Public Corruption

Under California's Political Reform Act, a public official may be disqualified from participating in government decisions in some situations. If there is a conflict of interest involving an official that puts them at a financial advantage, they can make biased...

As a public official, whether at the local, state or federal level, your constituents – and the law – hold you to a high standard of ethical conduct. Should someone accuse you of doing something that breaches the public’s trust in you, you could find yourself accused...

Public officials are often placed under a great deal of scrutiny. When a public figure is accused of using his or her position for personal benefit, the outcome can be catastrophic. Besides the possibility of a criminal conviction, the official's career and reputation...

Marketers have long made good use of business lunches and gifts to prospective clients. As the pharmaceutical industry has shown, these strategies can bring powerful results. However, the recent conviction of a pharma boss reminds us there's also a point at which...

The national scandal involving admissions into Ivy League universities and other elite institutions, including the University of Southern California and UCLA, has many parents concerned about how far the investigations will go. Some parents allegedly involved in...

The current political climate throughout the country, including here in California, leaves a lot of people vulnerable to unwarranted accusations. The public tends to scrutinize its leaders and authority figures, but lately, that watchful eye comes with often...

Public officials conduct inspections to ensure industries governed by California or federal laws are in compliance with those laws. Often, adherence to the regulations is a matter of public safety, and the oversight is an important factor in maintaining that level of...

For those who have the public's trust, a solid reputation is essential. Public support and confidence is required for those holding a public office, managing an organization's finances or making decisions that affect many people. Accusations of public corruption can...

Part of a politician's job is earning the trust of the constituents. This is often a challenge, especially when working against the tactics of the opponent and the zeal of the press. During an election, it seems as if every moment of a politician's life is under a...

California has its share of illegal activity, and law enforcement works hard to protect and serve the citizens of its cities. As in many big metropolitan areas, the police in Los Angeles County seem to be under a more scrupulous eye as accusations of abuse and public...