Integrity First
Ethics & Governance
The NTPIA Professional Code of Ethics and Conduct
Preamble
The North Texas Private Investigators Association (NTPIA) is committed to promoting the highest standards of professional conduct among its members. All members are required to comply with the rules and regulations established by the Texas Department of Public Safety — Private Security Bureau (DPS-PSB), as well as all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing the practice of private investigation.
This Code of Ethics and Conduct sets forth the principles and standards that guide the professional behavior of NTPIA members. Adherence to this Code is a condition of membership and reflects the Association's dedication to excellence, integrity, and public trust.
Code of Ethics
Professional Standards
Eleven standards that define the ethical obligations of every NTPIA member.
Compliance With Law
Members shall conduct all investigative activities in full compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Texas Occupations Code and all DPS-PSB regulations governing licensed private investigators.
Honesty and Integrity
Members shall act with honesty and integrity in all professional dealings, including communications with clients, the public, and fellow investigators. Deceptive practices that violate the law or harm the public are strictly prohibited.
Competence
Members shall maintain the professional knowledge, skills, and competence necessary to perform their duties effectively. Members are encouraged to pursue continuing education and professional development opportunities.
Lawful Information Collection
Members shall collect information only through lawful means and shall not engage in unauthorized access to records, illegal surveillance, or any activity that violates an individual's legal rights or reasonable expectation of privacy.
Confidentiality
Members shall protect the confidentiality of client information and case details. Information obtained in the course of an investigation shall not be disclosed to unauthorized parties except as required by law or with the client's informed consent.
Conflicts of Interest
Members shall avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise their professional judgment or objectivity. Any potential conflict shall be disclosed to the client promptly, and the member shall decline or withdraw from engagements where a conflict cannot be resolved.
Truthful Advertising
Members shall represent their qualifications, services, and capabilities truthfully and accurately in all advertising and marketing materials. Misleading or deceptive representations are prohibited.
Professional Courtesy
Members shall treat clients, colleagues, opposing parties, and the general public with respect and professional courtesy. Members shall not engage in conduct that is harassing, discriminatory, or otherwise unprofessional.
Duty to Justice System
Members shall support the integrity of the justice system. Members shall not obstruct justice, tamper with evidence, or engage in any conduct that undermines the fair administration of law.
Association Reputation
Members shall conduct themselves in a manner that upholds and enhances the reputation of the NTPIA and the private investigation profession. Members shall not engage in conduct that brings discredit to the Association or the industry.
Duty to Report Changes in Standing
Members have a duty to report to the Association any material changes in their professional standing — including license suspension, revocation, criminal charges, or civil judgments — within 30 days of such change occurring.
Accountability
Enforcement & Board Review
How the NTPIA addresses potential violations of this Code.
Written Complaint
Any member or member of the public may submit a written complaint alleging a violation of this Code to the NTPIA Board of Directors. Complaints must be submitted in writing and include sufficient detail to allow for a meaningful review.
Board Review
Upon receipt of a written complaint, the Board of Directors will conduct a thorough review of the allegations. The member subject to the complaint will be notified and given an opportunity to respond in writing within a reasonable timeframe.
Determination & Action
Following its review, the Board may take appropriate action, which may include a formal warning, required remedial education, suspension of membership, or expulsion from the Association, depending on the severity of the violation.
Appeal Process
A member subject to disciplinary action may appeal the Board's determination in writing within 30 days of receiving notice of the decision. The Board will consider the appeal and issue a final determination.
NTPIA Association Bylaws
The NTPIA Bylaws govern the structure, operations, and procedures of the Association. All members are encouraged to review the Bylaws to understand their rights and responsibilities as members of the NTPIA.
Questions about membership, ethics, or governance?
Contact the Board