PURPOSE
This firm is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, ethics, and professional conduct. We are selective about who we work with and associate with – not to police private beliefs, but because how people conduct themselves publicly reflects on the relationships we build and the communities we serve. This policy defines the standards we expect and the consequences when those standards aren’t met.
GENERAL STANDARD
We expect everyone we work with – clients, employees, contractors, vendors, and professional associates – to treat all people with basic dignity regardless of race, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or similar characteristics. We will not maintain professional relationships with those who publicly engage in conduct that conflicts with this standard.
YOUR RIGHT TO FREE EXPRESSION
We respect your right to hold and express independent opinions, including opinions that differ from ours. Political, religious, and social diversity is real, and we do not expect uniformity of thought. However, the right to free expression does not obligate us to maintain a professional or personal association with you. We reserve the right to end any relationship that conflicts with our values.
UNACCEPTABLE CONDUCT
The following conduct is incompatible with association with this firm:
– Harassment or threats directed at any individual or group based on personal characteristics
– Publicly expressed hatred toward people on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, immigration or citizenship status, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin
– Deliberate spread of demonstrably false information in a professional context with the intent to deceive or harm
– Documented incitement to violence or discrimination against any individual or group based on personal characteristics
This policy is based on conduct, not political affiliation, party membership, religious tradition, or policy positions – including on contested issues such as immigration policy, border enforcement, taxation, religion in public life, or electoral politics. The legality of conduct is not a factor in consideration of this policy.
SCOPE
This policy applies to public conduct including social media, public statements, professional communications, and community behavior -that comes to our attention through direct observation or credible report. It is not intended to govern private communications or personal associations outside the professional context.
PROCESS
Where circumstances allow, we will make reasonable effort to notify a client or associate before taking action, particularly where there may be context we are unaware of. We recognize that public statements can be misattributed, taken out of context, or misrepresented.
For active client relationships governed by a contractual agreement, termination will follow the Early Termination provisions of that agreement.
For non-client relationships – including social media connections, membership, or informal association – we may end the relationship without prior notice.
CONSEQUENCES
Violation of this policy may result in: – Termination of employment
– Early termination of services under applicable contract provisions
– Non-renewal of membership or access
– Withdrawal of professional association or referral relationship
– Removal from online communities or networks we manage
DETERMINATION AND APPEAL
Final determination of whether conduct violates this policy rests with firm leadership. For active clients, we commit to a good-faith review of any relevant context before acting. While there is no formal appeals process, we welcome a direct conversation before a final decision is made in ambiguous cases.
RESTORATION
Restoration of a professional relationship following a violation is possible and is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, generally after a minimum of 90 days. Requests for restoration may be directed to firm leadership.