Describe legal and ethical topics in human services.

Description should include

• harmful and/or deceptive behaviors (e.g., psychological abuse, physical abuse)
• financial exploitation
• compliance with codes and regulations (e.g., National Association of Social Workers [NASW] Code of Ethics, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 [HIPAA])
• client rights (e.g., protection of privacy, confidentiality, dignity, and autonomy) and the ramifications of violating those rights
• standard legal documents (e.g., health directives, legal guardianship and conservatorship, do not resuscitate [DNR]). 

Process/Skill Questions: 

Thinking

• How can a human services professional protect the rights of the client?

Communication

• To whom should a human services professional communicate concerns about unethical behavior?
• When should communication with law enforcement officials take place?

Leadership

• What responsibility do financial institutions have when fraudulent activity is suspected?

Management

• Why is it important for family and human services workers to provide necessary legal documentation?