Oath of Barrister
HLF lawyers take their practise oath very seriously. Section 21(1) of By-Law 4, Law Society of Upper Canada (as at February 28, 2013) sets out the required oath for an applicant for the issuance of a license to practise law in Ontario.
The oath reads:
“I accept the honour and privilege, duty and responsibility of practising law as a barrister and solicitor in the Province of Ontario.
I shall protect and defend the rights and interests of such persons as may employ me.
I shall conduct all cases faithfully and to the best of my ability.
I shall neglect no one’s interest and shall faithfully serve and diligently represent the best interests of my client.
I shall not refuse causes of complaint reasonably founded, nor shall I promote suits upon frivolous pretences.
I shall not pervert the law to favor or prejudice any one, but in all things I shall conduct myself honestly and with integrity and civility.
I shall seek to ensure access to justice and access to legal services.
I shall seek to improve the administration of justice.
I shall champion the rule of law and safeguard the rights and freedoms of all persons.
I shall strictly observe and uphold the ethical standards that govern my profession.
All this I do swear or affirm to observe and perform to the best of my knowledge and ability.”
