Lawyers Professional Ethics to State and Public

Professional ethics are a set of norms or codes of conduct, set by people in a specific profession.  A code of ethics is developed for each profession. Suppose you write articles in a newspaper. Professional ethics require that you verify facts before you write that article, isn’t it? Simply put, professional ethics for lawyers in India lay down a set of guidelines, which defines their conduct in the profession that is highly competitive and dynamic. Indian law requires lawyers to observe professional ethics to uphold the dignity of the profession.

People are surprised when they hear that lawyers are expected to follow professional ethics and that they are accountable for dishonest, irresponsible and unprofessional behavior. Further, most people do not know that lawyers in India can lose the license to practice if they are found guilty of unethical practices that tarnish the dignity of their profession. A lawyer must adhere to the professional norms, for fair dealing with his client and to maintain the dignity of the profession.

Indian Law: A Lawyer’s Duty towards State and Public

You can ask any citizen about Indian law and lawyers, the expression is definitely not positive. There is anger, confusion, distrust and apprehension. Some of it stems from mistaken perception that lawyers do not represent their clients fairly; that they cheat to make money and that they do not work hard to represent and win a case. Most of tehse perceptions are unfounded but sometimes they are relevant when lawyers opt to take short cuts, thereby violating professional ethics.

However, professional ethics mandate that an Indian lawyer should safeguard and promote the interests of the State and public. The following are some guidelines set under legal ethics are, such as:

• A lawyer cannot attract business by advertisements.
• A lawyer shall deal with his client with loyalty, fairness and openness.
• A lawyer shall not disclose confidential information related to a client, unless he has the client’s consent or to prevent a commission of crime or in compliance with other laws or court order.
• A lawyer shall work towards the progress of the nation and interest of the public.
• A lawyer shall maintain the dignity of the court.

• A lawyer shall never help a client to secretly or otherwise violate the provisions of Indian law.
• A lawyer shall promote the maintenance of rules under the Indian laws.
• A lawyer shall work for enforcement of fundamental rights of the people.