This Code establishes the professional and ethical standards expected of all member firms in the Cyrus Ross European Network of Law Firms. It applies to all members, subject to any overriding legal or regulatory obligations under national law or applicable bar association rules, which will prevail in case of conflict.

The Code governs both professional practice and the internal relationships between member firms. Adherence to this Code is a condition for continued membership in the network. New firms must expressly accept it as a prerequisite for joining.

The following principles are fundamental to legal practice and form the ethical foundation of this network:

1. Integrity
   All members shall maintain the highest standards of integrity, honesty, fairness, and transparency. Any form of deceit, fraud, or misrepresentation is strictly prohibited.
2. Independence
   Members shall preserve professional independence and avoid conflicts of interest. External pressures—whether political, economic, or personal—must not compromise legal judgment. In litigation, members must not represent conflicting interests. In non-litigation matters, representation is permitted only with informed consent, given after full disclosure of all actual or potential conflicts to all relevant parties. Conflicts are assessed and disclosed in accordance with the IBA Guidelines, as amended from time to time.
3. Confidentiality
   Client confidentiality must be maintained at all times, in accordance with national law and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), except where disclosure is required by a competent authority under applicable law. This duty continues beyond the termination of the client relationship. Appropriate safeguards must be in place to ensure data security.
4. Competence and Diligence
   Members must provide competent legal advice and representation, keeping abreast of legal developments and engaging in continuous professional development.
5. Respect for the Rule of Law and Human Rights
   Members shall promote and uphold the rule of law, access to justice, and the fundamental rights enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

1. Compliance
   Each office must implement this Code within its internal policies and ensure compliance. Special attention must be paid to anti-money laundering regulations and corruption prevention. Members shall cooperate fully in providing information necessary for Know Your Client (KYC) and compliance protocols.
2. Reporting Violations
   Complaints may be raised by clients or other member firms. The Management Committee will initiate a confidential inquiry, ensuring all parties are heard fairly and all statements are recorded. If the complaint is serious, or involves a breach of this Code or the network’s interests, it will be referred to the General Meeting along with recommendations.Members must provide full and honest disclosure and furnish relevant documentation, subject to confidentiality obligations.
3. Sanctions
   Violations of the Code may lead to disciplinary measures, including:
   • Formal warnings
   • Suspension of participation in network activities
   • Expulsion from the network.
   • The severity of the measure will correspond to the gravity of the breach.

This Code will be reviewed at least biennially to ensure continued relevance. Members are encouraged to provide input for improvement. Changes require majority approval at a General Meeting.

A standing Ethics Subcommittee may be established to propose updates and monitor enforcement.

If any provision of this Code conflicts with a mandatory rule of law or regulation in a member’s jurisdiction, that provision shall not apply to the affected firm. In all such cases, the overriding local rule shall take precedence.