for the proper determination of the issues raised by the petition at bar. On
having an interest in any publishing house this score, we note that the clause "practice of law" has long been the subject of
publishing his manuscript on divorce and against judicial construction and interpretation. The courts have laid down general principles
his having any personal contact with any and doctrines explaining the meaning and scope of the term, some of which we now
prospective purchaser. The record does fully take into account.
support, however, the finding that for the change
of $75 or $100 for the kit, the defendant gave Practice of law means any activity, in or out of court, which requires the application
legal advice in the course of personal contacts of law, legal procedures, knowledge, training and experience. To engage in the
concerning particular problems which might practice of law is to perform those acts which are characteristic of the profession.
arise in the preparation and presentation of the Generally, to practice law is to give advice or render any kind of service that
purchaser's asserted matrimonial cause of action involves legal knowledge or skill. 12
or pursuit of other legal remedies and assistance
in the preparation of necessary documents (The
The practice of law is not limited to the conduct of cases in court. It includes legal
injunction therefore sought to) enjoin conduct
advice and counsel, and the preparation of legal instruments and contract by which
constituting the practice of law, particularly with
legal rights are secured, although such matter may or may not be pending in a
reference to the giving of advice and counsel by
court. 13
the defendant relating to specific problems of
particular individuals in connection with a
divorce, separation, annulment of separation In the practice of his profession, a licensed attorney at law generally engages in three
agreement sought and should be affirmed. (State principal types of professional activity: legal advice and instructions to clients to
inform them of their rights and obligations, preparation for clients of documents
requiring knowledge of legal principles not possessed by ordinary layman, and of law. (State ex. rel. Mckittrick v. C.S. Dudley and Co., 102 S. W.
appearance for clients before public tribunals which possess power and authority to 2d 895, 340 Mo. 852).
determine rights of life, liberty, and property according to law, in order to assist in
proper interpretation and enforcement of law. 14 This Court, in the case of Philippines Lawyers Association v. Agrava (105 Phil. 173,
176-177),stated:
When a person participates in the a trial and advertises himself as a lawyer, he is in
the practice of law. 15 One who confers with clients, advises them as to their legal The practice of law is not limited to the conduct of cases or
rights and then takes the business to an attorney and asks the latter to look after the litigation in court; it embraces the preparation of pleadings and
case in court, is also practicing law. 16 Giving advice for compensation regarding the other papers incident to actions and special proceedings, the
legal status and rights of another and the conduct with respect thereto constitutes a management of such actions and proceedings on behalf of clients
practice of law. 17 One who renders an opinion as to the proper interpretation of a before judges and courts, and in addition, conveying. In general, all
statute, and receives pay for it, is, to that extent, practicing law. 18 advice to clients, and all action taken for them in matters connected
with the law incorporation services, assessment and condemnation
In the recent case of Cayetano vs. Monsod, 19 after citing the doctrines in several services contemplating an appearance before a judicial body, the
cases, we laid down the test to determine whether certain acts constitute "practice of foreclosure of a mortgage, enforcement of a creditor's claim in
law," thus: bankruptcy and insolvency proceedings, and conducting
proceedings in attachment, and in matters or estate and
Black defines "practice of law" as: guardianship have been held to constitute law practice, as do the
preparation and drafting of legal instruments, where the work done
The rendition of services requiring the knowledge and the involves the determination by the trained legal mind of the legal
application of legal principles and technique to serve the interest of effect of facts and conditions. (5 Am. Jr. p. 262, 263).
another with his consent. It is not limited to appearing in court, or
advising and assisting in the conduct of litigation, but embraces the Practice of law under modern conditions consists in no small part
preparation of pleadings, and other papers incident to actions and of work performed outside of any court and having no immediate
special proceedings, conveyancing, the preparation of legal relation to proceedings in court. It embraces conveyancing, the
instruments of all kinds, and the giving of all legal advice to giving of legal advice on a large variety of subjects and the
clients. It embraces all advice to clients and all actions taken for preparation and execution of legal instruments covering an
them in matters connected with the law. extensive field of business and trust relations and other affairs.
