To keep social occasions safe and fun for everyone, law practices are required to have policies in place to prevent unacceptable conduct by employees both on the firm’s premises and off-site. This includes having an anti-bullying, harassment and discrimination policy, as required under Rule 11.2 of the Conduct and Client Care Rules.

So, heading into the festive season, it’s a good time to remember the standards that support trust and confidence across the profession. Your law practice’s policies are there to guide and support good practice for lawyers and non-lawyer employees, but everyone has a personal responsibility to uphold those standards, as outlined in Chapter 10 of the Conduct and Client Care Rules.

This is a timely reminder that in the workplace as well as off-site and at social functions, you shouldn’t let yourselves or your colleagues down by engaging in unacceptable conduct or conduct that could bring the profession into disrepute. We encourage you to share this message with your non-lawyer colleagues.

Maintaining professional standards creates the right environment for everyone to relax and come together to celebrate a well-earned break from their hard work which is a great way to end the year in good cheer.