In Re: Al C. Argosino 246 SCRA 14 (1995)

In Re: Al C. Argosino 246 SCRA 14 (1995)

FACTS:

Argosino, together with 13 others, was charged with the crime of homicide in connection to Raul Camaligan death due to hazing conducted as part of the university fraternity initiation rites. On February 11, 1993, the accused were consequently sentenced to suffer imprisonment Mr. Argosino and his colleagues filed an application for probation and was granted on June 18 1993. Argosino took the bar exam and passed, but was not allowed to take the lawyer's oath of office. He filed  a petition to allow him to take the attorney's oath and be admitted to the practice of law.

ISSUE:

Whether Argosino should be allowed to take the oath of attorney and be admitted to the practice of law

HELD:

Yes. Mr. Argosino must submit to this Court evidence that he may now be regarded as complying with the requirement of good moral character imposed upon those who are seeking admission to the bar. He should show to the Court how he has tried to make up for the senseless killing of a helpless student to the family of the deceased student and to the community at large. In short, he must show evidence that he is a different person now, that he has become morally fit for admission to the profession of law.

Al Caparros Argosino is hereby ALLOWED to take the lawyer's oath on a date to be set by the Court, to sign the Roll of Attorneys and, thereafter, to practice the legal profession.

NOTES:

 The practice of law is a high personal privilege limited to citizens of good moral character, with special education qualifications, duly ascertained and certified.

 Requirement of good moral character is of greater importance so far as the general public and proper administration of justice is concerned.

 All aspects of moral character and behavior may be inquired into in respect of those seeking admission to the Bar.

 Requirement of good moral character to be satisfied by those who would seek admission to the bar must be a necessity more stringent than the norm of conduct expected from members of the general public.

 Participation in the prolonged mindless physical beatings inflicted upon Raul Camaligan constituted evident rejection of that moral duty and was totally irresponsible behavior, which makes impossible a finding that the participant was possessed of good moral character.

 Good moral character is a requirement possession of which must be demonstrated at the time of the application for permission to take the barexaminations and more importantly at the time of application for admission to the bar and to take the attorney's oath of office.