Code of Ethics

(For a deeper understanding and complete details of the ethical standards and disciplinary procedures, click here to get full information about this topic ».)

Ethics Requirement

Members must adhere to the Standards of Professional Conduct, acting in the client’s best interest when advising on building permits and business licenses. Compliance is enforced through disciplinary procedures.

Ethics Declaration

Before using the PERMITOR™ trademark or renewing membership, members must disclose involvement in criminal, civil, regulatory, or employer investigations. They must also acknowledge NAP’s authority to enforce rules.

Disciplinary & Ethics Commission (DEC)

• Jurisdiction: Reviews alleged violations of the Code of Ethics.

• Powers & Duties: Evaluates hearings, reports annually, recommends amendments, ensures fairness.

• CEO’s Role: Appoints DEC members, oversees impartiality, conducts background checks.

• Hearing Panel: 3 members (2 DEC + 1 volunteer), chaired by a DEC member.

• Conflict of Interest: Members must recuse themselves if conflicts exist.

Grounds for Discipline

• Violating the Code of Ethics or laws.

• Obstructing investigations or hearings.

• False or misleading statements.

• Other acts of unprofessional conduct.

Forms of Discipline

• Private Censure: Confidential written reproach.

• Public Letter of Admonition: Published written reproach.

• Suspension: Up to 3 years, with public notice.

• Revocation: Permanent removal of right to use PERMITOR™ marks.

Interim Suspension

Temporary suspension may be imposed if conduct poses an immediate public threat or harms reputation. Issued via Show Cause Order, with hearings scheduled within ~40 days if contested.

Investigation Process

• Triggered by complaints or disclosures.

• Respondent notified and given 30 days to respond.

• Failure to respond → adverse inference or referral to DEC.

• Counsel determines probable cause → dismiss, caution, or file complaint.

Complaint & Answer

• Formal complaint issued by NAP Counsel.

• Respondent must answer within 20 days.

• Failure to answer → default & automatic revocation.

• Respondent may request hearing or paper review.

Discovery & Evidence

• Respondent can access disciplinary file documents.

• Evidence limited to 50 pages unless justified.

• Witnesses and counsel must be identified 45 days before hearing.

Hearings

• Notice given 30 days in advance.

• Proof standard: preponderance of evidence (“more likely than not”).

• Hearing Panel issues findings and recommendations to DEC.

(For a deeper understanding and complete details of the ethical standards and disciplinary procedures, click here to get full information about this topic ».)