MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court has disbarred a lawyer for having extramarital affairs, a violation of the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA).
Under Canon VI, Section 33(f) of the CPRA, grossly immoral conduct, a serious offense, is an “act that is so corrupt or false as to constitute a criminal act.” In a decision, the Supreme Court en banc found the lawyer, who was not identified, guilty of four counts of grossly immoral conduct.
Based on his own admission, he had extramarital relations with at least three women during his marriage.
He also entered into a bigamous marriage and fathered two illegitimate children.
He also sexually harassed his house helper and secretary by showing them pornographic materials. He also admitted to engaging in sexually charged conversations with them.
The court imposed the penalty of disbarment for the first two counts and suspension for the last two.
Because of his disbarment for the first count, the latter penalties may no longer be imposed, although he was still fined P400,00.
The penalties for the second to fourth counts of Grossly Immoral Conduct will be considered if he applies for reinstatement and judicial clemency.
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