A.M. No.

22-09-01-SC
CODE OF PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 5(5), Article VIII of the 1987 Constitution, the Supreme Court is
vested with the power to promulgate rules concerning the pleading, practice, and procedure in all
courts, the admission to the practice of law, the Integrated Bar, and legal assistance to the
underprivileged;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

WHEREAS, it has been more than three decades since the Code of Professional Responsibility, which
establishes the norms of conduct and ethical standards in the legal profession, was promulgated on June
21, 1988;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

WHEREAS, the Code of Professional Responsibility, as promulgated, reflected the then prevailing
trends, views and attitudes regarding the practice of law, while the role of modem-day lawyers has
expanded and shifted from advocates to peacemakers, from solicitors to specialists, and from
counterparts to collaborators;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

WHEREAS, there have been significant developments in our laws and socioeconomic life as a people,
as well as the rapid technological advancements around Notice of Resolution 2 A.M. No. 22-09-01-SC
April 11, 2023 the world which have shaped the way lawyers interact with society, the legal profession,
the courts, and their clients;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

WHEREAS, considering the present direction and thrust of the Court towards strengthening a
technology-driven judiciary through digitization and automation of its court processes, as well as a
parallel transformation of its human resources, the use of technology in the legal profession draws
attention to its wider and underlying ethical considerations;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

WHEREAS, there is a timely and bona fide need to revise the Code of Professional Responsibility to
take into account these role changes, recent developments and technological trends which impact the
experience and behavior of members of the Philippine Bar mostly through social media .and the
internet;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

WHEREAS, the Court, through the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI) 2022-2027, identified
the revision of the Code of Professional Responsibility as a component of its campaign for ethical
responsibility under the Outcome of Efficiency;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

WHEREAS, through Memorandum Order No. 111-2021, dated November 22, 2021, as amended by
Memorandum Order No. 99-2022, dated July 1, 2022, the Sub-Committee for the Revision of the Code
of Professional Responsibility was reorganized to review the Code. The Sub-Committee is composed
of the following:

Chairperson:

Hon. Amy C. Lazaro-Javier

Associate Justice, Supreme Court

Vice-Chairpersons:

Hon. Samuel H. Gaerlan

Associate Justice, Supreme Court

Hon. Maria Filomena D. Singh

Associate Justice, Supreme Court

Members:
 Hon. Geraldine C. Fiel-Macaraig
Associate Justice, Court of Appeals

Hon. Ma. Theresa Dolores C. Gomez-Estoesta

Associate Justice, Sandiganbayan

Hon. Josefe C. Sorrera-Ty

Commissioner, Legal Education Board

Hon. Caridad M. Walse-Lutero

Presiding Judge, Regional Trial Court, Branch 223, Quezon City

Hon. James T. Sy
Presiding Judge, Regional Trial Court, Branch 49, Manila

Hon. Jackie B. Crisologo-Saguisag

Presiding Judge, Metropolitan Trial Court, Branch 67, Makati City

Atty. Avelino V. Sales, Jr.

National Director for Bar Discipline

Dean Tranquil Gervacio S. Salvador III

Representative, Integrated Bar of the Philippines Quezon City Chapter

Dean Ma. Soledad Deriquito-Mawis

Chairperson, Philippine Association of Law Schools

Atty. Fina Bernadette dela Cuesta-Tantuico

Past President and Adviser, Philippine Bar Association

Dean Joan S. Largo

Vice President for Academic Affairs, University of San Carlos

Atty. Antonio Ceasar R. Manila

Office of the Chief Justice

Secretariat:

Atty. Marchellene B. Caday-Atitiw

Atty. Lloyd Danielle V. Javier
Secretaries Office of Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier

Atty. Cheska Ann M. Pazziuagan

Atty. Emerson M. Anit Assistant
Secretaries Office of Associate Justice Samuel H Gaerlan

Atty. Mcgyver L. Doria

Atty. Irish Jhade G. Alimpolos
Atty. Mark Darryl P. Buemio
Atty. Samantha Grace M. Alban
Assistant Secretaries Office of Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh

Atty. Mell Christopher G. Lantion

Assistant Secretary Office of Associate Justice Ma. Theresa Dolores C. Gomez-Estoesta

Stenographer:
 Ms. Maria Lourdes M. Reyes
Office of the Clerk of Court, Supreme Court En Banc

Administrative support:

Atty. Mac M. Bautista

Office of the Chief Justice

Ms. Maria Lourdes A. Banal

Office of the Clerk of Court, Supreme Court En Banc

WHEREAS, the Sub-Committee conducted a series of information and consultation campaigns called
the Ethics Caravan throughout the country, to gather suggestions and comments from relevant
stakeholders, including Justices, judges, court personnel, government lawyers, private practitioners, the
academe, the private sector, civil society organizations, and law students;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

WHEREAS, the Court expresses its gratitude to the University of San Carlos, the University of
Mindanao, the University of Nueva Caceres, St. Louis University, and the University of Santo Tomas
for hosting the said Ethics Caravan;chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

NOW, THEREFORE, acting on the recommendation of the Chairperson and the Vice-Chairpersons of
the Sub-Committee for the Revision of the Code of Professional Responsibility, the Court resolves to
APPROVE "the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability." The Code of Professional
Responsibility and Accountability shall. take effect fifteen (15) calendar days after its· publication in
the Official Gazette or any newspaper of general circulation.

The Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability shall take effect fifteen (15) calendar days
after its publication in the Official Gazette or any newspaper of general circulation.

Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo

Chief Justice

Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen

Senior Associate Justice

Justice Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa

Associate Justice

Justice Ramon Paul L. Hernando

Associate Justice

Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier

Associate Justice

Justice Henri Jean Paul B. Inting

Associate Justice

Justice Rodil V. Zalameda

Associate Justice

Justice Mario V. Lopez

Associate Justice

Justice Samuel H. Gaerlan

Associate Justice
 Justice Ricardo R. Rosario
Associate Justice

Justice Jhosep Y. Lopez

Associate Justice

Justice Japar B. Dimaampao

Associate Justice

Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez

Associate Justice

Justice Antonio T. Kho, Jr.

Associate Justice

Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh

Associate Justice

CODE OF PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY RESOLUTION

A.M. No. 22-09-01-SC - April 11, 2023

PREAMBLE

Ethics is the experiential manifestation of moral standards. The observance of these standards of
conduct is both a function of personal choice and formal compulsion. A lawyer is ideally ethical by
personal choice. A code of ethics expressly adopted represents society’s consensus and dictate to
conform to a chosen norm of behavior that sustains the community’s survival and growth.

The Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability, as an institutional imperative, is meant to

foster an environment where ethical conduct performs a dedicated role in the administration of justice.
In particular, the standards embodied in the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability
uniquely address the characteristics of the Filipino lawyer as an amalgamation of influences and
moorings, i.e., familial, cultural, religious, academic, political, and philosophical. Inherently a social
being, the Filipino lawyer inevitably develops and cultivates relations, preferences and biases. The
conscious adoption of ethical standards that accounts for such relationships and personal choices
balanced against the demands of right and justice is envisioned to govern and regulate these personal
choices and make them consistent with the institutional objectives.

The existence of a free and an independent society depends upon the recognition of the concept that
justice is based on the rule of law.

As a guardian of the rule of law, every lawyer, as a citizen, owes allegiance to the Constitution and the
laws of the land; as a member of the legal profession, is bound by its ethical standards in both private
and professional matters; as an officer of the court, assists in the administration of justice; and as a
client’s representative, acts responsibly upon a fiduciary trust.

An ethical lawyer is a lawyer possessed of integrity. Integrity is the sum total of all the ethical values
that every lawyer must embody and exhibit. A lawyer with integrity, therefore, acts with independence,
propriety, fidelity, competence and diligence, equality and accountability.

Failure to abide by the Code results in sanctions.

CANON I
INDEPENDENCE

The independence of a lawyer in the discharge of professional duties without any improper influence,
restriction, pressure, or interference, direct or indirect, ensures effective legal representation and is
ultimately imperative for the rule of law.

Section 1. Independent, accessible, efficient and effective legal service. — A lawyer shall make legal
services accessible in an efficient and effective manner. In performing this duty, a lawyer shall
maintain independence, act with integrity, and at all times ensure the efficient and effective delivery of
justice.

Section 2. Merit-based practice. — A lawyer shall rely solely on the merits of a cause and not exert, or
give the appearance of, any influence on, nor undermine the authority of, the court, tribunal or other
government agency, or its proceedings.

Section 3. Freedom from improper considerations and external influences. — A lawyer shall not, in
advocating a client’s cause, be influenced by dishonest or immoral considerations, external influences,
or pressure.

Section 4. Non-interference by a lawyer. — Unless authorized by law or a court, a lawyer shall not
assist or cause a branch, agency, office or officer of the government to interfere in any matter before
any court, tribunal, or other government agency.

Section 5. Lawyer’s duty and discretion in procedure and strategy. — A lawyer shall not allow the
client to dictate or determine the procedure in handling the case.

Nevertheless, a lawyer shall respect the client’s decision to settle or compromise the case after
explaining its consequences to the client.

CANON II
PROPRIETY

A lawyer shall, at all times, act with propriety and maintain the appearance of propriety in personal and
professional dealings, observe honesty, respect and courtesy, and uphold the dignity of the legal
profession consistent with the highest standards of ethical behavior.
Section 1. Proper conduct. — A lawyer shall not engage in unlawful, dishonest, immoral, or deceitful
conduct.

Section 2. Dignified conduct. — A lawyer shall respect the law, the courts, tribunals, and other
government agencies, their officials, employees, and processes, and act with courtesy, civility, fairness,
and candor towards fellow members of the bar.

A lawyer shall not engage in conduct that adversely reflects on one’s fitness to practice law, nor behave
in a scandalous manner, whether in public or private life, to the discredit of the legal profession.

Section 3. Safe environment; avoid all forms of abuse or harassment. — A lawyer shall not create or
promote an unsafe or hostile environment, both in private and public settings, whether online, in
workplaces, educational or training institutions, or in recreational areas.

To this end, a lawyer shall not commit any form of physical, sexual, psychological, or economic abuse
or violence against another person. A lawyer is also prohibited from engaging in any gender-based
harassment or discrimination.

Section 4. Use of dignified, gender-fair, and child- and culturally-sensitive language. — A lawyer shall
use only dignified, gender-fair, child- and culturally-sensitive language in all personal and professional
dealings.

