Lawyer Code of ethics

Residencies & citizenships
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1

I have read on these forums numerous situations of lawyers not communicating or not providing information. I myself have experienced several similar situations such as lawyers not providing access to the government portals or changing my email so I cannot access, and also instances of lawyers refusing to provide copies of correspondence about my case/dispute.

Since I have not found any formal code of ethics for lawyers in some countries enforced by a central authority, perhaps it is time to open source the creation of one and have law firms sign it before money is handed over.

It should cover topics such as:

  1. Lawyer will communicate promptly to client requests.

  2. Lawyer will provide to client copies of correspondence (emails, text/Whatsapp messages, letters, etc) involving the client, including court filings and administrative filings.

  3. Lawyer will create website or app registrations using the actual client contact information (such as client’s email or telephone number) unless otherwise requested by client, and not intentionally exclude client from the ability to log in to client’s own accounts with government agencies.

  4. Lawyer will disclose in writing in advance of a client relationship the expected costs and fees for services. If lawyer intends to charge for travel time or other expenses these costs should be clearly set forth in the agreement.

  5. The client has the right to terminate the relationship at any time upon notice to the lawyer. Upon termination client will paid for all services actually rendered up to the time of termination. Upon termination, the lawyer will provide to client copies of any correspondence, records or progress on the clients’ case and cooperate to transition any accounts held by lawyer to a new lawyer or to client, and to refund any unearned fees paid by client to lawyer.

  6. Lawyer will promptly disclose any actual or potential conflict of interest in representing client. Lawyer will disclose if lawyer (or it’s related persons or entities) will receive any fees or other compensation for recommending products or services to client, or for any referrals to third parties.