Professionalism is an intensely debated topic, and ethical and legal concerns are becoming more prevalent. The article's main question is whether conduct brought on by obedience of an ethical standard constitutes a legal infraction. Broadly, does it make sense for ethics to conflict with the law? It is necessary to consider the nature and characteristics of ethics as a preliminary step to defining its legal paradigm. A theoretical definition of ethics and the concept of law will be provided to present a perspective. The recent case AmaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism NPC v President of the Republic of South Africa [2022] ZACC 31 will be viewed as theoretical guidance on the principles used in obtaining the judgment, mainly on the invalidation of the Executive Ethics Code. The case law is examined to establish the significance of ethics in the South African legal system, especially when it comes to professional ethics in government officials or public administrators. This article aims to present a clear overview of professional ethics, particularly the place of ethics in our legal system. The ethical standards that should guide professionals to repel unethical conduct are critically discussed.