The National Bar Association of Ukraine has prepared a guide that helps distinguish between the legal statuses of attorneys and lobbyists, explains the limits of permissible activities for each, and prevents potential violations of ethical and legal standards when participating in public policy-making.

The document was developed by members of the UNAA Committee on Lobbying—Iryna Shapovalova, Valentina Tiutiunnyk, and Yulia Kopiyko.

The guide contains systematic recommendations on distinguishing between the practice of law and lobbying, including criteria for determining the purpose, subject matter, form, and legal consequences of each type of professional participation in decision-making processes.

A lawyer provides legal assistance to a client on the basis of a contract, guided by the law and the Rules of Professional Conduct for Lawyers, whereas a lobbyist represents the client’s interests with the aim of influencing the formation or change of public policy. Therefore, combining these roles may create a conflict of interest or raise questions regarding the lawyer’s professional independence.

“Today’s attorneys are increasingly working in the field of public communications—interacting with parliament, the government, and the business community. However, such activities have clear boundaries defined by law,” commented Committee Chair Oleksiy Shevchuk. “That is why our experts have created a practical guide to help lawyers also work as lobbyists without violating the rules of legal ethics.”

You can read the full text of the guide by following the link.