17 CAR § 390-802 – Suspected violations

(a) Ethical behavior expected.
1. (1) Counselors expect professional associates to adhere to this part.
2. (2) When counselors possess reasonable cause that raises doubts as to whether a counselor is acting in an ethical manner, they take appropriate action.
3. (3) See 17 CAR § 390-802(d) and 17 CAR § 390-802(e).
(b) Consultation. When uncertain as to whether a particular situation or course of action may be in violation of this part, counselors consult with:
1. (1) Other counselors who are knowledgeable about ethics;
2. (2) Colleagues; or
3. (3) Appropriate authorities.
(c) Organization conflicts.
1. (1) If the demands of an organization with which counselors are affiliated pose a conflict with this part, counselors specify the nature of such conflicts and express to their supervisors or other responsible officials their commitment to this part.
2. (2) When possible, counselors work to change within the organization to allow full adherence to this part.
(d) Informal resolution. When counselors have reasonable cause to believe that another counselor is violating an ethical standard, they attempt to first resolve the issue informally with the other counselor, if feasible, providing that such action does not violate confidentiality rights that may be involved.
(e) Reporting suspected violations. When an informal resolution is not appropriate or feasible, counselors, upon reasonable cause, take action, such as reporting the suspected violation to state or national ethics committees, unless this action conflicts with confidentiality rights that cannot be resolved.
(f) Unwarranted complaints. Counselors do not initiate, participate in, or encourage the filing of ethics complaints that are unwarranted or intend to harm a counselor rather than to protect the public.