CEA Ethics Investigation Procedures 5

Question 1

Which of the following scenarios represents a conflict of interest for an ethics investigator?

Accepted Answer

The investigator previously managed the subject of the investigation

Answer

A prior supervisory relationship creates a conflict of interest because the investigator may have inherent biases—positive or negative—toward the subject.

Question 2

The 'litigation hold' notice issued at the start of an investigation primarily serves to:

Accepted Answer

Prevent the routine destruction of potentially relevant documents and data

Answer

A litigation hold suspends normal data retention schedules to preserve electronically stored information and documents that may be relevant to a dispute.

Question 3

During an investigation, an investigator discovers exculpatory evidence that contradicts the complainant's account. The investigator must:

Accepted Answer

Include it in the investigative record and give it appropriate weight in the findings

Answer

All material evidence, including exculpatory evidence, must be documented and weighed objectively; investigators have no license to suppress contradictory findings.

Question 4

What is the primary reason that ethics investigations should be completed in a timely manner?

Accepted Answer

To minimize the risk of evidence loss, witness memory fading, and ongoing harm to parties

Answer

Delays erode evidence quality, allow misconduct to continue, and increase the organization's legal exposure, making timeliness a core investigative principle.

Question 5

An investigator concludes that the evidence is inconclusive and a policy violation cannot be confirmed or denied. The correct finding to report is:

Accepted Answer

Not sustained — the evidence did not support the allegation to the required standard

Answer

'Not sustained' is the appropriate finding when evidence is insufficient to confirm or refute the allegation, distinct from 'unfounded' (false) or 'exonerated' (conduct did not occur).

(CEA) Certified Ethics Associate Practice Test

(CEA) Certified Ethics Associate Practice Test

CEA Ethics Investigation Procedures 5