To this end, a lawyer shall not use language which is abusive, intemperate, offensive or otherwise
improper, oral or written, and whether made through traditional or electronic means, including all
forms or types of mass or social media.

Section 5. Observance of fairness and obedience. — A lawyer shall, in every personal and
professional engagement, insist on the observance of the principles of fairness and obedience to the
law.

Section 6. Harassing or threatening conduct. — A lawyer shall not harass or threaten a fellow lawyer,
the latter’s client or principal, a witness, or any official or employee of a court, tribunal, or other
government agency.

Section 7. Formal decorum and appearance. — A lawyer shall observe formal decorum before all
courts, tribunals, and other government agencies.

A lawyer’s attire shall be consistent with the dignity of the court, tribunal or other government agency,
with due respect to the person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

Section 8. Prohibition against misleading the court, tribunal, or other government agency. — A lawyer
shall not misquote, misrepresent, or mislead the court as to the existence or the contents of any
document, argument, evidence, law, or other legal authority, or pass off as one’s own the ideas or
words of another, or assert as a fact that which has not been proven.

Section 9. Obstructing access to evidence or altering, destroying, or concealing evidence. — A lawyer

shall not obstruct another lawyer’s access to evidence during trial, including testimonial evidence, or
alter, destroy, or conceal evidence.

Section 10. Conduct in the presentation of a witness. — A lawyer shall avoid all forms of impropriety
when presenting or confronting a witness.

A lawyer shall not coach, abuse, discriminate against, or harass any witness, in or out of the court,
tribunal, or other government agency, or talk to a witness during a break or recess in the trial, while a
witness is still under examination. Neither shall a lawyer direct, assist, or abet any misrepresentation or
falsehood by a witness.
Section 11. False representations or statements; duty to correct. — A lawyer shall not make false
representations or statements. A lawyer shall be liable for any material damage caused by such false
representations or statements.

A lawyer shall not, in demand letters or other similar correspondence, make false representations or
statements, or impute civil, criminal, or administrative liability, without factual or legal basis.

A lawyer shall correct false or inaccurate statements and information made in relation to an application
for admission to the bar, any pleading, or any other document required by or submitted to the court,
tribunal or agency, as soon as its falsity or inaccuracy is discovered or made known to him or her.

Section 12. Duty to report dishonest, deceitful or misleading conduct. — A lawyer shall immediately
inform a court, tribunal, or other government agency of any dishonest, deceitful or misleading conduct
related to a matter being handled by said lawyer before such court, tribunal, or other government
agency.

A lawyer shall also report to the appropriate authority any transaction or unlawful activity that is
required to be reported under relevant laws, including the submission of covered and suspicious
transactions under regulatory laws, such as those concerning anti-money laundering. When disclosing
or reporting the foregoing information to the appropriate court, tribunal, or other government agency,
the lawyer shall not be deemed to have violated the lawyer’s duty of confidentiality.

Any such information shall be treated with strict confidentiality.

A baseless report shall be subject to civil, criminal, or administrative action.

Section 13. Imputation of a misconduct, impropriety, or crime without basis. — A lawyer shall not,
directly or indirectly, impute to or accuse another lawyer of a misconduct, impropriety, or a crime in
the absence of factual or legal basis.

Neither shall a lawyer, directly or indirectly, file or cause to be filed, or assist in the filing of frivolous
or baseless administrative, civil, or criminal complaints against another lawyer.

Section 14. Remedy for grievances; insinuation of improper motive. — A lawyer shall submit
grievances against any officer of a court, tribunal, or other government agency only through the
appropriate remedy and before the proper authorities.

Statements insinuating improper motive on the part of any such officer, which are not supported by
substantial evidence, shall be ground for disciplinary action.

Section 15. Improper claim of influence or familiarity. — A lawyer shall observe propriety in all
dealings with officers and personnel of any court, tribunal, or other government agency, whether
personal or professional. Familiarity with such officers and personnel that will give rise to an
appearance of impropriety, influence, or favor shall be avoided.

A lawyer shall not make claims of power, influence, or relationship with any officer of a court,
tribunal, or other government agency.

Section 16. Duty to report life-threatening situations. — A lawyer who has reasonable grounds to
believe that a life-threatening situation is likely to develop in relation to any proceeding in any court,
tribunal, or other government agency shall immediately report the same to the proper authorities.

Section 17. Non-solicitation and impermissible advertisement. — A lawyer shall not, directly or
indirectly, solicit, or appear to solicit, legal business.

A lawyer shall not, directly or indirectly, advertise legal services on any platform or media except with
the use of dignified, verifiable, and factual information, including biographical data, contact details,
fields of practice, services offered, and the like, so as to allow a potential client to make an informed
choice. In no case shall the permissible advertisement be self-laudatory.

A lawyer, law firm, or any of their representatives shall not pay or give any benefit or consideration to
any media practitioner, award-giving body, professional organization, or personality, in anticipation of,
or in return for, publicity or recognition, to attract legal representation, service, or retainership.

Section 18. Prohibition against self-promotion. — A lawyer shall not make public appearances and
statements in relation to a terminated case or legal matter for the purpose of self-promotion, self-
aggrandizement, or to seek public sympathy.

Section 19. Sub-judice rule. — A lawyer shall not use any forum or medium to comment or publicize
opinion pertaining to a pending proceeding before any court, tribunal, or other government agency that
may:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) cause a pre-judgment, or

(b) sway public perception so as to impede, obstruct, or influence the decision of
such court, tribunal, or other government agency, or which tends to tarnish the
court’s or tribunal’s integrity, or
(c) impute improper motives against any of its members, or
(d) create a widespread perception of guilt or innocence before a final
decision. chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 20. Disclosure of relationship or connection. — A lawyer shall, at the first available
opportunity, formally disclose on record the lawyer’s relationship or connection with the presiding
officer of any court, tribunal, or other government agency, or any of its personnel, or the lawyer’s
partners, associates, or clients, that may serve as a ground for mandatory inhibition in any pending
proceeding before such court, tribunal, or other government agency.

Section 21. Prohibition against gift-giving and donations. — A lawyer shall not directly or indirectly
give gifts, donations, contributions of any value or sort, on any occasion, to any court, tribunal or
government agency, or any of its officers and personnel.

Section 22. No undue advantage of ignorance of the law. — A lawyer shall not take advantage of a
non-lawyer’s lack of education or knowledge of the law.

Section 23. Instituting multiple cases; forum shopping. — A lawyer shall not knowingly engage or
through gross negligence in forum shopping, which offends against the administration of justice, and is
a falsehood foisted upon the court, tribunal, or other government agency.

A lawyer shall not institute or advise the client to institute multiple cases to gain leverage in a case, to
harass a party, to delay the proceedings, or to increase the cost of litigation.

Section 24. Encroaching or interfering in another lawyer’s engagement; exception. — A lawyer shall
not, directly or indirectly, encroach upon or interfere in the professional engagement of another lawyer.

This includes a lawyer’s attempt to communicate, negotiate, or deal with the person represented by
another lawyer on any matter, whether pending or not in any court, tribunal, body, or agency, unless
when initiated by the client or with the knowledge of the latter’s lawyer.

A lawyer, however, may give proper advice and assistance to anyone seeking relief against perceived
unfaithful or neglectful counsel based on the Code.

Section 25. Responsibility of a solo practitioner. — A lawyer in solo practice shall ensure that all
matters requiring such lawyer’s professional skill and judgment are promptly and competently
addressed.
Section 26. Definition of a law firm; choice of firm name. — A law firm is any private office,
partnership, or association, exclusively comprised of a lawyer or lawyers engaged to practice law, and
who hold themselves out as such to the public.

In the choice of a firm name, no false, misleading, or assumed name shall be used. The continued use
of the name of a deceased, incapacitated, or retired partner is permissible provided that the firm
indicates in all its communications that said partner is deceased, incapacitated, or retired.

Section 27. Partner who assumes public office. — When a partner assumes public office, such partner
shall withdraw from the firm and such partner’s name shall be removed from the firm name, unless
allowed by law to practice concurrently.

Section 28. Dignified government service. — Lawyers in government service shall observe the
standard of conduct under the CPRA, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials
and Employees, and other related laws and issuances in the performance of their duties.

Any violation of the CPRA by lawyers in government service shall be subject to disciplinary action,
separate and distinct from liability under pertinent laws or rules.

Section 29. Lawyers formerly in government service. — A lawyer who has left government service
shall not engage in private practice pertaining to any matter before the office where he or she used to be
connected within a period of one (1) year from his or her separation from such office. Justices, judges,
clerks of court, city, provincial, and regional prosecutors shall not appear before any court within the
territorial jurisdiction where they previously served within the same period.

After leaving government service, a lawyer shall not accept an engagement which could improperly
influence the outcome of the proceedings which the lawyer handled or intervened in, or over which the
lawyer previously exercised authority, while in said service.

Section 30. No financial interest in transactions; no gifts. — A lawyer in government shall not, directly
or indirectly, promote or advance his or her private or financial interest or that of another, in any
transaction requiring the approval of his or her office. Neither shall such lawyer solicit gifts or receive
anything of value in relation to such interest.

Such lawyer in government shall not give anything of value to, or otherwise unduly favor, any person
transacting with his or her office, with the expectation of any benefit in return.

Section 31. Prosecution of criminal cases. — The primary duty of a public prosecutor is not to convict
but to see that justice is done.

Suppressing facts, concealing of, tampering with or destroying evidence, coaching a witness, or
offering false testimony is cause for disciplinary action.

The obligations of a public prosecutor shall also be imposed upon lawyers in private practice who are
authorized to prosecute under the direct supervision and control of the public prosecutor.

Section 32. Lawyers in the academe. — A lawyer serving as a dean, administrative officer, or faculty
member of an educational institution shall at all times adhere to the standards of behavior required of
members of the legal profession under the CPRA, observing propriety, respectability, and decorum
inside and outside the classroom, and in all media.

Section 33. Conflict of interest for lawyers in the academe. — A lawyer serving as a dean,
administrative officer, or faculty member of an educational institution shall disclose to the institution
any adverse interest of a client.
Upon discovery of any adverse interest of the lawyer’s client which directly affects any student who is
under his or her direct supervision and guidance, the lawyer shall likewise disclose the same to the
institution.

Section 34. Paralegal services; lawyer’s responsibility. — A paralegal is one who performs tasks that
require familiarity with legal concepts, employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation,
governmental agency, or other entity for non-diagnostic and non-advisory work in relation to legal
matters delegated by such lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency, or other entity.

A lawyer must direct or supervise a paralegal in the performance of the latter’s delegated duties.

The lawyer’s duty of confidentiality shall also extend to the services rendered by the paralegal, who is
equally bound to keep the privilege.

Section 35. Non-delegable legal tasks. — A lawyer shall not delegate to or permit a non-lawyer,
including a paralegal, to:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) accept cases on behalf of the lawyer;

(b) give legal advice or opinion;
(c) act independently without the lawyer’s supervision or direction;
(d) to hold himself or herself out as a lawyer, or be named in association with a
lawyer in any pleading or submission to any court, tribunal, or other government
agency;
(e) appear in any court, tribunal, or other government agency, or actively participate
in formal legal proceedings on behalf of a client, except when allowed by the law or
rules;
(f) conduct negotiations with third parties unless allowed in administrative agencies,
without a lawyer’s supervision or direction;
(g) sign correspondence containing a legal opinion;
(h) perform any of the duties that only lawyers may
undertake. chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

These provisions shall not apply to law student practitioners under Rule 138-A of the Rules of Court.

RESPONSIBLE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

A lawyer shall uphold the dignity of the legal profession in all social media interactions in a manner
that enhances the people’s confidence in the legal system, as well as promote its responsible use.

Section 36. Responsible use. — A lawyer shall have the duty to understand the benefits, risks, and
ethical implications associated with the use of social media.

Section 37. Online posts. — A lawyer shall ensure that his or her online posts, whether made in a
public or restricted privacy setting that still holds an audience, uphold the dignity of the legal
profession and shield it from disrepute, as well as maintain respect for the law.

Section 38. Non-posting of false or unverified statements, disinformation. — A lawyer shall not
knowingly or maliciously post, share, upload or otherwise disseminate false or unverified statements,
claims, or commit any other act of disinformation.

Section 39. Prohibition against fraudulent accounts. — A lawyer shall not create, maintain or operate
accounts in social media to hide his or her identity for the purpose of circumventing the law or the
provisions of the CPRA.

Section 40. Non-disclosure of privileged information through online posts. — A lawyer shall not
reveal, directly or indirectly, in his or her online posts confidential information obtained from a client
or in the course of, or emanating from, the representation, except when allowed by law or the CPRA.
Section 41. Duty to safeguard client confidences in social media. — A lawyer, who uses a social media
account to communicate with any other person in relation to client confidences and information, shall
exert efforts to prevent the inadvertent or unauthorized disclosure or use of, or unauthorized access to,
such an account.

Section 42. Prohibition against influence through social media. — A lawyer shall not communicate,
whether directly or indirectly, with an officer of any court, tribunal, or other government agency
through social media to influence the latter’s performance of official duties.

Section 43. Legal information; legal advice. — Pursuant to a lawyer’s duty to society and the legal
profession, a lawyer may provide general legal information, including in answer to questions asked, at
any fora, through traditional or electronic means, in all forms or types of mass or social media.

A lawyer who gives legal advice on a specific set of facts as disclosed by a potential client in such fora
or media dispenses Limited Legal Service and shall be bound by all the duties in the CPRA, in relation
to such Limited Legal Service.

Section 44. Online posts that could violate conflict of interest. — A lawyer shall exercise prudence in
making posts or comments in social media that could violate the provisions on conflict of interest under
the CPRA.

CANON III
FIDELITY

Fidelity pertains to a lawyer’s duty to uphold the Constitution and the laws of the land, to assist in the
administration of justice as an officer of the court, and to advance or defend a client’s cause, with full
devotion, genuine interest, and zeal in the pursuit of truth and justice.

Section 1. Practice of law. — The practice of law is the rendition of legal service or performance of
acts or the application of law, legal principles, and judgment, in or out of court, with regard to the
circumstances or objectives of a person or a cause, and pursuant to a lawyer-client relationship or other
engagement governed by the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability for lawyers. It
includes employment in the public service or private sector and requires membership in the Philippine
bar as qualification.

Section 2. The responsible and accountable lawyer. — A lawyer shall uphold the constitution, obey the
laws of the land, promote respect for laws and legal processes, safeguard human rights, and at all times
advance the honor and integrity of the legal profession.

As an officer of the court, a lawyer shall uphold the rule of law and conscientiously assist in the speedy
and efficient administration of justice.

As an advocate, a lawyer shall represent the client with fidelity and zeal within the bounds of the law
and the CPRA.

Section 3. Lawyer-client relationship. — A lawyer-client relationship is of the highest fiduciary

character. As a trust relation, it is essential that the engagement is founded on the confidence reposed
by the client on the lawyer. Therefore, a lawyer-client relationship shall arise when the client
consciously, voluntarily and in good faith vests a lawyer with the client’s confidence for the purpose of
rendering legal services such as providing legal advice or representation, and the lawyer, whether
expressly or impliedly, agrees to render such services.

Section 4. Authority of lawyer to bind client. — A lawyer can bind a client in a legal engagement only
when so authorized through a written agreement.

The lawyer, however, cannot compromise a client’s litigation, or receive anything in discharge of a
client’s claim, without a special power of attorney for such purpose.
Section 5. Authority of lawyer to appear. — A lawyer is presumed to be properly authorized to
represent any cause in which he or she appears, and no written power of attorney is required to
authorize him or her to appear in court for the client.

The court, tribunal, or other government agency may, on its own initiative or on motion of either party,
on just cause, require a lawyer to produce or prove the authority to appear on behalf of the client.

Section 6. Fiduciary duty of a lawyer. — A lawyer shall be mindful of the trust and confidence reposed
by the client.

To this end, a lawyer shall not abuse or exploit the relationship with a client.

Section 7. Prohibition against frivolous suits and abuse of court processes. — A lawyer shall
not:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) file or encourage the filing of any suit or proceeding not authorized by law or
jurisprudence and without any evidentiary support;
(b) unduly impede the execution of an order or judgment which is warranted; or
(c) abuse court processes.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 8. Lawyer’s duty to encourage settlement. — A lawyer shall encourage the client to avoid, end
or settle a controversy, whether pending or not, in order to reach a settlement or a compromise if the
matter can be compromised under the law and will admit of a fair settlement.

To this end, the lawyer shall actively assist the parties and the court, tribunal, or other government
agency to effect mediation and/or dispute resolution.

Section 9. Duty to call client to rectify fraudulent act. — A lawyer who receives information that a
client has, in the course of the representation, perpetrated a fraud in relation to any matter subject of the
representation before a court, tribunal, or other government agency, or against any officer thereof, shall
promptly call upon the client to rectify the same. Such fraudulent act on the part of the client shall be a
ground for the termination by the lawyer of the engagement.

Section 10. Responsibility over a subordinate lawyer, paralegal, or employee. — A lawyer or law firm
shall be responsible for the mistakes, negligence, and/or acts or omissions of a subordinate lawyer,
paralegal, or employee under the lawyer’s direct supervision and control, who is acting within the
scope of the assigned tasks, that cause damage or injury which brings dishonor to the profession or
violates the rule on confidentiality.

However, such liability of the supervising lawyer does not attach upon proof of exercise of diligence of
a good parent of a family in the selection and supervision of subordinate lawyer, paralegal, or
employee.

Section 11. Responsibility of a supervisory lawyer over a supervised lawyer. — A supervisory lawyer
shall co-sign a pleading or other submission to any court, tribunal, or other government agency with a
supervised lawyer. A supervisory lawyer shall be responsible for a violation of the CPRA by the
supervised lawyer in any of the following instances:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) the supervisory lawyer orders or directs the specific conduct or, with knowledge
of the specific conduct, ratifies it; or
(b) the supervisory lawyer knows of such conduct at a time when it could be
prevented or its consequences avoided or mitigated, but fails to take reasonable
remedial action; or
(c) the supervisory lawyer should have known of the conduct so that reasonable
remedial action could have been taken at a time when the consequences of the
conduct could have been avoided or mitigated.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary
A supervisory lawyer is a lawyer having direct supervisory authority over another lawyer, including a
supervising lawyer under Rule 138-A of the Rules of Court.

Section 12. Responsibilities of a supervised lawyer. — A supervised lawyer acting under the direction
of the supervising lawyer, managing partner, or other partners of the firm is nevertheless bound by the
CPRA.

Section 13. Conflict of interest. — A lawyer shall not represent conflicting interests except by written
informed consent of all concerned given after a full disclosure of the facts.

There is conflict of interest when a lawyer represents inconsistent or opposing interests of two or more
persons. The test is whether in behalf of one client it is the lawyer’s duty to fight for an issue or claim,
but which is his or her duty to oppose for the other client.

Section 14. Prohibition against conflict- of-interest representation; current clients. — In relation to
current clients, the following rules shall be observed:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) A lawyer shall not enter into a business transaction with a client or knowingly
acquire an ownership, possessory, security, or other pecuniary interest adverse to a
client unless:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(1) it is shown that the transaction and terms on which the lawyer
acquires the interest are fair and reasonable to the client and are
fully disclosed and transmitted in writing in a manner that can be
reasonably understood by the client;
(2) the client is advised in writing of the desirability of seeking,
and is given a reasonable opportunity to seek, the advice of another
independent lawyer on the transaction; and
(3) the client gives written informed consent to the essential terms
of the transaction and the lawyer’s role in the transaction, including
whether the lawyer is representing the client in the
transaction. chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(b) A lawyer shall not use confidential information relating to representation of a

client without the client’s written informed consent, except as permitted or required
by law or the CPRA.

(c) A lawyer shall not, by undue influence, acquire any substantial gift from a client,
including a testamentary gift, or prepare on behalf of a client an instrument giving the
lawyer such gift, directly or indirectly.

(d) Unless with the written informed consent of the client and subject to the
application of the sub judice rule, a lawyer shall not make or negotiate an agreement
giving the lawyer literary or media rights to a portrayal or account based in
substantial part on information relating to the representation.

(e) A lawyer shall not accept compensation for representing a client from any person
other than the client, unless:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(1) the client gives written informed consent;

(2) there is no interference with the lawyer’s independence or
professional judgment or with the lawyer-client relationship; or
(3) the information relating to representation of a client is protected
as required by the rule on privileged
communication. chanroblesvirtualawlibrary
 (f) A lawyer, who represents two or more clients in the same case, in case there is a
settlement or plea-bargaining, shall disclose to all the clients the existence and nature
of all the claims or pleas involved and the participation of each client in the
settlement or plea-bargaining.

(g) A lawyer shall avoid testifying in behalf of the client,

except:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(1) on formal matters, such as the mailing, authentication or

custody of an instrument, and the like; or
(2) on substantial matters, in cases where the testimony is essential
to the ends of justice, in which event the lawyer must, during the
testimony, entrust the trial of the case to another
counsel. chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 15. Conflict of interest of a lawyer hired by a law firm. — When a lawyer joins a law firm, it
shall be the duty of the lawyer to disclose to the law firm, at the earliest possible opportunity, his or her
previous clients that may have a potential conflict of interest with the current clients of the law firm. If
there is a potential conflict of interest, the lawyer shall not act on the case or cases of the affected
current client.

Section 16. Prohibition against dating, romantic or sexual relations with a client. — A lawyer shall not
have dating, romantic, or sexual relations with a client during the engagement, unless the consensual
relationship existed between them before the lawyer-client relationship commenced.

Section 17. Prohibition against conflict-of- interest representation; prospective clients. — In relation to
prospective clients, the following rules shall be observed:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) A lawyer shall, at the earliest opportunity, ascertain the existence of any conflict
of interest between a prospective client and current clients, and immediately disclose
the same if found to exist.

In case of an objection by either the prospective or current client, the lawyer shall not
accept the new engagement.

(b) A lawyer shall maintain the private confidences of a prospective client even if no
engagement materializes, and shall not use any such information to further his or her
own interest, or the interest of any current client.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 18. Prohibition against conflict- of-interest representation; former clients. — In relation to
former clients, the following rules shall be observed:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) A lawyer shall maintain the private confidences of a former client even after the
termination of the engagement, except upon the written informed consent of the
former client, or as otherwise allowed under the CPRA or other applicable laws or
regulations, or when the information has become generally known.

(b) A lawyer shall not use information relating to the former representation, except as
the CPRA or applicable laws and regulations would permit or require with respect to
a current or prospective client, or when the information has become generally known.

(c) Unless the former client gives written informed consent, a lawyer who has
represented such client in a legal matter shall not thereafter represent a prospective
client in the same or related legal matter, where the prospective client’s interests are
materially adverse to the former client’s interests. chanroblesvirtualawlibrary
Section 19. Corporate lawyers; conflict of interest. — In relation to organizational clients, a lawyer
who represents a corporation or any organization does not, by virtue of such representation, necessarily
represent any constituent or affiliated organization, such as a parent or subsidiary.

A lawyer for a corporation or other organization, who is also a member of its board of directors or
trustees, shall determine whether the responsibilities of the two roles may conflict. In the event of the
latter, the lawyer shall disclose the conflict of interest to all concerned parties.

Section 20. Legal services organization; conflict of interest. — A legal services organization is any
private organization, including a legal aid clinic, partnership, association, or corporation, whose
primary purpose is to provide free legal services.

A lawyer-client relationship shall arise only between the client and the handling lawyers of the legal
services organization. All the lawyers of the legal services organization who participated in the
handling of a legal matter shall be covered by the rule on conflict of interest and confidentiality.

Section 21. Lawyers in government service; conflict of interest. — A lawyer currently serving in the
government shall not practice law privately, unless otherwise authorized by the Constitution, the law or
applicable Civil Service rules and regulations. If allowed, private practice shall be upon the express
authority of the lawyer’s superior, for a stated specified purpose or engagement, and only during an
approved leave of absence. However, the lawyer shall not represent an interest adverse to the
government.

Section 22. Public Attorney’s Office; conflict of interest. — The Public Attorney’s Office is the
primary legal aid service office of the government. In the pursuit of its mandate under its charter, the
Public Attorney’s Office shall ensure ready access to its services by the marginalized sectors of society
in a manner that takes into consideration the avoidance of potential conflict of interest situations which
will leave these marginalized parties unassisted by counsel.

A conflict of interest of any of the lawyers of the Public Attorney’s Office incident to services rendered
for the Office shall be imputed only to the said lawyer and the lawyer’s direct supervisor. Such conflict
of interest shall not disqualify the rest of the lawyers from the Public Attorney’s Office from
representing the affected client, upon full disclosure to the latter and written informed consent.

Section 23. Amicus curiae. — A lawyer shall not decline, without just cause, a request by any court,
tribunal, or other government agency to act as amicus curiae in any proceeding relating to the lawyer’s
expertise or field of specialization.

Section 24. Active involvement in legal education. — A lawyer shall keep abreast of legal
developments, participate in continuing legal education programs, and support efforts to achieve
standards of excellence in law schools as well as in the practical training of law students.

In addition, a lawyer shall assist the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, law schools, law alumni
associations, law associations, or civic organizations, in educating the public on the law and
jurisprudence.

The IBP Chapters shall provide supervising lawyers to the legal aid clinics in their jurisdiction.

Section 25. Support for legal internship, apprenticeship and training. — To prepare the next generation
of lawyers for ethical practice, lawyers shall support legal internship and apprenticeship programs and
accept law students for training.

The lawyer shall treat the apprentices as junior colleagues and future counsels, and shall
conscientiously supervise them.
Section 26. Prompt payment of membership dues. — A lawyer shall promptly pay the annual
membership dues in the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, unless expressly exempt from such payment
by law or rules.

Section 27. Confidentiality of privileged communication. — A lawyer shall maintain the confidences
of the client, and shall respect data privacy laws. The duty of confidentiality shall continue even after
the termination of the lawyer- client engagement.

Section 28. Protecting client confidences. — A lawyer shall not reveal the confidences of the client,
including data from the client’s files, except;

(a) When a written informed consent is obtained from the client;

(b) When required by law, such as anti-money laundering statutes, or the Rules of
Court;
(c) To the extent necessary, to collect the lawyer’s fees;
(d) In defense of the lawyer, or the lawyer’s employees or associates; or
(e) By judicial order, but only if material.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 29. Duty of confidentiality by former lawyers of a law firm. — A lawyer shall continue to be
bound by the rule on confidentiality pertaining to clients of his or her previous law office or law firm.

Section 30. Duty of confidentiality of members of a law firm. — A lawyer may disclose the legal
matters entrusted by a client of the firm to the partners and associates, as well as paralegals, legal
assistants, law clerks, legal researchers, law interns, and other non-legal staff, who are or will be
involved in the handling of the client’s account, unless expressly prohibited by the client.

A lawyer directly entrusted with a client’s confidences shall adopt necessary measures to prevent other
members of the law firm, both legal and non-legal, to whom the client’s confidences have been shared,
from disclosing or using them, without the written informed consent of the client.

Section 31. Prohibition against filial disclosure. — A lawyer shall not discuss a client’s confidences
even with family members.

Section 32. Non-disclosure of legal consultation. — A lawyer shall not reveal that he or she has been
consulted about a particular case except to avoid possible conflict of interest.

Section 33. Foreign lawyers. — Foreign lawyers cannot, directly or indirectly, practice law in the
Philippines.

Section 34. Active participation in the development of the legal profession. — A lawyer shall
participate in the development of the legal system by initiating or supporting efforts in law reform, the
improvement of the administration of justice, strengthening the judicial and legal system, and
advocacies in areas of special concern such as the environment, indigenous peoples’ rights, human
rights, access to justice and good governance.

Section 35. Limited Legal Services. — Limited Legal Services refer to services for a specific legal
incident, with the expectation by the lawyer and the client that the lawyer will not provide continuing
legal services in the matter. This includes being appointed as counsel de officio only for arraignment
purposes or special appearances to make any court submission, to give advice, to draft legal
documents, to provide legal assistance before courts or administrative bodies, and the like.

In all instances, the lawyer shall state that the service being rendered is in the nature of Limited Legal
Services.

A lawyer who renders Limited Legal Services shall be entitled to compensation as may be agreed upon
or provided by the Rules of Court.
Section 36. Pro bono Limited Legal Services. — A lawyer appointed by the court as counsel de oficio
shall not refuse to render Limited Legal Services pro bono on the ground of conflict of interest. Instead,
the lawyer shall disclose to all affected parties such conflict of interest.

In any case, the lawyer may not refuse to render such pro bono legal services to the person concerned if
only to the extent necessary to safeguard the latter’s fundamental rights and not to deprive such person
of remedies available under the law or rules.

A lawyer currently serving in the government shall not be exempt from pro bono service and may be
appointed by any court, tribunal, or other government agency as counsel de officio, unless prohibited
by law, or the applicable Civil Service rules and regulations, or when there is a conflict of interest with
government.

Section 37. Duty of confidentiality in Limited Legal Services. — A lawyer who provides Limited
Legal Services must protect the client’s private confidences to the same extent as if engaged under
regular terms.

Section 38. Termination of Limited Legal Services. — Unless governed by Canon III, Section 36, a
lawyer must cease to provide Limited Legal Services to a client when the lawyer becomes aware that
there may be an actual or potential conflict of interest, except with the written informed consent of the
client.

In all cases, the Limited Legal Services terminates upon the completion of such services.

Section 39. Limited Legal Services of law student practitioners. — The Limited Legal Services
rendered by a law student practitioner under the Clinical Legal Education Program shall be governed
by the CPRA.

Section 40. Accountability of legal clinic director and supervising lawyer. — A law student clinic
director and supervising lawyer, under Rule 138-A of the Rules of Court shall provide meaningful
training to law students. They shall assume responsibility for any work performed by the law student
while under their supervision and shall comply with all the laws, rules, and guidelines pertaining to
Law Student Practice.

Section 41. Fair and reasonable fees. — A lawyer shall charge only fair and reasonable fees.

Attorney’s fees shall be deemed fair and reasonable if determined based on the following
factors:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) The time spent and the extent of the service rendered or required;
(b) The novelty and difficulty of the issues involved;
(c) The skill or expertise of the lawyer, including the level of study and experience
required for the engagement;
(d) The probability of losing other engagements as a result of acceptance of the case;
(e) The customary charges for similar services and the recommended schedule of
fees, which the IBP chapter shall provide;
(f) The quantitative or qualitative value of the client’s interest in the engagement, or
the benefits resulting to the client from the service;
(g) The contingency or certainty of compensation;
(h) The character of the engagement, whether limited, seasonal, or otherwise; and
(i) Other analogous factors.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 42. Division of fees upon referral. — A lawyer shall, in case of referral of legal services in
favor of another lawyer with the written informed consent of the client, be entitled to a division of fees
in proportion to the work performed and responsibility assumed.
Where a lawyer undertakes to complete unfinished legal business of a deceased lawyer, a division or
sharing of fees is allowed with the deceased lawyer’s legal heirs or estate.

