PURSUING UNETHICAL PRACTICE

This paper primarily relates to professional engineering practice and testimony as an expert witness in the courts. However, portions of the discussion can be modified to relate to other experts although they may not be licensed by a State Board to practice engineering. A review is provided on what may be considered as unethical practice but the decisions relative to professional discrepancies, errors or omissions rests with the judgment of the Courts, professional organizations or State Professional Engineer License Boards. Allegations relative to competency or professional practice can be pursued through several different venues. The appropriateness of court challenge, professional organization actions and State Professional Licensing Boards are addressed. If a decision is made to pursue the allegations of unethical practice against an individual, then some suggestions are provided relative to documentation, professional review, and responsibilities. The most important considerations relative to allegation of unethical practice is to ensure that you have sound support of your allegations and maintain some confidentiality of your actions.