Code of Pretrial and Trial Conduct

The Code of Pretrial and Trial Conduct represents an attempt by the College to set down aspirational, rather than minimal, guidelines for trial lawyers and judges. The problem in trial practice today is not that lawyers violate the ethical rules, although some lawyers do. Most lawyers know the rules and try to comply. The real problem is the gradual corrosion of the profession’s traditional aspirations.

The College is confident that utilization of this Code in the course of legal proceedings in the courts and as teaching aid at the Bar and in the nation’s law schools will represent a positive contribution to improving and elevating standards of trial practice, the administration of justice and the ethics of the profession.