Professionals: The Paralegal Code Of Ethics

1669 Words7 Pages
Ethics are defined as those standards by which conduct is measured. Because Paralegals are professionals they are held to a higher ethical standard than an average person. Professional ethics are governed by a set of written rules that establish the limits of permissible conduct in the professional's contacts with others as well as the manner in which the professional advances their practice. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4597284 Also, as a general rule, the paralegal needs to make known their status with every person they have contact with, either on the phone or in person, that they are a paralegal or legal assistant and not an attorney. One of the strictest parts of the ethics field is the regulation of the unauthorized practice…show more content…
The paralegal code of ethics is to be upheld by any and every paralegal during all phases of their profession despite the varying environments or circumstances they may find themselves in. The guidelines are strictly enforced by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc (NFPA) and include rules on conduct for aspects such as: discipline, ethical consideration and professional integrity. Any paralegal whose conduct deviates from the responsibilities or provisions of the paralegal code of ethics will find themselves under immediate suspension or termination from their position – no questions asked. The paralegal code of ethics outlines the responsibilities of an individual as a paralegal from an ethical standpoint. Among the first section of the paralegal code of ethics, conditions in regards to the competency achieved and maintained by all paralegals are strongly enforced. The level of competency required is to be conserved through the continuation of education, training and work experience relevant to the field after becoming a…show more content…
Also, honoring a level of confidentiality for all clients and the jurisdiction in which they practice is covered. Not only will a paralegal be dealing with a substantial amount of personal information for individuals clients on a day to day basis, but they are also prohibited, by the rules governed in the paralegal code of ethics, from the discussion, release, transferring or sharing of any information with parties that are not the client themselves, the assigned lawyer or the court. This guideline is still in effect even after the relationship between the paralegal and the client has ceased. Bound by the provisions of the paralegal code of ethics, any conflict of interest between the legal assistant and their client or their employer should be immediately addressed and rectified. Allowing conflicts of interests to go unresolved when the paralegal is fully aware of its presence is a violation of Section 1.6 of the paralegal code of ethics. There are many methods in which conflict can be avoided between any of the two parties. A couple of these approaches include: effective bookkeeping and never discussing matters from previous assignments or

More about Professionals: The Paralegal Code Of Ethics

Open Document