What Does Professionalism Mean?
Professionalism is most closely associated with the three traditionally defined learned professions of theology, law and medicine, although it may apply to any profession. Professionalism in the law, also known as professional responsibility, is the focus here.
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Definition
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The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language defines professionalism as the "status, methods, character or standards" of a profession.
Authority
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The foremost authority in professionalism in the law is the American Bar Association (ABA) Center for Professional Responsibility.
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History
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The ABA Center for Professional Responsibility was created in 1978. It is the "[c]ore entity within the ABA to enhance public confidence in the profession by improving the ethics, competence and professionalism of lawyers and judges and by strengthening the accountability and effectiveness of the profession's regulatory structure."
Rules
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The ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct is an outline for state rules governing lawyers in their attorney-client relationships, as well as their relationships with the courts and third parties. Most states have adopted the model rules in whole or in part.
Rule Categories
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The ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct fall into eight distinct categories. They are client-lawyer relationship, counselor, advocate, transactions with persons other than clients, law firms and associations, public service, information about legal services, and maintaining the integrity of the profession.
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References
Resources
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