Core values
Those who serve justice must themselves be just.
The authority to investigate, prosecute, adjudicate, analyze, and enforce the law carries an equal obligation to use that authority with integrity. These values are the foundation of our Code of Conduct, and of every program we build.
Integrity and truthfulness
Be honest, candid, and forthright in every report, statement, and word of testimony. Never misrepresent credentials or experience. Correct errors promptly, whatever the personal cost. The truth is not optional when it is inconvenient.
Fidelity to the rule of law
Uphold the Constitution and the laws of the states in which we practice. Defend due process, equal protection, and the presumption of innocence. Never use professional authority to deny anyone their lawful rights, and recognize when the law calls for restraint.
Impartiality and fairness
Afford every person equal dignity and equal treatment under law. Guard deliberately against bias, both explicit and implicit, in professional judgment, and challenge discriminatory conduct when we see it.
Professional competence
The public is entitled to competent professionals. Keep licenses and training current, practice within the limits of our competence and lawful authority, and say so plainly when a matter is beyond them.
Confidentiality
Protect privileged and confidential information, respect evidentiary protections and chain of custody, and never exploit access to sensitive information for personal, financial, or political advantage.
Accountability
Accept responsibility for our decisions, including our mistakes. Cooperate truthfully with oversight, report misconduct, and protect those who report it in good faith.
Respect across disciplines
No single profession holds a monopoly on justice. Each discipline contributes expertise the others lack, and outcomes improve when professionals work together with mutual respect.
One member, one vote
When membership opens, every member will have an equal voice in how USCLI is governed, regardless of rank, discipline, or the date they joined. Founding status will bring recognition, not extra votes.
How we hold ourselves to them
Values are easy to publish. These are the commitments we make as an organization, now, before we have members to answer to:
- We don't claim credentials, programs, partnerships, or numbers we don't have. Every program on this site is listed with its real status.
- We cite official sources, date what we publish, and correct errors in the open.
- We say plainly what we are not: a government agency, a licensing body, or an accreditor.
- We collect nothing about visitors. This site has no cookies, no analytics, and no trackers.
If we fall short of any of these, tell us at contact@uscli.org.