2010 Remedial Law, Q17

What is “res judicata in prison grey”? (2%)

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What constitutional protection is metaphorically referred to as "res judicata in prison grey"?

Which of the following is NOT an essential requisite for double jeopardy to attach?

What is the primary effect of a final judgment of acquittal in a criminal case?

How does res judicata in civil law compare to double jeopardy in criminal law?

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Under Rule 117 of the Rules of Court, when may double jeopardy be raised as a ground in a motion to quash?

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1. Double Jeopardy Concept
Under Section 21, Article III of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, double jeopardy protects an individual against being twice put in jeopardy of punishment for the same offense. Commonly referred to as "res judicata in prison grey," double jeopardy serves as claim preclusion within criminal law. Once a defendant is acquitted, convicted, or the case is dismissed without express consent, the state is barred from re-litigating the same criminal charge.

2. Requisites of Jeopardy
For double jeopardy to attach, four essential requisites must concur: first, a valid complaint or Information; second, a court of competent jurisdiction; third, a valid arraignment and plea by the accused; and fourth, the acquittal, conviction, or dismissal of the case without the express consent of the accused. The concurrence of these requisites permanently precludes any subsequent prosecution for the same offense or any attempt to increase the penalty imposed.

3. Res Judicata Analogy
Res judicata in civil law prevents re-litigation of issues and claims already settled by final judgment. Applying this principle to criminal law, "res judicata in prison grey" emphasizes that a final judgment of acquittal or conviction grants absolute finality to the outcome. This rule shields the accused from the financial, emotional, and social burdens of prolonged state persecution, upholding judicial economy and the inviolability of constitutional rights.

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The questions reproduced here are the official texts of the Philippine Bar Examinations, published by the Supreme Court. They are reproduced for study purposes.The suggested answers are the author’s own.

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