_islegit() checks if a variable is set and not empty. eliminates a lot of extra code in the long run. Seems kinda silly if you just take it as it is.

islegit.php

<?php
	/*
		Checks if something is set and not empty
		Pass the variable as a reference to truly check its
		legitness.
	*/
	function _islegit(&$variable = null)
	{
	
		if($variable) {
		
			if(isset($variable) && !empty($variable) ) {
				return true;
			} else {
				return false;
			}
			
		} else {
			return false;
		}
	}