Ethics Violations

The King County Employee Code of Ethics (KCC 3.04) states "that the private conduct and financial dealings of (county employees)...shall present no actual or apparent conflict of interest between the public trust and private interest."

Complaints asserting a violation of the ethics code are made to the Ombudsman. Upon receipt of a complaint, we review the allegation to determine if it constitutes a violation of the ethics code. If the complaint is considered to be founded, or if the matter requires additional exploration, an investigation is initiated by serving the agency/respondent with a copy of the complaint. If the complaint is considered to be unfounded, investigation is declined.

Respondents in ethics complaints are afforded due process rights, such as the right to be represented by legal counsel or union representation, and the right to present witnesses and evidence. Written results of the investigation include a determination as to whether an ethics violation occurred. Respondents may appeal our findings to the Board of Ethics.

Please contact us with any questions concerning the ethics code and ethics complaint process.

Download a PDF of the "Ethics Code" (KCC 3.04). (121.0 KB)

Download a PDF of "Guidelines For Filing An Ethics Complaint." (88.0 KB)

Download a PDF of an "Ethics Complaint Form." (55.2 KB)