The Implementation of Code of Ethics of Advocate as A Profession in Indonesia

Abstract

According to Indonesian law, advocate is one of the law enforcers. This means that advocate is one of the elements that uphold the rule of law and human rights. As a professionals, advocates have a set of code of ethics that must be upheld and applied in carrying out their professional duties. In Indonesia, the attitudes, roles and functions of the advocates are stipulated by the code of ethics of Advocate of Indonesia and the Law on Advocates. Nevertheless, there are still many advocates in Indonesia whose behaviour has not yet reflected their professionalism as those with honourable profession. There are some cases showing deviation of the code of ethics of the advocate in Indonesia such as the incompetence in handling a case, negligence of client by advocate, conflict of interest, requesting payment that exceeds the agreement and fight between advocates over client. However, based on the provisions of Article 16 of the Law on Advocate, a client shall not indemnify or ask for compensation from an advocate.