THE ESSENCE OF LEGAL ETHICS: EXAMINING THE PROFESSIONAL NEGLIGENCE AND MISCONDUCT OF LEGAL PRACTITIONERS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The foundation of the legal profession is made up of legal ethics, which operate as the tenets that support the professionalism, honesty, and integrity that are required of legal practitioners. Following moral principles is essential to preserving the public's confidence in the judicial system in Nigeria, as it is in many other countries. This piece explores the fundamentals of legal ethics in Nigeria and looks at the effects of professional misconduct and carelessness in the legal field. Through an examination of the legal profession's regulatory environment, case studies, outcomes, and moral dilemmas, this essay seeks to highlight how crucial it is to preserve moral principles when practicing law. To this end, the doctrinal research technique was employed, and data were gathered by consulting primary and secondary sources. It was found that the norms of behaviour required of legal practitioners in their professional conduct are included in Nigerian legal ethics. These guidelines protect values including commitment to clients, honesty, integrity, and secrecy. The values of justice, fairness, and integrity are essential to a healthy legal system, and legal practitioners should preserve these values by resolving cases of professional negligence and misconduct and developing an ethical practice culture.