Ethical Principles
/ˈeθɪkəl ˈprɪnsəpəlz/
Definitions
- (n.) Fundamental moral standards guiding conduct in legal and professional settings.
The lawyer adhered strictly to ethical principles in representing her client.
- (n.) Normative guidelines that courts and legal bodies reference to resolve dilemmas and uphold justice.
Judges often rely on ethical principles when statutory law is ambiguous.
Forms
- ethical principles
- ethical principle
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Ethical principles in law often overlap with professional ethics and inform rules beyond written statutes, serving as interpretive tools and standards for professional behavior.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.