This case has been cited 1 times or more.
|
2009-08-19 |
BRION, J. |
||||
| A last matter to consider before we proceed to the merits of Atty. Buffe's actions relates to possible objections on procedural due process grounds, as we have not made any formal directive to Atty. Buffe to explain why she should not be penalized for her appearance before Branch 81 soon after her resignation from that Branch. The essence of due process is the grant of the opportunity to be heard; what it abhors is the lack of the opportunity to be heard.[14] The records of this case show that Atty. Buffe has been amply heard with respect to her actions. She was notified, and she even responded to our November 11, 2008 directive for the Executive Judge of the RTC of Romblon to report on Atty. Buffe's appearances before Branch 81; she expressly manifested that these appearances were part of the Branch records. Her legal positions on these appearances have also been expressed before this Court; first, in her original letter-query, and subsequently, in her Manifestation. Thus, no due process consideration needs to deter us from considering the legal consequences of her appearances in her previous Branch within a year from her resignation. | |||||