The Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) has issued a directive prohibiting all forms of advertisements and adulatory publications by its members. The directive, signed by BOSAN Secretary Olumide Sofowora SAN, reinforces the ethical standards and principles governing the legal profession, particularly concerning the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The prohibition covers the following:
- Advertisements: Any promotion of legal services or expertise through print, social, or electronic media.
- Adulatory Publications: Public expressions of praise or commendation regarding a lawyer’s services or expertise, regardless of the medium.
- Websites and Social Media: Content on law firm websites or social platforms that contravene professional ethics.
The directive also outlined strict consequences for members found violating these guidelines. They include:
- Ethics Committee Review: A formal complaint to the Ethics Committee of BOSAN, which could result in disciplinary recommendations to the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee (LPPC).
- Disciplinary Actions by LPPC: Additional sanctions by the LPPC for breaches of this directive.
BOSAN has urged its members to adhere strictly to these rules, emphasizing their importance in maintaining the integrity of the legal profession. Members are encouraged to reach out to the BOSAN Secretariat for further clarification or assistance.
This directive serves as a reminder of the high ethical standards expected of legal practitioners, particularly those who hold the esteemed rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria.