FAQ 52

Q52. A grateful client is offering me a present. Can I accept it?

A52. It will depend on the nature of the present and whether you are continuing to represent the client. The Conduct Committee has ruled that if the barrister’s involvement in a case has ended and that there is unlikely to be any appeal, Counsel may accept a gift from lay clients, provided that the gift is relatively modest and unlikely to bring Counsel’s independence into question. Money, gift vouchers and so forth, should generally be avoided. Furthermore, any gift received should not be of excessive value or disproportionate to the work done by Counsel. If Counsel feels that accepting a particular gift will cause him or her embarrassment, it should be returned with a suitable note of thanks either to the client direct or through the instructing solicitor. If in doubt about individual gifts, Counsel should seek advice from the ethical help line.