Which is a core principle of a barrister's duties?

• A. Honesty and fairness
• B. Speed and efficiency
• C. Public endorsement
• D. Personal gain

Answer: (A)

Honesty and fairness are central to a barrister’s duties because they preserve the integrity of the justice system. As officers of the court, barristers owe duties to the court, to their clients, and to the public, and these duties require truthfulness in the presentation of facts and law, not misrepresenting or withholding material information, and candour about adverse authorities. They must advise clients frankly about prospects and risks, even if that is not what the client wants to hear. This commitment to truth and fair dealing also guides how they conduct advocacy—ensuring submissions are accurate, evidence is handled properly, and proceedings are not manipulated. While speed and efficiency, public endorsement, or personal gain may be relevant considerations in practice, they do not outweigh the fundamental obligation to honesty and fairness that supports the administration of justice.