PATRICK A. CARONAN v. RICHARD A. CARONAN A.K.A. 'ATTY. PATRICK A. CARONAN

FACTS:

Complainant Patrick A. Caronan filed a complaint before the Commission on Bar Discipline (CBD) against respondent "Atty. Patrick A. Caronan," who is allegedly using complainant's name and falsely representing himself as a lawyer. Complainant and respondent are siblings, with respondent being the older one. Complainant completed his education and worked as a Store Manager for Philippine Seven Corporation (PSC), while respondent did not pursue higher education and engaged in their family's car rental business. In 2004, their mother informed complainant that respondent passed the Bar Examinations using complainant's name and college records. Complainant discovered that respondent was using his name when he saw the name "Patrick A. Caronan" displayed on the Certificate of Admission to the Bar in respondent's office. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) requested complainant's presence in relation to an investigation involving respondent, who was using the name "Atty. Patrick A. Caronan." Complainant confirmed that respondent had been using his name and identity. Complainant faced various problems because of respondent's actions and eventually resigned from PSC. Complainant filed the present complaint to stop respondent's use of his name and identity and illegal practice of law. Respondent denied the allegations and invoked res judicata as a defense. The IBP Investigating Commissioner found respondent guilty and recommended for the name "Patrick A. Caronan" to be stricken off the Roll of Attorneys and for respondent to be barred from being admitted to the Bar. The IBP Board of Governors adopted the Investigating Commissioner's recommendation.

ISSUES:

  1. Whether or not the name "Patrick A. Caronan" should be stricken off the Roll of Attorneys.

  2. Whether or not the name "Richard A. Caronan" should be barred from being admitted to the Bar.

RULING:

  1. The Supreme Court did not provide the ruling for this case.

PRINCIPLES: