Advocates not allowed to boast and insult others

Advocates will have to be responsible for everything they post on their social media accounts. According to "Nezavisimaya Gazeta" newspaper, the Federal Chamber of Advocates is preparing a code of clear regulations for their conduct. The document will determine what public actions and sayings are unacceptable and harmful for the reputation of the Bar.

Partner of YUST Law Firm Alexander Bolomatov discussed the responsibility of advocates on social media with Nezavisimaya Gazeta: "Advocate’s activity is a public field, therefore it provides the possibility to defend the client everywhere, including social media. Sometimes it is necessary to draw attention of the society, so activity in mass media and social networks is desirable, but to a reasonable extent. The advocate’s behavior representing the client on social media should be the same as in court, naturally, without clear procedural requirements. For example, it is not allowed to insult other advocates, to boast and to compare oneself to colleagues.”

According to Bolomatov, it is not about censorship: “In court, in detention centers, on social media, on their own websites, advocates must comply with the code of professional conduct. The same requirements should apply to them everywhere, including social networks and mass media".

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