Model Rules of Professional Conduct

What model rules of professional conduct means

In short, model rules of professional conduct is a term you will meet in court papers, rules and legal research. The definition above gives its usual meaning in American civil practice. However, the exact meaning can depend on the rule, statute or court decision that uses it. So it helps to read the term in context.

Where model rules of professional conduct comes up

The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.

Read the source: Lawyer ethics canons guide.

How to research the term

To research model rules of professional conduct, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.

You can read the current federal court rules online for free.

Related legal terms

• Minor: a person under the age of majority, which is 18 in most states; a few states set it higher. Minors generally may disaffirm most contracts, and in federal court a minor sues or defends through a general guardian, a next friend or a guardian ad litem (Fed. R. Civ. P. 17(c)).
• Misdemeanor: a crime less serious than a felony. Under federal law, it is an offense with a maximum prison term of one year or less, though more than five days (18 U.S.C. § 3559(a)(6) to (8)). Each state defines its own classes of misdemeanors.
• Misnomer: a mistake in the name of a person or party in a legal document. A misnomer is usually corrected by amendment and does not by itself void a proceeding if the right person was actually served and was not misled.
• Mistrial: a trial that ends before a verdict without a valid result, for example because of a serious error or a jury that cannot agree. A mistrial usually means the case may be tried again.

Why precise terms matter

Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.