What is one of the responsibilities of lawyers toward others beyond their clients?

One of the key responsibilities of lawyers toward others beyond their clients is to protect the integrity of the legal profession. This responsibility encompasses ensuring that legal practitioners uphold the ethical standards and rules governing their conduct. By maintaining high professional standards, lawyers contribute to public trust in the legal system, which is essential for the rule of law and the administration of justice.

Protecting the integrity of the legal profession involves several aspects, including reporting misconduct, avoiding actions that could damage the reputation of the profession, and promoting a culture of honesty and accountability in legal practice. It also aligns with the broader societal expectation that lawyers serve not just their clients, but also the interests of justice and the community.

In contrast, while keeping client information confidential is a crucial obligation, it primarily pertains to the lawyer-client relationship rather than broader professional responsibilities. Ensuring transparency with the court does reflect a duty to the justice system, but it is primarily seen as part of a lawyer’s responsibilities in their role as advocates. Offering free legal services to strangers, while commendable, is not a formal obligation and does not reflect the overarching duty to safeguard the profession as a whole.