Ethics Complaint and Due Process Procedure
1. Filing a Complaint
Any individual may submit a written complaint alleging that a PIA Designee has violated the PIA Code of Ethics. Complaints must identify the specific provision(s) alleged to have been violated and include supporting documentation when available.
2. Preliminary Review
The PIA Board of Ethics will conduct an initial review to determine whether the complaint falls within its jurisdiction and whether sufficient information exists to warrant further investigation.
3. Notice to the Designee
If a complaint proceeds, the Designee will receive written notice describing:
- The alleged violation(s)
- The facts supporting the complaint
- The applicable provisions of the Code of Ethics
- The opportunity to respond
4. Opportunity to Respond
The Designee shall be provided 30 days to submit a written response and supporting documentation.
5. Investigation
The Board of Ethics may gather additional information, interview relevant parties, and review documentation necessary to determine the facts of the matter.
6. Board Determination
After reviewing all materials, the Board of Ethics will determine whether a violation occurred and, if so, the appropriate action.
It is recommended that the practice of the Board begins with a private warning or letter of concern. These discussions should remain private and out of the public eye.
Possible actions may include:
- No action
- Private warning
- Letter of concern
- Required corrective action or education
- Probation
- Suspension of the designation
- Revocation of the designation
7. Right to Appeal
A Designee may appeal the Board's decision within 30 days of receiving written notice of the Ethics Board’s findings. Appeals shall be submitted to PIA HQ and will be logged in and forwarded to and reviewed by the PIA Executive Committee, whose decision shall be final and binding on all parties. The decision of the PIA Executive Committee on an appeal shall be rendered and provided in writing to the Designee within 45 days of the ExCom’s receipt of the notice of appeal and underlying file.
8. Reinstatement
A suspended or revoked Designee may apply for reinstatement after meeting any conditions established by the Board of Ethics, including corrective actions, additional education, or a waiting period.
9. Legal Defense
An adverse finding of the Board of Ethics and/or the denial of an appeal by the Executive Committee which results in probation, suspension or revocation of the Designee’s limited and revocable license to use or display the PIA professional designation shall be final and binding on the Designee and the Designee shall be further prohibited from commencing a civil action against PIA, its officers, directors, employees, volunteers, and/or its affiliated organizations or entities arising out of such disciplinary action.