Although these transactions may have no direct connection with
The practice of law is not limited to the conduct of cases on court.(Land Title court proceedings, they are always subject to become involved in
Abstract and Trust Co. v. Dworken , 129 Ohio St. 23, 193N. E. 650). A person is also litigation. They require in many aspects a high degree of legal
considered to be in the practice of law when he: skill, a wide experience with men and affairs, and great capacity
for adaptation to difficult and complex situations. These customary
functions of an attorney or counselor at law bear an intimate
. . . . for valuable consideration engages in the business of advising relation to the administration of justice by the courts. No valid
person, firms, associations or corporations as to their right under distinction, so far as concerns the question set forth in the order,
the law, or appears in a representative capacity as an advocate in can be drawn between that part of the work of the lawyer which
proceedings, pending or prospective, before any court, involves appearance in court and that part which involves advice
commissioner, referee, board, body, committee, or commission and drafting of instruments in his office. It is of importance to the
constituted by law or authorized to settle controversies and there, welfare of the public that these manifold customary functions be
in such representative capacity, performs any act or acts for the performed by persons possessed of adequate learning and skill, of
purpose of obtaining or defending the rights of their clients under sound moral character, and acting at all times under the heavy trust
the law. Otherwise stated, one who, in a representative capacity, obligations to clients which rests upon all attorneys. (Moran,
engages in the business of advising clients as to their rights under Comments on the Rules o Court, Vol. 3 [1973 ed.], pp. 665-666,
the law, or while so engaged performs any act or acts either in citing In Re Opinion of the Justices [Mass], 194 N. E. 313, quoted
court or outside of court for that purpose, is engaged in the practice
 in Rhode Is. Bar Assoc. v. Automobile Service Assoc. [R.I.] 197 A. that all the respondent corporation will simply do is look for the law, furnish a copy
139, 144). thereof to the client, and stop there as if it were merely a bookstore. With its
attorneys and so called paralegals, it will necessarily have to explain to the client the
The practice of law, therefore, covers a wide range of activities in and out of court. intricacies of the law and advise him or her on the proper course of action to be taken
Applying the aforementioned criteria to the case at bar, we agree with the perceptive as may be provided for by said law. That is what its advertisements represent and for
findings and observations of the aforestated bar associations that the activities of the which services it will consequently charge and be paid. That activity falls
respondent, as advertised, constitute "practice of law." squarely within the jurisprudential definition of "practice of law." Such a conclusion
will not be altered by the fact that respondent corporation does not represent clients
The contention of respondent that it merely offers legal support services can neither in court since law practice, as the weight of authority holds, is not limited merely
be seriously considered nor sustained. Said proposition is belied by respondent's own giving legal advice, contract drafting and so forth.
description of the services it has been offering, to wit:
The aforesaid conclusion is further strengthened by an article published in the
Legal support services basically consists of giving ready January 13, 1991 issue of the Starweek/The Sunday Magazine of the Philippines
information by trained paralegals to laymen and lawyers, which are Star, entitled "Rx for Legal Problems," where an insight into the structure, main
strictly non-diagnostic, non-advisory, through the extensive use of purpose and operations of respondent corporation was given by its own "proprietor,"
computers and modern information technology in the gathering, Atty. Rogelio P. Nogales:
processing, storage, transmission and reproduction of information
and communication, such as computerized legal research; encoding This is the kind of business that is transacted everyday at The
and reproduction of documents and pleadings prepared by laymen Legal Clinic, with offices on the seventh floor of the Victoria
or lawyers; document search; evidence gathering; locating parties Building along U. N. Avenue in Manila. No matter what the client's
or witnesses to a case; fact finding investigations; and assistance to problem, and even if it is as complicated as the Cuneta-Concepcion
laymen in need of basic institutional services from government or domestic situation, Atty. Nogales and his staff of lawyers, who,
non-government agencies, like birth, marriage, property, or like doctors are "specialists" in various fields can take care of it.
business registrations; educational or employment records or The Legal Clinic, Inc. has specialists in taxation and criminal law,
certifications, obtaining documentation like clearances, passports, medico-legal problems, labor, litigation, and family law. These
local or foreign visas; giving information about laws of other specialist are backed up by a battery of paralegals, counsellors and
countries that they may find useful, like foreign divorce, marriage attorneys.
or adoption laws that they can avail of preparatory to emigration to
the foreign country, and other matters that do not involve Atty. Nogales set up The Legal Clinic in 1984. Inspired by the
representation of clients in court; designing and installing trend in the medical field toward specialization, it caters to clients
computer systems, programs, or software for the efficient who cannot afford the services of the big law firms.
management of law offices, corporate legal departments, courts
and other entities engaged in dispensing or administering legal The Legal Clinic has regular and walk-in clients. "when they
services. 20 come, we start by analyzing the problem. That's what doctors do
also. They ask you how you contracted what's bothering you, they
While some of the services being offered by respondent corporation merely involve take your temperature, they observe you for the symptoms and so
mechanical and technical knowhow, such as the installation of computer systems and on. That's how we operate, too. And once the problem has been
programs for the efficient management of law offices, or the computerization of categorized, then it's referred to one of our specialists.
