Duration: Renewable Yearly – Upon Payment of Annual Dues and Active Participation

1. Parties This Volunteer Service Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into between World Ebony Network (WEN) and the below mentioned attorney, a qualified legal practitioner duly licensed to practice law in the country he or she resides in

1. Purpose The purpose of this Agreement is to outline the terms under which the Volunteer agrees to provide legal advisory and related pro bono services to WEN in Nigeria in support of its objectives.

2. Role and Responsibilities of the Volunteer
The Volunteer agrees to: 1. Provide legal advice, drafting, and representation. 2. Support WEN’s advocacy, policy, and community initiatives. 3. Maintain ethical standards in line with the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners (Nigeria). 4. Keep WEN informed of progress. 5. Respect the volunteer nature of this role, acknowledging no employment relationship is created.

3. Obligations of WEN
WEN agrees to: 1. Provide instructions, documentation, and resources. 2. Recognize the Volunteer’s contributions. 3. Reimburse reasonable, pre-approved expenses (e.g., court filing fees, transportation).

4. Nature of Relationship
The WEN Volunteer is not an employee, contractor, or agent of WEN. This engagement is voluntary and non-remunerated.

5. Confidentiality
The Volunteer shall keep all information obtained in the course of service confidential, not disclose to any third party without WEN’s written consent, and remain bound by this obligation after termination.

6. Term and Termination
This Agreement shall commence on the date signed and remain in effect for one (1) year, renewable by mutual agreement. Either party may terminate with 30 days’ written notice. WEN may terminate immediately for misconduct, breach of ethics, or conflict of interest.

7. Liability and Indemnity
The Volunteer shall not hold WEN liable for personal injury, loss, or damages incurred, except in cases of gross negligence. The Volunteer indemnifies WEN against claims resulting from negligence or misconduct.

8. Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

9. Dispute Resolution
Parties shall attempt amicable settlement of disputes, failing which the matter shall be referred to mediation or arbitration in Nigeria.

World Ebony Network (WEN) – Volunteer Lawyers Code of Conduct

Guiding professionalism, ethics, and alignment with WEN’s mission.

1. Purpose

This Code of Conduct establishes the ethical standards and professional responsibilities expected of all volunteer lawyers serving with World Ebony Network (WEN). It ensures alignment with WEN’s mission, compliance with the law in the country of residence of the legal professional signing this form , and the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners in the same country of residence.

2. Core Values

• Integrity — honesty, fairness, and transparency.
• Service — commitment to community empowerment and social justice.
• Respect — dignity for all regardless of background.
• Confidentiality — protection of sensitive information.
• Excellence — high standards of professionalism.

3. Professional Standards

• Compliance with the Law: Adhere to the Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC), and applicable human rights standards of the country volunteer legal professional resides in.
• Competence: Provide services only within areas of expertise; seek guidance or refer when necessary.
• Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality of client and organizational information; do not disclose or misuse information gained through WEN activities.
• Conflict of Interest: Avoid conflicts that may impair judgment; promptly disclose potential conflicts to WEN.
• Non‑Discrimination: Provide services without bias based on ethnicity, religion, gender, socioeconomic status, disability, or political beliefs.

4. Conduct Towards Clients and Communities

• Treat all clients with respect and compassion.
• Explain legal processes in clear, understandable language.
• Avoid exploitation or taking advantage of vulnerable individuals.
• Never request or accept gifts, money, or favors from clients.

5. Conduct Within WEN

• Collaborate respectfully with volunteers, staff, and partners.
• Follow WEN policies, procedures, and reporting lines.
• Represent WEN positively in all professional interactions.
• Avoid actions that may bring WEN into disrepute.

6. Accountability

• Submit timely reports on assigned cases or activities.
• Notify WEN in advance if unavailable to fulfill obligations.
• Take responsibility for mistakes and seek corrective guidance.

7. Prohibited Conduct

• Use of the role for personal gain or political influence.
• Harassment, discrimination, or abusive behavior.
• Providing false, misleading, or fraudulent legal advice.
• Any conduct that undermines WEN’s mission or reputation.

8. Disciplinary Action

Violations of this Code may result in verbal or written warnings, suspension or termination of volunteer service, and—where appropriate—reporting to the Bar Association or relevant legal authorities.

9. Acknowledgement

I, have read and understood the World Ebony Network Volunteer Lawyers Code of Conduct. I agree to comply with its provisions during my service with WEN.