Title: Salient Features of Criminal Procedure:
Rules 110 to 126
Introduction Good day, everyone. Today, I will
discuss the salient features of the Rules of Criminal
Procedure, specifically Rules 110 to 126. These rules
govern the procedural framework for criminal cases in the
Philippines. They ensure fairness and efficiency in the
administration of justice. Let’s explore these rules and
their importance in safeguarding the rights of both the
accused and the state.
Body
Rule 110: Prosecution of Offenses
Rule 110 outlines how criminal actions are
initiated. It states that all criminal actions must be
prosecuted in the name of the People of the Philippines
and must be initiated by filing a complaint or
information. A complaint is filed by the offended party,
while information is prepared by the prosecutor. The rule
emphasizes that the venue must be the court with
territorial jurisdiction over the offense.
The designation of the offense and the statement
of acts constituting the offense must be clear. This
ensures that the accused understands the charges against
them, a vital aspect of due process.
Rule 111: Prosecution of Civil Action This rule
addresses the interplay between criminal and civil
actions. It provides that a civil action for damages
arising from a crime is deemed instituted with the
criminal action, unless expressly waived or reserved.
This rule prevents multiple proceedings and promotes
judicial efficiency.
Rule 112: Preliminary Investigation Preliminary
investigation determines whether there is sufficient
ground to engender a well-founded belief that a crime has
been committed and that the respondent is probably
guilty. This rule protects individuals from unwarranted
prosecution and ensures that cases with merit proceed to
trial.
The rights of the respondent during the
investigation, such as the right to examine evidence and
submit counter-affidavits, are highlighted to prevent
abuse of authority.
Rule 113: Arrest Rule 113 governs the procedures
for lawful arrest, with or without a warrant. Arrest
without a warrant is permissible only under specific
circumstances, such as when the person is caught in the
act of committing a crime.
The rule emphasizes the necessity of informing
the person arrested of the reason for their arrest and
their rights, including the right to remain silent and to
counsel.
Rule 114: Bail This rule provides for the right
of the accused to bail, except in cases where evidence of
guilt is strong and the offense is punishable by
reclusion perpetua or death. Bail ensures that the
accused can prepare their defense without unnecessary
detention.
Rule 115: Rights of the Accused Rule 115
enumerates the rights of the accused, including the right
to be presumed innocent, the right to a speedy trial, and
the right to be informed of the charges. These rights are
fundamental to ensuring a fair trial.
Rule 116: Arraignment and Plea
Arraignment is a critical stage in a criminal case where
the accused is formally informed of the charges against
them in a language they understand. During this process,
the accused enters a plea—either "guilty," "not guilty,"
or, in some cases, "no contest." This ensures the accused
is aware of the accusations and has the opportunity to
respond. The arraignment must occur without unnecessary
delay, safeguarding the accused's right to a fair trial.
Rule 117: Motion to Quash
A motion to quash is a legal tool that allows the accused
to challenge the validity of the complaint or information
filed against them. Grounds for this motion include lack
of jurisdiction, improper venue, or failure to charge an
offense. If the court grants the motion, the case may be
dismissed or require refiling with corrections. This rule
ensures that only valid cases proceed to trial.
Rule 118: Pre-Trial
The pre-trial stage is designed to streamline the trial
process by resolving preliminary issues. During pre-
trial, parties may agree on stipulations of fact,
identify issues for trial, mark evidence, and explore
plea bargaining. This step reduces unnecessary delays,
focuses the trial on contested matters, and promotes
judicial efficiency/
Rule 119: Trial
The trial is the heart of the criminal process, where the
prosecution and defense present their evidence and
arguments. Witnesses are examined and cross-examined, and
the court evaluates the evidence. Rule 119 emphasizes the
principle of a speedy trial, ensuring justice is
delivered promptly while respecting the rights of both
the accused and the state.
Rule 120: Judgment
Judgment is the court’s formal decision on the guilt or
innocence of the accused. It must be based solely on the
evidence presented during the trial. A judgment must
clearly state the findings, the applicable law, and the
penalty or acquittal. This rule ensures transparency and
accountability in the court’s decision-making process.
Rule 121: New Trial or Reconsideration
This rule provides remedies for addressing errors
or newly discovered evidence after judgment. A new trial
may be granted if errors prejudiced the accused or if new
evidence could potentially alter the verdict.
Reconsideration allows the court to review its judgment
for possible corrections. These remedies uphold fairness
and prevent miscarriages of justice.
Rule 122: Appeal
Rule 122 allows parties to seek a higher court’s review
of the trial court’s decision. Appeals are typically
based on questions of law or substantial procedural
errors. This rule ensures that errors at the trial level
can be corrected, maintaining the integrity of the
justice system.
Rule 123: Procedure in the Municipal Trial Courts
(MTCs)
Rule 123 provides guidelines for the conduct of
criminal cases in Municipal Trial Courts. These courts
handle less serious offenses, such as violations of city
or municipal ordinances and minor criminal cases. The
rule emphasizes simplified procedures to expedite the
resolution of cases, ensuring accessibility and
efficiency in the administration of justice at the local
level.
Rule 124: Procedure in the Court of Appeals
Rule 124 governs the handling of criminal cases elevated
to the Court of Appeals. It outlines the procedures for
filing appeals from Regional Trial Courts. The Court of
Appeals reviews the case based on the records and briefs
submitted, focusing on errors of law or fact. This rule
ensures a thorough and fair review of decisions to
maintain judicial integrity.
Rule 125: Procedure in the Supreme Court
Rule 125 applies to criminal cases brought before the
Supreme Court, which is the final arbiter of legal
disputes. The rule details the process for filing
petitions for review on certiorari, which are limited to
questions of law. The Supreme Court's role under this
rule is to ensure that lower courts’ decisions comply
with the Constitution and applicable laws, safeguarding
justice at the highest level.
Last part:
The Rules of Criminal Procedure, particularly Rules 110
to 126, form the backbone of the criminal justice system.
They ensure that justice is administered fairly,
protecting the rights of both the accused and the state.
By understanding these rules, we appreciate the balance
they strike between accountability and safeguarding
individual freedoms.
Thank you for watching, and I hope this discussion has
provided valuable insights into the salient features of
the Rules of Criminal Procedure. If you have any
questions or need further clarification, feel free to
reach out. Have a great day!
KANING REFERENCE IPAKITA NI SYA SA LAST PART SA VIDEO LIKE
“REFERENCE: Rules of Court - Criminal Proceedure”