Section 43. Non-Sharing of fees with non- lawyers. — A lawyer shall not share, split, or divide or
stipulate to divide, directly or indirectly, a fee for legal services with persons or organizations not
licensed or authorized to practice law.

Section 44. Payment of compensation by third party. — A lawyer shall not receive any fee, reward,
costs, commission, interest, rebate or forwarding allowance or other compensation from anyone other
than the client, except upon the written informed consent of such client.

Receipt of compensation from someone other than the client must not interfere with the lawyer’s
independence, professional judgment, or the lawyer- client relationship. Neither should information
relating to representation of a client be disclosed in violation of the rule on privileged communication.

Section 45. Prompt payment of legal fees. — A lawyer is entitled to prompt payment from the client of
attorney’s fees.

Absent an express agreement as to professional fees, a lawyer is entitled to be paid reasonable

attorney’s fees in accordance with Canon III, Section 41.

Section 46. Controversy over legal fees. — A lawyer shall avoid any controversy with a client
concerning fees for legal services and shall resort to judicial action solely to prevent imposition,
injustice or fraud.

Section 47. Enforcement of attorney’s lien. — In case of non-payment of attorney’s fees, a lawyer may
resort to the enforcement of the attorney’s lien under Canon III, Section 54, by filing a Notice of
Enforcement of Attorney’s Lien with the court, tribunal, or other government agency of origin where
the action or proceeding the lawyer rendered service for is pending, without prejudice to other remedies
under the law or the Rules of Court. The Notice shall be accompanied by proof of the services
rendered, and served on the client. The court, tribunal, or other government agency, after hearing, shall
determine the lawyer’s entitlement to the claimed fees.

The enforcement of an attorney’s lien shall be treated as an independent claim and shall in no instance
delay the resolution of the main case. The resolution of the lawyer’s claim may be included in the main
judgment or in a separate partial judgment. In the case of a partial judgment, the same shall be subject
of appeal.

An appeal in the main case shall not stay the execution of the lawyer’s lien. In the execution of the
judgment in the main case, the court shall give due consideration to the pending claim of the lawyer.

If the claim for attorney’s lien arises after a decision has been rendered by the court, tribunal, or other
government agency of origin on the action or proceeding, the claim for the enforcement of the lien
shall be by an independent action.

Section 48. Compensation for counsel de oficio. — Subject to availability of funds as may be provided
by law, the court may, in its discretion, order a lawyer engaged as counsel de officio to be compensated
in such sum as the court may fix following Canon III, Section 41, provided that it is not covered by the
provision on Limited Legal Services.

Section 49. Accounting during engagement. — A lawyer, during the existence of the lawyer- client
relationship, shall account for and prepare an inventory of any fund or property belonging to the client,
whether received from the latter or from a third person, immediately upon such receipt.

When funds are entrusted to a lawyer by a client for a specific purpose, the lawyer shall use such funds
only for the client’s declared purpose. Any unused amount of the entrusted funds shall be promptly
returned to the client upon accomplishment of the stated purpose or the client’s demand.
Section 50. Separate funds. — A lawyer shall keep the funds of the clients separate and apart from his
or her own and those of others kept by the lawyer.

Section 51. Prohibition against acquiring interest in object of litigation or transaction. — A lawyer
shall not acquire, directly or indirectly, a proprietary interest in the property or rights which is the
object of any litigation or transaction in which the lawyer may take part by virtue of the profession.

Section 52. Prohibition on lending and borrowing; exceptions. — During the existence of the lawyer-
client relationship, a lawyer shall not lend money to a client, except under urgent and justifiable
circumstances. Advances for professional fees and necessary expenses in a legal matter the lawyer is
handling for a client shall not be covered by this rule.

Neither shall a lawyer borrow money from a client during the existence of the lawyer-client
relationship, unless the client’s interests are fully protected by the nature of the case, or by independent
advice. This rule does not apply to standard commercial transactions for products or services that the
client offers to the public in general, or where the lawyer and the client have an existing or prior
business relationship, or where there is a contract between the lawyer and the client.

Section 53. Termination of engagement by the lawyer. — A lawyer shall terminate the lawyer- client
engagement only for good cause and upon written notice, in any of the following
cases:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) When the client pursues an illegal or immoral course of conduct in connection
with the engagement;
(b) When the client insists that the lawyer pursue conduct that is violative of these
Canons and rules;
(c) When the lawyer’s inability to work with a co-counsel will not promote the best
interest of the client;
(d) When the moral predisposition or the mental or physical condition of the lawyer
renders it difficult to carry out the engagement effectively;
(e) When the client deliberately fails to pay the fees for the lawyer’s services, fails to
comply with the retainer agreement, or can no longer be found despite diligent
efforts;
(f) When the lawyer is elected or appointed to public office;
(g) Other similar cases. chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 54. Termination of engagement by the client. — The lawyer-client engagement may be
terminated by the client at any time upon loss of trust and confidence.

The termination of the engagement shall not relieve the client from full payment of all professional fees
due to the lawyer. If the engagement has been reduced to writing, the lawyer shall be entitled to recover
from the client the full compensation stipulated, unless found by the court, tribunal or other
government agency to be unconscionable or unreasonable under Canon III, Section 41 of the CPRA.

For the payment of the compensation, the lawyer shall have a charging lien upon all judgments for the
payment of money, and executions issued in pursuance of such judgment, rendered in the case where
the lawyer’s services had been retained by the client.

Section 55. Termination of engagement upon death. — The death of the lawyer or client shall
terminate the lawyer-client relationship. The death of such lawyer shall not extinguish the lawyer-client
engagement between the law firm and the client handled by such law firm.

Section 56. Accounting and turn over upon termination of engagement. — A lawyer who is discharged
from or terminates the engagement shall, subject to an attorney’s lien, immediately render a full
account of and turn over all documents, evidence, funds, and properties belonging to the client.

The lawyer shall cooperate with the chosen successor in the orderly transfer of the legal matter,
including all information necessary for the efficient handling of the client’s representation.
A lawyer shall have a lien upon the funds, documents, and papers of the client which have lawfully
come into his or her possession and may retain the same until the fair and reasonable fees and
disbursements have been paid, and may apply such funds to the satisfaction thereof.

CANON IV
COMPETENCE AND DILIGENCE

A lawyer professionally handling a client’s cause shall, to the best of his or her ability, observe
competence, diligence, commitment, and skill consistent with the fiduciary nature of the lawyer-client
relationship, regardless of the nature of the legal matter or issues involved, and whether for a fee or pro
bono.

Section 1. Competent, efficient and conscientious service. — A lawyer shall provide legal service that
is competent, efficient, and conscientious. A lawyer shall be thorough in research, preparation, and
application of the legal knowledge and skills necessary for an engagement.

Section 2. Undertaking legal services; collaborating counsel. — A lawyer shall only undertake legal
services he or she can deliver.

With the prior written consent of the client, a lawyer may secure the services of a collaborating
counsel.

Section 3. Diligence and punctuality. — A lawyer shall diligently and seasonably act on any legal
matter entrusted by a client.

A lawyer shall be punctual in all appearances, submissions of pleadings and documents before any
court, tribunal or other government agency, and all matters professionally referred by the client,
including meetings and other commitments.

Section 4. Diligence in all undertakings. — A lawyer shall observe diligence in all professional
undertakings, and shall not cause or occasion delay in any legal matter before any court, tribunal, or
other agency.

A lawyer shall appear for trial adequately familiar with the law, the facts of the case, and the evidence
to be presented. A lawyer shall also be ready with the object and documentary evidence, as well as the
judicial affidavits of the witnesses, when required by the rules or the court.

Section 5. Prompt and objective assessment of the merits. — A lawyer shall, after reasonable inquiry,
promptly give an objective assessment of the merits and probable results of the client’s case.

A lawyer shall explain the viable options to the client to enable an informed decision regarding the
matter.

Section 6. Duty to update the client. — A lawyer shall regularly inform the client of the status and the
result of the matter undertaken, and any action in connection thereto, and shall respond within a
reasonable time to the client’s request for information.

Section 7. Extension of time to file. — A lawyer shall avoid asking for an extension of time to file any
pleading, motion, or other court submission, except when allowed by the Rules of Court or for good
cause.

When an extension is obtained, the lawyer shall not let the period lapse without submitting the
pleading, motion, or other court submission, except upon the client’s decision not to pursue the case
any further or for other justifiable cause.

Section 8. Lifelong learning. — A competent lawyer engages in lifelong learning through the
continued development of professional skills.
Section 9. Practice of law concurrent with another profession. — A lawyer who is engaged in another
profession or occupation concurrently with the practice of law shall expressly provide in the pertinent
contract the nature of the services the lawyer is engaged to perform.

The practice of another profession or occupation shall not jeopardize such lawyer’s competence,
integrity, probity, and independence in rendering legal services.

Section 10. Non-legal activities. — A lawyer who is engaged in business or other non-legal profession
shall likewise observe the ethical duties and responsibilities of a lawyer under the CPRA.

CANON V
EQUALITY

Every lawyer shall adhere to the principle of equality and hold firmly the belief that every person,
regardless of nationality or ethnicity, color, sexual orientation or gender identity, religion, disability,
age, marital status, social or economic status, and other like circumstances, has the fundamental right to
equal treatment and representation.

As such, the lawyer shall accord equal respect, attention, dedication and zeal in advancing the client’s
cause, regardless of personal opinion, religious or political beliefs pertaining on the personal
circumstances of the client, except for justifiable reasons.

Section 1. Non-discrimination. — A lawyer shall not decline to represent a person solely on account of
the latter’s nationality or ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity, religion, disability, age,
marital status, social or economic status, political beliefs, or such lawyer’s or the public’s opinion
regarding the guilt of said person, except for justifiable reasons.

Section 2. Treatment of vulnerable persons. — In dealing with a client who belongs to a vulnerable
sector, a lawyer shall be mindful and sensitive of, and consider the client’s special circumstances, as
well as the applicable laws and rules.

The lawyer shall observe a higher standard of service suited to the particular needs of the vulnerable
person and shall assert such person’s right to meaningful access to justice.

