Ontario Barrister and Solicitor Practice Exam 2025 - Free Barrister and Solicitor Practice Questions and Study Guide

A lawyer's primary duty in a litigation context is to advocate for the client’s interests zealously and ethically. This means that the lawyer must actively support and represent their client’s position in legal proceedings, ensuring that the client's rights are protected and that they receive a fair opportunity to present their case. Zealous advocacy involves a commitment to pursue every legitimate avenue to achieve the client's objectives while adhering to professional ethical standards.

In this role, the lawyer must balance an aggressive pursuit of the client's interests with the duty to the court and the legal system, which includes behaving with integrity and respect for the law. By focusing on ethical advocacy, the lawyer not only serves their client but also upholds the principles of justice and fairness in the legal process.

The other options fall short of accurately capturing the essence of a lawyer's role in litigation. Providing legal advice is part of the broader responsibility of legal representation but does not encompass the active advocacy required in court. Maintaining a distance from the case contradicts the fundamental role of a lawyer, who must be fully engaged in their client's legal strategy and representation. Representing the opposing party, while a duty in certain circumstances, such as in conflict situations, is not the primary duty in the context of litigation where the lawyer is expected