Frequently Asked Questions

The Copywriter Code is a professional standards framework for copywriters. It includes a Code of Practice (what copywriters should do), a Code of Conduct (how they should behave), and a Competency Framework (the skills they need). Copywriters who subscribe commit publicly to these standards.

No. Subscribing to the Code is voluntary. However, we encourage all professional copywriters to subscribe as a way of demonstrating their commitment to high standards. Clients and employers may choose to prioritise copywriters who have subscribed.

No. Subscribing to the Code is free for Pro and Pro+ members. You need an active ProCopywriters membership at Pro level or above, but there's no additional fee to subscribe to the Code.

Any ProCopywriters member at Pro or Pro+ level can subscribe. Members self-certify that they meet the competence requirements (at least two years of substantial paid work or equivalent experience through formal training, internships, or mentored practice).

By subscribing, you commit to upholding the standards set out in the Code of Practice and Code of Conduct. This includes professional conduct, ethical practice, clear communication, proper project management, data protection, and transparency about AI use. Your commitment appears publicly on your member profile.

The Code uses precise language: 'must' indicates a requirement; 'should' indicates good practice in most situations; 'may' indicates an option to consider. Read the full Code of Practice for details.

Yes, but with flexibility. The Code recognises that employed copywriters have less control over some aspects of their work (budgets, timelines, contracts). Provisions relating to business operations, contracts, and self-promotion apply only to independent professionals.

It depends on how you use AI. You must not misrepresent material that is entirely AI-generated as your own creation. You don't need to disclose AI use for background tasks like research, comparing ideas, or editing support. The key principle is transparency and maintaining human oversight.

Background use includes research assistance, brainstorming, comparing draft approaches, grammar checking, and proofreading support. If AI substantially generates the final deliverable, that's not background use and requires transparency with your client.

The enforcement model focuses on learning and resolution, not punishment. Anyone can raise concerns about a subscriber's conduct. The Standards Committee reviews complaints and works with the member to address issues. This might include amending misleading claims, mentoring, or relevant professional development. Serious or repeated breaches may result in suspension or removal of Pro status.

Yes. Anyone — clients, collaborators, or other members — can raise concerns about potential breaches. Complaints must be submitted in writing and relate to professional practice, not personal disagreements.

Yes. Members can appeal decisions in writing. Appeals are reviewed by a separate panel.

Subscribers display a commitment statement on their ProCopywriters profile and may use The Copywriter Code badge on their website and marketing materials. You can search the member directory to confirm subscription status.

The Code doesn't guarantee specific outcomes — no professional standard can do that. What it guarantees is that the copywriter has committed to defined standards of competence, ethics, and professional conduct, and that there's a process if they don't meet those standards.