research aids and materials, these will not suffice to justify an exception to the
general rule. There are cases which do not, in medical terms, require surgery or
follow-up treatment. These The Legal Clinic disposes of in a
What is palpably clear is that respondent corporation gives out legal information to matter of minutes. "Things like preparing a simple deed of sale or
laymen and lawyers. Its contention that such function is non-advisory and non- an affidavit of loss can be taken care of by our staff or, if this were
diagnostic is more apparent than real. In providing information, for example, about a hospital the residents or the interns. We can take care of these
foreign laws on marriage, divorce and adoption, it strains the credulity of this Court matters on a while you wait basis. Again, kung baga sa hospital,
 out-patient, hindi kailangang ma-confine. It's just like a common law is limited to those who meet the requirements for, and have been admitted to, the
cold or diarrhea," explains Atty. Nogales. bar, and various statutes or rules specifically so provide. 25 The practice of law is not
a lawful business except for members of the bar who have complied with all the
Those cases which requires more extensive "treatment" are dealt conditions required by statute and the rules of court. Only those persons are allowed
with accordingly. "If you had a rich relative who died and named to practice law who, by reason of attainments previously acquired through education
you her sole heir, and you stand to inherit millions of pesos of and study, have been recognized by the courts as possessing profound knowledge of
property, we would refer you to a specialist in taxation. There legal science entitling them to advise, counsel with, protect, or defend the rights
would be real estate taxes and arrears which would need to be put claims, or liabilities of their clients, with respect to the construction, interpretation,
in order, and your relative is even taxed by the state for the right to operation and effect of law. 26 The justification for excluding from the practice of law
transfer her property, and only a specialist in taxation would be those not admitted to the bar is found, not in the protection of the bar from
properly trained to deal with the problem. Now, if there were other competition, but in the protection of the public from being advised and represented
heirs contesting your rich relatives will, then you would need a in legal matters by incompetent and unreliable persons over whom the judicial
litigator, who knows how to arrange the problem for presentation department can exercise little control.27
in court, and gather evidence to support the case. 21
We have to necessarily and definitely reject respondent's position that the concept in
That fact that the corporation employs paralegals to carry out its services is not the United States of paralegals as an occupation separate from the law profession be
controlling. What is important is that it is engaged in the practice of law by virtue of adopted in this jurisdiction. Whatever may be its merits, respondent cannot but be
the nature of the services it renders which thereby brings it within the ambit of the aware that this should first be a matter for judicial rules or legislative action, and not
statutory prohibitions against the advertisements which it has caused to be published of unilateral adoption as it has done.
and are now assailed in this proceeding.
Paralegals in the United States are trained professionals. As admitted by respondent,
Further, as correctly and appropriately pointed out by the U.P. WILOCI, said there are schools and universities there which offer studies and degrees in paralegal
reported facts sufficiently establish that the main purpose of respondent is to serve as education, while there are none in the Philippines. 28As the concept of the
a one-stop-shop of sorts for various legal problems wherein a client may avail of "paralegals" or "legal assistant" evolved in the United States, standards and
legal services from simple documentation to complex litigation and corporate guidelines also evolved to protect the general public. One of the major standards or
undertakings. Most of these services are undoubtedly beyond the domain of guidelines was developed by the American Bar Association which set up Guidelines
paralegals, but rather, are exclusive functions of lawyers engaged in the practice of for the Approval of Legal Assistant Education Programs (1973). Legislation has even
law. 22 been proposed to certify legal assistants. There are also associations of paralegals in
the United States with their own code of professional ethics, such as the National
It should be noted that in our jurisdiction the services being offered by private Association of Legal Assistants, Inc. and the American Paralegal Association. 29
respondent which constitute practice of law cannot be performed by paralegals. Only
a person duly admitted as a member of the bar, or hereafter admitted as such in In the Philippines, we still have a restricted concept and limited acceptance of what
accordance with the provisions of the Rules of Court, and who is in good and regular may be considered as paralegal service. As pointed out by FIDA, some persons not
standing, is entitled to practice law. 23 duly licensed to practice law are or have been allowed limited representation in
behalf of another or to render legal services, but such allowable services are limited
Public policy requires that the practice of law be limited to those individuals found in scope and extent by the law, rules or regulations granting permission therefor. 30
duly qualified in education and character. The permissive right conferred on the
lawyers is an individual and limited privilege subject to withdrawal if he fails to Accordingly, we have adopted the American judicial policy that, in the absence of
maintain proper standards of moral and professional conduct. The purpose is to constitutional or statutory authority, a person who has not been admitted as an
protect the public, the court, the client and the bar from the incompetence or attorney cannot practice law for the proper administration of justice cannot be
dishonesty of those unlicensed to practice law and not subject to the disciplinary hindered by the unwarranted intrusion of an unauthorized and unskilled person into
control of the court. 24 the practice of law. 31 That policy should continue to be one of encouraging persons
who are unsure of their legal rights and remedies to seek legal assistance only from
The same rule is observed in the american jurisdiction wherefrom respondent would persons licensed to practice law in the state. 32
