In which phase does the duty of candor to a tribunal apply?

The duty of candor to a tribunal is a fundamental ethical obligation that requires attorneys to be truthful in their representations to the court. This duty applies from the initiation of a proceeding and continues through to the final judgment or any appeals. This means that at every stage of the legal process, including pre-trial motions, the actual trial, and any post-judgment proceedings or appeals, lawyers must uphold this duty by avoiding statements that are false or misleading, and by disclosing material facts that could affect the tribunal's decision.

The rationale for this comprehensive application is rooted in the integrity of the judicial system. Attorneys play a crucial role in ensuring that the tribunal has accurate information upon which to base its decisions. By maintaining candor throughout the entire process, attorneys contribute to the fair administration of justice.

Therefore, the correct answer reflects the continuous nature of this ethical obligation, reinforcing the idea that honesty in communications with the court is required at every phase of litigation, not limited to a specific timeframe or phase within the proceedings.