FACTS:

The petitioner, Arthur M. Cuevas, Jr., recently passed the 1996 Bar Examinations. However, his oath-taking was suspended due to his previous conviction for Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Homicide. The conviction arose from his participation in the initiation rites of the LEX TALIONIS FRATERNITAS, a fraternity in the SAN BEDA COLLEGE OF LAW, where a neophyte named Raul I. Camaligan died. The petitioner was granted probation and was discharged on May 16, 1995. In his petition, the petitioner submitted certifications attesting to his reformed character from various individuals and authorities. The Court required Atty. Gilbert D. Camaligan, the father of the deceased, to comment on the petition, and Atty. Camaligan expressed his gratitude and forgiveness but stated that he was not in a position to determine the petitioner's moral fitness. The Court emphasized that the practice of law is a privilege only for those with high moral and intellectual qualifications but was willing to give the petitioner a chance. The petitioner's discharge from probation and the certifications of his character convinced the Court to allow him to take the lawyer's oath on the condition that he conducts himself beyond reproach and strictly adheres to the Code of Professional Responsibility. The Court hoped that the petitioner would continue to serve his community and provide legal assistance to the less fortunate.

ISSUES:

1. Whether or not Arthur M. Cuevas, Jr. should be allowed to take his lawyer's oath and be admitted to the bar.

RULING:

1. Yes, Arthur M. Cuevas, Jr. is allowed to take his lawyer's oath and be admitted to the bar. The Court is willing to give him a chance to prove his moral fitness for admission to the noble profession of law. His discharge from probation without any infraction and the various certifications attesting to his righteous, peaceful, and civic-oriented character show that he has taken steps to redeem himself and atone for the death of the hazing victim. The Court emphasizes that the lawyer's oath is not a mere formality, and petitioner is expected to conduct himself beyond reproach and live according to his oath and the Code of Professional Responsibility.