Under California ethics rules, when you become aware of misconduct within the organization, what is required?

Under California ethics rules, when you become aware of misconduct within the organization, what is required?

• A. Inform higher authority and disclose to outside
• B. Inform higher authority, withdraw, but never outside
• C. Inform outside authorities
• D. Do nothing

Answer: (B)

When you become aware of misconduct, the obligation is to first raise the issue through the proper internal channels—inform the appropriate higher authority within the organization so they can address and correct the problem. After doing that, you should withdraw from continuing to participate in the misconduct, distancing yourself from it. External disclosure isn’t part of this step; you’re not supposed to go outside the organization to report it under this rule. This reflects a process that prioritizes internal remediation and personal disengagement from the improper activity.

When you become aware of misconduct, the obligation is to first raise the issue through the proper internal channels—inform the appropriate higher authority within the organization so they can address and correct the problem. After doing that, you should withdraw from continuing to participate in the misconduct, distancing yourself from it. External disclosure isn’t part of this step; you’re not supposed to go outside the organization to report it under this rule. This reflects a process that prioritizes internal remediation and personal disengagement from the improper activity.