Law Society launches professional ethics programme

The Law Society of England and Wales has today launched a three-year professional ethics programme and web hub to support our members balance their obligations to their clients and wider society.

The web hub is a one-stop-shop for member support with ethics issues and includes helpful resources such as guidance, case studies, event notifications and updates from the programme.

Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “Professional ethics is a topic that I have a keen interest in. It has been one of the pillars of my presidential plan.

“Our profession is defined by the highest ethical standards, which are underpinned by a robust regulatory framework. Solicitors uphold the rule of law and work in the best interests of their clients.

“Professional ethics has been a driving force of my work over the course of the year. I am pleased to launch our Changing Ethical Landscapes programme which I hope will serve as part of my legacy.

“It will allow members of the profession to convene to discuss how they handle day-to-day challenges, reputational concerns and client selection.

“This will create a safe space for solicitors to have challenging but necessary conversations about the implications for professional ethics on issues like client selection, workplace culture or the independence of in-house counsel.

“We hope this programme will help members navigate this evolving landscape, where potential tensions between the wider public interest and individual clients’ interests can create challenges for solicitors seeking to act ethically.”