A vulnerable person is a person who is at a higher risk of harm than others, and shall include children,
the elderly, the homeless, persons with disability, persons deprived of liberty, human rights victims,
victims of domestic violence, victims of armed conflict, those who are socio-economically
disadvantaged, those who belong to racial or ethnic minorities, or those with debilitating physical or
mental conditions.

Section 3. Indigent person. — A lawyer shall not refuse the representation of an indigent person,
except if:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) the lawyer is not in a position to carry out the work effectively or competently due
to a justifiable cause;
(b) the lawyer will be placed in a conflict-of- interest situation; or
(c) the lawyer is related to the potential adverse party, within the sixth degree of
consanguinity or affinity, or to the adverse counsel, within the fourth
degree. chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

An indigent is any person who has no money or property sufficient for food, shelter and other basic
necessities for oneself and one’s family.

Section 4. Standard of service. — A lawyer shall observe the same standard of service for all clients,
regardless of remuneration, except for the higher standard required for representation of vulnerable
persons.
 CANON VI
ACCOUNTABILITY

By taking the Lawyer’s Oath, a lawyer becomes a guardian of the law and an administrator of justice.
As such, the lawyer shall observe the highest degree of morality, adhere to rigid standards of mental
fitness, and faithfully comply with the rules of the legal profession.

Failure to honor this covenant makes the lawyer unfit to continue in the practice of law and accountable
to society, the courts, the legal profession, and the client.

Section 1. Nature of disciplinary proceedings against lawyers. — Disciplinary proceedings against

lawyers shall be confidential in character and summary in nature.

Nonetheless, the final order of the Supreme Court shall be published like its decisions in other cases.

Section 2. How instituted. — Proceedings for the disbarment, suspension, or discipline of lawyers may
be commenced by the Supreme Court on its own initiative, or upon the filing of a verified complaint by
the Board of Governors of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), or by any person, before the
Supreme Court or the IBP. However, a verified complaint against a government lawyer which seeks to
discipline such lawyer as a member of the Bar shall only be filed in the Supreme Court.

A verified complaint filed with the Supreme Court may be referred to the IBP for investigation, report
and recommendation, except when filed directly by the IBP, in which case, the verified complaint shall
be referred to the Office of the Bar Confidant or such fact-finding body as may be designated.

Complaints for disbarment, suspension and discipline filed against incumbent Justices of the Court of
Appeals, Sandiganbayan, Court of Tax Appeals and judges of lower courts, or against lawyers in the
judicial service, whether they are charged singly or jointly with other respondents, and whether such
complaint deals with acts unrelated to the discharge of their official functions, shall be forwarded by
the IBP to the Supreme Court for appropriate disposition under Rule 140, as amended.

Section 3. Contents of the complaint. — The complaint shall be verified. It shall state clearly and
concisely the acts or omissions complained of and shall be supported by judicial affidavits of the
witnesses and such other documents in support thereof.

If the verified complaint is filed before the IBP, six (6) copies thereof shall be filed with the Secretary
of the IBP or the Secretary of any of its chapters, who shall forthwith transmit the same to the IBP
Board of Governors.

Section 4. List of Investigating Commissioners; qualifications. — The IBP shall recommend to the
Supreme Court one hundred fifty (150) lawyers in good standing and repute, whom the IBP shall
proportionately select from its nine (9) regions. The IBP may periodically recommend the adjustment
of the number of Investigating Commissioners to the Supreme Court according to the existing caseload.

The list, with the curriculum vitae of the recommended lawyers, shall be submitted by the IBP within a
month from the effectivity of the Code.

Only those approved by the Supreme Court may be designated as Investigating Commissioners, who
shall serve for a term of three (3) years, unless sooner removed, replaced or resigned.

An updated list shall be submitted by the IBP to the Supreme Court upon removal, replacement, or
resignation of a lawyer previously designated as Investigating Commissioner by the Supreme Court.

All approved Investigating Commissioners shall take an oath of office in the form prescribed by the
IBP. A copy of the Investigating Commissioner’s appointment and oath shall be transmitted to the
Supreme Court.
Section 5. Assignment by raffle of Investigating Commissioner. — The IBP Board of Governors shall
assign by raffle an Investigating Commissioner from among the lawyers approved by the Supreme
Court in the list submitted by the IBP or, when special circumstances so warrant, a panel of three (3)
Investigating Commissioners, to investigate the complaint.

Section 6. Complaint against a government lawyer. — When a complaint is filed against a government
lawyer, the Investigating Commissioner shall determine, within five days from assignment by raffle,
whether the concerned agency, the Ombudsman, or the Supreme Court has jurisdiction. If the
allegations in the complaint touch upon the lawyer’s continuing obligations under the CPRA or if the
allegations, assuming them to be true, make the lawyer unfit to practice the profession, then the
Investigating Commissioner shall proceed with the case. Otherwise, the Investigating Commissioner
shall recommend that the complaint be dismissed.

Section 7. Disqualification of Investigating Commissioner. — An Investigating Commissioner shall,

on his or her own initiative or upon motion, recuse from acting as such on the grounds of relationship
within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity with any of the parties or their counsel,
professional legal relationship, pecuniary interest, or where he or she has acted as counsel for either
party, unless, in the last instance, the parties sign and enter upon the record their written consent.

Where an Investigating Commissioner does not disqualify himself or herself, a party may file the
appropriate motion for disqualification before the IBP Board of Governors. The IBP Board of
Governors shall resolve the motion within five days from receipt thereof. Upon vote of majority of the
members present, there being a quorum, the IBP Board of Governors shall order the disqualification
and designate a replace of the disqualified Investigating Commissioner. The decision of the IBP Board
of Governors on the disqualification shall be final.

Section 8. Duties of the Investigating Commissioner. — The Investigating Commissioner shall

investigate a complaint against any member of the Integrated Bar, and thereafter submit a report
embodying the recommended action to the IBP Board of Governors, within a total period not
exceeding one hundred eighty (180) calendar days, from assignment by raffle.

Section 9. Submissions allowed; verification. — The only submissions allowed are the complaint,
answer, and position papers, all of which shall be verified.

A Certificate of Non-Forum Shopping shall accompany the verified complaint.

An unverified complaint shall be recommended for outright dismissal. An unverified answer or

position paper shall not be considered.

Section 10. Prohibited submissions. — The following submissions are

prohibited:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) Motion to dismiss the complaint or petition, except on the ground of lack of
jurisdiction, litis pendentia or res judicata;
(b) Motion for a bill of particulars;
(c) Motion to reopen or for new trial;
(d) Petition for relief from judgment;
(e) Supplemental pleadings;
(f) Motion for reconsideration of a judgment on the merits, except a motion for
reconsideration of an interlocutory order or resolution.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 11. Lack of prima facie showing of liability; outright dismissal. — Within fifteen (15) calendar
days from assignment by raffle, if the Investigating Commissioner finds no prima facie showing of
liability, the Investigating Commissioner shall recommend the outright dismissal of the complaint to
the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court may adopt the recommendation and dismiss the complaint
outright. Otherwise, the Supreme Court shall direct the Investigating Commissioner to conduct further
proceedings.
Section 12. Effect of death of lawyer on administrative disciplinary cases. — Disciplinary proceedings
may not be instituted against a lawyer who has died. If such proceedings have been instituted
notwithstanding the lawyer’s death, the administrative case against said lawyer shall be dismissed.

The death of the lawyer during the pendency of the case shall cause its dismissal.

Section 13. Issuance of summons. — Within fifteen (15) calendar days from assignment by raffle, the
Investigating Commissioner shall issue the required summons, attaching thereto a copy of the verified
complaint and supporting documents, if any. The summons shall require the respondent to file a
verified answer.

Section 14. Verified answer. — The answer shall be verified and filed within thirty (30) calendar days
from receipt of the summons. The verified answer shall be accompanied by judicial affidavits of the
witnesses and such other documents in support thereof.

The respondent may, upon motion, for good cause, be given one extension of fifteen (15) calendar days
to file the verified answer.

Two (2) copies of the verified answer shall be filed with the Investigating Commissioner, with proof of
service on the complainant or the latter’s counsel.

Section 15. Dismissal after answer. — If the Investigating Commissioner finds that the complaint is
not meritorious based on the verified answer, the Investigating Commissioner shall recommend to the
Supreme Court the dismissal of the complaint. Otherwise, the Supreme Court shall direct the
Investigating Commissioner to conduct further proceedings.

Section 16. Irrelevance of desistance, settlement, compromise, restitution, withdrawal, or failure to

prosecute. — No investigation shall be interrupted or terminated by reason of the desistance,
settlement, compromise, restitution, withdrawal of the charges, or failure of the complainant to
prosecute the same.

Section 17. Counsel de oficio. — The IBP Board of Governors shall appoint a suitable member of the
Integrated Bar as counsel de officio to assist the complainant or the respondent during the investigation
in case of need for such assistance.

Section 18. Investigation. — Upon joinder of issues or upon failure of the respondent to answer, the
Investigating Commissioner shall proceed with the investigation of the case. However, if despite
reasonable notice, the respondent fails to file an answer or appear, the investigation shall proceed ex
parte. In both instances, the investigation shall proceed with dispatch.

The respondent shall be given full opportunity to defend and be heard, whether through counsel or not,
and to present witnesses.

The Investigating Commissioner shall have the power to issue subpoenae and administer oaths and
affirmations in relation to the conduct of the proceedings.

Section 19. Indirect contempt. — Willful failure or refusal to obey a subpoena or any other lawful
order issued by the Investigating Commissioner shall be dealt with as indirect contempt of court. The
Investigating Commissioner shall require the alleged contemnor to show cause within ten (10) calendar
days from notice. Upon receipt of the compliance or lapse of the period to comply, the Investigating
Commissioner may conduct a hearing, if necessary, in accordance with the procedure set forth under
Canon VI, Section 20 for hearings before the Investigating Commissioner. Such hearing shall be
terminated within fifteen (15) calendar days from commencement. Thereafter, the Investigating
Commissioner shall submit a report and recommendation to the IBP Board of Governors within a
period of fifteen (15) calendar days from termination of the contempt hearing.
Within thirty (30) calendar days from receipt of the Investigating Commissioner’s report and
recommendation on the contempt charge, the IBP Board of Governors, through a Resolution, may
either adopt, modify or disapprove the recommendation of the Investigating Commissioner. The action
of the IBP Board of Governors shall be immediately executory.

