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ROSALIE DALLONG-GALICINAO v. ATTY. VIRGIL R. CASTRO

FACTS:

Atty. Rosalie Dallong-Galicinao, the Clerk of Court of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya, filed a Complaint-Affidavit against Atty. Virgil R. Castro for Unprofessional Conduct. The complaint stemmed from an incident on May 5, 2003, when Atty. Castro visited complainant's office to inquire about the complete records of a civil case he was not the counsel of record for. Complainant informed him that the records had not yet been transmitted and that a certified true copy of the Court of Appeals' decision was needed. Respondent reacted scornfully, questioning who would certify the decision. This exchange escalated with respondent angrily declaring, "You mean to say you don't care anymore? Is that the way it is?" He left the office in a manner that caused embarrassment to complainant and later returned, pointing his finger at her and shouting vulgarities. The complaint was supported by affidavits from RTC-Bambang employees who witnessed the incident. Respondent filed a compliance explaining his side of the story.

ISSUES:

  1. Whether Atty. Virgil R. Castro committed Unprofessional Conduct, specifically violation of Canon 7, Rule 7.03, Canon 8, and Rule 8.02 of the Code of Professional Responsibility.

  2. Whether Atty. Castro's behavior tarnished and diminished the credibility of the complainant.

RULING:

  1. Atty. Virgil R. Castro is found guilty of Unprofessional Conduct, specifically violation of Canon 7, Rule 7.03, Canon 8, and Rule 8.02 of the Code of Professional Responsibility.

  2. Atty. Castro's behavior tarnished and diminished the credibility of the complainant.

PRINCIPLES:

  • Lawyers are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their noble profession, and must always uphold high standards of integrity and decency.

  • Unprofessional conduct, including the use of invectives and insulting language towards court personnel, is a violation of the Code of Professional Responsibility.

  • Lawyers should treat court personnel, including Clerks of Court, with respect and dignity, and refrain from engaging in conduct that could tarnish the credibility and dignity of the legal profession.