Department of Justice

Code of Conduct

Professional standards and ethical guidelines for all San Andreas Department of Justice personnel

Table of Contents

1. Purpose and Scope

This Code of Conduct establishes the professional standards, ethical expectations, and behavioral guidelines that all members of the San Andreas Department of Justice (SADoJ) must uphold. These standards reflect the values and mission of the Department and ensure operational integrity, professionalism, and public trust.

The provisions of this Code are not exhaustive. All members remain accountable to additional department policies, supervisor directives, subdivision guidelines, and the overarching server rules of The Seasons RP. Continued employment or service within the SADoJ is contingent upon adherence to these standards.

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this Code is to:

  • Ensure public trust in the integrity and impartiality of the judicial system.
  • Promote consistency, transparency, and accountability across all roles within the Department.
  • Provide clear expectations for conduct in all professional, procedural, and interpersonal interactions.

1.2 Scope

This Code applies to all individuals operating under the authority or within the structure of the San Andreas Department of Justice, including but not limited to:

  • Judges and Justices
  • Prosecutors and Attorneys
  • Clerks, Paralegals, and Administrative Staff
  • Contractors or Advisors granted temporary authority
  • Any individual representing or acting on behalf of SADoJ in official capacity

This Code governs conduct both on-duty and off-duty where behavior may impact the integrity, neutrality, or public perception of the Department.

2. Core Values and Principles

The San Andreas Department of Justice is built upon a foundation of trust, fairness, and service. Every member of the Department is expected to uphold the following core values in all actions and decisions:

2.1 Justice

We serve the people of San Andreas by ensuring equal access to the law, fair outcomes, and the protection of rights for all, regardless of status, background, or affiliation.

2.2 Integrity

We act with honesty, transparency, and moral courage. Integrity must guide both personal judgment and professional duty, even when no one is watching.

2.3 Impartiality

We enforce and interpret the law without bias or favoritism. Personal beliefs, external pressure, or past associations must never influence legal decisions or conduct.

2.4 Professionalism

We maintain a high standard of behavior, appearance, and communication. Respect, composure, and competency are expected at all times, in every setting.

2.5 Accountability

We take responsibility for our actions, decisions, and any misuse of authority. Mistakes must be owned and corrected in a manner consistent with the law and departmental expectations.

2.6 Public Trust

We recognize that our legitimacy comes from the people. Preserving public trust is essential and requires that we act with humility, clarity, and responsibility.

3. Professional Standards

All members of the San Andreas Department of Justice must demonstrate conduct befitting the gravity and visibility of their role. The following standards apply universally and without exception.

3.1 Duty of Integrity

  • Members must be truthful in all statements, documents, and interactions, both internally and externally.
  • Falsification of records, evidence, or testimony is grounds for immediate disciplinary action and possible legal consequences.
  • Any form of corruption, bribery, or abuse of authority is strictly prohibited.

3.2 Confidentiality

  • Sensitive case information, personal data, and internal communications must be protected and only disclosed when authorized or legally required.
  • Discussing ongoing cases or internal matters in public or unsecured channels (including Discord, social media, or other platforms) is a violation of this standard.

3.3 Impartiality and Neutrality

  • Members must avoid actions or comments that display bias, partisanship, or undue influence toward any party involved in a case.
  • Conflicts of interest must be disclosed immediately and resolved through recusal or reassignment.

3.4 Accountability

  • All decisions made in an official capacity must be documented and justifiable.
  • Members are responsible not only for their own conduct but for reporting breaches of professionalism by others when observed.

4. Conduct Expectations

Professionalism extends beyond legal decisions – it includes daily behavior, communication, and presence. This section outlines how members of the Department are expected to conduct themselves across various settings.

4.1 Courtroom Behavior

  • Maintain decorum at all times. This includes standing when appropriate, using formal language, and avoiding disruptive conduct.
  • Address judges, opposing counsel, and witnesses respectfully, regardless of personal opinion.
  • Do not engage in arguments, personal attacks, or unprofessional remarks in any legal proceeding.

4.2 Internal Communications

  • Use clear, respectful, and concise language in all departmental communications, including messages sent via official email, internal systems, or Discord channels.
  • Do not use internal platforms for off-topic, inflammatory, or inappropriate discussions.
  • Department hierarchy must be respected in all correspondence.

4.3 Social Media Use

  • Members must not post or share content that compromises the Department's integrity, leaks confidential information, or discredits its members.
  • While off-duty activity is generally private, statements or behavior that bring the Department into disrepute may result in disciplinary action.
  • Do not represent personal opinions as official DOJ positions.

4.4 Dress Code and Presentation

  • Members appearing in court or during official DOJ proceedings must wear professional attire appropriate to their role.
  • Avatars, usernames, or display names used in official DOJ spaces must remain professional and recognizable.
  • Casual dress may be permitted in internal meetings only with prior authorization from a supervising official.

6. Conflict of Interest

Members of the Department must avoid any situation where personal relationships, financial interests, or outside obligations could compromise their judgment or objectivity.

6.1 General Guidelines

  • No member may participate in a case where they have a personal stake in the outcome, whether through friendship, rivalry, family ties, or business dealings.
  • If such a conflict arises, it must be disclosed immediately to a supervisor or judge for reassignment.
  • Even the appearance of bias is sufficient to require recusal.
Any conflict of interest – real or perceived – must be disclosed immediately to maintain the integrity of proceedings.

8. Reporting Misconduct

All members of the Department have a duty to report misconduct when observed or reasonably suspected. This ensures accountability and preserves the integrity of the justice system.

8.1.1 Initial Report

Misconduct should be reported directly to the Attorney General. Reports must include all relevant details, including time, location, involved parties, and any available evidence.

8.1.2 Confidentiality

The identity of the reporting party will be protected whenever possible. Retaliation against anyone who files a report in good faith is strictly prohibited and constitutes its own violation.

8.1.6 Appeals

Individuals subject to disciplinary action may request a formal review or appeal by submitting a written request within 72 hours of notification.

Reports should be made in good faith and through proper channels. All members have a duty to maintain the integrity of the Department.

12. Acknowledgement and Compliance Statement

All members of the San Andreas Department of Justice are required to read, understand, and comply with this Code of Conduct as a condition of their service.

12.1 Formal Acknowledgment

  • Upon appointment or reappointment, individuals must sign a formal acknowledgment confirming their agreement to uphold these standards.
  • Failure to adhere to this Code may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the Department.
  • Ignorance of the Code will not be accepted as a defense for misconduct.

12.2 Commitment to Service

By serving under the Department's banner, each member affirms their commitment to justice, integrity, and public service in every action they take.

Your signature represents more than acknowledgment – it represents a sacred commitment to the people of San Andreas and the rule of law.