Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

Every barrister called to the Bar of Northern Ireland is subject to the Code of Conduct of the Bar of Northern Ireland.

The Bar Council supervises the adherence of members of the Bar to the Code of Conduct and refers concerns in that regard to its Professional Conduct Committee.

The Bar Council is also responsible for amending the provisions of the Code of Conduct as from time to time may be appropriate.

In September 2022 the Bar Council introduced a new Code of Conduct, making clear that every barrister called to the Bar is subject to the Code of Conduct whether or not they are practising and that every barrister has a personal responsibility for understanding and adhering to the new Code.

This new Code contained some significant changes from previous versions including a Statement of Principles which articulates the fundamental values and standards that must be at the core of every barrister’s conduct.

These Principles permeate all other aspects of the Code. Failure to demonstrate these principles can result in a Disciplinary charge. These Principles articulate the Bar’s position on matters such as Independence, Confidentiality, Impartiality, Equality, Integrity, Competency and A Commitment to service Standards.