South Carolina Association of Legal Investigators

CODE OF ETHICS

A Private and Legal Investigator is dedicated to search for truth and the furtherance of his client's interest consistent therewith. The search for truth allows for the establishment of the American ideals of fairness and justice for the benefit of the client. it should be the intention of every investigator to deal honestly, justly and courteously with all that he contacts and to practice his profession according to the Code of Ethics.

PROFESSIONAL RELATIONS

Section 1

The Private Investigator will extend the effectiveness of his profession by cooperating with other investigators and related professionals and by the exchange of information and experience so long as the interest of his client are not compromised.

Section 2

The Private Investigator will not advertise his work, skill or merit in an unprofessional manner or in a dramatic misleading or exaggerated fashion and he will avoid conduct or practice likely to discredit or to do injury to the dignity and honor of his profession.

RELATIONS WITH THE PUBLIC

Section 1

The Private Investigator will, when the appropriate opportunity presents itself, explain to the public the role of his profession in the furtherance of the administration of justice.

Section 2

The Private Investigator will not knowingly violate any right or privilege of any individual citizen which may be guaranteed or provided by the United States Constitution, and State Constitution or the laws of the State and Federal Governments or any subdivision thereof.

Section 3

The Private Investigator will make reporting's based upon truth and fact and will express honest opinions based thereon.

Section 4

The Private Investigator will not disclose, relate or betray, in any fashion, the trust or confidence placed in him by client, employer, or associate without his consent.

Section 5

The private Investigator will not suggest, condone or participate, in any fashion or degree, for any purpose whatsoever, in entrapment.

Section 6

The Private Investigator shall refrain from accepting an assignment or employment if a personal conflict of interest lies therein.

Section 7

The Private Investigator will deal fairly and equitably with his clients or employer and will clearly explain his duties and the basis for his charges in each undertaking.

Section 8

The Private Investigator will guard against employing those techniques or utilizing such equipment or devices that threaten life, limb or the safety of others.

Section 9

The Private Investigator will not allow personal feelings or prejudices to interfere with factual and truthful disclosures on the assignments for which he has been employed or consulted.

RELATIONS WITH INVESTIGATORS

Section 1

The Private Investigator will endeavor to provide the opportunity, education and skill for the professional development and advancement of investigators in the profession.

Section 2

The Private Investigator will not directly or indirectly injure the professional reputation, prospects or practice of another investigator. However, if he considers that an investigator is guilty of unethical, illegal or unfair practices or designs, he will present the information to the proper authority for action.

Section 3

The Private Investigator will uphold, and never abuse, the principal of appropriate and adequate compensation for those engaged in investigative work.

Section 4

The Private Investigator will not criticize another investigators work except in the proper forum for technical discussion and critique.

Section 5

The Private Investigator will not complete illegally with other investigators in the solicitation of work.

Section 6

The Private Investigator shall not engage in the unauthorized practice of law.