The action of the IBP Board of Governors may be appealed to the Supreme Court. The execution of the
order of contempt shall not be suspended, unless a bond is filed by the person adjudged in contempt, in
an amount fixed by the IBP Board of Governors, conditioned upon compliance with and performance
of the final action in the contempt case, if decided against the contemnor.

Section 20. Submission of preliminary conference briefs. — Immediately upon receipt of the verified
answer, the Investigating Commissioner shall send a notice to the parties and counsels to
simultaneously file, within a non-extendible period of ten (10) calendar days from receipt of the notice,
their respective preliminary conference briefs which shall contain the
following:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) Admissions;
(b) Stipulation of facts;
(c) Definition of issues;
(d) Judicial affidavits and marked exhibits, accompanied by the lawyer’s certification
that the attached documents are the genuine or faithful reproductions of the original
in his or her custody or possession;
(e) Such other matters as may aid in the prompt disposition of the
action.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 21. Preliminary conference order; position papers. — Within ten (10) calendar days from
receipt of the preliminary conference briefs, the Investigating Commissioner shall issue a Preliminary
Conference Order, on the basis of such briefs submitted by the parties and counsels, summarizing the
stipulated facts, issues and marked exhibits.

The Investigating Commissioner shall further direct the parties to submit their verified position papers
within a non-extendible period of ten (10) calendar days from receipt of the preliminary conference
order.

Section 22. Clarificatory hearing. — Within ten (10) calendar days from receipt of the last position
paper, the Investigating Commissioner shall determine whether there is a need to conduct a hearing to
clarify factual issues and confront witnesses.

If deemed necessary, the Investigating Commissioner shall set the hearing within fifteen (15) calendar
days from such determination, and identify the factual issues to be made subject of the hearing.

The Investigating Commissioner may subpoena any witness to appear at the hearing to answer
clarificatory questions. Thereafter, the Investigating Commissioner may allow the parties to confront
the witnesses and propound their own clarificatory questions on the factual issues identified by the
Investigating Commissioner.

The clarificatory hearing may be done in-person or through videoconferencing. If it is conducted in-
person, the clarificatory hearing shall be done at the most convenient venue for the parties.
The clarificatory hearing shall be terminated within thirty (30) calendar days from its commencement.

Section 23. Minutes of proceedings. — The proceedings before the IBP shall be recorded.

Section 24. Non-appearance of parties. — Non-appearance at the clarificatory hearing shall be deemed
a waiver of the right to participate therein.

Section 25. Issuance of report and recommendation by the Investigating Commissioner. — If there is
no clarificatory hearing, the Investigating Commissioner shall render a report and recommendation and
submit the same to the IBP Board of Governors within a non-extendible period of sixty (60) calendar
days from receipt of the last position paper or lapse of the period given.

In case the Investigating Commissioner sets a clarificatory hearing, the report and recommendation
shall be rendered and submitted to the IBP Board of Governors within a non-extendible period of thirty
(30) calendar days from the termination of the hearing.

The report and recommendation shall be accompanied by the duly certified transcript of stenographic
notes, or in lieu thereof, the audio recording, if any, or the Investigating Commissioner’s personal notes
duly signed, which should be attached to the records, together with the evidence presented during the
investigation. The submission of the report need not await the transcription of the stenographic notes, it
being sufficient that the report reproduce substantially from the Investigating Commissioner’s personal
notes any relevant and pertinent testimonies.

If the hearing is conducted through videoconferencing, the proceedings shall be recorded by the
Investigating Commissioner. It shall form part of the records of the case, appending thereto relevant
electronic documents taken up or issued during the hearing.

Section 26. Submission of Resolution by the Board of Governors. – The IBP Board of Governors shall
have a non-extendible period of ninety (90) calendar days from receipt of the Report and
Recommendation of the Investigating Commissioner, within which to submit to the Supreme Court its
Resolution adopting, modifying or disapproving such Report and Recommendation.

Section 27. Depositions. — Depositions may be taken in accordance with the Rules of Civil Procedure,
as amended, with leave of the Investigating Commissioner.

Section 28. Filing and service. — The filing and the service of papers or notices required by this Canon
shall be made with the Commission, or upon the parties personally, by registered mail, accredited
courier, electronic mail or other electronic means, or as provided for in international conventions to
which the Philippines is a party.

For this purpose, the office address and the electronic mail address supplied by the lawyer to the IBP
shall be the official addresses to which all notices, orders and processes shall be served.

Proof of filing and service shall be submitted in accordance with the Rules of Civil Procedure, as
amended.

Section 29. Substantial defects; motion to reopen. — Any substantial defect in the complaint, notice,
answer, or in the proceeding or the Investigating Commissioner’s Report which may result in the
miscarriage of justice may be raised as an error before the Supreme Court, unless the defect results in
the deprivation of the right to due process. In case of the latter, the matter may be brought before the
IBP Board of Governors by way of a motion to reopen within sixty (60) calendar days from
knowledge.

Section 30. Proceedings initiated before the Supreme Court. — In proceedings initiated by the
Supreme Court, or proceedings commenced by complaint filed with the Supreme Court, the Supreme
Court may refer the case for investigation, report and recommendation to the Office of the Bar
Confidant, or the IBP, or other fact-finding body that is designated or created by the Supreme Court for
such purpose.

Cases referred to the Office of the Bar Confidant, or other fact-finding body, or the IBP shall proceed
in the same manner provided in Sections 5 to 29 of this Canon.

In any event, the report and recommendation on the investigation shall be reviewed directly by the
Supreme Court, which shall take such necessary action on the report and recommendation as may be
warranted.
Section 31. Preventive suspension. — After receipt of respondent’s answer or lapse of the period
therefor, the Supreme Court, on its own initiative, or upon the recommendation of the IBP Board of
Governors, the Office of the Bar Confidant, or the fact-finding body referred to in Section 30, may
suspend a lawyer from the practice of law during the pendency of the investigation for a period not
exceeding one hundred eighty (180) calendar days or until such suspension is lifted by the Supreme
Court, in order to prevent interference with or obstruction of the investigation, tampering, concealment
or destruction of evidence, intimidating or exerting undue influence on any witness.

Section 32. Quantum and burden of proof. — In administrative disciplinary cases, the complainant has
the burden of proof to establish with substantial evidence the allegations against the respondent.
Substantial evidence is that amount of relevant evidence which a reasonable mind might accept as
adequate to justify a conclusion.

Section 33. Serious offenses. — Serious offenses include:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) Gross misconduct, or any inexcusable, shameful or flagrant unlawful conduct;

(b) Serious dishonesty, fraud, or deceit, including falsification of documents and
making untruthful statements;
(c) Bribery or corruption;
(d) Gross negligence in the performance of duty, or conduct that is reckless and
inexcusable, which results in the client being deprived of his or her day in court;
(e) Conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude;
(f) Grossly immoral conduct, or an act that is so corrupt or false as to constitute a
criminal act, or so immoral as to be reprehensible to a high degree;
(g) Misappropriating a client’s funds or properties;
(h) Gross ignorance of the law or procedure, or the disregard of basic rules and
settled jurisprudence, when either is attended by bad faith, malice or corrupt motive;
(i) Grossly undignified conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice;
(j) Sexual abuse;
(k) Gender-based sexual harassment or discrimination;
(l) Open defiance to any order of the court, tribunal, or other government agency;
(m) Threat of physical or economic harm, amounting to a crime, directed at a fellow
lawyer, the latter’s client or principal, a witness, or any official or employee of a
court, tribunal, or other government agency;
(n) Willful and deliberate forum shopping, and forum shopping through gross
negligence;
(o) Intentional violation of the rule on privileged communication;
(p) Violation of the notarial rules, except reportorial requirements, when attended by
bad faith;
(q) Intentional violation of the conflict of interest rules;
(r) Influence-peddling or using one’s relationships to obtain a favorable action on, or
outcome in, any pending matter or proceeding, directly or indirectly, with or without
monetary consideration, from any officer of a court, tribunal or other government
agency;
(s) Unlawful discrimination under Canon V; and
(t) Sale, distribution, possession and/or use of illegal drugs or
substances.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 34. Less serious offenses. — Less serious offenses include:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) Simple misconduct, or such misconduct without the manifest elements of

corruption, clear intent to violate the law or flagrant disregard of established rules;
(b) Simple negligence in the performance of duty, or such negligence which does not
result in depriving the client of his or her day in court;
(c) Violation of Supreme Court rules and issuances in relation to Bar Matters and
administrative disciplinary proceedings, including willful and deliberate disobedience
of the orders of the Supreme Court and the IBP;
(d) Simple dishonesty;
(e) Other violations of the conflict of interest rules;
 (f) Prohibited borrowing of money from a client;
(g) Prohibited lending of money;
(h) Other unlawful threats;
(i) Instituting frivolous or baseless actions, on the basis of a final decision or order
dismissing such action for being frivolous or baseless;
(j) Violation of the sub judice rule;
(k) Deliberate failure or refusal to pay just debts;
(l) Termination of legal services absent good cause and written notice;
(m) Use of intemperate or offensive language before any court, tribunal, or other
government agency;
(n) Unjustifiable failure or refusal to render an accounting of the funds or properties
of a client;
(o) Unauthorized division of fees with a non- lawyer; and
(p) Other violations of reportorial requirements.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 35. Light offenses. — Light offenses include:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) Violation of IBP rules and issuances governing membership in the IBP;
(b) Use of vulgar or offensive language in personal dealings;
(c) Fraternizing with the officials or employees of a court, tribunal, or other
government agency where the respondent has a pending case or cases, to such a
degree and frequency as would give the appearance of power or influence over them,
or which tends to create an impression of impropriety;
(d) Filing of frivolous motions for inhibition;
(e) Failure to promptly call upon client to rectify a fraudulent act; or
(f) Other similar or analogous infractions of the CPRA.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 36. Assisting in the commission of an offense. — Any lawyer who shall knowingly assist
another lawyer in the commission of any serious, less serious, or light offense punished by the CPRA
may also be held liable.

