Ethics codes require that counselors always obey the law, even if the law is unjust.

Ethics codes require that counselors always obey the law, even if the law is unjust.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not sure

Answer: (B)

Laws and ethics can clash, and ethical practice recognizes that tension. You’re expected to follow applicable laws, but that obligation isn’t absolute if a law is unjust or harms clients. In those situations, the ethical path is to prioritize client welfare and justice while still meeting legal duties where they protect safety and rights. This often means advocating for change, seeking supervision, and using professional channels to address or challenge unjust laws, rather than blindly obeying them. So the idea that you must always obey the law, even when it’s unjust, isn’t correct.

Laws and ethics can clash, and ethical practice recognizes that tension. You’re expected to follow applicable laws, but that obligation isn’t absolute if a law is unjust or harms clients. In those situations, the ethical path is to prioritize client welfare and justice while still meeting legal duties where they protect safety and rights. This often means advocating for change, seeking supervision, and using professional channels to address or challenge unjust laws, rather than blindly obeying them. So the idea that you must always obey the law, even when it’s unjust, isn’t correct.