Ethics, Professional Conduct, and Client Relations
Ethics questions test whether a candidate will choose the lawful, honest, client-protective option when a tempting shortcut is offered. The recurring themes are confidentiality, conflict of interest, truthful reporting, competence, and lawful means.
Confidentiality: client information is protected and should be disclosed only as authorized or required by law (e.g., subpoena, court order, or to prevent serious harm). A PI should not discuss a case with third parties, and should avoid representing opposing parties in related matters. Conflicts of interest must be disclosed and, where material, declined.
Truthful reporting is non-negotiable: reports must state facts observed, distinguish fact from inference, and never omit unfavorable findings because the client wants a particular result. A PI should not accept a case whose objective is to manufacture evidence, harass, or entrap. Fees should be disclosed clearly; contingent fees that reward a particular investigative outcome (e.g., "bonus if you find infidelity") are ethically fraught and should be avoided.
Competence: take only work within your skill and licensure; a PI unqualified for a forensic accounting task should decline or associate with a qualified expert. Records must be retained and produced accurately; destroying or altering records is misconduct.
Traps: the "client is always right" distractor, and the "small lie to protect the client" distractor. Both are wrong. Another trap is treating a request for confidentiality as permission to falsify a report.
Worked example: A client asks you to omit a surveillance gap from your report to make the timeline look continuous. Correct response: refuse, and document the gap and the reason (e.g., subject entered a private residence). The report stays accurate; the client is informed why.