CODE OF ETHICS AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY
From the preamble:
The Maryland Association of Paralegals, Inc. (“MAP”) is a professional organization comprised of individual paralegals throughout the State of Maryland. Members of MAP have varying types of backgrounds, experience, education and job responsibilities which reflect the diversity of the paralegal profession. MAP promotes the growth, development and recognition of the paralegal profession as an integral partner in the delivery of legal services. MAP is affiliated with the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc.
MAP recognizes that the creation of guidelines and standards for professional conduct are important for the development and expansion of the paralegal profession. In August 1996, MAP adopted this Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility (“Code”) to delineate the principles for ethics and conduct to which every paralegal should aspire.
The Code expresses MAP’s commitment to increasing the quality and efficiency of legal services and recognizes the profession’s responsibility to the public, the legal community and colleagues.
Paralegals perform many different functions, and these functions differ greatly among practice areas. In addition, each jurisdiction has its own unique legal authority and practices governing ethical conduct and professional responsibilities.
It is essential that each paralegal strive for personal and professional excellence and encourage the professional development of other paralegals, as well as those entering the profession. Participation in professional associations intended to advance the quality and standards of the legal profession is of particular importance. Paralegals should possess integrity, professional skill and dedication to the improvement of the legal system and should strive to expand the paralegal role in the delivery of legal services.
