Ethical rules… but also ?
Ethical rules : ensemble of rules and duties governing a profession, the behaviour of its members, the relationship between themselves as well as with their clients and the public (free translation - Larousse.fr).
The lawyer’s ethics give him a special identity that distinguishes him from mere “merchants of law”.
The lawyer’s ethics are a guarantee for a high-quality service and enable the lawyer and his client to build a relationship based on complete mutual trust.
In the exercise of his profession, the lawyer is bound to comply with fundamental rules and duties, under the survey of the President of the Bar and the other Bar authorities.
The profession of a lawyer is built upon three fundamental principles :
| 1. Independence |
By entrusting a lawyer with your interests, you are guaranteed his complete commitment at your side. Indeed, a lawyer is not dependent on any political, economical or judicial power. He advises and defends you freely, in your sole interest. His independence allows him to express himself without constraint into courts, and gives him the right to accept or refuse a cause in good conscience. |
| 2. Probity and dignity | Your lawyer must abstain from any behaviour, either professionally or in private, which may be seen as tarnishing the honour of his profession. |
| 3. Professional secrecy |
Professional secrecy is one of the pillars upon which relies the relationship of trust between the lawyer and his client. A lawyer is prohibited to - and cannot be compelled to - disclose information and confidences that he/she receives. In the same vein, except a few specific exceptions, the correspondence exchanged between you and your lawyer or between lawyers is deemed confidential and may not be produced into court. |