§ 776.14 - Premises.

(a) The rules in subpart B of this part are based on the premises that follow. The interpretation of subpart B of this part should flow from their common meaning and the comments. To the extent that any ambiguity or conflict exists, subpart B of this part should be interpreted consistent with this hierarchy of premises.

(1) Judge advocates must obey the law and military regulations, and counsel clients to do so.

(2) Ethical rules must be followed.

(3) Ethical rules should be consistent with law. If law and ethics conflict, the law prevails unless an ethical rule is constitutionally based.

(4) A judge advocate must protect the legal rights and interests of clients, organizational and individual.

(5) The military criminal justice system is a truth-finding process consistent with constitutional law.

(6) A judge advocate must be honest and truthful in all dealings.

(7) A judge advocate shall not derive personal gain, other than from the U.S. Government, from the performance of official duties.

(8) A judge advocate shall maintain the integrity of the legal and military professions.

(b) [Reserved]