The FCB is dedicated to the principle that certified professionals must exhibit behavior that meets the highest standards of ethical and professional practice. To reinforce this principle, all applicants and certified professionals are subject to the standards and disciplinary processes detailed in the FCB’s Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct.
The FCB receives, reviews and takes action on allegations of ethical or professional misconduct according to the policies and procedures detailed in the Code of Ethics. To maintain the public’s confidence in certified professionals, it is critical that we quickly identify and respond to unethical or unprofessional conduct by certified individuals or those seeking certification.
Ignorance of the standards or the response expectations of subjects of ethical complaints is not a valid reason to appeal the outcome of the investigation.
FCB ethics investigators hold national certification issued by the Council on Licensure, Enforcement, and Regulation (CLEAR) and the disciplinary procedures are aligned with Chapter 120, Florida Statutes.
General policy regarding ethical complaints and investigations.
- All complaints must be in writing, using the FCB Ethical Complaint Form. Reporters can expect to be notified of the FCB’s decision to accept or reject the complaint within two-weeks of submission.
- Complaints should be submitted as soon as possible, but there is not a time limit. We encourage early reporting to protect consumers of services. A certified individual who is terminated for ethical reasons but is not reported to FCB will probably be hired by another employer with a clear certification history. We encourage all employers to notify the FCB of termination of certified personnel to determine if an ethical complaint is warranted. Another good rule of thumb: if a complaint is sent to Law Enforcement, an Inspector General, Internal Affairs Office or other similar authority, also file a complaint with the FCB.
- With the exception of any information discussed in verbal or written interviews between FCB and the reporter, all information, notes, reports, transcripts, or documentation of any kind generated or received during the course of an ethics investigation or disciplinary proceedings, to include committee hearings and appeal hearings, shall be kept confidential by the FCB.
- Provide as much detail as possible and supporting documentation. Be sure to redact any confidential client identifying information. Secure a release if confidential information is necessary to support the allegation.
- When in doubt, call the FCB and ask to speak with someone regarding an ethical or professional misconduct concern. We will help you determine next steps.
File an Ethics Complaint
Have an ethical complaint against a professional who is certified or attempting to become certified? Download the Ethics Case: Complaint Form.
Respond to an Ethics Complaint
Need to respond to an ethical complaint? Download the Ethics Case: Respondent Form.
If your response to an ethical complaint requires the FCB to access confidential information, please download and complete the FCB Authorization to Release Information Form.