Legal ethics

Legal ethics in Switzerland concerns the conduct of attorneys, notaries and other legal professionals toward clients, courts, authorities, opponents and the public. Core duties include independence, secrecy, diligent representation, avoidance of conflicts of interest, truthful communication and proper handling of client funds. For attorneys, professional rules arise from federal and cantonal law as well as bar regulations and disciplinary practice. Ethical breaches may lead to disciplinary sanctions, civil liability, reputational harm or, in serious cases, criminal consequences.