In accordance with the objective and purposes of the Society outlined in Article I.1 of the ASQDE By-Laws, each Member, as a condition of membership, pledges him/herself to abide by the following rules of conduct: |
a)
to apply the principles of science and logic in the solution of all document examination problems and to follow the truth courageously wherever it may lead; b) to keep informed on all new developments and processes in document examination by constant study and research; c) to treat information received from a client as confidential; and when a matter has already been undertaken, to refuse to perform any services for any person whose interests are opposed to those of the original client, except by express consent of that client or his/her solicitor, or where required by established administrative procedure or by law; d) to render an opinion or conclusion strictly in accordance with the physical evidence in the document, and only to the extent justified by the facts.; to admit frankly that certain questions cannot be answered because of the nature of the problem, the lack of material, or insufficient opportunity for examination. e) to act at all times, both in and out of court in an absolutely impartial manner and to do nothing that would imply partisanship or any interest in the case except to report the findings of an examination and their proper interpretation; |
f)
to give the best possible services in all cases, irrespective of the importance of the matter; g) to charge for services, when serving as a consultant, in accordance with a mutually agreed contract for services rendered. Remuneration shall be fair and equitable considering all the elements in the case. No engagement shall be undertaken on a contingent fee basis. Members employed by public agencies under an annual salary or contract shall be controlled in respect to monetary matters by policies within their organizations; h) to make technically correct and conservative statements in all written or oral reports, testimony, public addresses, or publications, and to avoid any misleading or inaccurate claims; i) to maintain a constant spirit of fairness, combined with high ethical, education, and technical standards, thereby promoting justice and creating increased confidence in the profession of document examination; and by exemplary conduct and scientific thoroughness, carry out the aims and ideals of this Society. |