Survey finds strong ethics culture at the Bar despite growing pressure from some clients
More than eight in ten barristers report having a very good understanding of the profession’s code of conduct and ethical obligations, according to the latest Barristers’ Working Lives survey published by the Bar Council.
The 2025 survey, which received responses from 27% of the practising Bar in England and Wales, examined how barristers view ethics, professional conduct and the support available when ethical issues arise.
The findings suggest that ethical standards remain firmly embedded across the profession. Barristers gave an average score of 8.45 out of 10 when asked about their understanding of the profession’s code of conduct and ethical obligations.
However, the survey also identified areas where practitioners continue to face challenges. Pressure from clients to act unethically emerged as the most commonly reported issue, with 51% of respondents saying it had created ethical difficulties. Maintaining professional independence ranked as the second most significant challenge, with 31% reporting concerns in that area.
Training on ethics remains an important part of professional development. Around one-third of respondents said they had completed ethics-related training or continuing professional development (CPD) within the previous year, while a similar proportion reported doing so within the last five years.
The survey also found that barristers rely heavily on professional networks when navigating ethical issues. Nearly eight in ten respondents said they would be very likely to seek guidance from colleagues. Seven in ten indicated they would turn to senior colleagues or managers for support. Other sources of support included the Bar Standards Board website, the Bar Council’s Ethical Enquiries Service and the Bar Council’s Ethics and Practice Hub.
Chair of the Bar, Kirsty Brimelow KC, said the survey helps the Bar Council understand the experiences of barristers and assess the effectiveness of existing support mechanisms. She said the findings showed barristers take their ethical responsibilities seriously and that the profession benefits from a strong ethics culture. The Bar Council has not found evidence suggesting substantial changes are needed to the ethical regulation of the Bar, although it continues to support efforts to make the Bar Standards Board Handbook clearer and easier to use.
The Bar Council’s Ethical Enquiries Service handled nearly 4,000 telephone calls and more than 500 written queries during 2024/25, providing guidance to barristers on their professional obligations.
The survey also addressed concerns previously raised by the Legal Services Board regarding non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs). Only a small number of respondents identified these issues as significant ethical challenges. The Bar Council said the findings indicate that any further work in these areas should be targeted and specialised, while reiterating its longstanding view that legislation is the most effective way to address SLAPPs.
Looking ahead, the Bar Council said it will consider further training and guidance focused on maintaining independence and responding to pressure from clients to act unethically. It also plans to continue working with stakeholders to identify areas where employed barristers may require additional support.