This case has been cited 1 times or more.
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2004-12-16 |
GARCIA, J. |
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| It is imperative that as an advocate of justice and a visible representation of the law, a judge is expected to keep abreast with and be proficient in the interpretation of our laws. He should be acquainted with legal norms and precepts as well as with statutes and procedural rules. He must have the basic rules at the palm of his hands as he is expected to maintain professional competence at all times.[13] Having accepted the exalted position of a judge, respondent judge owes the public and the court he sits in proficiency in the law. Respondent judge failed to live up to these standards. Not only did he change or reduce the crime charged so as to justify his grant, but more so, he granted bail to all the accused without conducting any hearing, thus, denying the prosecution the opportunity to present its side. | |||||