2. Responding to client entering legal system

2.3. Introduction to legal ethics

A legal practitioner is bound by the general principles of professional conduct.

Duty to the law: Legal practitioners are part of the administration of our legal system. They may not agree with some of it, and are entitled to lobby for its reform, but they must obey the existing laws.

Duty to the court: Legal practitioners must act with honesty, integrity and candour and must discharge all duties owed to a court or tribunal, including undertakings.

Duty to client: Legal practitioners must act with due skill and diligence, reasonable promptness and courtesy, while maintaining a client’s confidences and avoiding conflicts of interest.

Sometimes these duties may appear to be in conflict. Detecting ethical issues and avoiding breaches of ethical duties is best done by knowing what your ethical duties are so that potential breaches can be detected. Where an ethical issue arises, it is important to  seek appropriate advice.