You must comply with this code if you are a registered patent attorney or trade marks attorney. The code sets out the minimum standards, obligations and professional conduct required of registered attorneys in their dealings with clients, other professional service providers and a regulatory authority. In determining whether to commence discipline proceedings before the Trans-Tasman IP Attorneys Disciplinary Tribunal, the Board will consider whether the attorney has complied with the code of conduct.
Only the Disciplinary Tribunal can determine whether the attorney is guilty of a charge of professional misconduct or a charge of unsatisfactory professional conduct following the commencement of proceedings by the Board. Depending on the circumstance and charges, an attorney found guilty of a charge can have their registration cancelled; or suspended for a period of not more than 12 months. In addition, the Disciplinary Tribunal can impose conditions on the attorney's return to the register following their cancellation or suspension.
