Advocates have a duty to seek the consent of their clients before proceeding on their behalf. When providing services at the request or on behalf of a client, advocates have a duty to not take action inconsistent with the clients expressed wishes. When a client or group of clients is unable to register their complaint, advocates have a duty to act on behalf of the client or group of clients to protect the clients rights. Advocates must seek to assist their clients to participate in making decisions about advocacy activities and in advocating on their behalf. Advocates must assure that their clients are fully informed about advocacy activities undertaken, about information which is gathered in the course of advocacy and about reasonable alternatives, implications of actions and potential outcomes.
Advocates have a duty to represent their clients competently, responsibly and in a timely manner.
Advocates have a duty to keep information received from their clients or about their clients confidential. Advocates have a duty to present facts accurately and honestly. Advocates have a duty to understand applicable laws and procedures for enforcing it. Advocates have a duty to know and improve their own skills and knowledge. When the application of more than one principle results in an ethical conflict, advocates have a duty to use their best judgment in the context of the entire ethical code to resolve the conflict.