wish to draw support for his thesis. The doctrines there also stress that the practice of
Anent the issue on the validity of the questioned advertisements, the Code of We repeat, the canon of the profession tell us that the best advertising possible for a
Professional Responsibility provides that a lawyer in making known his legal lawyer is a well-merited reputation for professional capacity and fidelity to trust,
services shall use only true, honest, fair, dignified and objective information or which must be earned as the outcome of character and conduct. Good and efficient
statement of facts. 33 He is not supposed to use or permit the use of any false, service to a client as well as to the community has a way of publicizing itself and
fraudulent, misleading, deceptive, undignified, self-laudatory or unfair statement or catching public attention. That publicity is a normal by-product of effective service
claim regarding his qualifications or legal services. 34 Nor shall he pay or give which is right and proper. A good and reputable lawyer needs no artificial stimulus to
something of value to representatives of the mass media in anticipation of, or in generate it and to magnify his success. He easily sees the difference between a
return for, publicity to attract legal business. 35 Prior to the adoption of the code of normal by-product of able service and the unwholesome result of propaganda. 40
Professional Responsibility, the Canons of Professional Ethics had also warned that
lawyers should not resort to indirect advertisements for professional employment, Of course, not all types of advertising or solicitation are prohibited. The canons of
such as furnishing or inspiring newspaper comments, or procuring his photograph to the profession enumerate exceptions to the rule against advertising or solicitation and
be published in connection with causes in which the lawyer has been or is engaged or define the extent to which they may be undertaken. The exceptions are of two broad
concerning the manner of their conduct, the magnitude of the interest involved, the categories, namely, those which are expressly allowed and those which are
importance of the lawyer's position, and all other like self-laudation. 36 necessarily implied from the restrictions. 41

The standards of the legal profession condemn the lawyer's advertisement of his The first of such exceptions is the publication in reputable law lists, in a manner
talents. A lawyer cannot, without violating the ethics of his profession. advertise his consistent with the standards of conduct imposed by the canons, of brief biographical
talents or skill as in a manner similar to a merchant advertising his goods. 37 The and informative data. "Such data must not be misleading and may include only a
prescription against advertising of legal services or solicitation of legal business rests statement of the lawyer's name and the names of his professional associates;
on the fundamental postulate that the that the practice of law is a profession. Thus, in addresses, telephone numbers, cable addresses; branches of law practiced; date and
the case of The Director of Religious Affairs. vs. Estanislao R. Bayot 38 an place of birth and admission to the bar; schools attended with dates of graduation,
advertisement, similar to those of respondent which are involved in the present degrees and other educational distinction; public or quasi-public offices; posts of
proceeding, 39 was held to constitute improper advertising or solicitation. honor; legal authorships; legal teaching positions; membership and offices in bar
associations and committees thereof, in legal and scientific societies and legal
The pertinent part of the decision therein reads: fraternities; the fact of listings in other reputable law lists; the names and addresses
of references; and, with their written consent, the names of clients regularly
It is undeniable that the advertisement in question was a flagrant represented." 42
violation by the respondent of the ethics of his profession, it being
a brazen solicitation of business from the public. Section 25 of The law list must be a reputable law list published primarily for that purpose; it
Rule 127 expressly provides among other things that "the practice cannot be a mere supplemental feature of a paper, magazine, trade journal or
of soliciting cases at law for the purpose of gain, either personally periodical which is published principally for other purposes. For that reason, a
or thru paid agents or brokers, constitutes malpractice." It is highly lawyer may not properly publish his brief biographical and informative data in a
unethical for an attorney to advertise his talents or skill as a daily paper, magazine, trade journal or society program. Nor may a lawyer permit his
merchant advertises his wares. Law is a profession and not a trade. name to be published in a law list the conduct, management or contents of which are
The lawyer degrades himself and his profession who stoops to and calculated or likely to deceive or injure the public or the bar, or to lower the dignity
adopts the practices of mercantilism by advertising his services or or standing of the profession. 43
offering them to the public. As a member of the bar, he defiles the
temple of justice with mercenary activities as the money-changers The use of an ordinary simple professional card is also permitted. The card may
of old defiled the temple of Jehovah. "The most worthy and contain only a statement of his name, the name of the law firm which he is connected
effective advertisement possible, even for a young lawyer, . . . . is with, address, telephone number and special branch of law practiced. The publication
the establishment of a well-merited reputation for professional of a simple announcement of the opening of a law firm or of changes in the
capacity and fidelity to trust. This cannot be forced but must be the partnership, associates, firm name or office address, being for the convenience of the
outcome of character and conduct." (Canon 27, Code of Ethics.). profession, is not objectionable. He may likewise have his name listed in a telephone
directory but not under a designation of special branch of law. 44
Verily, taking into consideration the nature and contents of the advertisements for Legal Clinic, Inc. is a member of the Philippine Bar, he is hereby reprimanded, with
which respondent is being taken to task, which even includes a quotation of the fees a warning that a repetition of the same or similar acts which are involved in this
charged by said respondent corporation for services rendered, we find and so hold proceeding will be dealt with more severely.
