Together, they combine to define how individuals choose to interact with one another. In philosophy, ethics defines what is good for the individual and for society and establishes the nature of duties that people owe themselves and one another. Though law often embodies ethical principals, law and ethics are far from co-extensive. And the contrary is true as well. In much that the law does it is not simply codifying ethical norms.
Most professions have highly detailed and enforceable codes for their respective memberships.
Other professions with codes include dentistry, social work, education, government service, engineering, journalism, real estate, advertising, architecture, banking, insurance, and human resources management. Some of these codes have been incorporated into the public law. All are likely to have some effect on judgments about professional conduct in litigation. Generally, failure to comply with a code of professional ethics may result in expulsion from the profession or some lesser sanction. In the U.S., the federal courts follow the Federal Rules of Evidence , while the state courts generally follow their own rules.