Nature and purpose of the rules

This section contains Rules 1 and 2.
1. Application and interpretation
    1. These Rules apply to all solicitors within Australia, including Australian-registered foreign lawyers acting in the manner of a solicitor.
    2. The definitions that apply in these Rules are set out in the glossary.
2. Purpose and effect of the rules
    1. The purpose of these Rules is to assist solicitors to act ethically and in accordance with the principles of professional conduct established by the common law and these Rules.
    2. In considering whether a solicitor has engaged in unsatisfactory professional conduct or professional misconduct, the Rules apply in addition to the common law.
    3. A breach of these Rules is capable of constituting unsatisfactory professional conduct or professional misconduct, and may give rise to disciplinary action by the relevant regulatory authority, but cannot be enforced by a third party.