In Re: Argosino, B.M. No.

712, 19 March 1997

FACTS:

This is a matter for admission to the bar and oath taking of a successful bar applicant.

Petitioner Al Caparros Argosino passed the bar examinations held in 1993. The Court however
deferred his oath-taking due to his previous conviction for Reckless Imprudence Resulting In
Homicide.
The criminal case which resulted in petitioner's conviction, arose from the death of a neophyte
during fraternity initiation rites sometime in September 1991. Petitioner and seven (7) other
accused initially entered pleas of not guilty to homicide charges. The eight (8) accused later
withdrew their initial pleas and upon re-arraignment all pleaded guilty to reckless imprudence
resulting in homicide.

He was sentenced with 2 years and 4 months of imprisonment where he applied a probation
thereafter which was approved and granted by the court. He took the bar exam and passed but
was not allowed to take the oath. He filed for a petition to allow him to take the lawyer’s oath of
office and to admit him to the practice of law averring that his probation was already terminated.
The court note that he spent only 10 months of the probation period before it was terminated.

ISSUE: Whether or not Al Argosino may take the lawyer’s oath office and admit him to the
practice of law.

HELD: The practice of law is a privilege granted only to those who possess the STRICT,
INTELLECTUAL and MORAL QUALIFICATIONS required of lawyers who are instruments in the
effective and efficient administration of justice. The court upheld the principle of maintaining the
good moral character of all Bar members, keeping in mind that such is of greater importance so
far as the general public and the proper administration of justice are concerned. Hence he was
asked by the court to produce evidence that would certify that he has reformed and has become
a responsible member of the community through sworn statements of individuals who have a
good reputation for truth and who have actually known Mr. Argosino for a significant period of
time to certify that he is morally fit to the admission of the law profession.

The Court sincerely hopes that Mr. Argosino will continue with the assistance he has been giving
to his community. As a lawyer he will now be in a better position to render legal and other
services to the more unfortunate members of society.
PREMISES CONSIDERED, petitioner 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.