FACTS:
Emma T. Dantes filed an Affidavit-Complaint with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) seeking the disbarment of her husband, Atty. Crispin G. Dantes, on grounds of immorality, abandonment, and violation of professional ethics and law. Emma alleged that Atty. Dantes engaged in illicit relationships with two women and had illegitimate children with them. She also claimed that Atty. Dantes failed to give regular support to their children, compelling her to work abroad to provide for their needs. In his answer, Atty. Dantes alleged that he and Emma had mutually agreed to separate eighteen years before due to Emma's abandonment. He claimed that he provided for their children's needs and even bought two lots for them. The case proceeded with the IBP conducting an investigation and hearings, during which Emma presented evidence to support her allegations. Atty. Dantes failed to appear during the scheduled hearings and was deemed to have waived his right to cross-examine Emma. He later submitted a Comment/Opposition to the Complainant's Formal Offer of Evidence with Motion to Exclude the Evidence from the Records of the Proceedings. Atty. Dantes also filed a Motion to Adopt Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanism, which was denied.
ISSUES:
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Whether or not Atty. Crispin G. Dantes is guilty of grossly immoral conduct.
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Whether or not Atty. Crispin G. Dantes should be suspended or disbarred.
RULING:
- Atty. Crispin G. Dantes is found guilty of grossly immoral conduct. As a lawyer, he is expected to have good moral character and to behave in accordance with such standard. The evidence presented, such as the birth certificates of his illegitimate children and the affidavits of his paramour, prove that he engaged in illicit relationships with two different women and fathered illegitimate children with them. These acts are in violation of his lawyer's oath and his moral and legal obligation to be a role model to the community.
PRINCIPLES:
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Good moral character is a requirement for admission to the practice of law and an unending requirement for all members of the bar.
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Lawyers who are found guilty of grossly immoral conduct may be suspended or disbarred.