Register

Code of Conduct

We protect the advocate to protect the process.” – AQLR

Together, we uphold justice by upholding each other

AQLR is an independent membership association. Nothing in this Code or any AQLR publication should be interpreted as replacing or modifying the professional obligations imposed by members’ own regulators or by statute. Members remain individually responsible for complying with the rules of their professional regulator.

1. Purpose and Principles
  • 1.1 This Code of Conduct establishes the professional and ethical standards expected of all members of AQLR. It reinforces our commitment to:
    • 1.1.1 Upholding justice and procedural fairness for vulnerable parties
    • 1.1.2 Maintaining the integrity of court proceedings
    • 1.1.3 Supporting QLRs in delivering their court-appointed responsibilities with clarity, competence, and independence
  • 1.2 Independence of AQLR

    AQLR is an independent professional membership association. It is not a regulator, representative of any regulator, nor an official directory of legal professionals. Membership of AQLR does not constitute regulatory accreditation or endorsement.

“This Code” applies to all members while acting in connection with AQLR activities or when performing functions as Qualified Legal Representatives. (QLRs), regardless of profession or regulatory affiliation.

  • 3.1 Independence and Impartiality. QLRs must:
    • 3.1.1 Act solely in accordance with their court appointment — not as legal representatives of any party
    • 3.1.2 Remain independent from the prohibited party and all others in proceedings
    • 3.1.3 Exercise their professional judgment without undue influence from the parties or court staff
  • 3.2 Competence and Preparation
    • 3.2.1 QLRs must diligently prepare for all hearings, including cross-examination, using all materials provided
    • 3.2.2 Where bundles or appointment orders are missing or delayed, QLRs must take reasonable steps to notify the court and identify issues that may cause delay while documenting any impediments to preparation
    • 3.2.3 Cross-examinations must be conducted with trauma-informed sensitivity and relevance
  • 3.3 Integrity and Professionalism
    • 3.3.1 Maintain decorum and respect toward the judiciary, litigants, colleagues, and witnesses
    • 3.3.2 Refrain from engaging in conduct that could undermine the dignity or fairness of proceedings
    • 3.3.4 Avoid conflicts of interest and disclose them promptly when identified
    • Members must ensure that any information they provide for publication by AQLR is accurate, current, capable of substantiation, and not misleading.3.3.6 Members remain responsible for compliance with the publicity and professional conduct requirements of their own regulator.
  • 4.1 Clear Limits
    • 4.1.1 As defined in statutory guidance, the QLR is not:
      • 4.1.1.1 A legal adviser or case manager for the prohibited party
      • 4.1.1.2 Required to prepare bundles or conduct broader advocacy outside the cross-examination appointment
  • 4.2 Representation During Hearings
    • 4.1.1 Attend court in accordance with appointment even when appointment orders are delayed, where reasonably possible
    • 4.1.2 Assert role limitations respectfully when judicial misunderstandings arise
  • 5.1 AQLR recognises systemic challenges facing QLRs. Members must:
    • 5.1.1 Raise structural barriers (e.g., delayed payments, unclear roles) through AQLR’s official channels
    • 5.1.2 Support peer QLRs through networking and collaborative practice forums
    • 5.1.3 Not accept conditions that pose professional liability or compromise statutory duties without recourse to AQLR support
  • 6.1 Treat all personal data and court documents as confidential and secure
  • 6.2 Avoid using client-identifiable information in public or online forums
  • 6.3 Comply with applicable data protection legislation including GDPR
  • 6.4 Personal information published in any AQLR directory or public register shall only be published where there is an appropriate lawful basis under UK GDPR, including the member’s consent where required
  • 6.5 Members may request correction or removal of published information at any time, subject to legitimate organisational requirements.
  • 7.1 Foster a culture of mutual respect and cooperation among QLRs
  • 7.2 Offer assistance, especially to newly appointed colleagues, in navigating practical and ethical challenges
  • 7.3 Refrain from criticism that undermines another QLR’s

Breaches of this Code may be reported to the AQLR Ethics Committee and may result in:

  • 8.1 Informal guidance or peer support
  • 8.2 Suspension of membership privileges
  • 8.3 Referral to the relevant professional regulatory body where appropriate

All members must annually confirm their understanding of and commitment to the AQLR Code of Conduct.

10.1 AQLR may publish a directory of members to promote professional networking and facilitate court users identifying suitably experienced practitioners.
10.2 Inclusion in the directory is voluntary and subject to the member’s consent.
10.3 Members are responsible for ensuring that all information supplied is accurate, current and not misleading.
10.4 AQLR may remove or amend directory entries that are inaccurate or inconsistent with this Code.
10.5 Publication in the directory does not imply endorsement by AQLR or by any regulator.

AQLR is an independent membership association. Nothing in this Code or any AQLR publication should be interpreted as replacing or modifying the professional obligations imposed by members' own regulators or by statute. Members remain individually responsible for complying with the rules of their professional regulator.