CLVS Code of Professional Ethics

Preamble

The mandatory Code of Professional Ethics for Certified Legal Video Services (CLVS) defines the ethical relationship the public, the bench, and the bar have a right to expect from a CLVS Member. The Code sets out the conduct of the CLVS Member when dealing with the user of video services and acquaints the user, as well as the Member, with guidelines established for professional behavior. By complying with the CLVS Code of Professional Ethics, CLVS Members maintain their profession at the highest level.

A CLVS Member must also adhere to the voluntary Principles for Professional Practice when providing legal video services as well as all local, state and federal rules and statutes.

CLVS Code Of Professional Ethics

A CLVS Member Shall:

1. Render services to all parties in a competent manner. A CLVS shall maintain the integrity of the legal video profession.
2. Perform all tasks in a professional manner, observing all laws, rules and orders of the court relating to the proceedings.
3. Refrain from performing any service under terms or conditions that will compromise, in any way, his or her impartiality or the exercise of good judgment. A CLVS shall not adversely affect the fair and impartial portrayal of the proceeding.
4. Refrain from doing anything that affects the impartiality of the CLVS.
5. Absent the consent of the parties concerned or a court order, a CLVS shall not reveal confidential information entrusted in or provided to such CLVS by any of the parties.
6. Be truthful and accurate when making public statements or when advertising the CLVS' qualifications or the services provided.
7. Determine fees independently, except when established by statute or court order, entering into no unlawful agreements with others on the fees to any user.
8. Refrain from giving, directly or indirectly, any gift or anything of value to attorneys or their staff, other clients or their staff, or any other persons or entities associated with any litigation, which exceeds $150 in the aggregate per recipient each year. Nothing offered in exchange for future work is permissible, regardless of its value.  Pro bono services as defined by the NCRA Guidelines for Professional Practice or by applicable state and local laws, rules and regulations are permissible in any amount.