Code of Ethics
Code of Ethics Preamble
A legal investigator is dedicated to the search for truth and the furtherance of their employer’s or client’s interest consistent therewith. This search for truth makes possible the establishment of the American ideals of fairness and justice for the benefit of the client in every case on which the investigator works. It should be the intention of every investigator to deal honestly, justly and courteously with all with whom he or she comes in contact and to practice their profession according to this Code of Ethics.
Professional Relations |
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Section 1. |
The Legal Investigator will extend the effectiveness of the profession by cooperating with other investigators and related professionals; and by the exchange of information and experience as long as the interests of the investigator’s clients or employers are not violated. |
Section 2. |
The Legal Investigator will not advertise work, skill or merit in an unprofessional manner or in a dramatic, misleading or exaggerated fashion, and will avoid all conduct or practice likely to discredit or do injury to the dignity and honor of this profession. |
Relations with the Public |
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Section 3. |
The Legal Investigator will, when the appropriate opportunity presents itself, explain to the public the role of the profession in the furtherance of the administration of justice. |
Section 4. |
The Legal Investigator will not knowingly violate any right or privilege of any individual citizen which may be guaranteed or provided by the United States Constitution, a State Constitution, or the laws of the State and Federal Governments or any subdivision thereof. |
Section 5. |
The Legal Investigator will make all reporting based upon truth and fact and will only express honest opinions based thereon. |
Section 6. |
The Legal Investigator will not disclose or relate or betray in any fashion that trust of confidence placed in the investigator by client, employer or associate, without the consent of the client, employer or associate. |
Section 7. |
The Legal Investigator will not suggest, condone or participate in any fashion or degree, for any purpose whatsoever, in entrapment. |
Section 8. |
The Legal Investigator shall refrain from accepting an assignment or employment if a personal conflict of interest lies therein. |
Section 9. |
The Legal Investigator will deal fairly and equitably with clients or employers, and will clearly explain the duties and the basis for the charges in each undertaking. |
Section 10. |
The Legal Investigator will guard against those techniques, or utilizing such equipment or devices, that may threaten the life, limb or safety of another. |
Section 11. |
The Legal Investigator will not accept commissions or allowances, directly or indirectly, from independent contractors or other parties dealing with the client, employer or associate in connection with work for which the legal investigator is responsible. |
Section 12. |
The Legal Investigator will not allow personal feelings or prejudices to interfere with factual and truthful disclosures on the assignments in which the legal investigator has been employed or consulted. |
Relations With Investigators |
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Section 13. |
The Legal Investigator will endeavor to provide the opportunity, education and skill for the professional development and advancement of investigators in the profession. |
Section 14. |
The Legal Investigator will not directly or indirectly injure the professional reputation, prospects, or practice of another investigator. However, if the legal investigator considers that an investigator is guilty of unethical or unfair practice or designs, the legal investigator will represent the information to the proper authority for action. |
Section 15. |
The Legal Investigator will uphold, and never abuse, the principle of appropriate and adequate compensation for those engaged in investigative work. |
Section 16. |
The Legal Investigator will not criticize another investigator’s work except in the proper forum for technical discussion and criticism. |
Section 17. |
The Legal Investigator will not compete illegally with other investigators in the solicitation of work. |
Section 18. |
The Legal Investigator shall not engage in the unauthorized practice of law. |
Section 19. |
The Legal Investigator shall not solicit clientele for any attorney. |