The Texas Lawyer’s Creed is a comprehensive document that outlines the professional responsibilities and ethical obligations of lawyers practicing in Texas. Adopted by the Supreme Court of Texas and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals in 1989, the Creed serves as a guiding framework to ensure that attorneys maintain the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and civility.
The Creed is divided into four main sections: “Our Legal System,” “Lawyers to Clients,” “Lawyers to Other Lawyers,” and “Lawyers to the Judiciary.” Each section addresses specific aspects of a lawyer’s conduct and responsibilities.
Our Legal System
Preamble
The preamble sets the tone for the entire Creed, emphasizing the importance of the legal profession in upholding justice and the rule of law. It underscores the lawyer’s role as both an advocate and a public servant, highlighting the duty to promote fairness, equality, and the public good.
Guiding Principles
- Faithfulness to the Law: Lawyers must adhere to the law and the principles of justice, ensuring their actions are consistent with the spirit and letter of the law.
- Dedication to Fairness: Lawyers are expected to treat all parties fairly, respecting the rights and dignity of others, regardless of their personal beliefs or interests.
- Promotion of Public Good: Lawyers should engage in activities that promote the public good and contribute to the betterment of society, including pro bono work and community service.
Lawyers to Clients
Communication and Diligence
- Effective Communication: Lawyers must maintain open and honest communication with their clients, ensuring they are fully informed about the status and progress of their cases.
- Diligence and Competence: Lawyers are required to act with diligence and competence, dedicating the necessary time and resources to each case to provide the best possible representation.
Confidentiality and Loyalty
- Confidentiality: Protecting client confidentiality is paramount. Lawyers must safeguard any information related to their clients and their cases, only disclosing it with proper authorization or as required by law.
- Loyalty: Lawyers must demonstrate loyalty to their clients, avoiding conflicts of interest and acting in the best interests of their clients at all times.
Fair and Reasonable Fees
- Reasonable Fees: Lawyers should charge fair and reasonable fees, providing clear explanations of their fee structures and billing practices. They should avoid overcharging or engaging in practices that exploit their clients.
Lawyers to Other Lawyers
Respect and Courtesy
- Professional Courtesy: Lawyers should treat their colleagues with respect and courtesy, fostering a collegial and professional environment. This includes refraining from engaging in hostile or aggressive behavior.
- Cooperation and Civility: Lawyers are encouraged to cooperate with one another, facilitating the efficient and fair resolution of legal matters. Civility should be maintained in all interactions, both in and out of the courtroom.
Honesty and Integrity
- Honesty: Lawyers must be honest in their dealings with other lawyers, avoiding deceit or misrepresentation. Integrity is fundamental to maintaining trust and credibility within the legal profession.
- Fairness: Lawyers should act fairly towards their colleagues, refraining from actions that could unjustly harm another lawyer’s practice or reputation.
Responsibility to the Profession
- Mentorship and Education: Experienced lawyers have a responsibility to mentor and educate less experienced colleagues, contributing to the development of the profession. Sharing knowledge and expertise helps ensure the continued growth and improvement of the legal community.
Lawyers to the Judiciary
Respect for the Judicial Process
- Respect for Judges: Lawyers must show respect for judges and the judicial process, recognizing the importance of maintaining the integrity and authority of the courts.
- Compliance with Court Rules: Lawyers are required to comply with all court rules and procedures, ensuring their actions do not disrupt or undermine the judicial process.
Candor and Honesty
- Candor to the Tribunal: Lawyers must be candid and honest with the courts, providing truthful and accurate information. They should avoid making false statements or presenting misleading evidence.
- Duty to Correct Errors: If a lawyer becomes aware of an error or omission in their representations to the court, they have a duty to correct it promptly.
Promotion of Justice
- Advocacy for Justice: Lawyers should advocate for justice, ensuring their actions contribute to the fair and equitable administration of the law. This includes presenting arguments and evidence in a manner that supports the search for truth and justice.
- Professionalism in Court: Lawyers are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism in court, maintaining decorum and respecting the authority of the judiciary. This helps uphold the dignity of the legal process and reinforces public confidence in the justice system.
The Texas Lawyer’s Creed is a vital document that outlines the ethical and professional responsibilities of lawyers in Texas. By adhering to the principles and guidelines set forth in the Creed, lawyers can ensure they maintain the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and civility. This not only benefits their clients and colleagues, but also contributes to the overall health and effectiveness of the legal system. The Creed serves as a constant reminder of the important role lawyers play in upholding justice and the rule of law, guiding them in their daily practice and interactions.
We at the Herd Law Firm, PLLC, embrace these principles as we fight for victims of injuries of all kinds in all types of personal injury and death claims (and other matters we handle), and never waver in our commitment to help these victims and their families in seeking the assistance and compensation they so need and deserve.
6/18/2024
