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Code of Professional Conduct: national laws are ever changing. The investigator has the added
responsibility of performing each assignment with a due diligent
STANDARDS & ETHICS FOR THE effort to abide by the Constitution and permissible laws.
INVESTIGATIVE PROFESSION This is the fourth edition and twentieth year of this writing. Some
points have been amended, clarified and reworded to provide the FEATURE
by Kitty Hailey best guidance possible. Most concepts included herein have not
changed, as they were valid twenty years ago and are equally valid
This new edition of Kitty’s book should be on the desk today. This writing deals with truthfulness, diligence, respect and
of every investigator. Not using it as a resource is a honesty by investigators, toward investigators and to the public.
risk to your personal and professional reputation.
- H. Ellis Armistead, Pres., H. Ellis Armistead & Associates, LLC Times change. Our foundation is based in honest and diligently
performed in a professional manner for the benefit of all. The
Code seeks to act as a guide in this fluctuating world. The motto
Times change. Ethics don’t. With each passing year, changes Do No Harm is the basis for this writing. It clarifies and simplifies
in technology, ability and beliefs have a huge impact on the the manner in which investigators can interact with members of
collective conscience of our world. Each new advance or altered the public and within their own ranks. The profession demands that
concept brings with it another challenge to our profession. We the most diligent, honest, and professional conduct be afforded
are tasked with determining how to handle each situation as those who pay for the services of the investigator. This fourth
it is encountered. We are asked to perform work never before edition has honed the manner in which this is best
imagined. A changing world requires adaptation. accomplished.
As information becomes increasingly free flowing, our duty is to The Code is a resource for the investigator’s office.
be cognizant of the lines, however, blurred, between our ability to It is a “go to” book and a training manual. While it
access data and our legal and moral right to use it. might not answer all the questions, it is a guidebook
and a tool to be used to maintain high standards.
The investigator is a resource for information. The goal is to The Code is also recommended to attorneys using
provide assistance in a responsible and resourceful manner. the services of a professional investigator. Any
No matter how much the world changes or abilities fluctuate, business or individual hiring an investigator can use
the Code still serves to guide the Investigator in doing his or her The Code to enhance the process.
job in a manner that is consistent and considerate to society. It
serves to advance the reputation of the profession and ensure If ever there was a bible for the investigative
that sufficient effort is afforded each client. Local, regional and profession, this is it.

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