1. I will conduct myself with the dignity befitting an advocate and counselor in a learned profession.

2. My word is my bond. A reputation for integrity is my goal.

3. I will represent my client with vigor without becoming obnoxious.

4. I will keep my client well informed and involved in the decisions that affect them, but I will avoid emotional involvement that clouds my objectivity.

5. Legal technicalities cost someone time and money. Therefore, I will provide information which my adversary is entitled to receive without motions, hearings, orders, or other formalities. Upon request, I will stipulate to known facts.

6. Ordinarily, I will try to reach agreements for setting depositions and appointments.

7. Zealous advocacy does not include harassment, needless delay, nor abusive discovery.

8. I will refrain from unnecessary condemnation of the Court, my adversary or opposing parties.

9. It will be my practice, when each proceeding ends, to tender my hand in friendship to my adversary.

10. I will take and return telephone calls as soon as possible.

11. I will not permit secretaries, legal assistants, paralegals, or other non-lawyers to communicate with a judge on my behalf, to appear before a judge on substantive matters, or otherwise engage in the practice of law.

12. When appearing before a Court, I will dress and behave appropriately. I will stand to address the Court.

13. I will be punctual, arriving sufficiently in advance of an appointed time to dispose of preliminary matters.

14. I will honor both the words and the spirit of the Arkansas Rules of Professional Conduct.

January 2, 1990

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