Non-interference by a lawyer, C1S4 CPRA

Section 4, Canon I SECTION 4. Non-interference by a lawyer. - Unless authorized by law or a court, a lawyer shall not assist or cause a branch, agency, office or officer of the government to interfere in any matter before any court, tribunal, or other government agency. (2023 Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability or CPRA) 1. Non-interference by a lawyer a. No assisting or causing interference Lawyers who can assist a government branch, agency, or office or officer to interfere may be a private lawyer or a government lawyer. On the other hand, causing such interference would generally involve a government lawyer who has the position or authority to do so. Where a respondent-lawyer wrote to the Office of the President seeking to lift the suspension imposed on him, the Supreme Court reprimanded him. Since respondent has apologized for his “big mistake” and now appreciates that under the fundamental principle of separation of powers enshrined in both the 1935 and 1973 Constitutions, a decision of this Court may not be set aside by the President, the Court is disposed to view his misconduct and/or ignorance with liberality and will administer a reprimand with warning of severe action on any future transgressions, considering respondent’s unenviable record. (Bumanglag v. Bumanglag, A.M. No. 188, 29 November 1976) In Ali v. Bubong, [the Supreme Court] recognized that private interest is not limited to direct interest, but extends to advancing the interest of relativ...