HISTORICAL RETROSPECTIVE OF THE FORMATION OF ETHICS CULTURE IN THE LEGAL PROFESSION

Abstract

The article explores the historical path of forming a culture of integrity within the legal profession. The national revival of our state sets the task of restoring historical roots, studying the formation of high moral values among officials and representatives of the legal profession to ensure justice and legality in society. It is proven that the characteristics of contemporary understanding of integrity differ from those that existed in historical epochs of other countries and societies. In ancient times, the integrity of officials was characterized by traits such as obedience, dedication, patriotism, and submission to authority. In the Middle Ages and during the formation of Christian ethics, mandatory virtues for officials were established, including loyalty to the monarch, strict adherence to commandments, readiness to defend the kingdom, and other qualities such as compassion, dignity, respect for others, love for one's neighbor, and adherence to Christian principles. In modern times, new values were formed, including rationality, individualism, and freedom of thought. The historical development of the Ukrainian state made it possible to reveal the influence of the moral norms of the Ukrainian people on the formation of a culture of integrity. Special attention is paid to the monument of the Kyivan Rus, "Povchannya" by Volodymyr Monomakh, which emphasizes the importance of adhering to the law and the principles of justice and mercy. Furthermore, it is noted that a prince should be just and merciful and should demand this from his subordinates. The ethics and military virtues of Ukrainian Cossacks are explored, which influenced the moral norms of the Ukrainian people and included loyalty to Ukraine, the Christian faith, and brotherly values that remain relevant in modern society. In conclusion, the culture of integrity in contemporary legal profession contributes to maintaining clients' trust, making fair and objective decisions, preventing corruption and abuse of power, and, most importantly, establishing society's trust in constitutionalism, justice, human rights protection, and the functioning of the legal system as a whole.