Rule 14 Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners

Rule 14 of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners (RPC) 2023 is about Dedication and devotion to the cause of the client. It is under Part II (Relation with Clients) of Chapter 1 (Conduct) of the Rules. It provides as follows:

(1) A lawyer shall devote his attention, energy and expertise to the service of his client and, subject to any rule of law, act in a manner consistent with the best interest of his client.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1) of this rule, a lawyer shall—
(a) consult with his client in all questions of doubt which do not fall within his discretion ;
(b) keep the client informed of the progress and any important development in the cause or matter as may be reasonably necessary :

(c) warn his; client against any particular risk which is likely to occur in the course of the matter ;
(d) respond as promptly as reasonably possible to request for information by the client : and
(e) where he considers the client’s claim or defence to be hopeless, inform him accordingly.

(3) When representing a client, a lawyer may, where permissible, exercise his independent professional judgment to waive or fail to assert a right or position of his client.

(4) A lawyer employed in respect of a court case shall be personally present or be properly represented throughout the proceedings in court.

(5) Any negligence by a lawyer in handling a client’s affairs may amount to professional misconduct.