PROFESSIONAL ETHICS ā Professional Misconduct ā Definition and Nature
Principle Statement
The appellant's conduct amounts to misconduct in the context of "any conduct that constitutes an infraction of acceptable standard of behaviour or ethics of the legal profession, of any conduct which connotes conduct despicable and morally reprehensible as to bring the legal profession into disrepute if condoned or unpunished, will amount to misconduct."
Ratio Decidendi (Source)
Per Chukwuma-Eneh, JSC, in Iteogu v. LPDC (2009) NLC-123-190-2006(SC) at p. 21; Paras CāD.
"The appellant's conduct amounts to misconduct in the context of 'any conduct that constitutes an infraction of acceptable standard of behaviour or ethics of the legal profession, of any conduct which connotes conduct despicable and morally reprehensible as to bring the legal profession into disrepute if condoned or unpunished, will amount to misconduct.'"
Explanation / Scope
This principle defines professional misconduct as conduct that infringes acceptable standards of the legal profession, is despicable, morally reprehensible, and brings the profession into disrepute. The principle applies in disciplinary proceedings against legal practitioners. It ensures that the profession maintains high ethical standards. The principle reflects the need to protect the public and the profession’s integrity. It provides a broad definition covering various infractions. The court must determine if the conduct meets this standard. The principle promotes accountability and ethical practice.
