Lawyers' Guide
Professional Ethics Preview 22 min read

Duties to Client

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Duties of Lawyers to Client

- PART I: Foundation - Fiduciary Relationship -

The Lawyer-Client Relationship

The legal profession is a noble and honourable profession with high expectations. Rule 1 RPC provides that a lawyer shall:

  • Uphold and observe the rule of law;
  • Promote and foster the cause of justice;
  • Maintain a high standard of professional conduct;
  • Not engage in conduct unbecoming of a legal practitioner.

The relationship between lawyer and client is fiduciary in nature - a position of trust. The lawyer must at all times be honest, fair, and open in dealing with his client.

The 12 Rules on Duties to Client - Rules 14–25 RPC

  1. R14 - Dedication and Devotion to the Cause of the Client;
  2. R15 - Representing the Client within the Bounds of the Law;
  3. R16 - Representing the Client Competently;
  4. R17 - Conflict of Interest;
  5. R18 - Agreement with Client;
  6. R19 - Privilege and Confidence of a Client;
  7. R20 - Lawyer as Witness for Client;
  8. R21 - Withdrawal from Employment;
  9. R22 - Calling at Client’s House or Place of Business;
  10. R23 - Dealing with Client’s Property;
  11. R24 - Responsibility for Litigation;
  12. R25 - Investigation of Facts and Production of Witnesses.

- PART II: Rule 14 - Dedication & Devotion -

Core Duty

A lawyer is duty-bound to devote his attention, energy and expertise to the service of his client and act consistently with the client’s best interests.

4 Specific Obligations

  1. Consult with client on questions of doubt outside lawyer’s discretion (e.g. settlement out of court, granting concessions);
  2. Where claim or defence is hopeless, inform the client accordingly;
  3. If employed for a court case, be personally present or properly represented throughout proceedings;
  4. Negligence in handling client’s affairs may amount to professional misconduct.

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