Section 37. Sanctions. —

(a) If the respondent is found guilty of a serious offense, any of the following
sanctions, or a combination thereof, shall be imposed:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(1) Disbarment;
(2) Suspension from the practice of law for a period exceeding six
(6) months;
(3) Revocation of notarial commission and disqualification as
notary public for not less than two (2) years; or
(4) A fine exceeding Php100,000.00.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(b) If the respondent is found guilty of a less serious offense, any of the following
sanctions, or a combination thereof, shall be imposed:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary\

(1) Suspension from the practice of law for a period within the
range of one (1) month to six (6) months, or revocation of notarial
commission and disqualification as notary public for less than two
(2) years;
(2) A fine within the range of P35,000.00 to
P100,000.00.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(c) If the respondent is found guilty of a light offense, any of the following sanctions
shall be imposed:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary
 (1) A fine within the range of P1,000.00 to P35,000.00;
(2) Censure; or
(3) Reprimand.

In addition to the above sanctions in paragraph (c), the respondent may also be required to do
community service or service in the IBP legal aid program.

In all instances, when the offense involves money or property owed, which is intrinsically linked to the
lawyer-client relationship, the respondent shall be ordered to return the same.

Section 38. Modifying circumstances. — In determining the appropriate penalty to be imposed, the
Court may, in its discretion, appreciate the following mitigating and aggravating
circumstances:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) Mitigating circumstances:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(1) First offense, except in charges of gross misconduct, bribery or

corruption, grossly immoral conduct, misappropriating a client’s
funds or properties, sexual abuse, and sale, distribution, possession
and/or use of illegal drugs or substances;
(2) Absence of bad faith or malice;
(3) Return of the amounts owed;
(4) Expression of remorse;
(5) Reconciliation with the complainant;
(6) Rectification of wrongdoing;
(7) Act or omission did not prejudice the client;
(8) Age;
(9) Number of years in the practice of law;
(10) Humanitarian considerations; and
(11) Other analogous circumstances.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(b) Aggravating Circumstances:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(1) Finding of previous administrative liability where a penalty is

imposed, regardless of nature or gravity;
(2) Age;
(3) Number of years in the practice of law;
(4) Employment of fraudulent means to conceal the offense;
(5) Respondent’s act or omission was tainted with bad faith or
malice, except when it is an element of the offense;
(6) Lack of remorse;
(7) Failure to comply with the orders of the Court and the IBP in
relation to an administrative case;
(8) Other analogous circumstances.

Section 39. Manner of imposition. — If one (1) or more aggravating circumstances and no mitigating
circumstances are present, the Supreme Court may impose the penalties of suspension or fine for a
period or amount not exceeding double of the maximum prescribed under this Rule. The Supreme
Court may, in its discretion, impose the penalty of disbarment depending on the number and gravity of
the aggravating circumstances.

If one (1) or more mitigating circumstances and no aggravating circumstances are present, the Supreme
Court may impose the penalties of suspension or fine for a period or amount not less than half of the
minimum prescribed under the CPRA.

If there are both aggravating and mitigating circumstances present, the Supreme Court may offset each
other.
Section 40. Penalty for multiple offenses. — If the respondent is found liable for more than one (1)
offense arising from separate acts or omissions in a single administrative proceeding, the Court shall
impose separate penalties for each offense. Should the aggregate of the imposed penalties exceed five
(5) years of suspension from the practice of law or P1,000,000.00 in fines, the respondent may, in the
discretion of the Supreme Court, be meted with the penalty of disbarment.

If a single act or omission gives rise to more than one (1) offense, the respondent shall still be found
liable for all such offenses, but shall, nonetheless, only be meted with the appropriate penalty for the
most serious offense.

Section 41. Payment of fines and return of client’s money and property. — When the penalty imposed
is a fine or the respondent is ordered to return the client’s money or property, the respondent shall pay
or return it within a period not exceeding three (3) months from receipt of the decision or resolution. If
unpaid or unreturned, the Court may cite the respondent in indirect contempt.

Section 42. Penalty when the respondent has been previously disbarred. — When the respondent has
been previously disbarred and is subsequently found guilty of a new charge, the Court may impose a
fine or order the disbarred lawyer to return the money or property to the client, when proper. If the new
charge deserves the penalty of a disbarment or suspension from the practice of law, it shall not be
imposed but the penalty shall be recorded in the personal file of the disbarred lawyer in the Office of
the Bar Confidant or other office designated for the purpose. In the event that the disbarred lawyer
applies for judicial clemency, the penalty so recorded shall be considered in the resolution of the same.

Section 43. Immediately executory; furnished copies. — The decision or resolution pronouncing the
respondent’s administrative liability is immediately executory. The copies of the decision or resolution
shall be furnished to the Office of the Bar Confidant, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines National
Office and local chapter to which the respondent belongs, and the Office of the Court Administrator for
circulation to all the courts.

Section 44. Confidentiality. — Proceedings against lawyers shall be confidential. However, the final
order of the Supreme Court shall be published like its decisions in other cases.

Section 45. Sworn statement after service of suspension. — Upon the expiration of the period of
suspension from the practice of law, the lawyer shall file a Sworn Statement with the Supreme Court,
through the Office of the Bar Confidant, to show that the petitioner, during the period of
suspension:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) has not appeared before any court, tribunal or other government agency, whether
in respect of current, former or prospective clients;
(b) has not signed or filed any pleading or other court submission;
(c) has duly informed his or her clients, law firm, law school where the lawyer is
teaching, legal clinic, or other legal service organization of which he or she is a
member, regarding the suspension; and
(d) has not otherwise performed any act, directly or indirectly, that amounts to the
practice of law.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

The Sworn Statement shall state the date of the lawyer’s receipt of the order, decision or resolution
imposing the penalty of suspension, as well as a list of the lawyer’s engagements affected by the
suspension, indicating the relevant court, tribunal or other government agency, if any.

Copies of the Sworn Statement shall be furnished to the Local Chapter of the IBP, to the Executive
Judge of the courts where the suspended lawyer has pending cases handled by him or her, and/or where
he or she has appeared as counsel.

Section 46. Resumption of practice of law. – The Sworn Statement shall be considered as proof of the
suspended lawyer’s compliance with the order of suspension. Such lawyer shall be allowed to resume
the practice of law upon the filing of the Sworn Statement before the Supreme Court.
However, any false statement in the Sworn Statement shall be a ground for a complaint for disbarment.

Within five (5) days from the filing of the Sworn Statement and the Office of the Bar Confidant
determines that there is a false statement stated therein, it shall refer the same to the Court for its
immediate action.

Section 47. Reinstatement in the Roll of Attorneys. — A lawyer who has been disbarred may file a
verified petition for judicial clemency after five years from the receipt of the order, decision, resolution
of disbarment.

Section 48. Petition for judicial clemency. — The verified petition for judicial clemency shall allege
the following:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) that the verified petition was filed after five years from the receipt of the order,
decision, or resolution of disbarment;
(b) that the disbarred lawyer has fully complied with the terms and conditions of all
prior disciplinary orders, including orders for restitution;
(c) that he or she recognizes the wrongfulness and seriousness of the misconduct for
which he or she was disbarred by showing positive acts evidencing reformation;
(d) that he or she has reconciled, or attempted in good faith to reconcile, with the
wronged private offended party in the disbarment case, or if the same is not possible,
an explanation as to why such attempt at reconciliation could not be made.

Where there is no private offended party, the plea for clemency must contain a public
apology; and

(e) notwithstanding the conduct for which the disbarred lawyer was disciplined, he or
she has the requisite good moral character and
competence.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Any of the following allegations may also be made in support of the

petition:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) that he or she still has productive years that can be put to good use if given a
chance; or
(b) there is a showing of promise (such as intellectual aptitude, learning or legal
acumen or contribution to legal scholarship and the development of the legal system
or administrative and other relevant skills), as well as potential for public
service.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

Section 49. Action on the petition for judicial clemency; prima facie merit. — Upon receipt of the
petition, the Supreme Court shall conduct a preliminary evaluation and determine if the same has prima
facie merit based on the criteria.

If the petition has prima facie merit, the Supreme Court shall refer the petition to the Office of the Bar
Confidant or any fact-finding body the Court so designates for investigation, report and
recommendation.

If the petition fails to show any prima facie merit, it shall be denied outright.

Section 50. Investigation by the Office of the Bar Confidant or other fact-finding body. — The Office
of the Bar Confidant or any other fact-finding body designated shall conduct and terminate the
investigation and submit to the Supreme Court its report and recommendation within ninety (90)
calendar days from receipt of the referral.

Section 51. Decision on the petition for judicial clemency; quantum of evidence. — The Supreme
Court shall decide the petition on the basis of clear and convincing evidence.
Section 52. Prohibition against employment of disbarred or suspended lawyer. — A lawyer who has
been disbarred or suspended shall not be employed or engaged in the practice of law, including the
performance of the following acts:chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

(a) Providing legal consultation or advice;

(b) Appearing on behalf of a client in any hearing or proceeding before any court,
tribunal, or other government agency or office;
(c) Appearing as a representative of a client at a deposition or other discovery matter;
(d) Negotiating or transacting any legal matter for or on behalf of a client with third
parties; or
(e) Receiving, disbursing, or otherwise handling a client’s funds; or
(f) Teaching law subjects in any educational institution.
(g) Acting and being commissioned as a Notary Public.chanroblesvirtualawlibrary

A suspended lawyer shall immediately cease and desist from the practice of law until the suspension is
lifted by the Supreme Court.

Any client previously represented by a suspended lawyer may engage the services of a new lawyer.

The disbarment or suspension of a handling lawyer shall not terminate the lawyer-client engagement
between the client and the law firm, unless the client chooses otherwise.

Section 53. Costs. — All reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in relation to disciplinary and
disbarment proceedings are lawful charges for which the parties may be taxed as costs, subject to
proof.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1. Retroactive effect. — The CPRA shall be applied to all cases filed after its effectivity and
also retroactively to all pending cases, except to the extent that in the opinion of the Court, its
application would not be feasible or would work injustice, in which case the procedure under which the
cases were filed shall govern.

Section 2. Repealing clause. — The Code of Professional Responsibility of 1988, Sections 20 to 37 of

Rule 138, and Rule 139-B of the Rules of Court are repealed.

Any resolution, circular, bar matter, or administrative order issued by or principles established in the
decisions of the Supreme Court inconsistent with the CPRA are deemed modified or repealed.

Section 3. Effectivity clause. — The CPRA shall take effect on April 11, 2023 and shall be published
in the Official Gazette or in two newspapers of national circulation.

The Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA) was published in the
Philippine Star and Manila Bulletin on May 14, 2023. The CPRA shall take effect 15 calendar
days after its publication.