Preface:

The NPRRA has adopted the following principles and guidelines for the behavior of its members and associates. Each member or associate is expected to follow these principles and guidelines in conducting its business activities. A violation of the following may be grounds for expulsion from NPRRA. By applying for membership and becoming a member or associate of NPRRA each such member and associate agrees to abide by NPRRA’s Code of Ethics, and further agrees that it expressly waives any cause of action for libel, slander, or defamation that might arise from the making or consideration of any allegation that such Member has violated NPRRA’s Code of Ethics.

Declaration of Professional Ethics:

Each member and associate of the National Public Records Research Association agrees:

• To treat all client information as confidential, and to maintain the confidentiality of such information by taking reasonable care, and causing its employees, officers, managers and agents to do so;
• To comply in all material respects with all applicable laws, rules and regulations, including, without limitation, antitrust and other laws relating to competition, laws prohibiting transactions with certain specified persons such as “specially designated nationals” or transactions undertaken for the purpose of tax avoidance, and laws to protect personal privacy;
• To avoid conduct that constitutes the unauthorized practice of law; and
• To conduct its business in good faith, and observe industry standards for commercially reasonable behavior, which shall include, without limitation, the following:
  • Treating other NPRRA members respectfully and fairly, including paying undisputed bills and communicating about any disputes promptly;
  • Fostering a spirit of cooperation and teamwork with government offices and officials who maintain public records; and
  • Fostering a sense of professionalism in the public records research industry and avoiding conduct that brings the industry into disrepute.