Code of Ethics and Practice Guidelines
Open to the public, so that standards of practice for language experts in legal settings are known to all.
Draft for discussion. This text has not been ratified by the board and is not yet binding on members.
- Scientific integrity. Expert opinions rest on data, explainable methods, and relevant literature. Limitations of data and method are stated openly.
- Limits of competence. Experts give opinions only within their field and do not conclude matters reserved for the judge, such as whether an element of an offence is proven.
- Independence. Analysis does not depend on who requests or pays for it. Conflicts of interest are disclosed before an engagement is accepted.
- Confidentiality and personal data protection. Case data is kept confidential and processed in line with Law No. 27 of 2022 on Personal Data Protection.
- Respect for the parties. Language data in cases concerns real people. Use in research and teaching is anonymised and respectful.
- Use of automated tools. Output from software and artificial intelligence is treated as an aid, verified by the expert, and its use disclosed.
- Professional development. Members maintain and update their competence through continuing professional development (CPD).