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Titles, estates, SPAs, and the paperwork that decides whether you can act from abroad.
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We publish questions here once a licensed contributor takes the column — we'd rather leave it empty than answer with someone unqualified. Send your question anyway: it goes in the queue, and if it's urgent we'll point you toward Dear Viva in the meantime.
What this column covers
Philippine law only
- Special Power of Attorney — scope, consularization, apostille
- Extrajudicial settlement of an estate and estate tax
- Land titles, liens, and adverse claims
- Condominium rules, association disputes, and lease agreements
- Selling or transferring property from abroad
What it can't
Ask elsewhere — we'll say so rather than guess.
- US law of any kind — immigration, US taxes, US estates
- Anything requiring review of your actual documents
- Representation, filings, or court appearances
Questions readers send
- “My father died and the title is still in his name. What has to happen before we can sell?”
- “Does an SPA signed in New Jersey work in the Philippines, and what makes it valid?”
- “The condo association is charging back dues from years we did not own the unit. Can they?”
Recognize yours? Send it in — anonymously if you prefer.
Answers here are general information, not legal advice, and reading them does not create an attorney–client relationship. For a decision about your own situation, retain counsel licensed where the matter sits.