Title
Estoya vs. Abraham-Singson
Case
A.M. No. RTJ-91-758
Decision Date
Sep 26, 1994
Judge Abraham-Singson is found guilty of gross ignorance of the law, gross incompetence, and grave misconduct, resulting in her dismissal from service and barring her from re-appointment in any government position, highlighting the importance of judges upholding the law and treating court employees and the public with professionalism and respect.
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Case Digest (A.M. No. RTJ-91-758)

Facts:

  • In "Estoya v. Abraham-Singson," decided on September 26, 1994, Atty. Ernesto B. Estoya and other complainants filed a sworn letter-complaint against Judge Marvie R. Abraham-Singson.
  • The complaint was signed by forty-seven officers and employees from various branches of the Regional Trial Court in San Jose, Antique.
  • Complainants included personnel from the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor, the Provincial Probation and Parole Office, and the Office of the Citizens District Attorney of the Public Assistance Office.
  • They accused Judge Abraham-Singson of treating her staff in a "dictatorial and terroristic manner," creating a working atmosphere dependent on her fluctuating moods.
  • Allegations included being oppressive and dictatorial towards lawyers, litigants, and the general public, and failing to comply with the rule on continuous trial mandated by the Supreme Court.
  • The complainants sought her removal from Antique, supported by affidavits detailing her erratic behavior and gross incompetence in handling judicial duties.
  • The case was referred to Associate Justice Pedro Ramirez of the Court of Appeals for investigation, who found substantial evidence supporting the allegations.
  • The investigation revealed that Judge Abraham-Singson exhibited gross ignorance of the law, gross incompetence, and grave misconduct, leading to her dismissal from service.

Issue:

  • (Unlock)

Ruling:

  • The Supreme Court ruled that Judge Marvie R. Abraham-Singson is guilty of gross ignorance of the law, gross incompetence, and grave misconduct.
  • Consequently, she was dismissed from service with forfeiture of all leave and ret...(Unlock)

Ratio:

  • The Supreme Court's decision was based on substantial evidence presented by the complainants, which Judge Abraham-Singson failed to refute.
  • Evidence demonstrated her gross ignorance of the law through multiple instances of incorrect application of legal principles and procedures.
  • Examples included incorrectly considering unlawful aggression as a mitigating circumstance, improperly applying the Indeterminate Sentence Law, and promulgating de...continue reading

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