The Effects of Country of Origin on Trust and Ethical Perceptions of Legal Services

Abstract

The impact of nationality on perceptions on ethicality and trust towards an American service professional are examined using data from 122 individuals who had either attended a seminar or an initial consultation with an immigration lawyer. Perceptions of trust are found to differ significantly between people from nations characterised by high and low individualism. Significant differences in ethical perceptions are also noted between individuals from high versus low power distance nations. Although this research was conducted regarding a onetime interaction with an immigration lawyer; results and managerial implications may have meaning to other professional service providers.