What is the primary duty of an attorney regarding candor to the court?

The primary duty of an attorney regarding candor to the court is centered on the obligation to avoid engaging in conduct that involves dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation. This duty is rooted in the principle that lawyers play a crucial role in the justice system, which relies on honesty and integrity to function effectively. Attorneys are expected to present facts truthfully, ensure that any evidence brought before the court is authentic and legitimate, and avoid misleading the court or opposing parties.

Maintaining candor to the court helps to preserve the legal process's integrity and ensures that judgments are based on truthful representations. It is essential for attorneys to uphold this standard because any breach could result in serious consequences, including disciplinary action, loss of credibility, and potential sanctions for themselves and their clients.

In contrast, maintaining complete confidentiality towards clients, while an important duty, does not directly address the issue of candor to the court. Similarly, the idea of doing everything to win a case, regardless of the means, would conflict with ethical obligations and could lead to actions that compromise honesty and integrity. Lastly, the suppression of harmful evidence does not align with the duty of candor, as it would involve misleading the court rather than fulfilling the obligation to be truthful and forthright.