that the same definitely do not and conclusively cannot fall under any of the above-
mentioned exceptions. While we deem it necessary that the question as to the legality or illegality of the
purpose/s for which the Legal Clinic, Inc. was created should be passed upon and
The ruling in the case of Bates, et al. vs. State Bar of Arizona, 45 which is repeatedly determined, we are constrained to refrain from lapsing into an obiter on that aspect
invoked and constitutes the justification relied upon by respondent, is obviously not since it is clearly not within the adjudicative parameters of the present proceeding
applicable to the case at bar. Foremost is the fact that the disciplinary rule involved which is merely administrative in nature. It is, of course, imperative that this matter
in said case explicitly allows a lawyer, as an exception to the prohibition against be promptly determined, albeit in a different proceeding and forum, since, under the
advertisements by lawyers, to publish a statement of legal fees for an initial present state of our law and jurisprudence, a corporation cannot be organized for or
consultation or the availability upon request of a written schedule of fees or an engage in the practice of law in this country. This interdiction, just like the rule
estimate of the fee to be charged for the specific services. No such exception is against unethical advertising, cannot be subverted by employing some so-called
provided for, expressly or impliedly, whether in our former Canons of Professional paralegals supposedly rendering the alleged support services.
Ethics or the present Code of Professional Responsibility. Besides, even the
disciplinary rule in the Bates case contains a proviso that the exceptions stated The remedy for the apparent breach of this prohibition by respondent is the concern
therein are "not applicable in any state unless and until it is implemented by such and province of the Solicitor General who can institute the corresponding quo
authority in that state." 46 This goes to show that an exception to the general rule, warranto action, 50 after due ascertainment of the factual background and basis for
such as that being invoked by herein respondent, can be made only if and when the the grant of respondent's corporate charter, in light of the putative misuse thereof.
canons expressly provide for such an exception. Otherwise, the prohibition stands, as That spin-off from the instant bar matter is referred to the Solicitor General for such
in the case at bar. action as may be necessary under the circumstances.

It bears mention that in a survey conducted by the American Bar Association after ACCORDINGLY, the Court Resolved to RESTRAIN and ENJOIN herein
the decision in Bates, on the attitude of the public about lawyers after viewing respondent, The Legal Clinic, Inc., from issuing or causing the publication or
television commercials, it was found that public opinion dropped significantly 47 with dissemination of any advertisement in any form which is of the same or similar tenor
respect to these characteristics of lawyers: and purpose as Annexes "A" and "B" of this petition, and from conducting, directly
or indirectly, any activity, operation or transaction proscribed by law or the Code of
Trustworthy from 71% to 14% Professional Ethics as indicated herein. Let copies of this resolution be furnished the
Professional from 71% to 14% Integrated Bar of the Philippines, the Office of the Bar Confidant and the Office of
Honest from 65% to 14% the Solicitor General for appropriate action in accordance herewith.
Dignified from 45% to 14%

Secondly, it is our firm belief that with the present situation of our legal and judicial
systems, to allow the publication of advertisements of the kind used by respondent
would only serve to aggravate what is already a deteriorating public opinion of the
legal profession whose integrity has consistently been under attack lately by media
and the community in general. At this point in time, it is of utmost importance in the
face of such negative, even if unfair, criticisms at times, to adopt and maintain that
level of professional conduct which is beyond reproach, and to exert all efforts to
regain the high esteem formerly accorded to the legal profession.

In sum, it is undoubtedly a misbehavior on the part of the lawyer, subject to

disciplinary action, to advertise his services except in allowable instances 48 or to aid
a layman in the unauthorized practice of law. 49 Considering that Atty. Rogelio P.
Nogales, who is the prime incorporator, major stockholder and proprietor of The